How to Clean a Vinyl Shower Curtain

by Staff Writer

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Vinyl shower curtains are inexpensive, and many people simply replace them when they get too dirty. However, if you love your shower curtain too much to part with it or you just want to reduce waste, you can clean your vinyl shower curtain clean. Dirt, soap scum, and mildew build-up are the biggest culprits of dirty shower curtains. Luckily, it is very easy to get it to look like new again. Here are a few different ways to do it.

Cleaning Vinyl Shower Curtains:

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1. Remove

   the shower curtain from the shower rod and curtain rings.

2. Run water

   over any areas where you see mildew and soap scum. Use a scrub brush to clean the inside of the shower curtain. If plain water and a scrub brush do not do the job, pour a little bit of laundry detergent or vinegar over the shower curtain and continue to scrub. Use a small amount of bleach to remove any spots of mildew.

3. If the stains are persistent,

   try washing your vinyl shower curtain in the washing machine. Use cold water and the gentle cycle. Add a few dirty towels to the washing machine along with your shower curtain; the idea is to prevent the vinyl material from sticking together and causing rips and tears. Add bleach to your laundry detergent to attack both the mildew and the soap scum.

4. When the washing cycle is complete,

   remove your shower curtain from the washer and hang it back up in the bathroom to dry. If you have a fan in your bathroom, turn it on to help circulate the air and dry the shower curtain faster. Do not put your vinyl shower curtain in the dryer; it could melt and may catch on fire.

5. To eliminate future mildew and other stains,

   spray the shower curtain daily with a homemade solution of vinegar and water or, if you prefer, with shower cleaner. Spraying your shower curtain regularly with a cleaning solution will prevent build-up of mildew and soap scum so you won't have to wash it so often. With daily maintenance, your shower curtain will last longer as it will need fewer trips through the washing machine.

6. An alternative option

   to spraying your shower curtain daily is soaking your shower curtain in the bath tub once a month for half an hour using water and 1 cup of bleach.