Don't Toss Your Shower Liner! Try Cleaning It First

Cleaning the shower curtain liner is an often overlooked task, but fortunately for all of us, it's as easy as doing a load of laundry.

February 12, 2025 HOME HACK #65 Instead of Replacing Your Plastic Shower Liner, Do This Aside from kitchens, bathrooms tend to accumulate dirt, grime, and bacteria more quickly than other rooms. And if we had to guess, we'd say they're probably your least favorite spots to clean. Between the moisture, humidity, shedding hair, and toothpaste spills, it's no surprise these high-traffic areas don't stay clean for long. Credit: Alla/ iStock During regular bathroom cleanings, most people focus on the tub, sink, and toilet. One task — cleaning the shower curtain liner — is often overlooked, but fortunately for all of us, it's as easy as doing a load of laundry. Since shower curtain liners are among the more budget-friendly home essentials, you may be tempted to toss them at the first sight of any mildew or grime. However, cleaning them is easier than you think — all you need is a few supplies. Before You Clean This home hack is an easy one, but always check the care instructions before cleaning any item. Most plastic, vinyl, and fabric shower curtain liners are machine washable, but it's better to be safe than sorry. What You'll Need • Bath towel • Laundry detergent • ¼ cup distilled white vinegar How To Clean Shower Curtain Liners First, remove your shower curtain liner and throw it in your washing machine. Next, add a clean bath towel. A bath towel not only prevents the liner from bunching but also acts as a mild abrasive to help clean it. Add a small amount of laundry detergent and ¼ cup of distilled white vinegar, which helps remove soap scum and kills most mold species. Wash the liner on a delicate cycle using warm water.  Avoid putting the shower curtain liner in the dryer after washing — you don't want it to melt or get damaged. Simply shake off any water droplets and hang it back on the shower curtain rod to air dry. Continue Reading PRODUCT PICK Threshold Modern Geo Shower Curtain I just moved into a new place, so I'm on the hunt for a well-made shower curtain that only looks expensive. The Threshold Modern Geo Shower Curtain, made from 100% cotton, is a steal at only $20. The green, white, orange, and black print provides a great jumping-off point for the rest of your bathroom decor. I also love that it's machine washable, allowing for a quick refresh if it gets dusty or starts to stink. — Kelsey Morrison, House Outlook Editor SHOP NOW We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. AROUND THE HOUSE Better Report The Blankets (and Bedding) You'll Use All Year Long From fleece blankets to flannel sheets and a portable pillow that doubles as a heating pad, here are some beyond-comfortable bedding options you'll love. Real Simple 11 Things You Can Toss From Your Closet Right Now Once you donate or toss everything on this list, you'll be surprised by how much more spacious your closet feels and the room you have for clothing you actually wear. Martha Stewart How Long Does Olive Oil Last? Plus, How to Tell if It's Gone Bad From everyday cooking oil to premium bottles, learn how to properly store your olive oil and extend its shelf life with these expert tips. Pauline Lacsamana Writer Pauline Lacsamana is a freelance writer and editor who specializes in commerce, home, design, and lifestyle. She has bylines in The Spruce, Business Insider, U.S. News & World Report, Hunker, MyDomaine, Parade, and more. Was this email forwarded to you? SUBSCRIBE No longer interested in receiving our content? Unsubscribe from future emails. Powered by Optimism Contact Us     Privacy Policy     Terms of Use     Do Not Sell My Information 1550 Larimer Street, Suite 431, Denver, CO 80202