Shower curtains are one of those household items we tend to ignore—until they’re suddenly covered in soap scum, mildew, and mold. After a few weeks of daily use, they can start to look downright unpleasant, and many people simply throw them away and replace them. While that may seem like the easiest solution, it’s ultimately wasteful and can become surprisingly expensive over time.
One woman, tired of constantly swapping out her dingy shower liner, discovered a clever fix: she tossed it into her washing machine. The result? A curtain that looked good as new—even though it was vinyl, a material most people assume can’t be washed.
The Simple Trick to Saving Money and Reducing Waste
Here’s everything you need to know about washing your vinyl shower curtain in the washing machine—an easy method that keeps your bathroom fresh and is kinder to both your wallet and the planet.
Why Shower Curtains Get So Dirty
Shower curtains are exposed to steam, water, and soap every day, making them the perfect breeding ground for mold, mildew, bacteria, and soap scum. Warm, humid air combined with residue from body wash, shampoo, and conditioner sticks to the curtain’s surface, creating layers of buildup.
Because of this, many people assume the only option is frequent replacement—but with proper care, your curtain can stay clean and last much longer.
Yes—You Can Wash a Vinyl Shower Curtain in the Washing Machine
Even though vinyl and plastic don’t behave like fabric, they’re surprisingly durable and can withstand a gentle machine wash. This makes it easy to remove soap scum, mildew, and other grime that collects over time.
How to Wash a Vinyl Shower Curtain in the Washing Machine
1. Take Down the Curtain
Remove the curtain or liner from the rod. Pay special attention to the bottom edge—this is where mold and mildew tend to accumulate.
2. Check the Care Label
Some vinyl curtains have washing instructions printed on the label. Most are machine-safe, but it’s worth confirming before you begin.
3. Wash It with a Few Towels
Add two or three bath towels to the load. They help scrub the curtain clean without damaging it.
4. Use a Mild Detergent
Add about half the detergent you’d normally use. Avoid bleach or harsh chemicals, which can weaken or discolor vinyl.
5. Boost Cleaning Power with Vinegar or Baking Soda
- Add ½ cup of baking soda during the wash to fight soap scum.
- Pour ½ cup of white vinegar into the rinse cycle to eliminate odors and kill remaining mildew.
6. Choose a Gentle Wash Cycle
Use a delicate or gentle cycle with cold or warm water. Never use hot water—it can warp the vinyl.
7. Air Dry Only
Once the cycle is complete, take the curtain out immediately.
Do NOT use the dryer.
Heat can melt or misshape vinyl. Simply hang it back on the rod and let it air dry naturally.
How Often Should You Wash It?
To keep mold and mildew under control, wash your shower curtain every 1–2 months. Regular cleaning will extend the curtain’s lifespan and help maintain a healthy bathroom environment.
Why Washing Beats Replacing
✔ Eco-Friendly
Vinyl curtains are not biodegradable. Washing instead of replacing reduces plastic waste sent to landfills.
✔ Healthier Bathroom
Regular cleaning eliminates mold and mildew, which can aggravate allergies and respiratory issues.
✔ Saves Money
A well-maintained vinyl curtain can last for years, eliminating the need for constant replacement.
Tips to Keep Your Shower Curtain Cleaner Between Washes
- Keep it fully extended after each shower to allow proper drying.
- Use a daily shower spray to slow soap scum buildup.
- Improve ventilation with an exhaust fan or by keeping the bathroom door open after showering.
Washing your vinyl shower curtain in the washing machine is an easy, effective solution that many people overlook. Once you try it, you’ll realize how simple it is to keep your curtains clean, fresh, and free of mold—without constantly buying new ones. With a little maintenance, your shower curtain can look great and last for years.
