How to Clean a Shower Curtain : Easy Vinegar & Baking Soda Methods

Keeping your bathroom spotless can be tricky — especially the shower curtain. Between mould, soap scum and hard water stains, warm and humid conditions across Australia can quickly turn a fresh curtain into a maintenance headache. This guide shows you how to wash a shower curtain properly, when to replace it, and how to keep it cleaner for longer — tailored to the Australian climate.

Why clean it regularly

• Prevents odours by removing trapped moisture and residue.
• Extends the lifespan of fabric, polyester, PEVA and PVC curtains.
• Keeps your bathroom looking bright and hygienic.
• Reduces allergy risk from mould spores in humid regions (QLD, NT, coastal NSW).

How often should you clean it?

Three ways to wash it

Option 1 — Machine wash

What you'll need: mild detergent, ½ cup baking soda, ½ cup white vinegar, two clean towels to cushion the load.

1. Remove the curtain and place it in the washer with two towels.
2. Add detergent and ½ cup baking soda.
3. Run a gentle warm cycle (eco/delicate on AU front-loaders works well).
4. During rinse, add ½ cup white vinegar.
5. Hang to air dry — do not tumble dry.

Option 2 — Hand wash

What you'll need: mild detergent, warm water, a sponge or soft cloth, white vinegar (optional).

1. Fill the tub with warm water and a small amount of detergent.
2. Soak the curtain for 20–30 minutes.
3. Gently scrub stains or mould spots.
4. Rinse thoroughly.
5. Hang outside in the Australian sun to naturally deodorise and dry.

Option 3 — 5-minute refresh (no removal)

1. Mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle.
2. Spray the curtain, focusing on soap scum and mildew areas.
3. Wait 10 minutes, wipe with a microfibre cloth.
4. Rinse with the showerhead and let it dry fully.

Remove mould & mildew

Natural remover: 1 part white vinegar + 1 part water + 2 tbsp baking soda. Spray, wait 15 minutes, scrub gently, rinse.

For stubborn patches: use a 1:10 diluted bleach solution with good ventilation and gloves. Never mix bleach with vinegar or ammonia.

Keep it clean longer

• Dry it: fully extend after every shower.
• Use a liner: a washable PEVA liner shields fabric curtains from soap and moisture — see our Black and Grey PEVA liners.
• Ventilate: run the exhaust fan or open a window to cut humidity.
• Weekly spray: water + vinegar + a few drops of tea tree oil, an Aussie favourite for deterring mildew.
• Avoid harsh chemicals: kinder for your curtain and the environment.

Eco-friendly cleaning tips

• Choose biodegradable detergents to protect waterways.
• Air dry outdoors instead of machine drying.
• Consider fabric or linen curtains as plastic-free options.
• Use gentle cycles on efficient front-loaders to save water and power.

When should you replace it?

Replace sooner if you notice persistent odour, discolouration, tears, or recurring mould.

Recommended for Australian homes

• Mould-resistant materials for tropical/coastal regions.
• Weighted hems to prevent cling.
• Machine-washable polyester for easy care.
• Extra-long options for taller showers and bathtubs.
• Light colours — white, beige, grey — to brighten the space and reflect light.