How to care for drapes
Drapes are probably the most ignored part of your décor. They do double duty, keeping the outside out and making a fashion statement inside. While people faithfully vacuum, dust, and clean virtually everything else in the house, drapes are often overlooked. But their location as a barrier for the outside makes them a target for dust, dirt, and grime. Regular cleaning will keep them allergen free and extend their life.
Although you should have your drapes professionally cleaned every few years, there are things you can do yourself. Consistent maintenance will preserve their beauty and keep fabric strong. Follow the steps below and you’ll learn how to care for drapes.
Drapes or curtains?
The terms “drapes” and “curtains” are often used interchangeably. Technically, drapes are permanently installed and difficult to move. They are generally made of heavier fabrics and may have complex installation patterns.
Drapes also generally reach all the way to the floor. Curtains are simpler, made of lighter material, and can be opened and closed easily.
Dust magnets
Everything that is floating in the air will be attracted to your drapes. Dust, pollen, cooking odors, and pet dander and other allergens are prime offenders. Dusting, vacuuming, or just walking through the room will stir up these tiny particles. The soft fabric serves as a magnet. Even particles from outside will make their way inside. If windows are open or not sealed properly, dust will enter. A buildup of dirt will begin to break down the fabric.
Some tips for cleaning drapes:
- Dust gently
- Dust before using a moist cloth for cleaning
- Dust from the top down
- Clean both sides of drapes
- Concentrate on hems and seams
- Leave drapes hanging to dust
- Have delicate fabrics cleaned professionally
- Check care labels
- Remove stains immediately
- Keep drapes moisture free
UV Victims
Drapes, more so than anything in your home, will fall prey to harmful ultraviolet rays. You may pull the drapes to protect other items in your home from sun damage. But the sun beats down continually on the drapes. This mistreatment, along with the dust buildup, will combine to weaken fabrics and shorten the life of your drapes.
The best cure for this is to purchase lined drapes. The lining may give your drapes several additional years. If you live in an extremely hot climate, consider having solar tinting installed on the windows. Using blinds or shades can also help. You may also opt to put on sun screens on the outside.
Cleaning routine
Keeping on top of the cleaning will make your job easier. Shake drapes gently each time you open or close them. This will prevent dust from getting lodged in the fabric.
Depending on how well your house is sealed off from dust, you may need to dust your drapes weekly or monthly. When you vacuum your carpet, you can use the brush attachment to clean the drapes. If your drapes are made of a particularly delicate material, you can cover the brush head with a fabric such as muslin. Do other cleaning in the room before cleaning the drapery. Dust that is stirred up will settle on drapes.
In the absence of a vacuum cleaner, use a feather duster or a damp rag. Steam cleaning is another option for a more thorough cleaning.
Laundering
If your drapery is not too complex, and the fabric is sturdy, you may be able to launder it at home. But even sturdy fabrics will break down over a period of years. Remember the attacks by the sun’s rays and dust particles? So, to be safe, launder only newer drapes.
Check for instructions on care labels. If it says dry clean only, do not attempt to launder. Be sure to use the delicate cycle with cold water and a mild soap. They may also be hand washed.
Line dry or use the gentle tumble cycle in the machine. Do not dry completely in the dryer. Re-hang them while they are still partially damp. This will remove some of the wrinkles and allow the drapes to settle in naturally. If a touchup with an iron is needed, press on the back side. Use the setting for the appropriate fabric. Using hot water, harsh detergents, and heavy duty cycles can cause shrinkage. You also risk damaging fabrics.
Stains
Wipe up spills as soon as possible after they occur. If allowed to set, they are much more difficult to remove. A cloth dampened with warm water and a mild soap will usually do the trick. For more stubborn stains, you may need a commercial stain remover. Follow instructions, and check an inconspicuous spot first.
Professional cleaning
If your drapes are worn, delicate, or stained, you may need to have them professionally cleaned. Don’t be afraid to ask questions of the dry cleaner. Some local cleaners may not be equipped to handle drapes. Hiring a company that will come to your home for the cleaning is usually the best choice. Ask around and get referrals. There is a big difference in the quality of service you receive from these companies.
Another alternative
There comes a time when all your efforts must come to an end. You’ve done everything you can to care for drapes. But the fabric eventually weakens beyond repair. Any further cleaning attempt and they will completely disintegrate. The solution? It’s time to redecorate. Time to move on to new colors, new fabrics, new styles. And now you’re equipped with a handful of tips to take care of your new drapes.
