How to Clean Vinyl & Plastic Shower Curtain Liner (Easy)

Learn the best way to clean your vinyl shower or plastic curtain by hand and in the washing machine using easy ingredients that you already have at home in a few simple steps. 

We regularly clean our showers and glass shower doors but how often do you think to clean your vinyl shower curtains or plastic liner?

If you are like me, you probably remember to clean them when you notice mold or mildew growth on them.

While you are deep cleaning the bathroom, don't forget to get rid of the limescale on the shower head. 

Why This Method Works 

Vinegar naturally kills mold and mildew. It's also effective at getting rid of soap scum buildup and inhibits mold growth in the future because of it's antibacterial properties. The towels help to wipe the mold, grime, etc on a plastic shower curtain liner. 

I love using natural products when I can instead of ammonia-based cleaners. 

What You'll Need

• 3-4 towels (it's ok if they are dirty!)
• laundry detergent (it can be any brand)
• 1 cup of vinegar (just the plain white stuff)

How to Clean Vinyl and Plastic Shower Curtains and Liners

STEP 1: Remove the curtain or liners from the shower curtain rod. Set the shower curtain rings to the side. 

STEP 2:Place the dirty shower curtain in the washing with 3-4 bath towels and be sure they are distributed evenly. 

STEP 3:Choose a wash cycle that uses warm water (we usually go with delicate or gentle cycle). Add some mild detergent and a cup of white vinegar. 

STEP 4:After the washing cycle has finished, run it through another rinse cycle if you have that option. 

If there are still stubborn stains, you may what to run it through one more time. 

STEP 5:Lay the clean shower curtain on a flat surface to dry, or rehang on the shower rod and let it drip into the tub. 

If you notice any visible mold left, try wiping with a damp cloth or microfiber cloth.

Hand Washing Curtain Liners 

Use the washing machine is the easy way and hassle free, but you can also give it a good cleaning by hand washing them. 

STEP 1: Fill the tub with warm water. Swish in the detergent and vinegar. 

STEP 2:Submerge the whole thing in the water and let it set for an hour or so. 

STEP 3:Use a scrub brush if needed to remove tough stains. 

STEP 4:Drain the tub, and rehang the curtain to dry. 

Helpful Tips 

• Do not use water that is hotter than warm. Fabric shower curtain liners may be able to withstand the heat, but I wouldn't risk it with a vinyl or plastic shower liner. 
• It's a good idea to add this to your regular cleaning list. I like to use my DIY shower spray a couple times a week so cleaning is easier. 
• If the liner is past it's prime and hasn't had regular maintenance it may be easier to just get a new plastic shower curtain since these are usually pretty cheap. 
• Open windows if you have them in the bathroom to help the curtain to dry quicker. 
• While the curtain is going through the washing machine cycle, soak the rings in the bathroom sink with a mixture of equal parts vinegar and water. Rinse them off then dry with paper towels before using again. 
• We recommend an extra spin cycle to remove as much water as possible so it doesn't make a mess when carrying back to the bathroom. 

Can You Use This Same Method With a Cloth Shower Curtain? 

Yes! Fabric curtains are normally machine washable anyway and can withstand high temperatures. You can also dry the fabric liner in the dry on a cool setting. Check the care instructions first, as some may call for using cold water to avoid shrinkage. 

Following these step-by-step instructions you will see a huge difference in your shower curtains and it will help to slow the growth of mold in the future! 

More Cleaning Tricks and Hacks 

• 10 Clever Tips to Clean with Baking Soda
• DIY Homemade All Purpose Cleaner
• How to Clean With Essential Oils