Window Curtain Cleaning Options | Window Treatment Maintenance Tips

Over the fall and winter months, a layer of dust and dirt may build up on your curtains. Spring is a great time to freshen up your window treatments. If you’re not sure how to properly clean your window treatments, here are a few window curtain cleaning options.

Vacuum Cleaning

This is a quick and easy curtain cleaning option. You’ll need a vacuum cleaning with a long handle and a nozzle attachment designed for fabrics. Usually, the attachment with bristles works best. The brush can be used to loosen dirt from the fabric and the gap in the bristles prevents the vacuum cleaning from damaging the fabric with direct suction. Start at the top of your curtains and work your way down.

Steam Clean

Vacuuming may not be enough for heavy fabrics. Steam cleaning is a possible option, but make sure the fabric is safe to steam. Also, you will need a steam iron with a fabric attachment and hose. As with vacuuming, start at the top and work your way down. Focus on one small section at a time, exposing it to the steam and collecting the dirty runoff.

Machine Wash

If your curtains are machine washable, then you will save lots of time by placing them in a machine. Before doing so, take them outside and shake off any loose dirt. Follow the washing instructions carefully. Usually, a gentle cycle is required. Select your detergent carefully to avoid color bleeding or otherwise damaging the fabric. If the instructions allows for machine drying, remove it promptly to minimize wrinkling. Lastly, iron on the appropriate setting.

Hand Wash

If machine washing is not an option, you may still be able to hand wash your curtains. Again, check the instructions first. Most likely, you will be line drying or laying your curtains flat to dry.

Other Window Curtain Cleaning Options

If you’re not sure which option to go with or fear ruining your expensive window curtains, consider using a professional. Contact Lynne Greene Interiors in Burlington, MA for a referral. We can recommend companies that specialize in blind, shade, and/or window curtain cleaning for Eastern Massachusetts.