Shower curtains whether they are cloth, vinyl or plastic will get dirty due to several factors including hard water, soap scum and mildew. Luckily there are simple methods that will clean a shower curtain.
One way to clean dirty shower curtains is to wash them in the washing machine using warm or cold water. Then add one cup of regular laundry detergent and one half to one cup of bleach. Let the curtains go through the normal or delicate wash cycle and then remove them from the washing machine. Hang them back on the curtain rod and allow them to drip dry in the tub. The curtains will be clean and will have a fresh smell.
Another effective way to remove soap scum from a shower curtain is to wash them in the washing machine using one cup of baking soda and then wash them in warm water on the regular wash cycle. Fabric softener can be added to the wash to give the curtains a fresh scent.
One other way to clean a shower curtain effectively is to generously spray the dirty curtain with any commercial spray cleanser or with a bleach solution. Wait for ten minutes or so and then scrub away the dirt with as bathroom scrubber. A hand held scrubber will work just fine or one with an extended handle will work even better because this can be done while the curtains are still hanging up. There will be no need to take them down or wash them in the machine. After the scrubbing is completed rinse them thoroughly with warm water using the shower head and allow them to dry.
The following are a few other handy tips to remember. One is to add two large white or light colored towels to the wash. This will help prevent wrinkles and will scrub away the dirt. Also it is suggested that shower curtain not be put in the dryer. The plastic and vainly ones will melt.
There are a few other helpful tips. One is to always remove the shower curtain rings before putting the curtains in the washing machine. Another good tip to remember is that instead of using bar soap use a body wash or gel because bar soap is known for causing soap scum.
Finally it is a good idea to soak shower curtains in salt water for about 20 minutes after they have been cleaned in washing machine. This will help keep mildew from forming. Mildew cannot stand up to saltwater.
These effective and easy to follow tips will clean a shower curtain and leave them looking and smelling fresh.