Shower curtains are a hotspot for mold growth. The damp and humid environment allows mold to multiply quickly. The good bit is that you can remove the mold without replacing the curtains.
Just a Pro Tip: Check the information tag on the curtains. It contains information on compatible cleaning products and cleaning methods.
Similar problem: How to Get Rid of Black Mold in Shower Caulk?
1. Hydrogen Peroxide & Baking Soda
- Remove the curtain from the rod and fold the infected areas inward or put the curtain in a plastic bag.
- Take the curtain outside and spread it flat near a drainage hole.
- Make a solution of two parts hydrogen peroxide and one part water and spray on the curtain. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes.
- Rinse thoroughly with water.
- Make a thick baking soda and water paste and scrub the entire curtain to kill mold spores.
- Rinse with water and flip the curtain.
- Repeat the same process on the unwashed side.
- Hang the shower curtain to air dry.
2. Baking Soda and Vinegar
Use this method for curtains that are machine washable.
- Remove the curtain and place it in your washing machine.
- Add a little detergent and run the machine on gentle settings.
- Add ½ cup of baking soda at half wash time.
- Stay put and add ½ cup white distilled vinegar at the start of rinse cycle.
- Remove the curtain and check for any leftover mold. Use baking soda paste to remove it.
- Wash in machine or rinse with water and hang the curtain to dry.
3. Oxygen Bleach
Use this method to clean fabric shower curtains.
- Remove the curtain and spread on a flat surface outside.
- Scrub the mold with a soft bristle brush.
- Add 4 tablespoons of oxygen bleach and ½ gallon water in a big tub that can hold water and curtain.
- Put the curtain in the tub and let it sit for 2 hours so bleach can kill mold.
- Scrub the infected areas with the brush.
- Squeeze (don’t wring with force) the curtain gently to remove bleach and mold.
- Spread the curtain on the floor and use a water hose to remove bleach and leftover mold.
- Dry the curtain naturally.
4. Lemon and Salt
It is best method for slight mold infestations.
- Spread the curtain on a flat surface.
- Squeeze 1-2 lemons and make a consistent paste by mixing it with salt.
- Rub the paste on the stained area with a scrubbing brush and let it sit for 30 minutes.
- Wipe the paste with a damp cloth. Repeat the process if required. Wash the curtain in the machine or by hand and dry it before hanging it back.
Preventing Mold on Shower Curtains
- Check plumbing for any leaks to reduce moisture buildup inside the washroom.
- Remove mold from toilet bowl, tank, water pipes to stop it spreading from one area to another.
- Clean your shower curtains every 1-3 months to keep them mold-free.
- Run the exhaust vent/fan while showering or let it run for a few minutes after showering.
- Wipe the water on washroom floors and walls after showering.
- Wash your bath mats and towels regularly.
- Clean sponges and bath products regularly.
How to remove mold from shower curtain without taking it off?
Lack of space and time often requires cleaning mold without removing the shower curtains. Here’s how you can do it.
- Open windows, doors and turn on exhaust fan.
- Prepare a mixture of two parts hydrogen peroxide and one part water in a spray bottle.
- Spray the curtain with the mixture and let it sit for 10-15 minutes. Rinse it thoroughly.
- Scrub the moldy parts with a thick baking soda paste until mold disappears. Rinse and repeat if needed.
- Check grooves and creases along the surface of the curtain.
- Clean the unwashed side.
- Let the curtain dry.
Can shower curtain mold me sick?
It can affect your health if you inhale the spores. You can suffer from cough or respiratory infections.
Can commercial cleaners clear mold from shower curtains?
Yes. Commercial cleaners can kill mold on shower curtains. Make sure you select one that is free from harmful chemicals.
Is it a good idea to install mold-resistant shower liners?
Mold-resistant shower curtains are made from polyester, vinyl, or plastic materials. These materials don’t stop mold growth but slow down the process.
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