Curtains are a major decorative element in homes all over the world; Singapore included. They also serve a very functional purpose as they are used to block out rays of sunlight and to offer some privacy by closing off the external surrounding. A curtain is also used to prevent dust and debris from entering the house; it is thus no wonder to find that curtains are some of the dirtiest household items at home.
Curtain cleaning is thus of paramount importance. Cleaning curtains can be done at home by inviting specialized cleaners to come and clean the curtains, by machine or hand wash at home or by taking the curtain to the dry cleaners. Irrespective of the mode of cleaning there are certain steps that will have to be taken to ensure the curtain cleaning exercise is successful. They include;
Take down the curtains and keenly check on the back side of the curtain fabric for any tell tale signs of sun rotting. Stretch the curtain fabric and feel the texture for any breakage. If the curtains have signs of sun rotting it is advisable not to wash them but to rather arrange to get new curtains; washing sun rotting curtains will lead to tearing of the curtain.
Read the labels on the fabric and wash according to instructions that are stated on the label; this is especially true for unlined curtains.
You can use the dusting attachment on the vacuum cleaner to vacuum curtains and remove dirt and loose particles from time to time. This curtain cleaning method is especially appropriate if the curtains are not very dirty but just had some little accumulation of dirt.
After Vacuuming you can use a lint brush to carefully remove hair fibers, dirt, dust or any other foreign articles that may still be visible on the curtain fabric. A wet cloth can then be used to gently wipe down the curtains and remove all dust particles.
The inside folds and seam require special attention and care as they tend to amass a whole lot of dust and dirt; rub this area using a damp cloth and make sure the cloth is rinsed severally depending on the level of dirt.
If the curtains are quite dirty and need to be thoroughly washed; have the lined curtains dry cleaned as they are usually quite sensitive and are prone to spoilage.
Very large curtains are best washed in a bathtub rather than using a washing machine; a huge heavy curtain can easily spoil your washing machine.
Curtain cleaning cannot be complete without taking care of the curtain rings. These rings can be boiled in vinegar if they are a tad rusty; it gives them back that newish shine. Some soap can be used on curtain rods that are looking old and are not running as well; they will get their smooth run back.
After washing in a bathtub, the curtains can be tossed into a dryer for that fast drying. Add some fabric softener to the air dry setting and give the curtains some thirty minutes to completely dry. In half an hour’s time you shall have some very fresh smelling and new look curtains at home
