Wash Curtains in Machine Without Creasing or Damaging Them
Curtains are dust nests. Here is how to wash them so they come out clean, fresh, and almost wrinkle-free, ready to be hung back up.
Recommended Materials
- Mild detergent
- Laundry net (or pillowcase)
- White vinegar (softener)
Steps to follow
Step 1
Take down the curtains and remove all metal staples or plastic hooks that could rust or tear the fabric in the machine. If the eyelets are integrated into the fabric, tie the top of the curtain with a string to limit impacts against the drum and noise.
Step 2
Vacuum or shake them outside to remove the bulk of the dust before washing. This avoids turning dust into mud in the machine.
Step 3
Put them in the machine without stuffing it (fill to 2/3 maximum). The laundry must be able to move to be washed. For fragile sheers, absolutely use a large laundry net or a closed pillowcase to protect them from friction.
Step 4
Choose a 'Delicate' or 'Wool' program at 30°C maximum (or cold for linen) with a very low spin (400 to 600 rpm). It is the strong spin that breaks the fibers and creates indelible creases.
Step 5
Replace the softener with white vinegar in the dedicated compartment: it revives colors, whitens yellowed sheers, and softens the fabric without clogging it with chemicals.
Step 6
The anti-ironing trick: hang your curtains back on the rod as soon as they come out of the machine, while still damp. The weight of the wet fabric will naturally smooth them out by drying vertically.
Step 7
Leave the windows open to speed up drying and ventilate the room. In winter, turn up the heating a little.
Step 8
The case of blackout curtains: be careful, the blackout lining is often a layer of glued plastic or foam. It handles heat and spinning very poorly. Wash them really cold and without spinning, otherwise the lining will peel and let light through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can velvet curtains be washed ?
Check the label. Often, velvet is dry cleaned. If hand washing is allowed, never wring them out by twisting, press them in a towel.
How often ?
Once or twice a year is enough for routine maintenance. In case of dust mite allergies or smokers at home, increase the frequency to every 3 months.
Precautions
- Check that the fabric does not shrink (especially linen or untreated cotton).
- Never put in the dryer.
