3 Steps to Remove Shower Curtain Mold and Mildew

The shower curtain serves many purposes in the bathroom, and so is a breeding ground for harmful mold and mildew, that can irritate eyes, noses and throats. Pay attention to these 3 steps to remove shower curtain mold and mildew, and make showering a cleaner experience for your body, both outside and inside.

Why do Mold and Mildew Grow on Shower Curtains?

1. Mold and mildew grow on vinyl and plastic shower curtains because, when wet, they form an airtight seal with the side of the tub, and cannot dry quickly.
2. Once the shower curtains have mold on them, it is nearly impossible to remove it in the shower environment. The best option is to wash them in the washing machine.
3. Wash the shower curtain in the bathtub only if you have an openable window in the bathroom. Leave it open while the curtain dries, to curtail new mold growth.

How to Remove Mold and Mildew from Shower Curtains

Step 1: Remove and Prepare the Shower Curtain

Take down the shower curtains and remove the hanger hooks from the curtain holes.  Take the curtain outside and brush off the dried mold with a stiff brush. Keep your face turned away while brushing, to avoid inhaling the mold.

Step 2: Wash the Shower Curtain in the Washer

Put the shower curtain in the washer with cool water plus any one of the following stain removers and antibacterial agents:

• 1/2 cup chlorine bleach (put the bleach and water in first, to avoid spot-bleaching the curtain)
• 1/2 cup detergent with borax
• 1/2 cup vinegar
• 1/2 cup baking soda

CAUTION: Do NOT mix chlorine bleach or vinegar with any of the other cleaners.

Launder any mildewed towels in the same load. Avoid using very hot water, as it will set in any existing mold and mildew stains. To get cool water in the washer, start with it set on WARM, and then turn to COLD once the washer is half-full. Set the washer for a COLD water rinse. The shower curtain will be nearly dry after the final spin.

Step 3: Dry the Shower Curtain Briefly in the Dryer

A plastic or vinyl curtain can go in the dryer with some towels on LOW heat for 15 minutes. Watch it carefully and remove it right away at the end of the drying cycle. Hang it up on the shower rail to dry and finish any damp spots with the blow dryer. Hold the dryer nozzle 6 inches away from the curtain to prevent melting.

Now that your shower curtain is clean you will want to prevent new mold buildup. When each person finishes their shower, make sure they shake the curtain off vigorously over the tub or in the shower area. The shower curtain must then be extended fully over the side of the tub along the full length of the rail to get as much air as possible for drying. If you have a window in the bathroom that can open, open it during and after each shower to reduce moisture in the room.