To clean a shower curtain, wash it with baking soda, white vinegar and warm water — by hand or on a gentle machine cycle — to remove mould, mildew and soap scum fast. Hang to air dry for a fresher, hygienic Australian bathroom without harsh chemicals.
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 You Should Clean Your Shower Curtain 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 risks from mould spores in humid regions (QLD, NT, coastal NSW).
How Often Should You Clean It? (Australia)
Fabric/Polyester: every 2–4 weeks.
Plastic/PEVA: every month (more if you live in tropical or coastal areas).
Tip: After each shower, fully extend the curtain so it dries faster and discourages mildew.
Option 1 — Clean in the Washing Machine
Best for fabric and many machine-washable polyester curtains.
What you’ll need
- Mild detergent
- ½ cup baking soda
- ½ cup white vinegar
- Two clean towels (to cushion and reduce creasing)
Steps
- Remove the curtain and place it in the washer with two towels.
- Add detergent and ½ cup baking soda.
- Run a gentle warm cycle (eco/delicate on AU front-loaders works well).
- During rinse, add ½ cup white vinegar.
- Hang to air dry — do not tumble dry.
Option 2 — Hand Wash in the Tub or Laundry Sink
Ideal for plastic, PEVA and PVC curtains that may warp in a machine.
What you’ll need
- Mild detergent
- Warm water
- Sponge or soft cloth
- White vinegar (optional)
Steps
- Fill the tub with warm water and a small amount of detergent.
- Soak the curtain for 20–30 minutes.
- Gently scrub stains or mould spots.
- Rinse thoroughly.
- Hang outside in the Australian sun to naturally deodorise and dry.
Option 3 — 5-Minute Refresh (No Removal)
- Mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle.
- Spray the curtain (focus on soap scum and mildew areas).
- Wait 10 minutes, wipe with a microfibre cloth.
- Rinse with the showerhead and let it dry fully.
How to Remove Mould & Mildew
Natural remover: 1 part white vinegar + 1 part water + 2 tbsp baking soda. Spray, wait 15 min, 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.
How to Keep Your Shower Curtain Clean Longer
- Dry it: Fully extend after every shower.
- Use a liner: A washable PEVA liner shields fabric curtains from soap and moisture - Find our PEVA Shower Curtains Black and Grey.
- Ventilate: Run the exhaust fan or open a window to cut humidity.
- Weekly spray: Water + vinegar + a few drops of tea tree oil (Aussie favourite) to deter 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 a Shower Curtain?
- Plastic/PEVA: every 6–12 months.
- Fabric/Polyester: every 1–2 years.
Replace sooner if you notice persistent odour, discolouration, tears, or recurring mould.
Recommended Curtains 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 space and reflect light.
Explore our curated range of elegant, durable and easy-to-clean shower curtains designed for Australian bathrooms.
FAQs
Can I clean a shower curtain with baking soda and vinegar?
Yes — they safely break down soap scum, tackle odours and help lift mildew without harsh chemicals.
Is bleach safe on my curtain?
Use diluted bleach only on white/light colour curtains and as a last resort. Ventilate well and never mix bleach with other cleaners.
What about a quick clean between deep washes?
Use the 5-minute refresh with a vinegar-water spray, wipe, then rinse.