Your shower curtain works hard protecting your bathroom from splashes while also adding a touch of style. But over time, soap scum, mould and mildew can build up, leaving it looking less than fresh. If your shower curtain is looking dull, stained or mouldy, the good news is that most issues are easy to fix with the right approach.

Good ventilation and regular rinsing are often enough to prevent mildew from forming in the first place. Rinsing the curtain lightly after each shower also helps reduce build-up and makes routine cleaning easier.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to restoring your shower curtain, including how to wash shower curtain fabrics in the washing machine for a quick refresh.

Basic methods for cleaning a shower curtain

Most shower curtains (fabric, vinyl or plastic) can be cleaned at home with a little effort.

Hand-washing method

1. Remove the curtain and lay it flat.
2. Scrub gently with warm water, dish soap and a sponge.
3. Rinse thoroughly and hang back up to air dry.

This method works well for routine maintenance and light build-up. For extra freshness, add a tablespoon of baking soda to your soapy water. This helps lift residue without damaging fabric or vinyl, a tip often featured in top cleaning guides.

How to clean a mildewed shower curtain

Mildew shows up as dark spots and a musty smell. Here’s how to treat it:

• Soak in vinegar: Fill a bathtub with warm water and add two cups of white vinegar. Soak the curtain for an hour, then rinse and scrub gently.
• Baking soda paste: For stubborn patches, apply a paste of baking soda and water directly to the mildew, scrub and rinse.
• Sunlight boost: Hang your curtain outside in the sun to dry—UV rays naturally kill mildew spores.
• If mildew remains, spray the curtain with a diluted hydrogen peroxide solution (always patch-test first). This approach is useful for heavier mildew where gentler methods are ineffective.

How to clean a shower curtain in the washing machine

Many shower curtains can be cleaned in the washing machine, but always check the care label first.

1. Remove the curtain and place it in the machine.
2. Add regular detergent plus half a cup of baking soda.
3. Wash on a gentle cycle with warm water.
4. Add half a cup of vinegar during the rinse cycle for extra freshness.
5. For plastic or vinyl curtains, include two clean towels in the drum. They act as gentle scrubbers, helping to remove grime without causing damage, a common pro tip found in leading cleaning resources.
6. Hang immediately to air dry. Avoid the dryer.

This is one of the simplest ways to keep shower curtains and liners fresh with minimal effort.

If bathroom cleaning feels overwhelming or you’re preparing for an inspection, speaking with a local cleaning professional can simplify the process and ensure nothing is overlooked.

When to call in professionals

If you’re moving out of a rental, cleaning the bathroom thoroughly - including shower curtains is key to securing your bond. A professional end of tenancy clean ensures no detail is missed.

For regular help at home, Bark connects you with trusted house cleaning professionals who can tackle bathrooms, kitchens and more.

And beyond cleaning, Bark can also help with related services such as end of tenancy support, property-related legal advice and other home services when you need them.

Final word

Knowing how to clean a shower curtain, whether by hand, in the washing machine or with natural remedies, helps keep your bathroom fresh and hygienic. From tackling mildew to quick monthly washes, these methods are simple and effective.

And when you need more support for house cleaning, end of tenancy cleaning, legal advice or estate planning, Bark helps you hire the right professional every time.