Curtains and blinds are excellent at blocking harsh sunlight, keeping temperatures cool, and giving you a sense of privacy—but they’re also good at collecting dust and dirt. As such, it is crucial that you clean them once in a while.
If you want to freshen up your window furnishings, look no further! Here are some essential tips to remember when cleaning your curtains and blinds.
Regular Maintenance
Consistent cleaning and maintenance play a significant role in ensuring that your window furnishings remain functional for a long time. If they are well cared for, curtains typically last 3 to 8 years and blinds for about 10 to 20 years.
As a rule of thumb, curtains should be cleaned every 3 to 6 months, while blinds should be cleaned every week or two. However, this may vary depending on factors like the level of use or the amount of dust in the environment.
Remove Hardware
Before cleaning your curtains or blinds, remember to remove hardware such as curtain rings and hooks, which may lead to damage during the cleaning process.
Test Cleaning Solutions Beforehand
It is generally best to avoid solvents and abrasive substances that may damage the fabric on your curtains and blinds.
However, if you are using cleaning solutions, it is recommended that you test them in an inconspicuous area beforehand. This practice will ensure that the fabric will not be damaged or discoloured.
Consider Material and Care Label
1. Curtains
Before cleaning your curtains, it is essential to check the label to determine the proper washing method; improper cleaning practices may ruin the fabric and shorten the curtain’s lifespan.
Machine washing is the simplest and most convenient way of cleaning your curtains. If your curtains are made from delicate materials, putting them inside a mesh bag before putting them into the machine is best.
You should always ensure that the machine is on a gentle cycle to preserve the curtains’ quality. It is also crucial that you use cool water, as hot water may cause the fabric to shrink.
If your curtains are not machine-washable, you might need to hand-wash them. This involves soaking the curtains in cool water and washing them carefully. You should never scrub the fabric with brushes or other cleaning tools, as this may damage the fabric.
If your curtains are machine-washable but are too large to fit into your machine, you should steam-clean them. You would have to use a handheld steam cleaner, which should be held a few inches away from the fabric.
2. Blinds
You can use a lint roller, feather duster, or vacuum to remove everyday dirt and dust from your blinds.
Depending on their care label, fabric blinds like Roman blinds can be machine-washed or hand-washed. As with curtains, you should avoid hot water when cleaning your blinds. It is also best to use gentle detergents that will not cause damage.
If you have wooden blinds, ensure they are not exposed to water or moisture, which will cause the slats to expand and bend. Instead, stick to a feather duster or dry microfiber cloth to remove the dust. If you still cannot remove the dirt, you can use a slightly moist cloth. However, you should ensure no moisture is left behind on the blind.
Conclusion
Keeping your curtains and blinds clean ensures they remain functional for years. Hopefully, this article has helped you learn some new tips on regular cleaning and maintenance for your window furnishings.
If you want to purchase curtains or window blinds in Singapore, check out The Furnishing Shop. We offer various types of window roller blinds, day curtains, and night black out curtains.
