How to Clean Curtains—and How Often You Should

The right curtains not only enhance a room's décor but also offer privacy, insulation, and sunlight control. However, dirty curtains can accumulate dust, allergens, and odors, leading to an unhealthy atmosphere and a less-than-tidy appearance.

Just like other elements in your home, your curtains need regular cleaning. But be cautious—washing them improperly could damage them. Here’s a complete guide on how to clean various types of curtains using different methods.

How Often Should You Clean Curtains?

The frequency of cleaning your curtains depends on various factors. Marla Mock, president at Molly Maid, a Neighborly company, suggests that the level of dirt in your home and your location can play a role. For those with allergies, she advises vacuuming or washing curtains every one to two months to keep dust at bay. If you have pets, Mock recommends cleaning your curtains every three to four months to avoid fur buildup.

If you don't have pets or a particularly dusty home, Alessandro Gazzo, cleaning expert at Emily’s Maids, suggests steam cleaning your curtains once or twice a month. He also recommends vacuuming them once or twice monthly. If you plan to wash them in a machine or tub, Gazzo advises doing so every 8 to 12 weeks.

Curtain Cleaning Methods

Curtains come in a range of materials such as polyester, velvet, wool, linen, and silk. According to Mock, the cleaning method you choose depends on the fabric. “Some materials require special care, like dry cleaning, while others are more durable and can be hand washed,” she explains.

Besides the fabric type, Mock emphasizes that the extent of stains or dirt should also be considered. “And, it’s always important to check the care label before cleaning,” she advises.

Here are some cleaning methods to consider.

Vacuum

Regular vacuuming can help reduce dust and buildup, according to Mock. This method is effective for most curtain types, though extra care should be taken when vacuuming delicate fabrics, like silk.

Steam

Gazzo shares that his preferred method for cleaning curtains is to regularly use a garment steamer. “With a garment steamer, you can skip the hassle of removing the curtains, washing them, waiting for them to dry, and then rehanging them,” Gazzo explains.

Machine Wash

For fabric curtains, Gazzo suggests washing them in cold water on a delicate cycle. “If you have blackout shades, don’t put them in the dryer—air drying is preferable,” he advises. Mock concurs, emphasizing that you should remove hooks and rings before washing curtains on a gentle cycle.

Handwash

If your curtains feature intricate embroidery or you prefer not to risk machine washing, Mock recommends handwashing them. “Fill a basin or tub with warm water and detergent, let the curtains soak for a while, then rinse and hang to dry,” she suggests.

Dry Clean

If the care instructions suggest it, you should dry clean your curtains. In many cases, you can still hand wash or machine wash them on a delicate cycle, but if you're particularly concerned about damaging your curtains, it's safer to dry clean them.

What About Plastic Curtains?

For plastic curtains (such as shower curtain liners), Gazzo advises cleaning them by hand. “Plastic curtains are easier in a way because you can just soak them in your bathtub or a large plastic bowl with water and 1-2 cups of vinegar, and scrub them with a cleaning brush,” he says. He also points out that plastic curtains are more resistant to harsh cleaning products like bleach.

Additionally, Gazzo notes that plastic curtains are usually safe for machine washing unless the instructions say otherwise. “If you're using the washing machine, add a few towels to create friction and help scrub off the dirt,” he recommends.