7 Clear Indicators It's Time to Swap Out Your Shower Curtain Liner

Because of their moist habitats, liners tend to develop mildew and mold.

Key Takeaways

• Swap out your shower curtain liner each 3 to 6 months.
• Make sure the liner isn’t submerged in water.
• Maintain cleanliness frequently to extend its lifespan.

Interior designers and home enthusiasts will tell you that there is no greater chance to enjoy oneself than in this situation. powder room Here, small spaces transform into elegant jewelry boxes. Ponder the unforeseen. paint colors , end-to-end wallpaper, and even high-quality artwork. This is also a chance to get creative with your shower curtain. Striking textiles create a strong impression, and as expected, monograms add a touch of sophistication.

Certainly, an aesthetically pleasing and fully functional bathroom involves numerous elements working seamlessly behind the scenes that may not be immediately apparent. Tiny aspects such as shower curtain liners play a significant role. Neglecting them can swiftly transform a beautiful space into one that looks dull, particularly without regular maintenance. For insights on maintaining shower curtain liners, we consulted with Brandon Cox, COO of Elliott Beach Rentals. This company has catered to the renowned beachside holiday spot of North Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, since 1959. Cox along with his staff ensures all rental properties—and their respective shower curtains—are kept tidy and well-maintained.

Meet the Expert

Brandon Cox serves as the Chief Operating Officer. Elliott Beach Rentals , a beachfront rental business in North Myrtle Beach , South Carolina.

Related: Is It Preferable to Keep Your Shower Curtain Open or Shut?

Indicators It's Time to Swap Out Your Shower Curtain Lining

Clear indications that you should swap your shower curtain liner involve unpleasant smells and discolorations; however, property owners ought to keep an eye out for damage such as tears and overall deterioration, along with potential safety issues. As Cox points out, "Maintaining a fresh and operational shower curtain liner enhances both the appearance of your bathroom and safeguards against health risks." Given their constantly wet environment, these liners tend to develop mildew and mold easily, potentially degrading indoor air quality and posing various health threats.

Related: 3 Techniques for Cleansing and Eliminating Mildew from a Shower

Watch for these signs indicating it’s time for an upgrade:

• Staining or visible discoloration
• Sticky or stiff feel
• Odors
• Mildew/mold growth
• Inability to repel water
• Tearing/holes
• A broad incapacity for cleaning

Ways to Extend the Lifespan of a Theater Curtains Liner

Cox mentions several methods to prevent frequent replacements. You can keep plastic liners clean simply by wiping them down with a mild, non-abrasive cleaner. For fabric liners, washing them in a machine and then air-drying works well. He suggests cleaning the curtain every month using either a light detergent, a bleach mixture, or a blend of baking soda, ensuring both sides are thoroughly dried afterward. Additionally, Cox advises installing the curtain at a higher position. Should water pooling occur frequently due to the height or angle of your bathtub or shower area, you might consider shortening the curtain by trimming about 4 to 6 inches from the bottom edge.

Related: How to Clean a Shower Curtain to Prevent Mold and Mildew, Says an Expert

Which Is Superior: a Plastic or Fabric Shower Curtain Liner?

Although the choice between fabric and vinyl ultimately comes down to individual preference, Cox points out some advantages of both materials. He notes, “Vinyl linings are waterproof, sturdy, and resist mold and mildew. Additionally, they’re simple to keep clean with just a wipe.” Conversely, fabric linings boast environmental friendliness and offer the convenience of being machine washable. Nevertheless, these aren’t devoid of drawbacks. As Cox explains, “Fabric linings lack waterproofing properties and often necessitate more regular replacements owing to their vulnerability to mold and mildew growth.” For those seeking an optimal solution, Cox endorses ethylene-vinyl acetate linings for their water-resistant qualities, which make them less prone to fostering mildew and mold—and consequently minimizing stains and smells.

Read the initial article on Southern Living