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Regular vacuuming, professional dry cleaning, and avoiding direct sunlight prolong the curtain lifespan.

Anything that might have been exposed to fumigation chemicals should be washed before use. Wipe down and sanitize surfaces like countertops and tables, and wash all utensils (or take care to store them in an airtight box beforehand), as well as anything else that could find its way into someone’s mouth, like kid or pet toys. 

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.

You should hire a professional to clean your drapes every four or five years or every two to three years if you have pets or it experiences heavy soiling. Light-colored drapes may require washing more often—every one to two years—to keep them looking fresh and clean. In between professional cleanings, it’s a good idea to vacuum your drapes lightly with a special drape attachment to remove surface dirt, pet hair, and other debris. Avoid using abrasive vacuum brushes on more delicate materials, though, like silk and linen.