How Often Should You Change a Shower Curtain?

How often should I change my shower curtain? Is a common question that many people don't know but the proper length of time between trading in the old for new shower curtains depends upon 2 factors,. Those factors are the material from which it's made, and how well you take care of it in the interim.

Cloth Curtains

Cloth curtains provide your bathroom with elegance and durability that most other materials lack. Unfortunately, they ten to absorb water rather than repel it. Closing the curtain between showers allows it to dry, avoiding the growth of mold, bacteria, and fungus.

Wash your cloth curtains monthly in hot water with bleach to kill any mold and to remove stains. With care, your curtain should last a year or more. Replace your curtain when it looks worn or when washing no longer removes stains.

Plastic Curtains

Plastic, vinyl, and other synthetic materials are excellent for those of you who might prefer water-repelling shower curtains. Water beads up on the inner surface, however, so you will want to hang these types of curtains closed between showers to allow them to dry. Otherwise, water collects in the folds and provides a breeding ground for mold, bacteria, and fungus.

You will need to vigorously scrub the curtain with a soft cloth, and mild detergent either weekly or monthly. Doing this will remove any mildew that might make a build-up on them. With care, your shower curtain will last a year or more. Regardless of anything else, you should replace your curtain whenever it looks dingy, or even if you simply wish to brighten up your bathroom with a new look and new design.