How to Clean a Shower Curtain and Liner — Toronto Home Guide

Shower curtains and liners develop mildew and soap scum build-up quickly in the damp bathroom environment. The liner — which contacts water directly — needs attention most. Regular cleaning is faster than replacing them repeatedly.

Plastic or Vinyl Liner — Machine Wash

1. Remove the liner from the hooks
2. Place in the washing machine with 1–2 old towels — the towels act as agitators and scrub the liner during the cycle
3. Add your regular detergent plus half a cup of baking soda
4. Wash on a warm (not hot) gentle cycle — hot water can warp plastic
5. Remove immediately at the end of the cycle and rehang on the rod to air dry — don't put a plastic liner in the dryer

For heavy mildew: add half a cup of white vinegar to the rinse cycle or spray the liner with a vinegar solution before washing.

Fabric Shower Curtain — Machine Wash

1. Remove from hooks and check the care label — most fabric curtains are machine washable
2. Wash on a gentle cycle with warm water and regular detergent
3. Tumble dry on low or air dry — high heat can shrink fabric curtains
4. Rehang promptly to prevent wrinkling

Hand Wash Method

For curtains that can't be machine washed or for a quick spot clean:

1. Leave the liner hanging and spray with a mixture of equal parts white vinegar and water
2. Let sit for 15 minutes
3. Scrub with a sponge or soft brush, paying attention to the bottom hem where mildew accumulates
4. Rinse by running the shower over it

How Often and When to Replace

Wash the liner monthly or when you see visible mildew or soap scum. Replace a plastic liner when washing no longer removes the mildew — usually every 6–12 months. Fabric curtains last much longer with regular washing. After every shower, spread the curtain fully across the rod so it dries flat — this significantly reduces mildew growth.