Transforming your curtains and drapes from dusty and dull to fresh and fabulous is likely a lot easier than you’d think. Regular cleaning not only enhances their appearance but also contributes to a healthier living environment for you. While some window treatments do require professional dry-cleaning, most can be effectively cleaned using simple methods like hand-washing, machine-washing, or gentle brushing and vacuuming.
Read along below as we outline the steps to sporting immaculate curtains and drapes.
Step 1: Vacuuming and Dusting
Before delving into the cleaning process, start by removing any surface dust and debris. Attach the upholstery nozzle to your vacuum cleaner and gently go over the curtains and drapes. This of course helps eliminate loose dirt and allergens. Pay special attention to areas where pet hair tends to accumulate, and to tackle extra stubborn pet hair reserves, use a lint brush or the sticky side of duct tape while vacuuming.
Step 2: Determining the Cleaning Method
When it comes to cleaning curtains and drapes, it’s essential to consider the specific fabric type and any care instructions provided by the manufacturer. Some fabrics—such as wool, pleated pieces, or heavily structured swags—may require professional dry-cleaning to ensure their longevity (and explicitly indicate as much on tags). However, for most fabrics, you have the option to proceed with by either hand-washing, machine-washing, or spot cleaning.
Step 3: Hand-Washing Curtains and Drapes
- For hand-washable curtains, just follow these steps:
- Fill a sink or basin with lukewarm water and add a mild detergent.
- Immerse the curtains in the soapy water and gently agitate them.
- Pay attention to any stained areas and spot clean them using a soft brush or cloth.
- Rinse the curtains thoroughly with clean water to remove all traces of detergent.
- Squeeze out excess water without wringing or twisting the fabric.
- Hang the curtains to air-dry, avoiding direct sunlight.
Step 4: Machine-Washing Curtains and Drapes
- If your curtains are machine-washable, adhere to these guidelines closely:
- Remove any hardware, such as pins or hangers, before washing.
- Check the fabric for colorfastness by testing a small, inconspicuous area with detergent and warm water.
- Select the delicate cycle on your washing machine and use a mild laundry detergent.
- Place the curtains in a mesh laundry bag or pillowcase to protect them from tangling or snagging.
- Ensure the load is balanced and wash the curtains in cold water.
- Once the cycle is complete, promptly remove the curtains from the machine to prevent wrinkles.
- Hang the curtains to air-dry or use a dryer on a low-heat or air-only setting.
Step 5: Spot Cleaning and Maintenance
For curtains and drapes with small stains or localized dirt, spot cleaning can be an effective solution. Use a mild detergent mixed with water and gently blot the stained area with a clean cloth till the job is done. Avoid rubbing, as it may damage the fabric. After spot cleaning, rinse the area with clean water and allow it to air-dry.
To maintain the freshness of your curtains and drapes, it’s imperative to perform (regular) dusting and vacuuming. Dust any valances, curtain rods, and other components that collect the irksome particulate stuff. A long-handled broom with soft, synthetic fibers is always a handy tool for dusting those hard-to-reach areas. Additionally, giving your drapes a gentle shake while closing them each night helps remove dust from the folds.
Cleaning Tips and Services from A 360 Cleaning
A 360 Cleaning has provided Maryland with top-notch professional cleaning and janitorial services for over 12 years. We don’t cut corners and ensure that every customer is satisfied with their cleaning. Whether you need a glitter spill cleaned up or an entire office building, we are happy to help! We currently serve the following areas: Baltimore, Annapolis, Glen Burnie, Severna Park. To explore how we can help keep your windows clean all year long, give us a call at 410-852-5800 or visit us online. For more cleaning tips, follow us on Facebook, Pinterest, Twitter, and LinkedIn.
Tags: curtain cleaning, curtains, drapes, fabric cleaning, home cleaning, residential cleaning