Cleaning curtains easily ranks near the top of many people’s “most annoying chores” list. Wrestling with the rod, bumping your head in the process, and then trying to stuff bulky fabric into your washing machine — or worse, hauling it to the dry cleaner — is nobody’s idea of fun. It’s no wonder this chore…
Here’s the good news: There’s an easier way to get your curtains clean, and you don’t even have to take them down.
Start With a Good Shake and a Vacuum
Think of your curtains like a delicate, hanging rug. Instead of beating the dirt out, shake the curtains gently while they’re still on the rod to loosen any settled dust and debris. (A step stool will be helpful here.) It’s best to shake them from the top so everything falls downward, ideally out an open window.
Next, grab your vacuum. Using the soft brush attachment, glide it from top to bottom, paying special attention to folds and pleats where dust loves to hide. Finish by giving the floor a quick once-over with the vacuum too.
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Steam Away the Stale
Once the surface dust is gone, it’s time to take out the secret weapon: a steamer. A handheld garment steamer will smooth out wrinkles, lift away any lingering dust, neutralize odors, and even eliminate bacteria and dust mites — all without you ever having to take the curtains down.
After heating, move the steamer slowly in vertical strokes, keeping a couple of inches between the nozzle and the fabric. Use the gentlest setting, especially if your curtains are made of natural materials, such as cotton or linen, or delicate sheer fabric. Don’t worry about moisture, either; the curtains will be only slightly damp and will dry within minutes.
Fresh Air Does Wonders
After steaming, let Mother Nature take over. Open your windows, if possible, to let in a breeze. This airflow will help whisk away any lingering odors and keep mildew at bay, all while speeding up the drying process.
