How To Clean Shower Curtain?
In the age we are passing through, inflation is increasing day by day, and the price of shower curtains is skyrocketing. A curtain of the trusted brand could be more than $38.99, so is it sensible to change them after first use? Of course, it does not make sense; doing so is against being wise! Now, here comes a solution to cleaning plastic shower curtains by hand or washing machine; indeed, again, there is a question! That is, how to clean shower curtain liners?
You may also be searching for the perfect method to save your curtain from being damaged. So what? We are here to guide you properly and easily. We will discuss all the possible techniques and required tools in the article. Let’s start!
Steps Of Cleaning
In short words, we can say that:
- Remove the Curtain
- Pre-Treat Stains
- Clean by Hand or Machine
- Rinse and Dry
Few people avoid more effort and use sponges and liquid soaps for cleaning curtains. Indeed, it’s not very good because this method leaves uncleaned spots, so it is suggested that the shower curtain be taken down from the rod and checked for any stains. May you will see several soap scums or mildew. Now, it’s time to scrub it with baking soda and a brush. If the curtain is fabric, you can clean it with a mix of water and vinegar (a sour-tasting liquid containing acetic acid).
You may also use a small amount of detergent to wash fabric curtains in the washing machine. If it’s plastic, give it a hand wash in the bathtub using warm water and a small amount of vinegar or soap. Wash well to get rid of all the soap after cleaning. Before rehanging the curtain, allow it to dry completely.
How To Clean Shower Curtain Liners?
Curtain liners are interior transparent sheets that are waterproof. These are used in washrooms to prevent curtains from being soaked with water while showering. Shower liners act as a barrier, keeping water inside the tub and protecting the decorative curtain from getting wet and dirty. This helps maintain a cleaner and drier bathroom environment. After 7 or 15 days of continued usage, these preventers ask for cleaning.
So then you have to do these steps!
- Fill the Bathtub
Arrange your bathtub or any other container that can bear the warmth of the water. Fill it with warm water and add a few drops of light compassionate detergent.
- Scrub the Liner
Use a sponge to gently keep its fragility, and scrub the shower curtain liner. You also have to pay extra attention to any soap scum or mildew.
- Machine Wash Option
In some cases, you will see that the liners are washable in a machine, which will be mentioned in any right corner of it. If it is, then you can easily wash it in the appliance.
- Add Towels
Add a few towels into the washing machine with the liner to help scrub it while washing.
- Wash Gently
Run the machine on a gentle cycle with warm water and mild detergent.
- Hang to Dry
After washing, hang the liner in a well-ventilated area to air dry.
- Dry the Magnets
If the liner has magnets, ensure they dry completely to prevent rust.
Cleaning Curtains In Washing Machine
Washing curtains on hand is tiring and, in some cases, could be dangerous because of detergents’ reaction with the hands, while washing machines are very unfaithful. However, it’s important to follow these cautions to avoid damage.
Cautions
Put the curtains in the machine one at a time. Put the machine on a soft cycle and use a light detergent. Use warm water for cloth curtains, but use cold or lukewarm water for plastic or vinyl liners. Plastic can get deformed or melted by hot water, losing its form. To prevent harming the material, just use a mild detergent. Over time, harsh chemicals can deteriorate vinyl or cloth.
Note: Never use a dryer because the rotator can harm to the sheets. The heat from a dryer might shrink the fabric or damage the plastic to stretch out, so always arrange the curtain to air dry.
In Case Of Mold
Mold is a common problem in moist environments like the bathroom. You can define mold as a fungus family that appears like a great god of dirt. Removing it is a hard job that takes more effort and time. But there is a specific method that can help you conveniently.
Here’s how to tackle it:
Bleach Method
Mix one part bleach with three parts water if the mold is too bad. Using a sponge soaked in the solution, scrub the moldy spots. Wash well to get rid of any remaining bleach. Only things can prevent the mold for next time. Indeed, it could look dirty, so it’s best to keep cleaning.
