Suggestions for where to get drapery cleaned?
Hello, I am stumped. Our draperies are about 5 years old, and in good shape, and they need to be cleaned. The dry cleaner said no, the rug/upholstery cleaner said no, and I have heard not to wash them in our home washing machine (front loader). How can I clean the drapes? Thank you in advance.
Nov 12, 2022
Parent Replies
Depending on how expensive your drapes are and how willing you are to take a risk on them…somw curtains can be washed in the washing machine. I wash mine with cold water and gentle cycle and hang them to dry and they have been completely fine.
The problem with drapes is if they are an organic material, such as linen, silk or cotton, the sunlight degrades them over time and they can fall apart if you put them in the washer or even take them down. That might be why dry cleaners don't want to touch them. I have washed some some heavy silk curtains that I made myself and they held up OK in the washer on delicate cycle. I hung them to dry, and then ironed them. They look fine but they do not have the lustre and stiffness that they had originally. Another thing you can do is tumble dry curtains (or throw pillows) with no heat in your dryer. That will get a lot of the dust out and freshen them up. Again, it might alter the texture but if they seem really dusty it's an option. Good luck!