Do You Need to Wash Shower Curtains?
It's not enough that you wipe it dry after every shower
Shower curtains are staples in bathrooms—they provide privacy in tiny spaces and if you have a printed or patterned one, it can help liven up the T&B, too. While these get wet every time you shower, it’s not a guarantee that your curtains will stay clean and mildew-free. It’s inevitable to see stains and molds after some time and it can be unpleasant to go through your bathroom routine with a dirty shower curtain just a few steps away. Relax, you don’t need to throw it away and shop for a new one. Washing your shower curtains the right way can help you save on costs while keeping the bathroom spotless and relaxing. Get started with these tips:
Know the material you’re working with.
Shower curtains come in different styles and materials. Fabric curtains, or those made from cotton, nylon, polyester, or hemp, must be washed according to the instructions stated on the care label. When washing plastic curtains, start by filling the washer with water up to the highest level. Put in your trusted detergent and wash the curtain together with two or three bath towels. Hang it to dry.
Let your bathroom breathe.
High humidity causes mold and mildew growth. Make it a habit to open the door and windows after every bath to let moisture out. It’s also best if you stretch the curtain after every bath to allow it to dry.
Work with natural cleaners.
When washing your shower curtains, you can add a half cup of baking soda during the wash cycle and a half cup of vinegar during the rinse cycle. Avoid creases by letting it drip-dry.
Remove mold and mildew using chlorine bleach.
Fill your washer with warm water then add ¼ cup of your chosen detergent and a half cup of chlorine bleach. Let it run for a few minutes (to mix the solution) before adding your shower curtain and dirty towels. If you wish to use the dryer, put it on the lowest temperature setting before adding your curtain and towels. Let it spin for 10 minutes before hanging your essentials to dry.
Sources: Reader’s Digest and Good Housekeeping | Extra Main Photo from H&M
