How do you clean dry clean only curtains? If you are anything like me, you have no idea how to go about this. I am sure that there is a way out there to accomplish it without ruining them but I don’t know what it is.
Dry clean only curtains are not the most common type of window treatments around, but they do exist. For those who own one or more sets, it is essential to know how to properly care for them to keep as much fabric from being damaged by improper handling. This blog post will hopefully provide some guidance for those of us who just aren’t sure how to get the job done.
Tips on Dry Cleaning curtains
Tip #1. If the curtains are not too soiled, it is possible to vacuum them. If they’re more than halfway clean, then try just using a damp cloth and warm water with soap on them. It’s also a good idea to look for any spots that might be dried in which can’t be fixed by simply wiping them down with the wet cloth.
These spots need to be treated accordingly by using a spot remover or even some diluted vinegar
Tip #2. If there are any stains on them, it’s time to break out the oxyclean and get scrubbing. It is always best to use an old toothbrush when cleaning up these types of messes because it tends to be a lot more gentle. If the stains do not come out, it might be time for some professional help.
Dry clean only curtains are often very delicate and need special attention to avoid any further damage from occurring. In this case, it’s time to get them professionally cleaned by someone who knows how they should be treated.
Tip #3. If the curtains are not dry clean only, you can also spot treat them. If there is a stain on it from something like coffee, then pour some water over the area and use toothpaste to scrub at it until the stain disappears.
The same goes for food stains as well. For this one though, make sure that you have something more potent than toothpaste on hand, like a baking soda paste or something of that nature.
Tip #4. If the stains are coming out clean and you want to see if they can be saved from future damage, then consider spot cleaning them with bleach. While it is not safe for all types of fabrics, this could work in some cases depending on how sensitive the material is.
How do I Air-Dry Curtains that are dry Clean Only?
If you have curtains that are dry clean only, and they’re in dire need of a good wash but there’s no way to get them to the cleaners, then you can air dry them. You’ll want to open up any windows or doorways so that there is plenty of circulation throughout the room as this will help with evaporation. You can also use a fan to help move the air around.
The length of time will depend on how humid it is outside and in your home, but you’ll want to make sure they are thoroughly dry before putting them back up again. If after 24 hours they’re still not completely dry then turn off any fans or open windows as this will help with drying.
If they’re still not dry after 48 hours, then you’ll want to use a dryer set on a low or medium heat setting and tumble them for 30 minutes. You can also put them in the sun outside as long as there is plenty of space between the curtains so that air circulates freely around them.
Do I Need Bleach for my dry Clean Only Curtains?
Chances are you may not need bleach to clean your curtains, but it depends on what type of stain is there. If the stains have set in and they’re difficult to remove then yes, adding some chlorine-based liquid such as bleached water or a diluted solution of sodium hypochlorite (bleach) will be helpful.
What is the Difference Between the dry Clean Only Curtain and Regular Curtains?
Dry clean only curtains are typically made with a fabric that can’t withstand the common laundry detergents, so they require dry cleaning to maintain their quality.
They’re normally put together in such a way where there is either no finishing on them or very little and will fall apart if washed in water and liquid soap. As you might imagine, dry clean only curtains are generally a bit more expensive than regular curtains.
Do I Iron dry Clean Only Curtains?
No, ironing is not recommended for dry clean only curtains. Ironing the fabric will cause it to break down and lose its shape over time.
Can you put a dry Clean Only Curtain in Tepid Water?
No, never use any water on your dry clean only curtains that are heated above 60 degrees Celsius (140 degrees Fahrenheit).
Conclusion
I hope reading this article, you have learned how to clean curtains that are dry clean only. The steps are straightforward and you don’t have to be a professional.