Baking Soda
One of the best natural alternative and cheapest ways to remove dirt and stains is baking soda. You have to put baking soda on the mold and spray white vinegar over it. It will take a few minutes, and then you must scrub it once or twice.
How To Clean a Vinyl?
Vinyl is basically a synthetic plastic manufactured with polyvinyl chloride (PVC). Being strong, water resistant, and flexible are the qualities it is most asked for. Depending on the demand, there are vinyl curtains and liners in the market. Similar to plastic, you can wash it in the washing machine!
Without Taking Curtain Down
Sometimes, you can clean the curtain without removing it:
- Use a solution consisting of water and vinegar or a bathroom cleaner. Directly spray the curtain, then scrub any soiled spots with a soft cloth or brush.
- Wipe the curtain and then wash it well with the shower head.
In Case Of Mildew
A particular kind of fungus called mildew grows on moist surfaces, frequently in warm, humid environments. On curtains, it typically appears as a thin, white, or gray growth. Mixing some specific items can prepare a homemade cleaning liquid for this.
Here are the items with fixed quantities.
- White vinegar (1 cup)
- Baking soda (1 tablespoon)
- Warm water (1 gallon)
- Lemon juice (optional for added freshness)
As you make the solution, spray it on the liners or curtains and let it sit for a few minutes before scrubbing it with a sponge.
Note:
For white or clear curtains, apply a mixture of bleach and water to kill mildew instantly. Scrub and rinse thoroughly.
How To Clean The Rings & Hooks?
Don’t forget the rings and hooks, which can gather soap scum over time. Usually, these items are made up of iron that rust caused by water stains could damage. Most of these things go unnoticed as they get old and break down. Let’s try to keep them safe in three steps.
- Soak
After removing the rings, wash them warm and mix them with soap in a dish or sink. The solution will loosen the rust that will come off easily.
- Scrub
Use a brush to clean off soap scum or mildew buildup.
- Dry
Rinse thoroughly and let the rings air dry before putting them back on the curtain.
Curtain Rod!
Similar to the rings and hooks, the rods also need cleaning.
How To Maintain Cleanliness?
If you want to save your money and maintain the polish of your washroom, it’s essential to clean. In addition to saving money, keeping your bathroom clean prolongs the life of your curtains. Regularly following these easy cleaning guidelines helps you avoid expensive repairs and long-term harm. Everyone is more comfortable and hygienic in a clean, well-maintained environment.
Keep exercising these steps and enjoy germ-free and well-maintained coutains.
- Shake Off Excess Water
Shake the curtain after taking a shower to get rid of extra water and lessen moisture collection.
- Wipe Down Regularly
To keep the curtain and liner dry, wipe them down with a towel.
- Choose Mildew-Resistant Fabric
To reduce the formation of mold, use curtain fabrics that are water-repellent or resistant to mildew; try the curtains of the top five companies, that are Hookless, Maytex, AmazerBath, InterDesign, and Zenna Home.
- Wash Curtains Monthly
Once a month, wash the curtains in the washing machine to get rid of stains and bacteria.
- Use a Dehumidifier
Place a dehumidifier ( a device used to reduce humidity) in the bathroom to reduce moisture levels and prevent mildew.
Tools And Materials
To clean a shower curtain, you’ll need basic cleaning supplies. Here’s what works for most types of curtains and liners:
- Mild detergent or liquid soap
- Baking soda
- White vinegar
- Bleach (optional for tough stains or mold)
- Soft sponge or brush
- Washing machine (optional)
- Laundry bag (for washing machine use)
- Towel or clothespins for drying
- Bacteria spray
- Clean cloth for wiping
Frequently Asked Questions
Conclusion
The civilization of any person is shown by how clean the washroom of his house is, which is represented by clean curtains. Some people continue investing money each month on curtains and liners, while these things can last more than 2 to 5 years. So it’s your choice to make a little effort or let your precious money go to waste. Things that are already in your can be used to make polished and shiny bathroom items!