How to Keep a Shower Curtain from Smelling?

There’s nothing worse than stepping into a clean shower only to be hit with a funky, musty smell coming from your shower curtain. If you’ve dealt with that before, you know how stubborn it can be. The truth is, a shower curtain smell doesn’t happen overnight — it’s usually the result of moisture, soap scum, and lack of airflow building up over time.

The good news? It’s preventable. You don’t have to keep replacing your curtain or hold your breath every time you get in the shower. Here's how to keep your shower curtain fresh and odor-free for the long haul.

1. Choose the Right Material

Not all shower curtains are made equal. Some materials trap moisture and encourage mold growth more than others.

If you're tired of that plastic, chemical smell, consider switching to an odorless shower curtain made from PEVA, fabric, or polyester. These materials are less likely to give off that heavy shower curtain smell, and they dry quicker, too.

Avoid cheap PVC or vinyl if possible — they’re not only more likely to smell bad, but they also release VOCs (chemical fumes) that aren’t great for your health.

2. Let It Breathe

After every shower, give your curtain some air. Don’t bunch it up or leave it clinging to the side of the tub.

• Spread the curtain out fully to help it dry faster

• Open a window or turn on the exhaust fan to improve ventilation

• Avoid keeping wet towels pressed against the curtain

Small changes in your routine can help prevent that musty shower curtain smell from building up.

3. Rinse and Wipe It Down

Once a week (or at least every couple of weeks), give your shower curtain a quick rinse and wipe. A damp cloth and a little white vinegar can go a long way toward keeping things fresh.

• Vinegar helps kill mildew and remove buildup

• You can also use a spray bottle to mist your curtain after showering

• Make it part of your normal bathroom clean-up — it only takes a minute

This is one of the simplest ways to prevent mildew on your shower curtain before it starts to smell.

4. Wash It Regularly

Yes, you can wash your shower curtain — even many plastic ones. Check the label first, but most fabric or PEVA curtains can be thrown into the washing machine with a bit of baking soda and detergent.

• Wash every 3–4 weeks

• Add white vinegar during the rinse cycle for extra freshness

• Let it air dry instead of using a dryer (especially for plastic curtains)

If you keep up with this routine, that stubborn shower curtain smell won’t even have a chance to stick around.

5. Keep the Bottom from Sitting in Water

One big reason shower curtains smell is because the bottom edge sits in a puddle of water after every shower.

Make sure your curtain is the right length — not dragging in the tub. If needed, adjust the hooks or hem. You can also consider using a weighted curtain that stays in place without folding or soaking at the bottom.

Bonus Tip: Use a Liner

Using a shower curtain liner can help protect your outer curtain from direct contact with water and soap. Look for a mildew-resistant liner, preferably one that’s PVC-free and easy to clean. Replacing just the liner is often cheaper than replacing the whole curtain.

Final Thoughts

A smelly shower curtain doesn’t have to be part of your bathroom routine. With the right material, a little airflow, and a quick cleaning habit, you can keep things fresh without much effort.

It’s all about staying ahead of the mildew — not waiting until the smell shows up.

So next time you catch a whiff of something funky in the bathroom, don’t ignore it. Your shower curtain might be trying to tell you something.