How to Wash and Care for Curtains: Three Different Ways
Curtains can be regarded as an integral component of the interior décor and style since they contribute to the concepts of privacy, the regulation of the amount of light that can enter a room for a smooth sleep cycle, and the provision of an enhanced aesthetic value. These accessories require proper care and maintenance to maintain natural beauty, sophistication, elegance, and professionalism. The following are three efficient techniques for washing and dealing with curtains or drapes and blackout curtains. This is a partnered post.
1. Machine Washing
Materials Needed:
Mild detergent
Washing machine
Clothesline or dryer
Steps:
Check the Label: It would be best to read the care label on your blackout curtains before washing them. Some fabrics are easy to clean with a washing machine, while certain types of blackout curtains, for instance, require special handling.
Remove Hardware: Screw off any hooks, rings, or any other detachable hardware used to hang the curtain on the window.
Pre-Treat Stains: Any spots that can be seen on the fabric colors should be treated with a mild soap or a more robust cleaner, if possible, before washing. You can allow it to stand for a few minutes before rinsing.
Wash on Gentle Cycle: Carefully put the curtains into the washing machine, and place one curtain panel in the water at a time to prevent overcrowding. For washing, you can use a mild soap and ensure the washing machine has a gentle mode of operation. Do not tumble dry or wash at high temperatures when washing blackout curtains because this will compromise the backing.
Dry Carefully: When washing is done, it is recommended that the curtains are either left to dry on a line or a tumbler on a low heat setting. To avoid wrinkle formation, it is appropriate to remove the blackout curtains from the dryer when slightly wet and hang them up so they add more style to the home decor.
Tips:
Bleach should not be used on blackout curtains and other window treatments because it fades the fabric and wears it out.
If you are dealing with fragile and light fabric drapes, you can opt for a specialized mesh laundry bag.
2. Hand Washing
Materials Needed:
Mild detergent
Large tub or basin
Soft brush or sponge
Steps:
Prepare the Basin: Take a big tub or basin where blackout curtains can fit in, and fill it with warm water and about half a cup of mild washing soap. Stir constantly to allow the detergent to dissolve entirely in the water.
Soak the Curtains: Rinse the curtains with warm water and soap and leave them to soak in this solution for another 15-20 minutes. This assists in freeing any dirt or undue dust from the surface of curtains.
Gently Scrub: You can use a soft brush or sponge to clean dirtier areas. Do not forcefully rub the surface to remove the stains, especially on sheers or blackout curtains, as this vigorous action may create tears and cause damage to these panels.
Rinse Thoroughly: Rinse the blackout curtains with clean, cool water and drain them from the basin. Swish the curtains around to make sure soap scum is rinsed off. This may take several washings to ensure you have washed off all the detergent.
Dry: Press out excess water without twisting the blackout curtains so they do not crease. Depending on the type of curtain, wash and hang them on a clothesline or a drying rack to dry.
Tips:
It is advisable not to let the curtain lie in the solution for an extended period. This may cause damage to the fabric of the curtains, especially blackout curtains.
Dry the blackout curtains in a well-ventilated area to avoid mildew
3. Professional Cleaning
When to Choose Professional Cleaning:
- This is for cleaning heavy curtain fabrics or blackout curtains that cannot be operated easily due to their ceiling-to-floor length.
- When the care label of curtains includes a ‘dry clean only’ statement.
- Old and dark color curtains.
Steps:
Find a Reputable Cleaner: Search for a cleaning service that matches your preference level and mood. They should deal with all styles of curtains, specifically blackout curtains of considerable length, to ensure they are clean to their best to protect the texture of the curtains. Check what other customers say; consult the nearest customer if in doubt.
Discuss Specific Needs: Explain the specific areas of concern, giving more details to the cleaner or the management. Include information about the type of fabric used and any care instructions displayed on it for obtaining all the benefits of their services.
Inspect Post-Cleaning: When the curtains are returned, check on them thoroughly before taking them for home decor. It is essential to check that all stains are washed from the fabric and have not been ruined so they look good on the windows for the bedroom and other interiors.
Tips:
- Regular professional cleaning can transform and extend the life of your blackout curtains to keep your bedrooms and space classic and comfortable.
- Consider professional cleaning at least once a year, or more often if the curtains are functional in a high-traffic area, to enjoy their luxury and enhance quality.
These three methods are machine washing, hand washing, and professional cleaning. You can keep your window treatments of the rooms, including blackout curtains, clean, fresh, and looking their best for years to come in an ideal condition. You can choose the method that best suits your fabric type and color to keep the interior design of your room fresh and bright, as well as your personal preference for your home, to get optimal results.
Author’s bio: Lydia Hughes is a skilled content writer at 3HLinen, specializing in home and design. With a keen eye for window treatments and bedding, she crafts engaging content. Previously an interior designer, Lydia’s passion for creating cozy, stylish spaces shines through, helping readers transform their homes with ease.