Curtains are not just window coverings; they greatly enhance the overall space appearance by creating a focal point. Considering your theme, you can get them in versatile colors, textures, prints, and lengths. But keep in mind that they always require extensive care for a sustainable appearance. Otherwise, they’ll start fading or ruining your decor aesthetics.
We understand that cleaning curtains might be a tough task for you. But Lush Loom has crafted an extensive guide that can help you clean and maintain your curtains without putting in extra effort. Once you have installed the curtains, now is the time to care for them to boost longevity.
Let’s explore this guide.
Expert Methods To Clean & Maintain Curtains
Our professional curtain-cleaning tips apply to both residential and commercial window coverings. Whether it’s your home, office, or any other place, you can maintain the drapes with these tips effectively.
1. Vacuum Your Curtains
Curtains naturally attract dust, dirt, and airborne particles due to their small fabric crevices. Dirt accumulation makes your window coverings less air-filtering and aesthetically appealing. The best way to get rid of curtains is simple: go for regular vacuuming. However, you must understand the right way to vacuum your curtains for better results.
We recommend using soft brush attachments and starting from the top to the bottom by setting the suction to low, especially for sheer curtains. This is because they’re lightweight and susceptible to damage by harsh brushing. You must consider short vacuum strokes. Generally, pleats and folds accumulate more dirt, so be sure to vacuum them gently. Also, you must avoid harsh or excessive rubbing to avoid damage.
2. Minimize Sunlight Exposure
Sunlight, mainly Ultraviolet radiation, is one of the main causes of fading curtain colors and weakening fibers. Its prolonged exposure may cause more heat to build up inside the curtain weaves, causing gradual degradation.
Mostly, people use blackout curtains to block heat & light. But if you use sheer curtains, we recommend blackout fabric linings, such as polyester and acrylic, for added lifespan. Using UV-blocking films and reflective coatings might also be a good idea.
3. Dry Clean Your Curtains
You can care for your curtains more precisely by dry cleaning them. This is because not all curtains are compatible with machine or hand washing. Machine washing can cause such curtains to shrink or fade.
Generally, translucent & light-colored drapes, such as white and pink curtains, shrink under extreme machine-washing procedures. This is because of their open and non-complex weave structure. For such curtains, it’s better to go with dry cleaning.
4. Rolling Up Your Curtains
Our curtain maintenance tips also include rolling them up. It prevents the accumulation of any debris on pleats, edges, and the bottom. Dust and surface filth will be lifted as it rolls and expands, giving your curtains a fresh look. Interestingly, it also prevents the natural shape, integrity, and sophisticated look of your drapes.
5. Steam Cleaning Your Curtains
Curtains with highly accumulated dust or debris do not offer longevity and contribute to a compromised lifespan. They contain certain allergens that continuously affect your local ecosystem. You must sanitize them to maintain a healthy lifestyle and interior decor. However, the best way is to go for steam cleaning for curtains to prevent allergens.
The steps to steam clean your drapes:
- Remove any dirt & debris on both sides of the curtains using a vacuum cleaner
- Add water to steamer up to fill line and the suitable detergent amount
- Pull the drapes taut as you steam them and add detergent at regular intervals
- Repeat the process for each section, and go for spot-cleaning for stains left behind
6. Applying Gentle Detergents
Any curtain detergent that incorporates harsh chemicals can shrink or cause fading of your curtains. Your detergents must have anti-static properties and are ideally suitable for all washing methods. You can use mild detergents with no bleach or phosphates in them.
In our opinion, the right curtain detergent must be quick water dissolving, exhibit a color-safe formula, and be hypoallergenic. Don’t go for a detergent that does not offer stain removal. To choose the right detergent, first analyze your curtain fabric type. For example, enzymatic detergents that contain protease and amylase enzymes are best for thick window coverings, such as brocade, velvet, and linen curtains.
Some Other Tips To Maintain Curtains
- If you have floor-length curtains, then you must use a surface cleaner that dries fast. Prevent curtains from being in contact with damp floors because they contain toxic chemicals that damage the bottom edges of drapes.
- Do not forget to take off your drape hooks before washing them to preserve their shape.
- Always use certified detergents that do not damage fabric threads.
- Clean high-traffic areas’ curtains every 15 days because they’re more susceptible to dirt.
The Bottom Line
To sum up, we shared solid tips to maintain and care for your curtains properly. By following our tips, you enhance not only the aesthetics but also the durability of curtains. We recommend vacuuming, steaming, and dry-cleaning curtains biweekly. Also, we suggest rolling up curtains to ensure their flat appearance and using nontoxic detergents to prevent fading over time.
You must install curtains in strategic positions and use reflective coatings or blackout linings. It prevents excessive heat and temperature from damaging your curtains. So, are you ready to protect the long-lasting beauty of your curtains?
