A shower curtain is a useful and decorative item for your bathroom, but it can also get dirty and stained over time due to mold, mildew, soap scum, and hard water. If you don’t have access to a washing machine or your shower curtain is hand wash only, you may wonder how to clean it by hand without damaging it or leaving any residue.
Here are some simple steps and natural products that you can use to clean your shower curtain by hand and make it look like new again.
What You Need to Clean a Shower Curtain by Hand
To clean your shower curtain by hand, you will need the following items:
- A bathtub or a large sink
- Warm water
- Baking soda
- White vinegar
- Laundry detergent (optional)
- Bleach (optional)
- A microfiber cloth
- A spray bottle
- A clothesline or a dryer
How to Clean a Fabric Shower Curtain by Hand
A fabric shower curtain is usually made of cotton, polyester, nylon, or other materials that can be washed by hand.
You should always check the care label for specific instructions from the manufacturer before washing your fabric shower curtain by hand.
Here are the general steps to follow:
- Fill your bathtub or sink with warm water and add a small amount of laundry detergent. You can also add 1/2 cup of baking soda and 1/4 cup of white vinegar to boost the cleaning power and remove odors.
- Submerge your shower curtain in the water and gently agitate it with your hands. Let it soak for 15 to 20 minutes.
- Drain the water and rinse your shower curtain with clean water until no soap or bubbles remain.
- Wring out the excess water and hang your shower curtain on a clothesline or a dryer to air dry. You can also tumble dry it on low heat if the care label allows.
How to Clean a Plastic Shower Curtain or Liner by Hand
A plastic shower curtain or liner is usually made of vinyl, PEVA, EVA, or other synthetic materials that can be cleaned by hand with a spray solution and a cloth. Here are two methods to choose from:
Method 1: Vinegar Solution
- Remove your shower curtain or liner from the hooks or rings and spread it on a flat surface.
- Make a cleaning solution by mixing one part white vinegar and four parts water in a spray bottle.
- Spray the solution on both sides of the shower curtain or liner, focusing on any stained areas.
- Let the solution sit for 10 minutes, then wipe it off with a damp microfiber cloth.
- Rinse the shower curtain or liner with clean water from top to bottom.
- Hang it back on the rod to dry.
Method 2: Bleach Solution
- Remove your shower curtain or liner from the hooks or rings and spread it on a flat surface.
- Make a cleaning solution by mixing one bleach and four water in a spray bottle.
- Spray the solution on both sides of the shower curtain or liner, focusing on moldy or mildewy areas.
- Let the solution sit for 10 minutes, then wipe off with a damp microfiber cloth.
- Rinse the shower curtain or liner with clean water from top to bottom.
- Hang it back on the rod to dry.
How to Prevent Mold and Mildew on Your Shower Curtain
The best way to keep your shower curtain clean and fresh is to prevent mold and mildew from forming in the first place.
Here are some tips to help you do that:
- After each shower, pull the shower curtain closed instead of leaving it bunched up on one side. This will help it dry faster and more evenly.
- Use your bathroom fan or open a window while showering to reduce humidity and moisture in the air.
- Spray your shower curtain or liner with a vinegar solution weekly to prevent mold and mildew growth. You can also use a commercial mold, mildew remover, or bleach solution, but rinse well afterwards.
- Wash your shower curtain or liner at least once a month to remove any dirt and soap scum that may accumulate on it.
- Replace your shower curtain or liner when it shows signs of wear and tear, such as holes, tears, or cracks.
FAQs
You should clean your shower curtain once every three months or more if it gets wet frequently or shows signs of mold and mildew.
Some shower curtains can be washed in the washing machine, but check the care label first. Use a delicate cycle, warm water, and a mild detergent. Add some vinegar to remove mold and odors.
You will need a damp cloth, baking soda, and water to hand wash your shower curtain. Scrub the curtain with the baking soda solution to remove dirt and stains. Rinse well with clean water and hang to dry.
Some natural ingredients that can help clean a shower curtain are vinegar, baking soda, hydrogen peroxide, and lemon juice. These ingredients have antibacterial, antifungal, and deodorizing properties.
To prevent mold and mildew from growing on your shower curtain, keep it dry as much as possible. After each shower, spread the curtain open to let it air out. You can also spray it with vinegar or tea tree oil to inhibit mold growth.
Conclusion
A shower curtain is an essential part of your bathroom decor, but it can also become a source of dirt and germs if not cleaned properly.
Following these simple steps and tips, you can clean a shower curtain by hand and make it look new quickly. You will also enjoy a cleaner, fresher, and healthier shower experience.
