Get matched with top drapery cleaners in Mendon, MA

The best way to clean drapes or curtains depends on the fabric. Always check the care tag for instructions before attempting to wash them.

You can typically clean drapes yourself if they are made of durable materials like cotton, cotton blends, polyester, or burlap, which can often be machine-washed. However, some fabrics can be hand-washed.

For delicate materials such as linen, silk, velvet, lace, sateen, or wool, it is best to hire a professional drapery cleaner. These fabrics are often dry-clean only and can be damaged, shrink, or be destroyed by machine washing or using the wrong cleaning solutions.

If the care tag is missing, the drapes are old, thin, brittle, or have existing damage like pulls or tears, it's safest to have them professionally cleaned. A professional will use the correct methods and solutions for a safe, deep cleaning.

Hydrogen peroxide can be a good option for removing dried blood stains, but it’s an aggressive solution that could discolor or damage your carpet. It’s often a better option to call in a professional to deal with dried blood stains. A pro will have commercial cleaning solutions that do a better job as well as the experience necessary to get the stain out without doing irreparable damage to your carpet.

Regarding UV protection for furniture, synthetic fabrics like polyester and acrylic are some of the best choices. They have inherent UV-blocking properties and can withstand prolonged sun exposure better than natural fabrics like cotton or silk. Additionally, outdoor-specific fabrics for patio furniture often include UV-resistant treatments to enhance sun protection. Fabrics like these have become softer and more comfortable, making them suitable for interior spaces like sunrooms and other spaces brimming with natural light.

If you proactively avoid grime buildup and mold growth, you can clean the shower curtains as needed. However, if you forget to take preventive action, a good rule of thumb is to clean fabric curtains about every three months. And you’ll clean plastic liners and curtains every three to four weeks.