How to Wash Curtains at Home

Author: Kate Amore

Last summer, I was having terrible allergy symptoms for over a month. I cleaned and dusted my entire house, but I still had itchy eyes and a stuffy nose.

A friend recommended that I wash my curtains to get rid of all dust and dirt from everything in my house. Lucky for me, washing my curtains did the trick! Little did I know, It’s important to wash curtains because they collect all the allergens that come in through the open windows.

Here are all the steps I took to wash my curtains in the washing machine. 

What’s the Best Way to Clean Your Curtains? 

Different curtains need different care - from lightweight sheer panels to heavy blackout curtains. The good news? Most modern curtains are machine washable. Here's my step-by-step guide to getting clean, fresh curtains at home.

1. Check Care Labels

• Always start by checking the care labels for specific washing instructions. 
• Some curtains may require dry cleaning, but most are machine washable.

2. Prepare for Washing

• Dust: Give them a good shake and then vacuum them with the upholstery tube. 
• Remove Hardware: Take down the curtains and remove any hooks, rings, or clips before throwing in the washer.

3. Choose the Right Washing Method

• Machine Wash: Most cotton and polyester curtains can be machine washed.some text
  • Use a gentle cycle with cold water.
  • Add 1-2 HeySunday laundry sheets depending on the size of the curtains and how many you have. I like to use the ocean breeze because it makes my whole living room smell fresh!
• Hand Wash: For delicate fabrics, fill a bathtub or large basin with lukewarm water and allow 1-2 HeySunday laundry sheets to dissolve in the water. Swirl the curtains around with your hands for a couple minutes. You’ll see all the dirt come out immediately!
• Dry Clean: For curtains labeled “dry clean only,” take them to a professional.

4. Dry

• Air Dry: I always recommend air dry for curtains as it ensures zero damage or shrinkage from the dryer. I either dry them outside on the fence (if it’s summer) or inside on the shower rod (in winter). This helps prevent wrinkles. 
• Tumble Dry: If the care label allows, use a low heat setting in the dryer. Take them out while slightly damp to minimize wrinkles.

5. Iron (if necessary)

• If there are wrinkles, use a steam iron on a low setting or a garment steamer. Always check the fabric type to avoid damage.

6. Rehang

• Once dry, reattach any hardware and hang the curtains back up.

A Few Tips:

• For sheer or delicate fabrics, consider using a laundry bag to protect them in the wash.
• Regularly vacuuming or dusting curtains can reduce the need for frequent washes.

Now you can have fresh, clean curtains that make your whole room feel brighter. Plus, regular curtain cleaning means less dust and fewer allergens in your home.