"It is important to replace items that are in contact with water and that can remain humid and accumulate potentially harmful microorganisms," explains Dr. Alfredo G. Torres, Ph.D., MS, the Herman Barnett Distinguished Professor in Microbiology and Immunology at UTMB. "The accumulation of mildew or mold can affect individuals suffering from a chronic illness or autoimmune condition."
Few items fit the bill of "items that are in contact with water" better than a shower curtain, whether it's paired with a liner or not. So, how often should you change your shower curtain and liner? It's more than you probably think. Microbiologists shared how often to replace your shower liner and curtain, and they didn't water down the reasons why.
The frequency of when to change a shower curtain varies based on factors like geographic location and frequency of use. However, microbiologists can offer a general timeframe. "The manufacturers recommend changing the shower curtain between six months to one year," Dr. Torres says.
"It might depend on the material of the liner and the curtain," Dr. Torres says. "If both are made of vinyl or other plasticized material, they might be changed at the same time. If the curtain is fabric and proper cleanliness is maintained, it might last longer than the liner."
Some people are more prone to getting sick from a shower curtain liner riddled with mildew and mold than others. These populations may include "an individual who is very sensitive to mold or one who is a transplant recipient or otherwise on immunosuppressant drugs," says Dr. Valerie J. Harwood, Ph.D., a microbiologist, integrative biology professor and associate dean at the University of South Florida.
Factors to Consider When Determining How Often To Replace Your Shower Curtain and Liner
Six to 12 months is a ballpark answer to the question, "How often should you change your shower curtain?" Dr. Torres says where you live also factors into the equation. "Places with high humidity will be more prone to accumulate more microorganisms than dry or low humidity areas," he explains.
2. Visible signs of mold
However, Dr. Harwood says, "The pink-orange coloration is usually bacterial growth of the relatively harmless bacterium Serratia marcescens."
Black and gray mold is more problematic, as it can cause your immune system to react with symptoms like coughing, sneezing and congestion and may worsen asthma. It also may be hiding in plain sight. "Typically, it occurs first and most often toward the bottom of the curtain, which stays wet longest," Dr. Harwood points out.
3. How often to wash your shower curtain and liner
Regular washing can extend the lifespan of your shower curtain and liner.
The material and type of washer you use can also matter. "Disinfect the curtain every 15 days to a month with a chloride solution if it's a vinyl curtain and wash the curtain once a month if is a fabric curtain," Dr. Torres advises.
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Sources:
Dr. Alfredo G. Torres, Ph.D., MS, the Herman Barnett Distinguished Professor in Microbiology and Immunology at UTMBCan Your Dirty Shower Curtain Make You Sick? Cleveland Clinic.Dr. Valerie J. Harwood, Ph.D., a microbiologist, integrative biology professor and associate dean at the University of South FloridaEtymologia: Serratia marcescens. Emerging Infectious Diseases.Black Mold Exposure. Cleveland Clinic. Read More Details
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