Which Drapery Fabrics Are Washable vs. Dry Clean

Homeowners often neglect drapery when it comes to its regular maintenance. We tend to care more about our carpets, while the other upholstery is left to chance. Most drapery fabrics require dry cleaning and specialized care, which is why we often ignore them.

Still, you might be surprised that some curtains and drapes can be laundered at home with little trouble! So, read on to find out which common decorative and drapery fabrics are washable and which must be dry cleaned.

The regular and proper cleaning of drapery fabrics is crucial for many reasons. If forgotten, not only do they look unpleasant and dirty, but they could also become a big problem for people with allergies. Even if most drapery fabrics don't look that delicate, we must always care for them correctly to prevent shrinking, stretching, and pulling, advised an expert from Fantastic Services. Most drapes are measured to puddle on the floor or hang a certain distance above it. Washing a dry, clean-only fabric may change the look of your drapes or completely ruin the fabric.

Even washable fabrics that have not been pre-treated are subject to these distortions. To prevent shrinkage, you must launder drapes made only from machine-washable fabrics. If you do use a washing machine, always clean them with cold water and use the delicate cycle, but DO NOT dry them there. Letting delicate fabrics hang from a line to dry is also problematic, as drapery might elongate, distorting the pattern or shape. Lay the drapery flat to maintain its appearance and preserve the quality.

Which Fabrics Can You Wash at Home?

Some fabrics must be washed by hand, while you can put others in a machine. Cotton and linen can be cleaned in cold water or on a delicate cycle, but only if unlined. Stronger synthetic fabrics like polyester and nylon could be washed in a machine and by hand, along with cashmere and wool. Remember that polyester and nylon fibers get degraded from dry cleaning solvents, so washing them by hand or machine is not just an option. It's the only way to clean them without damage. Polyester fabrics don't need to dry and can be hung right after you clean them.

Silk Fabrics Can Also Be Hand-Washed

Most times, the color of the material is the one to determine whether hand-washing is safe. Light colors — and colors that you're sure will not bleed — can be cleaned that way. When treating this fabric, use mild dishwashing soap and gentle hand motions. Otherwise, dry clean silk materials.

Always Vacuum Drapes Before Washing

You must also pre-treat any stains or spots with a stain-removing solution. Depending on the type of fabric, there are many different types of detergents, so make sure to choose the correct one for your drapery. A bit of lukewarm water will help the material absorb the solution. Follow the package directions for your stain remover and allow the product to sit for the recommended time.

Even if your drapery is suitable for machine or hand washing, always test a small part of the fabric to ensure it's color-fast. Dip a corner in a mixture of detergent and lukewarm water. If the color begins to bleed, you need to search for another cleaning option. Remember that each fabric comes with a list of instructions that shows the recommended way of cleaning. Often, even if the drapery is suitable for washing, the lining is not.

Which Fabrics Must be Dry-Cleaned?

Some drapery fabrics simply cannot be washed at home. Drapes with a lining, beading, other embellishments, or complicated pleating should always be dry-cleaned. Tapestry fabrics, furs, crushed velvet, and delicate synthetics such as rayon, taffeta, satin, suede, and brocade are among the fabrics that must be dry cleaned.

You might also want to dry-clean items that are excessively soiled or stained. Remember, it is always wiser and safer to dry-clean drapes when you are not confident you can remove stains at home. If you fail to remove a stain at home, there is a big chance it will become permanent once the fabric dries.

Most store-bought drapes have a care tag that lists the fabric and washing instructions. If your drapes are hand-sewn or secondhand, a fabric store or an experienced dry cleaner should be able to identify the material and determine the proper care for it. Whatever fabric your drapes are made of, learn how to maintain and properly clean them to keep your home's look fresh and healthy.

This guest post contribution is courtesy of Maids by Trade, offering cleaning services in the Tucson area.