Shower curtains often fall victim to mold, mildew, and soap scum buildup, leading many to throw them out and buy new ones. But what if you didn’t have to toss that dirty vinyl curtain? What if a simple household hack could save you money, time, and reduce waste? One savvy woman discovered the solution—washing her vinyl shower curtain in the washing machine!
Why Do Shower Curtains Get So Dirty?
Shower curtains are exposed to daily moisture, which makes them an ideal breeding ground for mold, mildew, and bacteria. Soap, shampoo, and body oils also stick to the curtain, creating layers of grime over time. Most people assume the only way to fix this is by replacing the curtain, but there’s a better, easier solution.
Yes, You Can Wash Your Vinyl Shower Curtain in the Washing Machine!
Even though vinyl isn’t fabric, it can still withstand a gentle machine wash. This will remove soap scum, mold, and mildew, leaving your curtain looking as good as new. Let’s dive into how you can clean your curtain at home and make it last for years!
How to Wash a Vinyl Shower Curtain in the Washing Machine
1. Take Down the Curtain
Start by removing the curtain from the shower rod. Check for any grime buildup, especially along the edges where mold tends to thrive.
2. Check for Cleaning Instructions
Many vinyl curtains come with care labels. Double-check to ensure that machine washing is safe for your curtain. In most cases, it will be.
3. Add Towels to the Load
For added scrubbing power, toss in two or three bath towels along with the curtain. These towels will gently scrub the vinyl during the wash cycle.
4. Use Gentle Detergent
Add a small amount of mild detergent. About half of your normal amount is perfect. Stay away from bleach or harsh cleaners, which could damage the vinyl.
5. Boost with Vinegar or Baking Soda
For extra cleaning power, add ½ cup of baking soda to the wash. This will cut through soap scum and deodorize your curtain. Alternatively, pour ½ cup of white vinegar into the rinse cycle to eliminate any mildew.
6. Choose a Gentle Cycle
Set your machine to a gentle or delicate cycle with cold or warm water (avoid hot water, which could warp the vinyl). The combination of the gentle cycle and towels will do the trick.
7. Air Dry Only!
Never put the vinyl curtain in the dryer. The heat could melt or warp the plastic. Instead, hang it back on the shower rod and let it air dry. The curtain will regain its shape as it dries.
How Often Should You Wash Your Shower Curtain?
To keep your shower curtain in tip-top shape, aim to wash it every month or two. Regular cleaning will prevent the buildup of grime and significantly extend the life of your curtain.
The Benefits of Washing Instead of Replacing
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