Dirty Drapery – An Easy Cleaning Guide

Windows and doors are the primary entrance for dust and dirt. Although they are often overlooked when cleaning surrounding areas, drapes and curtains require the same amount of attention the rest of your home does.

Give them a proper clean using the following simple steps:

Take note of directions
Be sure to read the labels. Often times drapes and curtains require dry-cleaning only. The fabric is usually very telling--The more delicate fabrics should probably be dry-cleaned, while the more durable ones can most likely be hand washed.

Do it yourself?
Take a look at your drapes. Do they look like something you can tackle alone? Or should you consult a professional cleaner? Certain elements in the design of your drapes can be hard to handle if you’re not trained. Pleats can be especially difficult and should be taken to a professional.

Suck it up
Durable fabrics can be vacuumed. Start at the top and work your way down. Vacuuming your drapes can eliminate the majority of dust particles.

Shake it off
For light weight drapes, it is best to take them outside and shake them out (two people might be best for this to keep it off of the ground). The vacuum head can snag or over-power light weight fabrics.

Should you have to wash them…

Get rid of the metal
Thoroughly remove all of the hooks and hangers on your curtains before washing.

Easy does it
If your drapes are washable, you will want to run them through the most delicate wash cycle. Should your drapes need to be hand washed, you’ll need to choose a cleaning agent that won’t damage the fabric.

If they’re washable
Be sure to only run a load that is suitable to the size of your washing machine. You don’t want to overload. Soak your drapes prior to running the wash cycle. Linens can probably be washed on a regular cycle, but everything else should be washed in cold water on the delicate setting.

 

Color preservation
Most drapes should hold their color rather well. However, it is best to test any detergent on a small patch (the corner works nicely) of the fabric before washing completely. A common laundry detergent should do the trick without damaging the fabric.

If they need some elbow grease
As mentioned, some drapes need to be hand washed. Your label should indicate whether or not this is the case. Hand washing can be kind of tricky. Remember, you are not using the machine because these fabrics are delicate—be gentle! Don’t twist the fabric or wring it out. You will simply want to massage the fabric just enough to allow the soap to penetrate. Carefully squeeze the leftover water.

Dirt free drying
Again, check your label. If your drapes can be dried in the machine, you’ve got it easy. Simply set them on the delicate cycle. Your best bet is to remove them before they are completely dry. This will make for a fairly wrinkle free, clean drape. Should you need to iron further, do so while the drapery is still damp. If you had to wash your drapes by hand, DO NOT put them in the dryer - dry them on a clean line.

Taking care of your drapes can reduce allergens and make for a crisp, clean home. So don’t overlook them on your next cleaning frenzy.