I am that type of person who likes shower curtains rather than shower glass. I just prefer curtains over shower glass because it somehow makes the bathroom look and feel warmer, plus it gives character to the room. But let’s be honest here—shower curtains get dirty. Bathtubs, shower areas, tiles, and sinks develop soap scum, mildew, and other mysterious marks that are hard to explain. It’s as if, one moment your curtain is clean, and the next, it’s a dirty piece of fabric that seems almost beyond cleaning. Who would like to buy and replace the shower curtain each month or two, right? No way. I am always on the lookout for ways to clean it easily and would you believe it? There is a way and it requires minimal effort from you. Yep, you read that right, and I mean zero effort.
So, if you are done and tired of trying to arrange and clean your shower curtain and wish for an easy way to do so, then continue reading.
Materials Needed
- A washing machine
- Laundry detergent
- Baking soda
- White vinegar
- A couple of towels
Step 1: Remove the Shower Curtain
First of all, you have to unhook the shower curtain from the rings. Yes, this part does require some work, but this is the only part where you will have to put in some effort throughout this whole process, I assure you. All you have to do is gently disconnect it and lay it aside.
Step 2: Pre-Treat (Optional)
If there is any part of the shower curtain that has some spots of mildew or is very dirty, you can focus more on that area. Dip a cloth in water with some drops of detergent and sprinkle some baking soda on the stains, then scrub gently. This step is not mandatory but it is good for removing those stubborn stains that do not budge easily.
Step 3: Prepare the Washing Machine
Now it is time to prepare your washing machine. Put your shower curtain and two towels into the washing machine. The towels will function as scrubbers that will help in cleaning the curtain as the machine shakes it. Pour in the usual quantity of detergent that you would normally use for washing clothes.
Step 4: Add Baking Soda
To add some more power to the cleaning, put half a cup of baking soda into the washing machine. Baking soda is perfect for removing stains and eliminating bad odors because it is an alkaline substance.
Step 5: Wash with Warm Water
It is advised that you use the gentle cycle with warm water when washing the curtain. Warm water will aid in softening the soap scum, which is a residue left by the soap, and help break the dirt on the curtain.
Step 6: Add Vinegar During Rinse Cycle
In the process of washing, as soon as the washing machine gets to the rinse cycle, add one cup of white vinegar. White vinegar is a great asset for removing soap scum and erasing any foul smells. It is also an effective disinfectant, which is always a good aspect in the bathroom area.
Step 7: Hang to Dry
After the wash cycle, hang the shower curtain back up in the shower to dry. The curtain will dry up very fast and will look as if it is new. You would be surprised at how new and clean it will look with a minimal investment of time.
Extra Tips for Keeping Your Shower Curtain Clean
Now that you’ve got your shower curtain looking spotless, here are a few extra tips to keep it that way with minimal effort:
Regular Rinsing: After each bath, hose down the curtain with warm water to get rid of any soap that might have stuck on it. This will help prevent buildup in the long term.
Proper Ventilation: Ensure your bathroom is well-ventilated. Open a window or use a fan to reduce humidity, which prevents mold and mildew.
Periodic Washes: Use the above method to clean your shower curtain regularly, about once a month. This will maintain the new look of the curtain and increase its lifespan.
Curtain Liners: Consider getting a shower curtain liner. These are usually easier to maintain and can help protect your decorative curtain from getting stained as frequently.
Spot Cleaning: For small stains that appear between washes, use a solution of water and vinegar. Spray the solution on the stain, let it sit for a few minutes, and then wipe it off.
If you want to keep your shower curtain looking as clean as new without often washing it, follow these tips. You no longer have to deal with a curtain that has stains that are almost impossible to remove or the constant need to buy new ones. This easy method will help you save time, money, and a lot of frustration. So, go on and try it, and you will be able to enjoy a clean shower curtain with almost no effort.