How to Prevent Vinyl Shower Curtain Mildew

Take steps to prevent mildew from forming on the inside of your shower curtain.

Vinyl shower curtains attract mildew (a generic term referring to mold growth) due to their thin, moisture-absorbing texture and their placement in wet environments, namely showers. Because vinyl curtains have frequent exposure to water and are seldom dried manually, mildew has a perfect breeding ground within their fibers. You can prevent the growth and spread of mildew by treating, maintaining and cleaning your vinyl curtains in ways that discourage mold spores.

Things You'll Need

• Dry cloth
• Bucket
• Distilled white vinegar
• Washing machine
• Bleach
• Towels
• Lemon juice
• Salt

Instructions

1. Spread your curtains out after each shower and fully stretch them along the track to ensure the fastest and most effective drying. Mildew breeds in moist environments, so you can stop the spores in their tracks by ensuring that your vinyl curtains dry quickly. As an additional precaution, wipe down your curtains after each shower with a dry cloth.

2. Soak your curtains inside of a bucket filled with two parts water and one part distilled white vinegar for about an hour. The acetic acid contained in vinegar kills mold spores on contact and effectively prevents mold from growing. By soaking your curtains in this manner approximately once a month, you can reduce the likelihood of mold growth year round.

3. Wash your vinyl curtains every two to four weeks inside a top-loading washing machine using one cup of bleach. Like vinegar, bleach contains powerful mold-fighting properties, and you can use it in addition to vinegar soaking or as an alternative. Remove the hooks from the curtains and place inside the washing machine. Place the curtains on top of thick towels to protect the vinyl. Allow your curtains to air dry.

4. Dry your bathroom floor after every shower. Mold often begins its growth cycle on the lower portion of vinyl shower curtains because the curtains absorb large amounts of water from the floor. Keep your floor dry to prevent your curtains from becoming saturated.

5. Remove current mold stains by pouring a few drops of lemon juice over the affected area and sprinkling salt over the lemon juice. Wipe the curtain with a soft non-abrasive cloth. Do this whenever you notice mold beginning to form. Look for signs of a moist brown or green discoloration accompanied by a musty odor.

Tips & Warnings

• Purchase mildew-resistant vinyl curtains from a household supply store to ease your burden of having to constantly keep your curtains dry and protected.

References

• University of Missouri Extension: How to Prevent Mold and Mildew - Home Methods
• Guide 4 Home: Shower Curtains - Care and Maintenance
• Mrs. Clean USA: How to Clean Your Bathtub and Shower Curtains