Blackout curtains are an increasingly popular way to cut light levels and ensure privacy in homes, but require proper care and upkeep in order to retain their functionality and appearance. Cleaning blackout curtains with their inner blackout lining may appear complex at first, but there are methods you can employ that allow for effective light blockage without harming their light-blocking abilities.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through step-by-step instructions on how to wash curtains with blackout lining, ensuring they stay clean and functional for years to come.
What are Blackout Curtains?
Blackout curtains are specially-made curtains designed to block out nearly all external light from entering a room, making them the ideal solution for bedrooms, nurseries, home theaters and any other spaces where light control is desired. Their success rests upon their blackout lining–an additional fabric layer sewn or attached behind each curtain panel which not only improves light blocking abilities but also provides added insulation properties which help regulate room temperatures more effectively.
Because of their unique construction, blackout curtains require special care when cleaning to ensure that the blackout lining remains intact.
Step-by-Step Guide to Washing Curtains with Blackout Lining
1. Read the Care Label
Before washing blackout curtains, the initial step should always be reviewing their care label. Each curtain may vary based on material composition or blackout lining type; therefore it’s advisable to follow any recommended cleaning methods as noted on its care label if dry cleaning only is recommended to protect fabric or lining integrity.
2. Dust and Vacuum the Curtains
Before cleaning your curtains, ensure any surface dust and dirt have been eliminated by vacuuming with a soft brush attachment of a vacuum cleaner, using soft pressure against them in an effort to extract any particles such as pet hair that might have settled onto their fabric over time. Doing this may help free them of dust accumulation as well.
3. Spot Clean Stains
If any spots appear on your blackout curtains, it’s wiser to spot-clean them than wash the entire curtain at once. Use mild detergent or a mixture of water and vinegar as appropriate, dabbing with a soft cloth instead of rubbing; any such action could damage the blackout lining; be gentle when dealing with areas near its edge.
4. Washing the Curtains
Once your blackout curtains have been assembled and prepared for washing, follow the care label instructions for their care and laundering them either manually or machine. There are two primary methods available when it comes to laundering curtains with blackout lining: hand and machine.
Hand Washing Blackout Curtains: By far the safest approach for blackout curtain care with delicate blackout lining is hand washing them regularly.
- Fill a bathtub or large basin with warm, lukewarm water.
- Add a small amount of mild laundry detergent. Bleach or other harsh chemicals may degrade the blackout lining over time.
- Submerge your curtains into water and gently swirl them about.
- Soak them for 10 – 15 minutes to dissolve dirt and grime build-up and to prevent staining from spills or other sources of dirt accumulation.
- Drain and refill with fresh, clean water until all soap residue has been eliminated from your curtains. Repeat as necessary until all soap has been eliminated from their fabric fibers.
Machine Washable Blackout Curtains: Blackout curtains may be machine-washable. If this option is indicated on their care label, follow these steps for machine washing:
- Use a front-loading washing machine, as top loaders with agitators may cause too much wear on curtains.
- Adjust the machine for cold water use only, using a gentle cycle.
- Use mild detergent and avoid fabric softeners as these could damage the blackout lining of the curtains.
5. Drying the Curtains
After washing, it’s important to dry your blackout curtains properly to avoid any damage.
- Air Drying: Air drying curtains is always the safest method. Simply hang them from a clothesline or shower rod so they are spread out evenly to avoid wrinkles, while direct sunlight should be avoided as prolonged exposure could discolor fabric and weaken blackout linings.
- Tumble Drying: If allowed by their care labels, blackout curtains may be tumble dried on low heat setting in an electric dryer; but be careful as excessive heat could potentially harm their blackout lining and cause irreparable damage to it.
6. Ironing the Curtains
If your curtains come out of the wash with wrinkles, ironing might be in order. Use a low heat setting and use a thin cloth between the iron and the curtain to avoid scorching fabric or melting blackout lining. Or consider using a handheld steamer that gently removes wrinkles without touching fabric directly.
Tips for Maintaining Blackout Curtains
- Regular Vacuuming: For optimal dust control, schedule regular vacuuming of your curtains once every few weeks. Doing this can prevent an accumulation of particles which might accumulate and reduce dust build-up over time.
- Spot Cleaning: React promptly to any spots or spills to keep stains from setting in and make the necessary changes immediately if stains arise.
- Avoid Direct Sunlight: Prolonged exposure to sunlight may compromise blackout linings; thus rotating curtains periodically could help ensure their quality performance in such an environment.
Caring for your blackout curtains with blackout lining doesn’t have to be complicated. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can keep your curtains clean while maintaining their ability to block out light. Whether you hand wash or machine wash, remember to handle the fabric and blackout lining with care, and always follow the manufacturer’s instructions on the care label. With regular maintenance, your blackout curtains will continue to serve their purpose and enhance your living space for years to come.
For more tips on home décor and curtain care, be sure to explore more helpful guides on our website.
FAQs:
- Can I machine wash my blackout curtains?
- It depends on the fabric and the type of blackout lining. Always check the care label first. If machine washing is allowed, use a gentle cycle with cold water to prevent damage to the lining.
- How often should I wash blackout curtains?
- You should wash blackout curtains every 6 to 12 months, depending on the room they are in. Curtains in high-traffic areas like living rooms or kitchens may need more frequent cleaning.
- Can I dry blackout curtains in a dryer?
- If the care label allows, you can tumble dry blackout curtains on a low heat setting. However, air drying is safer and helps extend the life of the blackout lining.
- What detergent should I use for washing blackout curtains?
- Always use a mild laundry detergent without bleach or harsh chemicals. Harsh detergents can break down the fabric and damage the blackout lining.
- Can I iron my blackout curtains?
- Yes, but be careful. Use a low heat setting and place a thin cloth between the iron and the curtain to avoid damaging the fabric or melting the blackout lining. A handheld steamer is a safer option for removing wrinkles.
