Feeling a bit meh facing those dusty curtains? We’ve all been there! Curtains often get overlooked in our cleaning routines, but they play a big role in how fresh and stylish your home feels. They trap dust, odours, and even allergens—especially in busy households or homes with pets. A regular curtain clean can keep your home feeling bright, fresh, and cared for—without replacing them altogether. In this handy guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know when it comes to washing your curtains! Let’s get started.
How Do You Clean Curtains? The Basics
Before diving into your laundry routine, always check the care label. This little tag tells you everything you need to know about how to safely clean your curtains. Ignoring it could lead to shrinking, fading, or damaging the fabric.
Different curtain fabrics need different care. Cotton, linen, or polyester curtains are usually machine washable. But cleaning wool , velvet or silk curtains might require professional dry cleaning. Lined curtains also need extra attention—they can shrink or distort if washed incorrectly.
As a general rule, you should clean your curtains every 3–6 months. If you live in a high-traffic area, have pets, or suffer from allergies, a more regular routine—every 2–3 months—might be better.
Here’s what you’ll need for the job:
- Vacuum with upholstery attachment
- Washing machine or handheld steamer
- Mild detergent
- Gentle stain remover
- Lint roller or microfibre cloth
- Steamer or iron for finishing
Once you know your curtain fabric and gather your tools, you’re ready to choose the best cleaning method.
Machine Washing Curtains: The Deep Clean Method
Wondering how to use a washing machine to clean your curtains? Good news—if your care label says it’s safe, it’s a straightforward and satisfying way to give them a deep refresh.
Step-by-step:
- Remove the curtains and take off all hooks, rings, and weights.
- Shake them out outside to remove surface dust.
- Place them in the machine. Don’t overload—it’s better to wash one panel at a time.
- Use a mild detergent and select a delicate or gentle cycle with cold water.
- Once finished, remove excess water by gently pressing (never wringing!) or using an extra spin cycle.
Top tip: Add a towel to the drum to cushion the fabric and prevent creases.
For drying, hang curtains back on the pole straight away—this helps reduce wrinkles and lets them air-dry naturally. Avoid direct sunlight to prevent fading. If needed, give them a quick once-over with a steamer or low-heat iron.
How Do You Wash Your Drapes Without Taking Them Down?
Need a quick refresh without the hassle? You can clean curtains in place—ideal between deep cleans.
Try these methods:
- Vacuuming: Use the upholstery attachment to remove surface dust and pet hair. Work from top to bottom in long, slow strokes.
- Steam cleaning: A vertical steam cleaner works wonders on most fabric types. Always check the care label first, especially for delicate or lined curtains.
- Handheld steamers: These are perfect for spot-refreshing and loosening creases. They also help sanitise without chemicals.
Wipe down curtain rods and nearby surfaces too—dust often hides there. This method won’t replace a full wash but will keep your curtains looking fresher for longer.
Dry Cleaning Curtains at Home
When should you choose dry clean methods? If your care label says “dry clean only,” don’t try to be clever and ignore it. Some fabrics will shrink, fade, or lose their shape faster than a pop star’s career if you wash them at home.
For DIY dry cleaning techniques, try using a dry cleaning kit from the supermarket. These kits work with your tumble dryer and can freshen up curtains between deep cleans. They’re not miracle workers, but they’ll do the job for light refreshing.
However, for expensive or delicate curtains, professional dry cleaning is worth the investment. Yes, it costs more than doing it yourself, but it’s cheaper than replacing ruined curtains. Think of it as insurance for your interior design choices.
How Do You Clean Different Types of Curtains?
Delicate fabrics need special care – treat them like you would a vintage band t-shirt. Silk and lace require gentle handling, cool water, and minimal agitation. Heavy drapes, on the other hand, can usually handle more robust cleaning methods, though they’ll need longer drying times.
Light curtains like sheers and voiles are often machine washable, but use a mesh laundry bag to protect them from getting tangled or torn. Think of it as giving them a protective bubble.
Don’t forget about curtain linings and liners – they often get dirtier than the main fabric because they’re closer to the window. Clean them separately if possible, as they may have different care requirements.
Pay attention to the edges and details like pleats or decorative elements. These areas collect extra dust and may need spot cleaning with a damp cloth and mild soap solution.
Tackling Stubborn Stains and Mould
Spot cleaning is your secret weapon to get rid of stubborn mould stains. Always do a patch test on a small area first – usually a hidden corner where mistakes won’t show. Better safe than sorry, as they say.
For natural solutions, white vinegar mixed with water works wonders on most stains. For tougher jobs, try a curtain cleaner spray designed specifically for fabrics. Avoid bleach unless you fancy tie-dye curtains (and not in a good way).
Mould is the villain of the curtain world, but it’s not unbeatable. Clean affected areas with a solution of water and white vinegar, then ensure good ventilation to prevent it coming back. Prevention is definitely better than cure here.
Pet hair removal is easier than you might think – a damp rubber glove run over the fabric will collect hair like magic. Alternatively, use a lint roller or the upholstery attachment on your vacuum cleaner.
Top Tips for Curtain Maintenance
Keeping curtains clean doesn’t have to be a chore. Here’s how to stay on top of it:
- Stick to a cleaning schedule: Every 3–6 months works for most homes.
- Prevention is key: Keep windows clean and dust curtain rods regularly.
- Always measure before washing: Some fabrics can shrink slightly.
- Don’t forget accessories: Wash tiebacks, pelmets and valances occasionally too.
A little routine care goes a long way in keeping your space looking stylish.
When to Call the Professionals
Sometimes you need to admit defeat and call in the cavalry. If your curtains are expensive, antique, or heavily stained, professional cleaning is the way forward. Signs you need expert help include persistent odours, extensive mould, or if you’re simply not confident about tackling the job yourself. Professional cleaners know exactly how to handle every type of curtain and fabric.
There you have it – everything you need to know about keeping your curtains clean and your home looking fabulous. From machine washing to steam cleaning, you’ve now got all the tools and knowledge to tackle this task like a pro. Remember, clean curtains aren’t just about aesthetics; they’re about creating a healthy, fresh environment for you and your family. You’ve got this! With these expert cleaning tips, your curtains will continue to be the stylish finishing touch your home deserves.
