How to Clean a Shower Curtain (Fabric and Plastic)

Shower curtains collect soap scum, mold, mildew, and hard water deposits. Most can be cleaned easily — either in the washing machine or by hand. Here's how to clean every type.

What You'll Need

• Washing machine (for fabric curtains)
• Laundry detergent and white vinegar or baking soda
• Amazon Basics Non-Scratch Sponges (for hand washing)
• Scrubbing Bubbles Bathroom Cleaner (for plastic curtains)
• Rubber gloves

How Often Should You Clean a Shower Curtain?

Monthly for regular cleaning. Replace plastic liners every 3–6 months or when mold is no longer removable.

Cleaning a Fabric Shower Curtain (Washing Machine)

1. Remove the curtain from the rings.
2. Place in the washing machine with 1–2 bath towels — the towels act as scrubbers and help clean the curtain.
3. Add your regular laundry detergent plus ½ cup of white vinegar or baking soda.
4. Wash on a gentle cycle with warm water.
5. Remove promptly and hang back on the rod to air dry — do not put in the dryer unless the care label says it's safe.

Cleaning a Plastic or PEVA Shower Curtain (Hand Wash)

1. Lay the curtain flat in the bathtub or hang it on the rod.
2. Spray with Scrubbing Bubbles and let sit 5 minutes.
3. Scrub with a non-scratch sponge, paying attention to the bottom hem where mold accumulates.
4. For mold spots: apply undiluted white vinegar, let sit 30 minutes, scrub, and rinse.
5. Rinse thoroughly and hang to dry fully spread out.

Cleaning a Plastic Curtain in the Washing Machine

1. Place the plastic curtain in the washing machine with 2 bath towels.
2. Add detergent and ½ cup of white vinegar.
3. Wash on a gentle cycle with warm (not hot) water — hot water can warp plastic.
4. Remove immediately and hang to air dry — never put plastic in the dryer.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I put a shower curtain in the washing machine?

Yes — most fabric curtains and many plastic/PEVA curtains are machine washable. Use a gentle cycle with warm water. Always check the care label first. Never use hot water or the dryer for plastic curtains.

How do I remove black mold from a shower curtain?

Apply undiluted white vinegar to the mold spots and let sit 30–60 minutes, then scrub with a sponge. For stubborn mold, a diluted bleach solution (1 tbsp per cup of water) applied for 10 minutes before rinsing is effective on white fabric curtains. If mold is deeply embedded and won't come out, replace the curtain.

How do I stop my shower curtain from getting moldy?

Spread the curtain fully open after every shower so it dries completely. Mold grows in the folds of a bunched-up curtain. Run the bathroom exhaust fan for 15–20 minutes after showering to reduce humidity.