Cleaning curtains and blinds is an important part of home maintenance. Dust, dirt and allergens easily accumulate in the fabric and on the slats, which can affect air quality. Here is a comprehensive guide on how to wash and clean them gently and effectively.
How often should you clean curtains and blinds?
- Curtains should be washed at least once a year, preferably twice.
- Blinds should be dusted once a week and thoroughly cleaned every two months.
- In homes with pets or allergy sufferers, it may be helpful to wash more often.
Cleaning curtains without taking them down
Many people avoid washing curtains because it means taking them down and hanging them up again. But there are effective ways to clean them in situ:
- Vacuum cleaning: Use a vacuum cleaner with a soft nozzle to remove dust.
- Moist cloth: Wipe with a cloth dampened in lukewarm water and soap.
- Steamer: A steamer can freshen up curtains and remove creases.
- Light shaking: By shaking the curtains regularly, you can get rid of loose dust and particles.
- Textile spray: Use a light fabric spray to keep curtains fresh between washes.
Washing curtains at home
If you choose to machine wash your curtains, follow these steps:
- Read the washing instructions: Check if the curtains are machine washable or if they need hand washing.
- Choose a gentle washing programme: Use a gentle wash programme and cold water to avoid shrinkage.
- Avoid fabric softeners: Fabric softeners can damage certain materials and reduce the fire resistance of curtains.
- Wash curtains separately: To avoid wrinkles, leave them plenty of room in the machine.
- air dryer: Hang the curtains immediately after washing while they are slightly damp to avoid creases.
- Use a laundry bag: If the curtains are delicate, wash them in a laundry bag to minimise wear.
Hand washing of delicate curtains
If your curtains are made of linen, silk or velvet, they may need hand washing:
- Fill a large container with lukewarm water and mild detergent.
- Leave the curtains to soak for a few minutes.
- Rinse with cold water and avoid wringing them out.
- Hang them up to air dry.
- Smooth out the curtains with your hands while they are still slightly damp.
Cleaning blinds
Daily and weekly care
- Vacuum or dust the blinds with a dry cloth or microfibre cloth.
- For stains, use a damp cloth with lukewarm water and soap.
- Avoid rubbing too hard so as not to damage the slats.
- Use a feather duster for quick cleaning between more extensive cleanings.
Deep cleaning of blinds
If the blinds are very dirty, you can clean them more thoroughly:
- Aluminium blinds: Can be taken down and rinsed off in the shower or put in a bath with warm water and a little washing-up liquid.
- Wooden blinds: Dry dusting or a slightly damp cloth only. Avoid excess water.
- Plastic blinds: Can be wiped with a damp cloth and lukewarm water.
Frequently asked questions
How do I avoid creases on curtains?
Hang them up while they are still slightly damp, and they will straighten naturally. A steamer or ironing on low heat can also help reduce creases. Avoid tumble drying, as it can cause permanent wrinkling.
Can I use fabric softener?
It depends on the material, so it is important to check the washing instructions before using fabric softener. Some materials can be deteriorated by fabric softeners and lose their structure, which means that the curtains will not keep their original shape.
What is the best way to clean blinds without taking them down?
Use a feather duster or a damp microfibre cloth to wipe them regularly. If there are grease stains, a little washing-up liquid in lukewarm water can be effective. To avoid dirt build-up, you should clean the blinds at regular intervals.
How often should I clean curtains and blinds?
Curtains should be vacuumed monthly and washed once or twice a year, depending on how much dust they collect. Blinds need to be dusted weekly and cleaned more thoroughly about every two months to keep them in good condition.
Executive summary
Cleaning curtains and blinds regularly is an easy way to create a fresher home. With the right methods, you can keep them clean and tidy without wearing out the material! Read more about our cleaning. Don't forget the stairwell windows either, cleaning of communal windows is included in stair cleaning and contributes to a brighter stairwell for all residents.
