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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, tired of constantly replacing her grimy shower curtain liner, discovered a simple yet brilliant solution: instead of throwing it away, 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. Each time you shower, the warm, humid air combined with leftover soap, shampoo, and body oils sticks to the curtain, creating an ideal environment for dirt and grime to accumulate.
Many people resign themselves to frequently buying new curtains or liners, 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 that 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, effectively removing the soap scum, mold, and mildew that accumulate over time.
How to Wash a Vinyl Shower Curtain in the Washing Machine
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How to Wash a Vinyl Shower Curtain in the Washing Machine
Here’s a step-by-step guide for how to clean your vinyl or plastic shower curtain using your washing machine:
Take Down the Curtain: Remove the curtain or liner from the shower rod. Check the edges and bottom for noticeable grime, especially where mold and mildew thrive.
Check for Labels or Cleaning Instructions: Many vinyl shower curtains come with specific washing instructions, so check them to ensure your curtain is machine washable. In most cases, vinyl curtains are safe for machine washing on a gentle cycle.
Pair the Curtain with Towels: To protect the curtain and make the wash cycle more effective, toss in two or three bath towels. The towels will act as gentle scrubbers, helping to remove grime during the wash.
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 harsh cleaners or bleach, as they could damage the curtain’s material.
Add Vinegar or Baking Soda for Extra Cleaning Power: If your curtain is especially grimy, add ½ cup of baking soda to the wash. Alternatively, pour ½ cup of white vinegar into the rinse cycle to kill any remaining mildew and leave your curtain smelling fresh.
Choose the Right Wash Cycle: Set your washing machine to a gentle or delicate cycle, using cold or warm water (never hot, as it can warp the vinyl). The gentle agitation combined with the towels will help scrub away dirt.
Skip the Dryer!: Once the wash cycle is complete, promptly remove the curtain. Do not put it in the dryer, as the heat can melt or warp the plastic. Instead, hang it back on the shower rod and allow it to air dry.
How Often Should You Wash Your Shower Curtain?
To keep mold and mildew at bay, wash your shower curtain every month or two. Regular washing will extend the life of your curtain significantly and help maintain a clean, healthy bathroom environment. Plus, it’s far less wasteful than replacing the curtain each time it gets dirty.
Benefits of Washing Instead of Replacing
Beyond saving money, regularly washing your shower curtain instead of replacing it offers numerous benefits:
Eco-Friendly: By reducing the number of vinyl or plastic shower curtains you throw away, you’re cutting down on plastic waste. Vinyl is not biodegradable, so every curtain you toss contributes to landfills.
Healthier Bathroom Environment: Mold and mildew can be harmful, especially for those with allergies or respiratory issues. Regularly washing your curtain will eliminate these irritants and keep your bathroom air cleaner.
Longer Curtain Life: Vinyl shower curtains can last for years if properly cared for, meaning fewer trips to the store and less money spent in the long run.
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