“Unlocking Secrets: Mastering Your Shower Curtain Cleaning Routine”
Certain household tasks are unavoidable, like maintaining a clean bathroom. While we often pay attention to obvious areas like bathtubs and toilets for cleaning, we tend to overlook bathroom accessories that can harbor mold and bacteria, such as the shower curtain. Experts share insights on how frequently we should clean our shower curtains and liners, along with tips on the best methods to do so. Here’s what you need to know:
Expert Advice:
– Alicia Sokolowski, President and Co-CEO of AspenClean
– Michael Rubino, mold and air quality expert and founder of HomeCleanse
Cleaning Frequency:
It is recommended to wash your shower curtain at least once a month to prevent mold and bacteria buildup in the moist bathroom environment. If your bathroom is frequently used or remains humid, more regular cleaning is advised to minimize microbial growth. For bathrooms with infrequent use, you may be able to extend the cleaning frequency to every other month, especially if it’s a spare bathroom.
Importance of Cleaning:
Visible signs of mold and bacteria on the curtain indicate the need for cleaning. The shower curtain, with its damp surface and organic residues like soap scum, can quickly become a breeding ground for mold spores. Prompt cleaning is essential to prevent microbial growth, as some types of mold can develop within 24 to 48 hours in such conditions.
Cleaning Methods:
For machine-washable curtains and liners, check the labels and wash them in warm water with natural laundry detergent or a vinegar and baking soda mix. Hang to dry after washing. For plastic curtains or liners that are not machine washable, hand-washing is recommended. Use a damp microfiber cloth with baking soda to scrub and rinse with warm water.
In between washings, consider spraying the curtain with a botanical cleaner weekly to prevent microbial growth. By maintaining a regular cleaning schedule and following these expert tips, you can keep your shower curtain free from mold and bacteria.
Before you hang your shower curtain to dry, consider this alternative method suggested by Sokolowski: Fill your tub with warm/hot water, add a tablespoon of natural laundry detergent and one-quarter of a cup of baking soda. Let your shower curtain liner soak in this mixture for 10 to 15 minutes, then hand-wash it using a microfiber cloth or soft sponge. Once cleaned, hang it up to dry.
To keep your shower curtain cleaner for longer periods between monthly washings, Sokolowski recommends a few helpful tips. After showering, make sure to straighten the curtain and allow it to dry properly. Additionally, it’s important to separate the shower curtain from the liner to facilitate quick and thorough drying, as suggested by Rubino. Proper ventilation in the bathroom is also crucial; run the exhaust fan and keep a door or window cracked to create airflow while showering.
Despite these efforts, Rubino advises that nothing beats replacing an old shower curtain liner with a new one around the six-month mark. By following these cleaning and maintenance tips, you can ensure a fresher and more hygienic shower experience.
