You don't need to throw away your shower curtain just because it looks dirty or smells bad. You can easily clean your shower curtain in the washing machine and make it look new again. I tried this myself and was so surprised how simple and fast it was. No scrubbing by hand, no strong chemicals—just your washing machine and a few things you already have at home. In this article, you'll learn exactly how to do it, step by step, in the easiest way possible.
Take Down the Curtain and Check the Label
The first thing you should do is take down your shower curtain from the rod. Gently remove all the hooks or rings. Don't pull too hard, because that might tear the holes or damage the curtain. Put the hooks in a safe place so you can find them later.
After taking down the curtain, check the care label. You'll usually find this label on one of the corners or along the side of the curtain. The label will tell you if the curtain is machine washable or not. Most plastic, vinyl, and fabric shower curtains can go into the washing machine, but it's always good to double check. If the label says 'machine washable,' then you're good to go. If it says 'hand wash only,' you should not put it in the machine, or it might get ruined.
If your curtain has mold, mildew, or soap scum on it, don't worry. The washing machine can take care of most of that. Even if it smells bad, washing it the right way will remove the odor.
You can also check if there's a liner behind the curtain. Some people use a plastic liner and a fabric curtain together. Both can usually be washed, but it's better to wash them separately so they get fully clean.
Also, look at what kind of curtain you have. Is it plastic? Vinyl? Or fabric? Each type can go in the washer, but some may need different settings.
If you are nervous about putting it in the machine, remember this: many people clean their shower curtains this way all the time. It's safe as long as you follow simple steps.
- Gently take down the curtain from the hooks
- Check the label for washing instructions
- Most plastic, vinyl, and fabric curtains are machine washable
- Remove the liner and wash it separately
- Don't panic if the curtain has mold or smells bad
Get Your Supplies Ready Before Washing
Now that you know your curtain can be washed, it's time to gather a few things before starting. These are simple household items that you may already have at home.
Here's what you'll need:
- Your dirty shower curtain
- A few towels (at least two)
- Regular laundry detergent
- Baking soda (about ½ cup)
- White vinegar (about 1 cup)
The towels are very helpful. They will help scrub the curtain while in the machine. They also help balance the load so the curtain doesn't twist too much. Use old towels, not your best ones, just in case.
Baking soda is great for cleaning and removing smells. White vinegar helps kill mold and break down soap scum. These two items make a big difference when washing a shower curtain.
Do not use bleach unless the label says it's okay. Some curtains get damaged with bleach. Also, do not put in any softeners or strong-smelling products. The goal is to clean it gently and safely.
Prepare everything and keep it nearby so you don't need to stop in the middle of the process.
If your curtain is very dirty, you can also rinse it in the tub first. Use warm water to rinse off loose dirt. But this step is optional.
- Get old towels ready for the wash
- Measure ½ cup baking soda and 1 cup white vinegar
- Use regular laundry detergent, not bleach
- Do not use fabric softener
- Rinse the curtain first if it's extra dirty
Put the Curtain in the Washing Machine Properly
Now you're ready to load the machine. Place the shower curtain inside the washing machine along with the towels. It's good to use two to three towels. They help scrub the curtain gently during the wash and also keep the curtain from bunching up.
Set your machine to a gentle or delicate cycle. If your curtain is plastic or vinyl, use cold or warm water only. Hot water can melt or damage it. If your curtain is made from fabric, warm water is usually fine.
Add your regular detergent to the washer. Then sprinkle the baking soda directly on top of the curtain inside the drum. Start the washing machine and let it go through the wash cycle.
During the rinse cycle (the second half of the wash), add the vinegar. You can pour it into the fabric softener compartment if your washer has one, or just add it directly to the drum when it starts rinsing. Vinegar helps kill bacteria and removes any leftover smell.
Do not use the dryer for plastic or vinyl curtains. That's very important. They can melt or shrink. Let them air dry instead.
- Load the curtain and towels into the machine
- Use delicate or gentle wash cycle
- Cold or warm water for plastic or vinyl
- Add detergent and baking soda at the start
- Add vinegar during rinse cycle
- Never use the dryer for plastic or vinyl
Let the Curtain Dry the Right Way
Once the wash is done, take out the curtain and towels carefully. Shake the curtain gently to get rid of any extra water. You may see that it already looks cleaner and smells fresh.
If your curtain is plastic or vinyl, do not use a dryer. Hang it back on the rod to air dry. Spread it out so that it doesn't stick together. If you fold or scrunch it, it may stay wet and grow mold again.
If your curtain is fabric, you may be able to dry it in the dryer. But only use low heat. Check the label first. Some fabric curtains can shrink with high heat.
Let it dry fully before using the shower again. A damp curtain may collect more dirt if you shower before it's dry.
If your curtain still has some spots or stains, you can try spot-cleaning those parts by hand. Use baking soda paste (just a bit of water and baking soda mixed) and gently scrub with a sponge.
- Shake out extra water after wash
- Hang plastic or vinyl curtain to air dry
- Use dryer on low heat only for fabric curtain
- Make sure it dries completely before using
- Try spot cleaning if some stains remain
Clean the Hooks and Rod Too
While your curtain is drying, it's a good time to clean the hooks and the shower rod. These parts also collect soap, dust, and sometimes mold.
To clean the hooks, soak them in warm soapy water for about 15 to 20 minutes. Then scrub them gently with a sponge or old toothbrush. Rinse them well and let them dry.
