Shower curtains are one of those household items that often get overlooked—until they’re covered in soap scum, mold, and mildew. After a few weeks of regular use, they can start to look downright gross, and for many people, the easiest solution is to toss them out and buy a new one. This might seem like a quick fix, but over time, it becomes a costly and wasteful habit.
One woman, sick of constantly replacing her grimy shower curtain liner, discovered a simple yet brilliant solution: instead of tossing it, she washed it in her washing machine. And the best part? It works, even for those vinyl shower curtains that most people assume are disposable!
Here’s everything you need to know about washing your vinyl shower curtain in the washing machine—saving you money, keeping your bathroom fresh, and doing your part for the environment.
Why Do Shower Curtains Get So Dirty?
Shower curtains are exposed to moisture daily, making them a perfect breeding ground for mold, mildew, soap scum, and bacteria. Every time you shower, the warm, humid air coupled with leftover soap, shampoo, and body oils sticks to the curtain. Over time, this creates an ideal environment for dirt and grime to accumulate.
Many people resign themselves to buying new curtains or liners frequently, thinking they’re impossible to clean. However, with just a bit of care, you can keep your curtain looking fresh without resorting to throwing it away every few months.
Yes, You Can Wash Your Vinyl Shower Curtain in the Washing Machine!
You might think vinyl or plastic shower curtains can’t be cleaned in the washing machine because they’re not made of fabric. But they actually can be washed, and it’s much easier than you think. Vinyl is surprisingly durable and can withstand a gentle machine wash, which will remove the soap scum, mold, and mildew that accumulate over time.
How to Wash a Vinyl Shower Curtain in the Washing Machine
Here’s the step-by-step guide for how to clean your vinyl or plastic shower curtain using your washing machine:
1. Take Down the Curtain
Remove the curtain or liner from the shower rod. Be sure to check the edges and bottom for any noticeable grime, which is usually where mold and mildew thrive. These areas will especially benefit from a good wash.
2. Check for Labels or Cleaning Instructions
Many vinyl shower curtains come with specific washing instructions on their labels, so it’s worth checking them to ensure your curtain can go in the machine. In most cases, vinyl curtains are perfectly safe for machine washing on a gentle cycle.
3. Pair the Curtain with Towels
To protect the curtain and make the wash cycle more effective, toss in two or three bath towels along with the curtain. The towels will act as gentle scrubbers, helping to remove the grime from the vinyl during the wash cycle.
4. Use a Gentle Detergent
Add a small amount of mild laundry detergent—about half of what you’d normally use for a regular load. Avoid using harsh cleaners or bleach, as they could damage the curtain’s material.
5. Add Vinegar or Baking Soda for Extra Cleaning Power
If your curtain is especially grimy, add ½ cup of baking soda to the wash. Baking soda is a natural cleaning agent that helps cut through soap scum and deodorizes. Alternatively, you can pour ½ cup of white vinegar into the rinse cycle to kill any remaining mildew and leave your curtain smelling fresh.
6. Choose the Right Wash Cycle
Set your washing machine to a gentle or delicate cycle, and use cold or warm water (never hot, as it can warp the vinyl). The gentle agitation of the washing machine combined with the towels will help scrub away the dirt.
7. Skip the Dryer!
Once the wash cycle is complete, remove the curtain promptly. Do not put the vinyl curtain in the dryer, as the heat can melt or warp the plastic. Instead, hang the curtain back on the shower rod and allow it to air dry. The combination of air and gravity will help it regain its shape and prevent any wrinkles.
How Often Should You Wash Your Shower Curtain?
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