Curtain Cleaning: An Expert Guide from Katherine Brown

Your Curtains Deserve the Best Care

Well, they do if they came from Katherine Brown Curtains and Blinds! We’re biased, but we think curtains and blinds are central to the style of a room and the enjoyment you can take in it every day. We’ve put our heart and soul into getting them absolutely perfect to give you that moment of joy, and we want you to keep having those moments for as long as possible.

So we’ve created these curtain cleaning tips to ensure your curtains stay in the best possible condition for a very long time.

byKatherine Brown/May 21, 2025/inLearning Centre

Everyday TLC: The Art of Regular Curtain Maintenance

Caring for your curtains is easier if you can avoid handling them – a corded track or pole works well, with a pull on one side, or on a large bay, a pull on each side.

If the curtains are on an un-corded track or pole and in a delicate or light fabric, you may leave hand marks from handling the curtains over time. In this instance, draw rods work well to pull the curtains across; they can be in transparent acrylic so they disappear, or they can be in metal or wood to complement the look of your room.

Let curtains breathe:

Open your windows when the weather allows to let fresh air flow behind the curtains and prevent dust from settling.

Dust curtains lightly and often

Give curtains a little shake from time to time to prevent dust settling on them. Use a soft upholstery attachment to gently vacuum your curtains once a month, working from top to bottom.

Avoid harsh handling

We try to avoid installing curtain hardware that isn’t corded or has draw rods to avoid fabric handling.

Katherine’s Key Takeaway: A gentle shake each morning can help prevent dust buildup and keep your curtains looking fresh.

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Fabric-Specific Cleaning Guidance

Every curtain we make is unique, and we use a variety of fabrics, so cleaning needs vary. In general terms, professional cleaning every 2–3 years will be perfect, but curtains in high-traffic areas may need more regular cleaning. When in doubt, always seek professional advice.

Dry Cleaning Curtains

You can dry clean curtains to the fabric manufacturer’s instructions but you will also need to consider the type of lining used and the care instructions for that.
Caring for your new curtains means using a professional dry cleaning company, and always check the terms and conditions in case of damage.

It’s definitely better, where possible, to use a company like Pilgrim and Payne, when caring for your new curtains, who will visit your home to see the curtains in situ, and they will then advise you if it’s better to clean on site or take them away to clean. They also offer a service which includes re-hanging your curtains after cleaning.

Washing Curtains

If your curtains are unlined and the fabric is washable, always wash according to the manufacturer’s instructions. However, don’t forget to check that the heading tape or buckram is washable.

Caring for your new curtains also involves checking that they are not too heavy for the washing machine you will use. Finally, don’t let the curtains dry too much, as they can become very difficult to press!
When caring for your new curtains, we always recommend that a professional clean them.

Spot Cleaning Curtains

Use a clean white cloth to avoid colour transfer
Blot rather than rub to prevent fibre damage
Work from the outside of the stain inward
Test cleaning solutions on an inconspicuous area first

Vacuum Cleaning Curtains

Use a brush attachment with low suction
Work from top to bottom in gentle, overlapping strokes
Pay special attention to hems and folds where dust collects
Hold the fabric gently to prevent pulling

Steam Cleaning Curtains

Hold the steamer 6-8 inches from the fabric
Move continuously to avoid water saturation
Allow curtains to dry completely before touching
Particularly effective for removing odours and refreshing fabrics, and removing wrinkles and creases

Katherine’s Key Takeaway: A handheld steamer is a great investment and doesn’t need to cost the earth, we like the Russell Hobbs Steam Genie as it is light weight and super easy to use.

General Curtain Cleaning Guidelines

Velvets & Interlined Curtains

These luxurious materials should never be washed or steam-cleaned at home. Professional dry cleaning is essential to protect the pile and interlining.

Linen & Linen Blends

These may wrinkle over time. You can lightly steam from a distance to relax creases, but always test a hidden area first.

Printed Cottons & Silks

These fabrics are particularly sensitive to sunlight and moisture. Keep them away from humid areas and consider blinds for extra UV protection.

Katherine’s Key Takeaway: Less is more when it comes to cleaning curtains. Over-washing can do more damage than a little dust ever will.

Shielding from Sunlight & Heat

Lined or interlined curtains offer valuable protection from UV rays and help regulate room temperature – particularly important in period homes with older glazing.

Layering with blinds not only adds visual interest but prolongs the life of your curtains.

Katherine’s Key Takeaway: If your room receives strong direct sunlight, sheer roller or Roman blinds are a beautiful and functional solution offering protection for your curtains and other furnishings from the bleaching effect of strong UV rays.

Click here to learn more in our ‘Guide To Blinds For Victorian And Edwardian Homes’

Steaming & Storing

Steam with care: Use a hand steamer from a distance or behind if needed.
Storage: If storing curtains seasonally, fold them gently with acid-free tissue and store flat in a breathable container away from damp.

When to Consider Replacement vs. Cleaning

Sometimes cleaning isn’t enough, and recognising when to replace curtains can save time and frustration:

Signs It’s Time for Replacement:

Fabric has become thin, brittle, or is shredding
Linings have deteriorated beyond repair
Fading is severe and detracts from your décor
Styles no longer bring you joy or complement your space

Is It Time For New Curtains?

Quality is everything to us, and we’re passionate about helping you maintain the beauty and function of your curtains and blinds throughout their lifetime. However, if you’ve come to a point where you want a fresh new look for your home, we’re here to guide you through the process and deliver that smart new look.

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