You can also clean the shower rod. Wipe it with a cloth soaked in vinegar or mild cleaner. If the rod has rust, you can use baking soda and a bit of water to scrub it off. Dry the rod well after cleaning.
Cleaning the hooks and rod helps your clean curtain stay clean longer. It also keeps the bathroom fresh and healthy.
When everything is dry, reattach the hooks to the curtain and hang it back up on the rod. You'll be surprised how fresh and bright it looks again.
- Soak hooks in warm soapy water
- Scrub them clean and rinse well
- Wipe the rod with vinegar or cleaner
- Remove rust using baking soda paste
- Dry everything before reattaching
Keep the Curtain Clean Longer
Now that your curtain is fresh and clean, you probably want to keep it that way for as long as possible. Good news: there are a few simple things you can do every day or week to stop dirt, mold, and smells from building up again.
First, always spread out the curtain after each shower. Don't bunch it up or push it to one side. When the curtain is open, it dries faster, and that stops mold.
Next, open a window or turn on the bathroom fan after every shower. Moisture is the main cause of mold, and fresh air helps dry out the room.
Also, try to wash your shower curtain every month or at least every two months. That way, it never gets too dirty or smelly again.
If you see small spots of mold, you can spot-clean them right away. Mix vinegar and water in a spray bottle and spray the dirty area. Wipe it with a cloth.
You can also switch to a fabric liner instead of plastic. Fabric liners are easier to wash and last longer.
- Open curtain after each shower to dry
- Use fan or open window to remove moisture
- Wash curtain every 1 to 2 months
- Spot-clean mold with vinegar spray
- Try using a fabric liner instead of plastic
Final Thoughts
Cleaning your shower curtain in the washing machine is not hard. It saves time, money, and keeps your bathroom fresh. You don't need special tools or chemicals. Just your washer, a few towels, and simple items like vinegar and baking soda. Doing this once a month will make your curtain last longer and look better. Next time you see mold or soap scum on your curtain, don't throw it away. Just wash it the right way. It's quick, easy, and anyone can do it at home.
| Item | Can It Be Machine Washed | Water Temp | Dryer Safe | Extra Tips |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Plastic Curtain | Yes | Cold or Warm | No | Hang to air dry |
| Vinyl Curtain | Yes | Cold or Warm | No | Do not twist in machine |
| Fabric Curtain | Yes | Warm | Yes (Low Heat) | Check label before using dryer |
| Curtain Hooks | No (Machine) | Hand Wash Only | Air Dry | Soak in soapy water, scrub gently |
| Baking Soda | Yes (Add in Wash) | – | – | Helps remove smell and stains |
| White Vinegar | Yes (Add in Rinse) | – | – | Kills mold and breaks down soap |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is it safe to put plastic shower curtains in the washing machine?
Yes, it is safe to wash most plastic shower curtains in the washing machine. Just make sure to use a gentle cycle and cold or warm water. Never use hot water because it can melt or warp the plastic. Also, don't use the dryer for plastic curtains. Instead, hang them to dry completely. Adding a few towels to the wash will help clean the curtain without damaging it. Always check the label first to make sure it's machine washable.
Can I wash my curtain with other clothes?
It's not a good idea to wash your shower curtain with your regular clothes. Shower curtains may carry soap scum, mold, or dirt that could stick to your clothing. It's better to wash it with a few towels only. The towels help scrub the curtain and protect it during the wash. They also balance the load inside the machine. Always wash the curtain separately for the best results and hygiene.
Do I need special soap to wash the curtain?
No, you don't need special soap. You can use your regular laundry detergent. You can also add baking soda and white vinegar for a better clean. Baking soda helps with stains and smell, while vinegar kills mold and bacteria. Just avoid strong-smelling detergents or fabric softeners. They can leave a residue that builds up over time. Keeping it simple is the best way to clean your curtain.
Is it okay to use bleach for mold stains?
Only use bleach if the label on your curtain says it's safe. Some curtains, especially fabric ones, can get damaged by bleach. For plastic or vinyl curtains, bleach might cause fading or make the material weak. A better and safer option is white vinegar. Vinegar works well against mold and is not harmful to most materials. You can also use baking soda for tough spots. Try these before using bleach.
Can I clean a moldy curtain without a washer?
Yes, you can clean a moldy shower curtain by hand if you don't have a washer. Fill a tub with warm water, baking soda, and white vinegar. Soak the curtain for 30 minutes, then scrub it gently with a sponge. Focus on the moldy spots. Rinse it well and hang it to dry. This method works well for both plastic and fabric curtains. It just takes a little more time than using a washing machine.
Do I have to remove the hooks before washing?
Yes, it's best to remove the hooks before putting the curtain in the washing machine. The hooks can damage the curtain or even the inside of your washer. Take them off gently and clean them separately by hand. You can soak them in warm soapy water and scrub them clean. After everything is dry, you can reattach the hooks. Taking them off is a small step that makes a big difference.
Is it better to use a fabric liner or plastic?
Both fabric and plastic liners work, but fabric liners are often easier to clean. You can wash fabric liners in the machine and even put them in the dryer. Plastic liners can melt or tear if you're not careful. Fabric liners also look better and last longer. If you want something easy to care for and safe to wash often, a fabric liner is a better choice.
Can I stop mold from coming back?
Yes, you can stop mold from coming back by taking simple steps. After every shower, spread the curtain open so it can dry. Use a bathroom fan or open a window to let out the steam. Wash your curtain once a month or every two months. If you see any spots, clean them right away with vinegar. These small habits will help keep your curtain fresh and mold-free for a long time.