Mildew Resistant Shower Curtain Liner

Nothing spoils the looks of a shower curtain liner more than small areas of darkness caused by mildew. Mildew is one of the many molds that will find a home on any damp surface.

Mildew Resistant

It is important to note that the words "mildew resistant" do not indicate that a curtain liner or any other product is "mildew proof." Any material that remains damp for a significant amount of time will probably become subject to the growth of mildew. Mildew spores are in the air all the time so it is inevitable that they will make contact and settle on a mildew resistant curtain and germinate if allowed to.

Hotel Style Curtains

Hotel style curtains are often recommended for the home. These curtains are generally much heavier than domestic shower curtains. Hotel style curtains are not necessarily more mildew resistant. Hotels have strict housekeeping rules, which mean that their curtains are cleaned and bleached on a regular basis.

PVC and Plastics

Vinyl curtains and plastic curtains are said to be mildew resistant. The resistance is created initially by the lack of nutritional value in the material, making it a hostile environment for mold spores. As the curtain is used it will gradually build up surface film. This film can make a fertile ground for the mildew to grow in.

Mildew Proof

There are two materials that can claim to be mildew proof, to a degree. These are hemp and bamboo. Both of these can be used to produce a fine fiber that can be tightly woven enough to be used as a shower curtain or simply as a liner. The natural resistance to mildew in the fibers does last a long time but when the curtains have been washed a few times it does become less effective.

Avoiding Mildew

Mildew resistance can be enhanced if simple precautions are taken to prevent the creation of areas of dampness.

When choosing a shower curtain liner, try to find one that has a smooth finish on one side. Hanging the smooth side of the curtain inside the shower will reduce the chances of the water staying on the curtain.

After using the shower leave the curtain partially open. This will allow air to circulate and remove the damp atmosphere faster. By being partially open you will also leave the curtain with no two sides of a fold being in contact with each other. Where two sides of a fold are in contact the water is held in place rather than draining off.

Wiping the shower curtain liner down with even a damp towel will reduce the amount of moisture still clinging to the curtain so it will evaporate much quicker. It will also remove any film that might be building up from the use of shampoo, soap, hair conditioner and so on.

At least once a week sponge the curtain down with a mild bleach or disinfectant solution to kill any spores that might have settled and to clean off any film that might be developing.

Starting with a mildew resistant shower curtain lining is a good first step in preventing mildew. Any shower curtain that is dry soon after the shower has been used will probably not suffer from mildew. Prevent the damp—prevent the mildew.