Shower curtains are one of those household items that often get overlooked—until they’re covered in soap scum, mold, and mildew. After a few weeks of regular use, they can start to look downright gross, and for many people, the easiest solution is to toss them out and buy a new one. This might seem like a quick fix, but over time, it becomes a costly and wasteful habit.

One woman, tired of constantly replacing her grimy shower curtain liner, discovered a simple yet brilliant solution: instead of throwing it away, she washed it in her washing machine. And the best part? It works, even for those vinyl shower curtains that most people assume are disposable!

Here’s everything you need to know about washing your vinyl shower curtain in the washing machine—saving you money, keeping your bathroom fresh, and doing your part for the environment.

Why Do Shower Curtains Get So Dirty?

Shower curtains are exposed to moisture daily, making them a perfect breeding ground for mold, mildew, soap scum, and bacteria. Each time you shower, the warm, humid air combined with leftover soap, shampoo, and body oils sticks to the curtain, creating an ideal environment for dirt and grime to accumulate.

Many people resign themselves to frequently buying new curtains or liners, thinking they’re impossible to clean. However, with just a bit of care, you can keep your curtain looking fresh without resorting to throwing it away every few months.

Yes, You Can Wash Your Vinyl Shower Curtain in the Washing Machine!

You might think that vinyl or plastic shower curtains can’t be cleaned in the washing machine because they’re not made of fabric. But they actually can be washed, and it’s much easier than you think. Vinyl is surprisingly durable and can withstand a gentle machine wash, effectively removing the soap scum, mold, and mildew that accumulate over time.

How to Wash a Vinyl Shower Curtain in the Washing Machine

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