Curtains and drapes play a role in your home beyond adding aesthetics.
They offer privacy and regulate the light entering a room functionally as well.
However, with time passing, they tend to gather dust and stains, which might need care to keep their appearance fresh and tidy for a longer period of time.
Discover the difference between drapes and curtains and learn tips on how to keep them clean and well-maintained.
The Difference Between Drapes and Curtains
While people sometimes mix up the terms “drapes” and “curtains,” they actually have meanings and purposes that can influence how you maintain and clean them effectively.
Drapes
Drapes are typically heavier fabrics from materials like velvet or brocade and are commonly lined to shield against light penetration. They are frequently employed in formal settings such as living rooms or dining areas.
Curtains
In contrast, curtains are lighter and usually crafted from materials like cotton or linen and are more commonly used in spaces like kitchens or bedrooms without a lining.
To keep both in condition for a long time and looking great requires using particular cleaning techniques. Let’s explore how to spot-clean each kind.
Steps on How to Spot Clean Drapes and Curtains
How to Spot Clean Drapes
Heavier fabrics are often used for drapes compared to curtains, making them more challenging to clean. Here’s how to spot-clean them to maintain their appearance without causing damage to the material:
Test for Colorfastness: Check if the color stays put by testing a spot on the curtain with a white cloth before using any cleaning product on it.
Vacuum First: Make sure to vacuum the drapes before doing any spot cleaning by using the upholstery attachment to eliminate dust and loose dirt to avoid spreading the dirt while cleaning.
Blot, Don’t Rub: Remember to blot off immediately when you see a stain. Softly blot the area with a white cloth or paper towel to stop the dirt from sinking further into the fabric.
Apply a Mild Detergent: Use a mild detergent solution for stains by mixing it with water, then dip a clean cloth into the mixture and softly pat at the stain to remove it gently. Blot the area with a cloth to soak up any remaining moisture.
Air Dry: After cleaning the area with water and soap or a cleaning solution of your choice, it’s best to let it dry naturally by leaving it out in the air until completely dry. You can also place a fan nearby to help speed up the drying process.
Be cautious not to use heat sources, like a hair dryer, as they could potentially lead to shrinking or discoloration of the surface.
How to Spot Clean Curtains
Window curtains are usually lighter and simpler to maintain compared to drapes; nevertheless, they need care to avoid any harm.
Check the Label: Always make sure to look at the care label before spot-treating your curtains for stains, as certain fabrics can be fragile and might need cleaning by a professional.
Shake-Off Dust: Start by removing the dust from the curtains, take them down, and give them a shake outside, or use a vacuum with the upholstery attachment for a more thorough cleaning.
Use a Gentle Cleaning Solution: When dealing with a stain, it’s best to create a cleaning mix by combining mild detergent with warm water in a bowl or container nearby.
Once you have the solution, dip a cloth into it and carefully dab at the stain. It’s important to start from the edges of the stain and work your way towards the center to help prevent the stain from spreading.
Rinse and Blot Dry: After dealing with the spot or mark on the fabric surface in question, take a cloth and dab it over the affected area gently. Next, dry it by pressing down using a dry cloth.
Hang to Dry: Let the cleaned area dry naturally by air drying it thoroughly. To avoid any potential shrinking or discoloration, do not use a hair dryer or direct heat sources such as fans.
Tips for Maintaining Drapes
Looking after your drapes involves more than spot cleaning because their thick fabrics tend to collect a lot of dust and dirt over time.
Regular Vacuuming: Make sure to vacuum your drapes with an upholstery attachment at least every month to get rid of dust and stop dirt from accumulating.
Rotate Drapes: Changing the position of your curtains is essential to prevent them from fading due to sunlight exposure and to ensure they wear evenly over time.
Professional Cleaning: Heavier drapes are recommended to have them professionally cleaned once a year, especially if they’re in busy areas or collect allergens such as pet hair frequently.
Tips for Maintaining Your Curtains
Maintaining curtains is generally simpler than caring for drapes. They still require upkeep to remain in good shape.
Wash Regularly: Remember to keep your curtains clean by washing them regularly. You can usually machine wash them based on the material type indicated on the care label instructions provided by the manufacturer. Every six months is a rule of thumb to maintain their appearance and freshness.
Iron or Steam: To get rid of wrinkles post-wash, you have the option to use an iron or steam them. Just remember to adjust the heat setting based on the fabric material.
Dust and Vacuum: It’s essential to take care of fabrics as they tend to collect dust in places where windows are open frequently. Clean them using a vacuum cleaner with an upholstery attachment, or shake them outside monthly.
How frequently should you clean curtains and drapes?
The frequency at which cleaning is required varies based on factors such as where you are and what materials are involved, generally speaking:
Drapes: Don’t forget to vacuum and spot-clean your drapes every month. Schedule a professional cleaning session for them annually so they stay fresh and organized.
Curtains: Light curtains should be vacuumed or shaken out monthly and washed every six months for maintenance purposes. On the other hand, heavier curtains, like those found in living rooms, may require frequent cleaning to keep them looking fresh and clean.
If you suffer from allergies or reside in a high-pollution environment, it is necessary to clean them.
Things to Avoid
When you’re washing drapes and curtains at home, make sure to steer off these mistakes:
Harsh Chemicals: Steer clear of chemicals like bleach when dealing with colored fabrics to prevent them from fading or getting damaged.
Excessive Water: Overusing water may cause water marks or damage the fabric by causing it to shrink or get damaged; it’s best to blot the fabric rather than soak it to avoid these issues.
Direct Sunlight: When you dry curtains or drapes in sunlight for a long it might fade, the colors of the fabrics over time. It’s best to air dry them indoors or in shaded spots instead.
Conclusion
Keeping your curtains and drapes clean might take up some time. It’s necessary to keep your living space tidy and pleasant smelling!
If you need help with the tasks of house cleaning and want a reliable cleaning service provider to rely on for a job well done – NW Maids could be the solution for you!
Our expert cleaning services will leave your home sparkling clean and fresh so you can appreciate the beauty of your curtains and drapes without any worries or stress.
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