Velvet curtains can be a great addition to any room, making it look more inviting and cosy. However, maintaining their plush appearance requires special care, but due to the specifics of the material, cleaning without damage may prove to be a challenge. Therefore, It is essential to know how to wash your velvet curtains the right way so you can preserve their beauty without shortening their longevity.
We’ll cover everything you need to know to keep your velvet curtains looking their best from spot cleaning to handwashing and machine cleaning.
Table of Contents
Types of velvet curtains and their specifics
Velvet is a luxurious textile recognised for its rich look and velvety, smooth feel. it’s usually made of natural materials like silk and cotton but could be made of synthetic fibres like polyester, for example.
Regardless of the material, the numerous microscopic threads that are closely packed together make it prone to dust and grime accumulation, which is why regular cleaning every 6-12 months is essential.
Common types of velvet curtains
- Crushed velvet – Characterised by its textured appearance and wrinkled finish, crushed velvet adds depth and dimension to any space;
- Velour velvet – Velour velvet offers a more casual and modern look with its slightly stretchy and less shiny surface;
- Panne velvet – Known for its smooth and shiny finish, panne velvet is often used for theatrical costumes and stage curtains.
Can you wash velvet curtains?
It all depends on the type of velvet curtains you have and the material they are made of. Velvet drapes made of polyester or other synthetic material could be machine or hand-washed at a gentle cycle, preferably with cold water. Velvet curtains made of natural materials are more delicate, so dry cleaning could be a more suitable option.
Best ways to clean velvet curtains at home
You will need to gather a few simple supplies and prepare your velvet curtains for the cleaning process. Also, it’s important to keep in mind that velvet fabric is delicate and prone to damage if not handled properly during washing, so take your time to learn as much as possible about your specific type of curtains.
Harsh chemicals and abrasive cleaners can crush the pile and cause irreversible damage to the fabric. Proper care and maintenance are crucial to preserving the softness and lustre of velvet curtains.
Necessary supplies:
- Mild detergent for delicate fabrics;
- Lukewarm water
- Soft-bristled brush;
- Lint roller.
And now, let’s get to the main point.
1. Vacuum
You may find it easier to vacuum the curtains while they are still on the railing. This way you can go over every part of the fabric, but also prevent the dust from falling onto the carpet. The latter would inevitably happen if you start taking down the curtains before vacuuming.
Stick with the soft bristle attachment of your hoover and apply light pressure when cleaning to avoid crushing the velvet.
2. Test for colorfastness
To make sure the velvet doesn’t bleed or fade when washed, execute a colourfastness test in a discrete area before washing your curtains.
Use a white cloth to dab at a tiny area of the curtain that has been dampened by water. If any colour seeps into the fabric, refrain from washing the curtains or opt for an alternative cleaning technique like dry cleaning, for instance.
3. Spot-clean the velvet material
Check for any spots and identify what type of stain it is before you start cleaning. You can prepare a universal stain removal solution using warm water and mild soap/detergent of your liking.
- Mix warm water with mild detergent and dip a soft-bristled brush in the solution;
- Solid food stains need to be scraped off with a knife or spatula before applying any cleaner;
- Blot the stain, starting from the outer edges to prevent spreading;
- Avoid rubbing or scrubbing to avoid any damage to the delicate fabric
Keep in mind, though, that the older the stain is, the harder it is to remove. Additionally, greasy spots or ink stains are notorious for their stubbornness, so in these cases consulting with a professional for specialised upholstery treatment could be safer and easier.
4. Choose your curtain-washing method
Below you will find step-by-step instructions on how to safely wash the velvet curtains you have either in the washing machine or by hand. Choose your technique based on the curtain’s label instructions.
How to handwash velvet curtains
- Prepare the washing solution – Fill a basin or bathtub with lukewarm water and add a small amount of mild detergent. Swirl the water to create suds, avoiding excessive agitation.
- Submerge the curtains – Immerse the velvet curtains in the soapy water. Ensure they are fully submerged. Gently press down on the curtains to help them absorb the detergent solution.
- Agitate the fabric – Use your hands to gently agitate the fabric, working the detergent into the pile. Pay particular attention to any heavily soiled areas. Gently massage the fabric to loosen dirt and stains.
- Rinse thoroughly – Drain the soapy water from the basin or bathtub. Refill with clean, lukewarm water. Rinse the curtains to remove all traces of detergent. Repeat the rinsing process as necessary until the water runs clear.
Washing velvet curtains in the washing machine
- To prepare the curtains, take off any hooks or rings and give them a gentle shake to get rid of any dust or dirt;
- To keep the curtains safe throughout the washing cycle, place them in a mesh laundry bag;
- Use cold water and a gentle cycle setting. Make use of a gentle detergent made especially for fragile materials;
- When the washing cycle is over, take the curtains out of the washer right away. That way, wrinkles won’t occur.
5. Dry the velvet curtains after washing
- Gently shake the curtains to remove excess water. Be careful not to wring or twist the fabric.
- Hang the curtains on a clothesline or curtain rod using plastic or padded hangers to prevent creasing. Allow air to circulate freely around the curtains by placing them evenly.
- Leave the curtains to air dry completely, while periodically checking for dampness. Avoid touching or handling the curtains until they are fully dry to prevent crushing the pile.
Ways to preserve velvet curtains between washes
Take care of your velvet curtains so they last for many years as a stunning addition to your house. Here’s what you can do:
- Dust and hoover on a regular basis – Use your vacuum’s upholstery attachment or a soft-bristled brush. Dust and other debris should be carefully removed from the velvet curtains’ surface. Use a light hand when sweeping to prevent causing damage to the fabric’s fine pile.
- Use a lint roller for quick touch-ups – A lint roller may be used for fast touch-ups. Especially if you have dogs or live in a dusty area, always have a lint roller on hand. Using the lint roller, remove any stray hairs, lint, or dirt to keep the curtains fresh and clean.
- Protect the curtains from spills and stains – To prevent your curtains from spills and stains, apply protective detergents or invest in fabric liners. Promptly blot up any spills with a clean, dry cloth as soon as they happen. This prevents them from soaking into the fabric and causing permanent damage.
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Takeaways
- Always follow the label instructions on how to clean your type of velvet curtains;
- Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaning methods. They can damage the delicate pile of the fabric.
- Regularly dust and vacuum your velvet curtains between washes;
- Opt for gentle cleaning techniques such as hand washing or using a delicate cycle on a washing machine;
- Do not iron your velvet curtains after washing, instead leave them to dry naturally on a clothesline or curtain rod.
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