A plastic shower curtain liner helps to keep the actual shower curtain clean and tidy. The disadvantage is the liner itself becomes covered in soap scum, bacteria or even mold and mildew in the damp conditions in the bathroom. Instead of throwing the liner away, clean it up in the washing machine, but skip the dryer as the liner will melt in the heat.
Soap Scum Treatment
Soapy buildup is a vital concern in regards to the shower curtain liner, as this is often what causes it to seem dirty or grimy. Set the curtain liner in the washing machine with various towels. Add your favorite laundry detergent, along with a cup of vinegar, and then run the machine to a delicate or gentle cycle. Following the spin cycle stops, lift the curtain liner out and carry it so that it drips over the washing machine or clean tub for a moment or so. Hang the liner back to the curtain hooks together with the bottom of the liner in the bathtub or shower area, allowing it to air dry.
Fundamental Washing
Keep the shower curtain liner looking its best by running it through the washing machine with bleach added into the laundry detergent. Since the machine fills, add 1/2 cup of bleach, and 1/4 cup laundry detergent. Toss from the shower curtain liner and many white towels which may withstand bleaching. Run the washer on a delicate cycle using warm or hot water, then remove the liner after the rinse cycle and then hang up it on the shower curtain pole.
Mold and Mildew Treatment
Instead of adding bleach to the wash cycle — that will also get rid of mold and mildew — run a gentle wash cycle using 1/2 cup of baking soda added to the detergent in warm water. Add several blankets or towels to the load. Add a 1/2 cup of vinegar to the rinse cycle. After rinsing, hang the shower curtain to drip dry in the shower curtain pole or outside in sunlight, which also kills mold and mildew. The vinegar helps eliminate stains and helps you to avoid mold and mildew.
Keeping it Clean
Mold, mildew and bacteria build up on the folds of this shower curtain liner over time. To help prevent this from happening, pull on the shower curtain liner over the room after using the shower — this allows the liner to drip dry, instead of creating folded regions that remain wet and damp for long periods of time. Open a window or leave the bathroom fan on near the shower, whenever feasible, so you can dry the liner quickly.