I’m a cleaning whizz – my gross bathroom hack will let you know when to wash your shower curtain
A SELF-PROCLAIMED “accidental cleaning expert” revealed that although she hates cleaning, she’s figured out a way to get it done quickly and efficiently.
When it comes to the bathroom, she said her hack allows you to easily spot a dirty shower curtain – and it isn’t for the queasy.
Knowing that many people dread the often tedious and icky bathroom day, YouTuber and cleaning expert Melissa Maker (@cleanmyspace) tried to make it a little easier.
In one video, she shared her shower curtain cleaning method.
“If you have a shower curtain, you probably have a shower curtain liner as well,” she began.
If you’re confused as to what that is, she explained that it’s generally a clear or white plastic curtain that goes on the inside of the tub to prevent water from spilling out onto the floor.
This liner also protects the fabric curtain from getting consistently wet.
Still, both of these curtains will collect mildew, and there’s a way to know when it’s time to give them a good wash.
“If you notice that there’s a little mold or mildew, if they’re turning a little grey brown at the bottom, that’s soap scum.
“And if they’ve got that kind of pinky, orangey build up, don’t freak out. That’s just a naturally occurring bacteria that lives here in your bathroom because it’s a very moist environment.”
As for how to wash, she said you can throw both the plastic and fabric – as long as it’s not dry clean only – curtains in the washing machine along with a few towels.
“Do a regular cycle but use cold water here because remember hot or warm water can actually melt plastic or vinyl, so you want to avoid that.”
The whizz also recommended adding a full cup of baking soda and 20 drops of tea tree essential oil.
“Because tea tree really helps to eliminate mold, mildew, and bacteria.
“That way, the towels will scrub in the wash, your stuff will get nice and clean, and it will come out without those stains.”
Once clean, skip the usual dryer step.
“Just hang them right back up on your shower curtain rings and let them drip dry into the tub.”
If the fabric curtains are dry clean only, of course leave them out of the wash but still perform the same steps with the plastic or vinyl liner.