Practical guide to cleaning and washing curtains at home

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Why curtains deserve regular cleaning and practical care tips

Even if curtains seem like minor decor, they collect a lot of dust and dirt in a home. Constant movement, contact with the floor, pet fur, and little hands leaving fingerprints all contribute. Cleaning them is essential, yet it must be done with care to avoid damaging fabric or the washing machine. Here are practical guidelines to keep curtains clean and in good condition.

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Cleaning can be done at home or by a dry cleaner. If you prefer to handle it yourself, follow these recommendations. Home washing every three months is a common interval; dry cleaning can extend that period a bit, but it still requires attention to fabric type and care labels.

Tips for washing curtains at home

First, read the care label to identify the fabric type—linen, cotton, silk, or blends—and the recommended treatment. Second, remove any rough edges or hardware that could damage the drum or tear the fabric during washing.

Next, sort by color just as you would with regular laundry. If curtains use different fabrics, the washing program should accommodate the variations without harming the material.

As a general rule, follow the manufacturer’s instructions and avoid filling the drum too full. Very large curtains may need to be washed separately for best results.

Seven items commonly washed in machines often surprise people with their efficiency when handled correctly.

Set the wash to a short program with cold water, ideally not exceeding 30ºC. Use a mild detergent designed for delicate fabrics to prevent damage and help keep colors vibrant.

Bonus tips

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The accessory to add to the washing routine to extend curtain life is a good wash cycle and proper drying technique.

What about handling white curtains? A small amount of bleach or baking soda can help if appropriate for the fabric. For colored curtains, consider color-catching tissues and using vinegar instead of fabric softener to preserve shade stability.

For drying, hang curtains from their hooks and let a sunny day finish the job. If ironing is needed, do so while the fabric is still slightly damp to achieve a smoother look.

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