It might seem like an easy task, but keeping your shower curtain clean can be a lot harder than you think. How many of us have had to deal with mold and mildew buildup? How about these annoying soap scum stains that are virtually impossible to remove without scrubbing for hours? You needn't worry anymore - our pros know a thing or two about how to wash a plastic shower curtain. article, we'll share some of their tips for cleaning shower curtains so your shower curtain will soon be looking like new!
Types of plastic shower curtain
Not all plastic shower curtains are made equal. Here are the most common types of materials you might find:
PVC — polyvinyl chloride is a plastic commonly used in all kinds of materials, and is actually a type of vinylPEVA / EVA — polyethylene vinyl acetate is a chlorine-free vinyl that emits fewer VOCs and is more environmentally friendly than PVCVinyl — While PVC and PEVA are types of vinyl, they are not the only ones. Some liners are made from generic vinyl compounds Nylon - Nylon is a synthetic fabric made from plastic and benefits from being waterproof. Many people prefer the look of nylon shower curtainsPolyester - Polyester is another plastic-based fabric commonly used for shower curtains. It is waterproof, but is more prone to mildew than vinyl-based curtainsWhat's the best way to wash a plastic shower curtain?
Start by locating the manufacturer's label and looking for information on the material your shower curtain is made from. Although most plastic shower curtains have the same tolerance to different cleaning solutions, it's always best to know what exactly your curtain is made of and how to clean it most effectively. If you find the manufacturer's cleaning instructions on the label, always follow them.
If your shower curtain is not labeled or specific instructions are not available, you can wash your shower curtain in the washing machine using a mild detergent and warm water on a gentle spin cycle .Hang the curtain to dry, either inside or behind the shower.Make sure the area around the curtain is well ventilated to prevent mildew.
Pro Tip: Avoid using harsh cleaning chemicals on your shower curtain to avoid damaging the plastic
SHOWER CURTAIN MATERIAL
WASHER
HAND WASHING
BLEACH
AMMONIA
VINEGAR AND BAKING SODA
PVC
✔️
✔️
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✔️
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PEVA / EVA
✔️
✔️
✔️
??
✔️
Vinyl
✔️
✔️
✔️
??
✔️
Nylon
✔️
✔️
✔️
✔️
✔️
Polyester
✔️
✔️
??
✔️
✔️
Is it possible to put a plastic shower curtain in the washing machine?
Although surprising to some people, you can wash your plastic shower curtain in the washing machine. which can damage them. To prolong the life of your plastic shower curtain, always use a hot water cycle if you put it in the washing machine. Cold water can make plastic brittle. Do not use also not a hotter setting than your usual shower water.
Pro tip: Is your washing machine clean? Make it shine with these tips!
How to wash a plastic shower curtain in a front loader
Plastic shower curtains wash just as well in a front-loading machine as they do in a top-loading washing machine. Some people think they can't use front loaders because these machines use less water , but it won't damage your shower curtain. In fact, front loaders are gentler on the material than top loaders, so they are less likely to damage curtains. You can wash your shower curtains and even wash plastic shower curtain liners in a front loader.
How do you put a plastic shower curtain in the dryer?
Do not put your plastic shower curtain in the dryer. Dryers are too harsh for most plastics and could melt the curtain. This will damage both your shower curtain and your dryer. hang your plastic shower curtain to dry.Ideally hang it outside on a warm sunny day or inside in a well-ventilated area.Ensuring your shower curtain dries quickly and completely prevents moisture and mold from settling.
Pro tip: Have a different type of shower curtain? Find out how to clean all kinds of shower curtains now!
How to clean a shower curtain without taking it apart
If you want to clean your shower curtain without disassembling it, use a damp cloth to wipe the curtain. You can also spray it with a neutral cleaner like mild dish soap, rinse it with water and let it dry.
Pro tip: Don't use ammonia-based cleaners (like Windex) on vinyl shower curtains
Another great way to clean your shower curtain without taking it apart is to use vinegar. First, rinse the entire curtain with water, then spray it with a mixture of two cups of water and a cup of vinegar. Then rub the soiled areas with a sponge or cloth soaked in the mixture. Let it dry in the sun or indoors in place - just make sure there is enough ventilation!
How to clean a plastic shower curtain with bleach
If your shower curtain is particularly discolored, has stubborn stains, or you want to treat it to remove or prevent mildew, you can use bleach to do the job. The only exception is for polyester shower curtains , as bleach is not recommended for use on this material.
There are several methods you can use to clean a plastic shower curtain with bleach:
Treat stubborn stains with bleach and leave for 10 minutes before washing normally. -30 minutesPro Tip: Use a color-safe bleach for dark or patterned shower curtains to avoid damaging the finish
Can you wash a shower curtain with magnets?
Some shower curtains and curtain liners have magnets sewn into the hem. These magnets hold the curtain in place so it can't slide up and down. If you want to wash your shower curtains with these magnets, make sure Make sure they are secure before placing them in a washing machine or other water source.
If you're concerned that your washing machine has magnets clicking inside, you can always hand wash your shower curtain. However, unless otherwise specified on the label, plastic shower curtains with magnets can be machine washed safe.
Pro tip: Here are our picks of the best organic and natural household cleaning products
How to clean mold from a shower curtain
In order to help remove mildew from a plastic shower curtain, you will need to mix water and vinegar in the same proportions as our previous recipe. Spray this mixture on the curtain then rub with a sponge or cloth and let it dry.
You can give the cleaning power of vinegar an extra boost by combining it with baking soda. The chemical reaction between the two ingredients creates a powerful anti-soiling solution. Make a loose paste of baking soda and just enough water to bring it to the right consistency. Next, spread the paste on the shower curtain. Next, apply a white vinegar solution using a spray bottle.
Pro Tip: Make sure your shower curtain hangs inside the shower or tub when washing with vinegar and baking soda, to make cleaning easier.
If the mildew on your plastic shower curtain is very stubborn, it may be best to use a different cleaning method. Prepare a solution of two parts hydrogen peroxide and one part water and apply it to the shower curtain using a spray bottle. Let stand for about 20 minutes before cleaning with a cloth or sponge.
How often should a shower curtain be washed?
The best way to clean your shower curtain is to choose a method that suits your needs and lifestyle. How often you need to clean it will depend on the material, how often it is used, how many people use it and how you care for it. In a typical household, you should clean your shower curtain at least once a month.
Spraying it with a quick cleaning solution like vinegar as part of a weekly cleaning routine can help extend the life of your curtain and the time needed between deep cleanings.
In conclusion
Most plastic curtains are safe to wash in your machine on a gentle cycle, or hand cleaned with a wide range of cleaning solutions. Washing your shower curtain regularly will keep your bathroom cleaner and prevent the mold growth. Keeping a shower curtain or plastic liner clean is easy when you have cleaning pros in your corner!
