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  3. How to clean curtains - a step-by-step guide

How to clean curtains - a step-by-step guide

Furniture Care

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How to clean curtains - a step-by-step guide
January 1, 2025

Curtains have this way of framing the perfect view – but when was the last time that you took a closer look at them? Knowing how to clean curtains can be a bit of a mystery and even a little daunting. Can I machine wash them? Can I use detergent? Where do I hang them? It can seem like a David vs Goliath task. But fear not; we have put together your “Cleaning Curtains 101” guide – everything from how to clean what type of curtain to making sure you don’t have to do this too often!

Our simple guide breaks down:

  • Hand-washing curtains
  • Dry-cleaning curtains
  • Curtain Maintenance

What Are They Made From?

Whether they are blockout, room darkening or sheer curtains, what they are made of will dictate what you can, and most importantly, cannot do with them. Whether they are light sheer curtains or dense blockout curtains, fabrics will always react differently under certain conditions; so, make sure that you always read the label before starting anything. Not quite sure what curtains you have?

Hand-Washing Curtains

Hand-washing your curtains is the safest option. This way you can make sure that you get every mark while also being gentle on your fabric to prevent any tears or damage. All curtains can be hand-washed, though depending on the type of curtain it can take more or less time.

  • Blockout blinds: Able to be hand-washed but will take longer to dry.
  • Rubber backed curtains: Able to be hand-washed but will take longer to dry.
  • Room darkening curtains: Suited for hand-washing.
  • Sheer curtains: Hand-washing is the preferred method of cleaning.

Step 1: Remove the curtains from the rod and remove any hooks and hardware.

Step 2: Shake the blinds outside. If this isn’t an option, laying them on the ground and quickly vacuuming them with the dusting tool attachment will work fine.

Step 3: Fill a bath or large tub with cool water and dilute a small amount of detergent in the water

  • Make sure that your detergent is completely dissolved before adding the curtains to avoid leaving marks on the fabric.
  • If the damp curtain is heavy do not hang it on a rod that cannot handle the weight.
  • Drape curtains with as few bends in them to reduce wrinkles.

Step 4: Wash each panel individually by gently squeezing and dabbing with a soft sponge – do not grind, rub or twist the curtains as this will damage the fabric / rubber backing.

Step 5: Gently squeeze as much excess water out of the panel (do not wring them).

Step 6: Refill the bath/tub with non-soapy water – rinse out any soap residue and squeeze excess water out again.

Step 7: Drape outside out of direct sunlight to dry or re-hang them back up to reduce wrinkles and creases.

  • If the damp curtain is heavy do not hang it on a rod that cannot handle the weight.
  • Drape curtains with as few bends in them to reduce wrinkles.
  • Avoid using pegs or clamps on rubber backed curtains as this creates creases and marks in the fabric.

Dry-Cleaning Curtains

Some curtains can’t be washed at home and need to be taken to the dry cleaners. If you check your label and it says “dry clean only” it is likely that the fabric or lining of the curtain would be damaged by washing them at home. Additionally, if your curtain has a lot of pleats it is recommended to take them to the dry-cleaners also, or you may risk ending up with twisted and dishevelled curtains.

Curtain Maintenance

Sometimes your curtains just really need to be washed – be it a spilt drink or they are starting to smell a little. But with proper cleaning and maintenance, you will extend the lifespan of your curtains and won’t have to wash them as often! Here are a few helpful tips to keeping your blinds looking as great as the day you got them.

  • Vacuum your curtains often. Dust can quickly build up and stain your curtains. A quick run over with the vacuum can solve this.
  • If your curtains get wet, make sure to dry them. The presence of moisture in the fold of curtains can lead to mould. Mould can be extremely difficult to remove from your blinds. But also brings health risks and unwanted smells.
  • Curtains absorb the scents in your home; that includes your burnt dinner and cigarette smoke. To help prevent scent absorption, make sure to open your windows and allow as much fresh out, in.
  • Airing your curtains outside for just a few hours can reduce the risk of mould and help remove any odours.

If your curtains need more than a tough clean or are looking a little rough around the edges, maybe it may be time to update to a new set!

The team at Amart Furniture is here to help with anything blinds and curtains. Check out our Curtains & Blinds range today or come into your closest store!

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