Michigan State University Extension
Home Maintenance And Repair - 01500218
06/24/03

Cleaning Draperies


Regular Cleaning
Regularly remove dust from draperies with either
upholstery nozzle or round dusting brush attachments of
vacuum cleaner. This will keep them clean longer.

Special Cleaning
The fabric and construction determine if draperies
should be dry-cleaned or can be washed. Check label
instructions. If in doubt, ask a professional dry
cleaner. Most lined draperies must be dry-cleaned.

If draperies are machine-washable, follow
instructions on label, or in washer manual. Generally
soak them, followed by a short, gentle cycle wash. Do not
overload.

If draperies are machine-dryable, dry until still
damp, and hang up to finish drying. If not labeled
machine-dryable, air dry.

Note: Draperies and curtains exposed to a great deal
of sunlight, gases in the air, and air-borne soils both
inside and outside the house, are often weakened, but
this does not show up until they are washed or dry
cleaned, when they suddenly show deterioration.

This article was written by Anne Field, Extension
Specialist, Emeritus.

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