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Here's how often to clean and replace your shower curtain, according to allergists
Plus, top-rated curtain and liner picks for your *very likely needed* refresh.
A shower curtain serves the all-important purpose of shielding your bathroom from water that would otherwise splash all over the place. It also happens to set the tone for the space — but it can get pretty gross fast. That raises a question: How often should you clean and replace your shower curtain? Experts say it's way more often than people think.
Dr. Shaan Waqar, an allergist and immunologist at ENT and Allergy Associates, says that to keep mold and bacteria at bay, you should aim to wash your shower curtain every two to four weeks, taking care to follow the manufacturer's instructions (for example, some can be thrown in the laundry machine, while others need to be hand-washed). "Molds are primarily found in warm, damp locations," he explains, "and they can build up on your shower curtain over time."
Dr. Evan Li, an assistant professor of medicine in Immunology, Allergy and Rheumatology at Baylor College of Medicine, echoes the importance of regular cleanings and recommends spraying your curtain with a 5% bleach solution at the first sight of mold. "If you allow mold to grow uncontrolled, it can become embedded in the curtain, which makes it impossible to eradicate."
Consider purchasing a liner to help prolong the life of your shower curtain. Replace it every six to 12 months, and do the same for curtains you can't wash. Now you know, scroll on to find liners and curtains will help keep your bathroom looking clean and stylish.
A clear winner, this waterproof liner will go with any fabric shower curtin, and it comes in a range of sizes, up to 72 inches. It'll effortlessly block splashes and sprays from getting all over your bathroom floor.
Barossa is another big name in the biz for offering budget-friendly shower accessories. This stain- and soap-resistant liner comes in clear, frosted and solid hues, which can add a fun splash of color to your bathroom.
"It's very pretty and the colors are very relaxing, wrote one of its 74,000+ five-star reviewers. "It fits perfectly on my shower stall opening. There is no gap at the walls on either side. I am very pleased with this purchase and recommend it."
Linen fabric shower curtains exude casual elegance, and this top-rated option comes in more than 15 colors. It's one of the more affordable and practical — plus machine washable! — options we've come across.
"If you’re looking for a natural fiber colored, minimalist shower curtain, this is it!" exclaimed one satisfied customer. "I love the texture, color and how it filters light. It was easy to install. I hope it holds up to multiple washes since it's thin but feels durable."
Last time we checked, the shower curtain was also on sale for 25% off.
Amazon
This bestselling shower curtain checks all the boxes. It's made with a textured waffle weave for a luxurious feel and comes in a range of pretty colors, so you can find a curtain that goes with just about any decor. It also has a weighted hem to keep it in place and features fabric that repels water, oil and stains.
Black and white stripes create a chic look and feel with this shower curtain. It's also water repellant and quick drying to minimize mold build-up. When it's time to clean it, just toss it in the wash. Choose from an impressive 24 color and pattern options.
Made of a polyester blend, this is technically a shower curtain liner that looks like a shower curtain. It features a waterproof coating, giving it a soft feel while also repelling water. Magnets at the bottom help add extra weight and keeps your curtain from billowing while you suds up. Select from one of 17 color options.
Target's Threshold collection is another great resource for well-made, high-impact shower curtains on a budget. This floral design is among our current favorites for a whimsical aesthetic that transcends seasons.
"It's gorgeous!," exclaimed one reviewer. "The cotton feels like good quality, weighty and soft. Light can still filter through so you're not showering in the dark. The light in my bathroom doesn't do it justice ... "
Not into florals? The Modern Geo Shower Curtain Green strikes the perfect balance between playful and polished, also for just 20 bucks.
The reviews quoted above reflect the most recent versions at the time of publication.
