Hanging in your home's windows, draperies attract dust, pet dander and fur, along with other types of debris, which can make them look dingy, dirty and worn-out. If your window treatments have that not-so-fresh appearance, giving them good cleaning, or even a fast pick-me-up, can make a room look brighter and fresher immediately.
Most types of draperies need to be taken down and washed at least twice a year, such as during spring and fall cleanings, but there are things you can do to refresh them all throughout the year. To keep your draperies looking their best, you'll need to give them a little TLC either weekly or monthly, depending on environmental factors and how busy your household is.
Following are some tips to take your draperies from drab to dazzling.
1. Weekly
At least once a week, give your drapes a thorough run-down with your vacuum. Equip the cleaner with its long hose and brush attachment, and move it down the length of the drapes from top to bottom. Work your way across the width of the drapes while moving in rows, making sure to get inside any pleats or ruching as well.
Use a step stool as needed to reach the valances at the tops of the drapes. Valances can be a dust magnet, so spend extra time removing all pet fur and other debris. Vacuum the inside of the drapes, too, if they look like they need it. You can also use a fabric lint roller to pick up any stubborn pet fur or dust.
If drapery fabric gets caught inside the hose and makes it hard to vacuum, use a rubber band to attach a bit of nylon stocking or cheesecloth over the opening, which will allow the hose to glide over the material easily.
2. Monthly
If your draperies are in a high-traffic area, such as your living room, or near food in the kitchen, you may need to spot-clean stains on a monthly basis. Fill a plastic spray bottle with warm water and add a few drops of a gentle detergent, which should be safe for most fabrics. Shake the bottle to mix and then squirt the liquid onto any grease, fingerprints, or other types of stains.
Work the soapy solution into the material using a soft-bristled brush and then rinse with a clean sponge or rag dipped into plain water. Repeat this process as necessary until the stain is gone.
3. Biannually
While you're deep-cleaning your house at the change of seasons, don't forget your draperies. Take them off of their rods and either wash them in the washing machine on the recommended setting, or bring them to a dry cleaner if that's what the fabric care label says to do.
For more tips on keeping your draperies in good shape, contact an interior design professional at Shady Lady.
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