If your shower curtain is showing its age, stop and think before throwing it in the trash and buying a new one. You might be able to wash off the stains, mold and mildew and return the plastic, vinyl or fabric to its original clean and fresh state. What's more, you can help prevent mildew from returning.
Mold and Mildew in Showers
Inside your shower are the perfect conditions for mold and mildew to flourish. It doesn't take long for spots and stains to appear in the damp, warm environment, where mold spores can grow on the remains of soap scum that stick to your shower curtains. Mold and mildew aren't easy to remove after they appear. If you manage to wipe off the spots, stains often remain.
Washing Shower Curtains
An easier solution to dirty shower curtains than trying to wipe them clean is to wash them in your washing machine. Bundle the curtain with two or three old towels to prevent your machine from tearing the delicate material, and add ½ cup of baking soda to your regular amount of laundry detergent. When the rinse cycle starts, add ½ cup vinegar.
Removing Stains
To remove stains from your shower curtain, you need something a little stronger than laundry detergent and baking soda. If your curtain has stubborn stains, start your washing machine's washing cycle while it's empty, and add ¼ cup laundry detergent and ½ cup chlorine bleach to the water. After 10 minutes, add two or three old bath towels and the curtain.
Drying
Don't put your curtain in your dryer on a regular drying cycle. Hang it up to drip dry, or set your dryer to its lowest temperature setting and dry the curtain with wet towels for just 10 minutes.
Preventing Mildew
You can prolong the life of your shower curtain by preventing mildew from growing on it.
- Fill your bathtub with warm water to about three inches deep, and add two cups of salt.
- Mix in the salt until it's dissolved.
- Put your new or clean shower curtain into the tub and push it under until it's covered in salt water.
- Allow the curtain to soak for about half an hour.
- Drain the bathtub and hang up the curtain to drip dry.
Fabric Curtains
Fabric shower curtains might be the best option for you if you'd like to put your curtain in the wash with the rest of your laundry. Cotton, nylon, rayon and polyester are some fabric shower curtain materials, and major retailers offer a range of colors and patterns.
You see your shower curtain every day, so it's worth taking the time to keep it clean. When you wash your curtain regularly, mold and mildew are less likely to grow and create stubborn stains. Your bathroom stays looking good too.
For answers to your questions, contact the Pink Plumber today.
