Curtains are an essential part of any home, adding warmth, privacy, and style to living spaces. However, like any other fabric item, they require regular care and maintenance to keep them looking pristine and perfectly draped.
Whether you have delicate sheer curtains, heavy blackout curtains, or something in between, following our helpful curtain advice will help you maintain their beauty and functionality for years to come.
In this article, we’ll share everything you need to know about caring for your curtains, from washing and ironing guidance to measuring and hanging tips.
Regular Dusting and Vacuuming
Dust and dirt can accumulate on your curtains over time. To prevent this build-up, dust your curtains regularly with a feather duster or a soft-bristle brush. Alternatively, for a deeper clean you can vacuum your curtains. Just be sure to use a small nozzle and gently vacuum the curtains from top to bottom. And ta-dah! Good as new with little effort.
Spot Cleaning
Spot cleaning can be very effective for minor stains or spots. Simply use a mild detergent mixed with water, dip a clean cloth into the solution, and gently dab the stained area.
Top tip: Avoid rubbing! This can damage the fabric fibres.
How to Wash Curtains
We get it. You’re super duper busy and want to get through those mundane household chores as quickly as possible (we’re right there with you) but before racing ahead and throwing your curtains in the wash, always check the care label or instructions first to ensure they can be machine washed. We don’t want your lovely curtains getting damaged, after all!
Machine Washing
If your curtains are machine washable:
- Select a delicate or gentle wash cycle.
- Wash in cold water to prevent shrinking.
- Use a mild, non-bleach detergent.
- Avoid overloading. Wash curtains separately.
Hand Washing
For delicate fabrics:
- Fill a basin with lukewarm water and add a mild detergent.
- Let the curtains soak for a few minutes, then gently swirl them in the water.
- Rinse thoroughly until the water runs clear.
Drying Curtains
There are two options when it comes to drying your freshly washed curtains; air drying and tumble drying.
Air Drying
The best method for drying curtains is to hang them back on their rods while they are still damp. This helps them to dry evenly and reduces the need for ironing.
Tumble Drying
If the care label allows, use a low heat setting. Remove the curtains from the dryer while still slightly damp to prevent wrinkles.
Ironing and Steaming: Can You Iron Curtains?
If there’s one thing that will ruin a lovely, relaxing interior, it’s creased curtains! We recommend giving them a quick iron or steam to keep them looking crisp and crease-free.
- Ironing: If your curtains require ironing, do so while they are still slightly damp. Use the appropriate heat setting for the fabric type and iron on the reverse side to avoid damage. If you’re ironing blackout curtains, avoid ironing the backing fabric. Only the reverse of the front facing fabric panel.
- Steaming: A handheld steamer can be a great alternative to ironing, especially for delicate fabrics. Hold the steamer a few inches away from the fabric and move it slowly to release wrinkles.
Professional Cleaning
For particularly delicate curtains or those made from heavy fabrics, like blackout curtains, professional dry cleaning is often the safest option. Always inform the cleaners of any specific stains or concerns - and be sure to kindly request that they steam them to save you a job when you get home!
By following these care tips, you can keep your curtains looking pretty and pristine. Regular maintenance not only preserves their appearance but also helps you enjoy their comfort and style for many years.
Curtains FAQs
We recommend dusting and vacuuming your curtains every few weeks. A thorough cleaning, either by washing or dry cleaning, is recommended every 3-6 months, depending on the fabric and exposure to dust and sunlight. This will help to keep your curtains in tip-top condition.
You should only tumble-dry your curtains if the care label specifies it. If they are machine-safe, we recommend using a low heat setting and removing them while slightly damp to avoid creases.
How To Hang Pencil Pleat Curtains
We've made our pencil pleat curtains with heading tape to give you three positions to place your hooks. This will determine the overall height of your curtains when hanging. Each curtain comes with three strings on either side, simply pull and watch your pretty pleats fall into place!
For the full step-by-step instructions, visit our helpful guide on How to Hang Your Curtains.
How to Measure Curtains
Accurately measuring your windows is crucial for choosing the right curtains. Follow these steps to ensure a perfect fit:
- Choose Curtain Type
- Decide on your desired length
- Determine Rod Placement
- Measure Width (this should be 1.5 to 3 times the window width for fullness)
- Measure Length (measure from rod to floor or windowsill depending on preference)
- Allow additional room for header and hem allowances (header: Typically 1-2 inches. Bottom Hem: Usually 3-4 inches)
- Double-check measurements (just to be on the safe side!)
For more advice on this, visit our handy Curtain Measuring Guide.
