HOW TO CARE FOR YOUR SHOWER CURTAIN (a.k.a. “Things I Don’t Do…But Probably Should”):
– Fabric shower curtains should be washed in hot water at least once a month (add a little bleach to kill bacteria). Hang back on hooks to dry.
– Plastic shower curtains should be wiped down with hot water and detergent once a month. You can also throw them in the washing machine with a few towels (the friction from the towels will help clean the plastic).
– Replace your shower curtain once a year, or immediately if you notice any mold starting to grow. You can lengthen the life of your shower curtain by using a liner, which can be purchased at any hardware store.
– Make sure your bathroom has decent ventilation; open a window or turn on a fan after bathing.
– Close the shower curtain completely after bathing so that it dries evenly (I do this! Whew…one down).
– Clean your bathroom thoroughly at least once a week to prevent mildew from growing (whether or not I do this depends heavily on your definition of “thoroughly”); also consider painting it with mildew-proof paint.
Above: Martha Stewart Trousseau shower curtain, available at Macy’s. Go here for some other lovely styles.
