Let’s be honest: nothing ruins a sparkling bathroom faster than a mouldy shower curtain.
It’s a common problem in Australian homes, especially as the weather cools and we’re less inclined to fling open the windows after a steamy shower.
But what if we told you that preventing that unsightly and unhealthy mould is easier than you think—and you probably already have the solution in your pantry?
Why does mould love your shower curtain?
First, let’s get to the root of the problem. After a hot shower or bath, your bathroom becomes a tropical paradise for mould and mildew.
These pesky fungi thrive in warm, damp environments, and your shower curtain—especially if it’s left bunched up or wet—is prime real estate.
Once mould takes hold, it’s notoriously stubborn to remove, so prevention is your best bet.
But why should you care beyond the ick factor? Mould isn’t just unsightly; it can be a health hazard.
Mould spores release toxins into the air, which can trigger coughing, congestion, headaches, and even more serious issues for those with asthma, lung conditions or weakened immune systems.
So, keeping your bathroom mould-free isn’t just about appearances—it’s about your wellbeing.
The cleaning expert’s secret weapon
Matthew Harrison, a cleaning expert at PriceYourJob.co.uk, says the key to a mould-free curtain is regular cleaning—and his go-to household hero is humble white vinegar.
Here’s how to put it to work:
For fabric curtains
If your curtain is machine washable (always check the care label), pop it in the washing machine with your usual detergent and add a cup of white vinegar during the rinse cycle.
Vinegar is a natural mould buster and deodoriser.
Once washed, let the curtain air dry in a well-ventilated area—never in the dryer, as heat can damage the fabric.
For plastic liners
Plastic liners can also go in the washing machine.
Wash them on a gentle, cold cycle with a couple of bath towels (these help scrub the liner clean).
Add a cup of bicarbonate of soda to the wash and a cup of vinegar during the rinse.
Again, air dry only—heat can warp or melt plastic.
For rods and rings
Don’t forget the hardware!
Spray the rod and rings with a bathroom cleaner or a mix of warm water and vinegar, then wipe them down to remove any residue or lurking spores.
Weekly maintenance
To keep mould at bay between washes, Harrison recommends a quick weekly spritz of your plastic liner with a solution of equal parts warm water and white vinegar.
You can use a store-bought bathroom cleaner if you prefer, but vinegar is cheap, effective and chemical-free.
Curtain placement matters
Here’s a tip many people miss: always keep the plastic liner inside the tub and the fabric curtain outside.
This allows both to dry more quickly and prevents moisture from getting trapped between them—a key factor in mould prevention.
Drying is crucial
After every shower, give your curtain and liner a good shake to dislodge water droplets and open up any folds.
Use a dry towel to wipe down the wet side of the curtain, especially if you notice water pooling.
The less moisture left behind, the less chance mould has to take hold.
Ventilation: Your bathroom’s best friend
Mould loves humidity, so keeping your bathroom well ventilated is essential.
Open a window or leave the door ajar after showering. If you have an extractor fan, use it!
For those in particularly damp climates or homes, a small dehumidifier can make a world of difference.
What if the mould has already set in?
If you spot a small patch of mildew, you can try soaking a plastic curtain or liner in a bleach solution (never use bleach on fabric curtains, as it will ruin them).
Soak for at least eight hours in a well ventilated room, then rinse thoroughly and air dry.
But if the mould is extensive or keeps coming back, it’s time to say goodbye and invest in a new curtain—your health is worth it.
We’d love to hear from you! Have you battled bathroom mould and won? Or do you have a tried-and-true cleaning hack to share?
Tell us your tips and stories in the comments below—let’s help each other keep our bathrooms fresh, healthy and mould free.
Also read: Are you making these eight dangerous bathroom storage mistakes?
