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The best way to clean drapes depends on the material, as certain washing methods are necessary for more delicate materials. You can follow the general guidelines below in most cases:

• Cotton: Machine wash

• Lace: Hand wash

• Linen: Dry clean

• Polyester: Machine wash

• Silk: Dry clean or steam clean

• Velvet: Dry clean

• Wool: Dry clean

You should also consider if there’s any existing damage to the drapes, like pulls or small tears, that could get worse with aggressive washing. Additionally, older drapes may require special care from a professional to preserve them but still leave them clean.

Window treatments fall under the categories of hard, soft, and layered. Hard refers to stiff, formed treatments that include window blinds and shutters. Soft refers to cloth window treatments that include drapes and curtains. Finally, layered refers to the combination of soft and hard treatments. For example, you might place flowing drapes over blinds to combine the practicality of a treatment that blocks the sun with the whimsical and elongating aesthetic of a full-window drape.

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.

Some fabrics can be machine washed, but delicate or large drapes require professional cleaning to prevent shrinkage or damage.