How to Clean Mildew Off Shower Curtains

Mold and mildew often grow on shower curtains because of the constant high humidity. In "State of the Science on Molds and Human Health," Stephen C. Redd, M.D. stated that mildew contributes to allergic conditions such as sinus and upper respiratory infections. However, shower curtains do not need to be discarded when they become soiled with mildew. Plastic, vinyl and fabric shower curtains can be cleaned to save money. Fabric shower curtains are a lot easier to clean, and they can be used without a plastic or vinyl liner.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Hot water
• Bleach
• Scrub brush
• Washing machine

To Clean Plastic or Vinyl Shower Curtains

1. Remove shower curtain from hooks.

2. Fill tub with about 6 inches of hot water. Add 1 cup of bleach.

3. Place the shower curtain into the water with bleach. Allow it to soak for 1 hour. Bleach will kill the mildew and lighten the mildew stain while the shower curtain is soaking in the solution.

4. Use a scrub brush to remove all mold and mildew from both sides of the shower curtain. Scrubbing with a stiff brush will remove the mildew and mildew stains from the shower curtain.

5. Empty tub and fill with cool water to rinse the shower curtain.

6. Hang the curtain back on the shower curtain hooks. Allow it to air dry.

To Clean a Fabric Shower Curtain

7. Remove shower curtain from hooks.

8. Place shower curtain in washing machine.

9. Wash in hot water with 1 cup of bleach or color-safe bleach.

10. Dry in a clothes dryer or hang back on shower curtain hooks to dry.

Tips & Warnings

• Keep the shower curtain as dry as possible by hanging outside of the shower after each use. Slide the shower curtain six inches from each wall after use to increase circulation that will decrease humidity and reduce the growth of mold and mildew in the tub and shower. Use an exhaust fan while showering or bathing to reduce the humidity in the air and reduce mold and mildew growth.
• Always use proper ventilation when using bleach or products that contain bleach. When cleaning plastic or vinyl shower curtains in bleach water in the tub, avoid splashing water into eyes. Rubber gloves should be worn while scrubbing curtains in the bleach solution to avoid dermal absorption of bleach.

Resources

• State of the Science on Molds and Human Health