How to Clean a Shower Curtain and Liner

1. The Gross Reality: We’ve All Been There

You step into the shower, ready to relax — but instead, your eyes land on the bottom of the curtain. A little pink. Maybe some gray streaks. You tell yourself you’ll deal with it later, but days pass and the mildew quietly multiplies. Whether it’s a plastic liner clinging damply to your leg or a fabric curtain that’s started to yellow near the hem, it’s one of those small things that feels bigger than it is — because no one wants to wrestle with mold on laundry day.

2. Here's What Actually Works: Simple Shower Curtain Cleaning Methods

You don't need fancy, expensive chemicals for effective mold removal. Whether you’re cleaning a plastic liner or a fabric curtain, the methods are simple and use products you already have. You actually have a few powerful, eco-friendly cleaning options:

Method 1: Machine-Washable? Toss It In

Most fabric shower curtains can go straight into the washing machine for a deep clean.

Use cold water on a gentle cycle to prevent shrinkage or damage.
Add a few towels to the load. They help balance the drum and provide a gentle scrubbing action against the curtain.
Use mild detergent and optionally, half a cup of baking soda for deodorizing.
For mildew or stubborn spots: Add a little white vinegar during the rinse cycle or pour directly into the dispenser.
Crucial Step: Air-dry it; never put it in the dryer, as the heat can melt or permanently crease the material.

Method 2: Prefer to Wash by Hand? Gentle and Effective

If your curtain is delicate, non-machine washable like thick PEVA or EVA liners, or you just want more control, cleaning by hand works perfectly.

Take the curtain down and lay it flat in the bathtub.
Fill the tub with warm water and a few drops of dish soap.
Use a soft sponge or cloth to scrub gently, focusing especially around any stained or mildewed areas.
Sprinkle baking soda directly onto tough spots for extra, non-abrasive cleaning power.
Rinse thoroughly using the shower head and hang it immediately to air-dry.

Pro Tip: Washing by hand is gentler and helps preserve the texture and clarity of thinner liners. It also avoids the risk of creasing or damage that can happen in a fast washing machine cycle.

3. It’s Worth Keeping It Clean (Seriously, It Saves You Money)

Regular cleaning doesn’t just keep things looking better; it also significantly extends the life of your curtain and liner. A quick wash every month or so prevents mold and mildew from taking hold, which saves you from constantly replacing cheap liners. If you're using a higher-quality or weighted liner, this simple maintenance routine can save you real money over time and is key to maintaining proper bathroom hygiene.

4. A Simple Fix: When to Choose Replacement Over Cleaning

If your curtain liner has seen better days, and the thought of scrubbing makes you sigh, replacing it might be the simplest fix for instant bathroom refresh. Our Rainbow Shower Curtains are made from 100% EVA — soft, durable, and free from PVC or chlorine. Easy to clean, easy to live with.