How to Clean a Plastic Shower Curtain

Keeping your shower clean entails cleaning your shower curtain. Dirt will easily show up after frequent use. Once a month, you can remove the buildup and make your curtain look clean and fresh again. If many people use the same shower, you might need to clean it more frequently.

Step 1 - Remove the Shower Curtain

Take the hooks off the rings or holes that attach the curtain to the shower rod. Should you observe that the hooks or rings are dirty, remove them as well and clean them.

Step 2 - Place the Vinyl Curtain in the Washing Machine

You can wash the shower curtain in the washing machine. Place it inside with a couple of towels and set the cycle on the machine for cold water. However, do not put the curtain into the dryer. When done, add a small cup of vinegar and another cup of baking soda to some warm water and insert the curtain to achieve a clean finish.

Step 3 - Clean Hooks and Rings

Use your sink to clean the hooks and rings. Add some detergent to hot water and submerge the hooks and rings. Use a small brush, rag or sponge to clean them thoroughly. Rinse them well.

Step 4 - Hang the Curtain in Place

Take the hooks and rings and fit accordingly. Attach the plastic curtain and hang it on the shower rod. Spread it out so that it dries naturally. 

Step 5 - Control Mold on Your Shower Curtain

Mold tends to gather easily on wet vinyl or plastic shower curtains. Not only is mold unsightly but it also constitutes a health hazard. Although you can effectively clean the mold off your shower curtain, you can prevent it from growing altogether.

Mold thrives in plenty of humidity, so keep the bathroom well ventilated, especially after each shower use. Open the windows and doors fully after each use to improve circulation. Spread the curtain out after each use to encourage drying. Make sure the hem of the curtain is away from the tub, if you have one, so it dries better. For a more immediate drying, use a washcloth or squeegee to wipe away any water from the curtain after each use.

Treat mold with vinegar or bleach and a sponge. Mix equal parts vinegar and water and place in a bottle with a spray nozzle. Spray the solution onto the mold areas and rub it away vigorously with a sponge or rag. If the mold appears extensively on the curtain, insert it into a small bucket of the vinegar-water mixture and swish the curtain around until the mold disappears.