Burlap curtains are a popular choice for adding a rustic and natural touch to your windows. Burlap is a coarse and durable fabric made from jute, hemp, or sisal fibers. However, burlap can also be stiff, scratchy, and smelly. If you want to soften your burlap curtains and make them more comfortable and pleasant, you can try some of these methods.
How to soften burlap curtains in a nutshell:
- Wash them in the washing machine with cold water, gentle detergent, and fabric softener.
- Dry them in the dryer on low heat or air dry them outside.
- Iron them with steam or spray them with water and vinegar to remove wrinkles and odors.
- Soak them in hair conditioner or baking soda to make them softer and fresher.
How to soften burlap curtains in the washing machine
The washing machine is one of the easiest ways to soften burlap curtains. However, you need to be careful not to damage the fabric or cause excessive fraying. Here’s what you need to do:
- Cut your burlap curtains to the desired size and hem the edges with a sewing machine or by hand. This will prevent the fabric from unraveling too much in the wash.
- Wash your burlap curtains in the washing machine on a delicate cycle with cold water. Use a gentle liquid detergent and add some liquid fabric softener to the rinse cycle. This will help soften the fabric and reduce static.
- Dry your burlap curtains in the dryer on low heat or air dry them outside. Avoid high heat or over-drying, as this can make the fabric stiff and brittle.
- Iron your burlap curtains with steam or spray them with water and vinegar to remove wrinkles and odors. Use a high heat setting and iron on both sides of the fabric. You can also add some essential oils to the water or vinegar for a nice scent.
How to soften burlap curtains with hair conditioner
Hair conditioner is another product that can soften burlap curtains and make them more pliable and smooth. Hair conditioner contains ingredients that moisturize and condition the fibers, making them softer and less scratchy. Here’s what you need to do:
- Fill a large bucket or tub with warm water and add some hair conditioner. You can use any type of hair conditioner, but avoid those that contain silicone or other additives that may leave a residue on the fabric.
- Soak your burlap curtains in the water-conditioner mixture for at least 30 minutes, or longer if needed. You can also agitate the fabric gently with your hands to help distribute the conditioner evenly.
- Rinse your burlap curtains with clean water and wring out the excess moisture. Do not twist or squeeze the fabric too hard, as this can damage the fibers.
- Dry your burlap curtains in the dryer on low heat or air dry them outside. Avoid high heat or over-drying, as this can make the fabric stiff and brittle.
- Iron your burlap curtains with steam or spray them with water and vinegar to remove wrinkles and odors. Use a high heat setting and iron on both sides of the fabric.
How to soften burlap curtains with baking soda
Baking soda is another natural and eco-friendly product that can soften burlap curtains and remove their musty smell. Baking soda is alkaline and can help neutralize the acids that cause odors and stains on the fabric. It can also help brighten the color and restore the pH balance of the fabric. Here’s what you need to do:
- Fill a large bucket or tub with hot water and add some baking soda. You can use about half a cup of baking soda for every gallon of water, or adjust according to your preference.
- Soak your burlap curtains in the water-baking soda mixture for at least 30 minutes, or longer if needed. You can also agitate the fabric gently with your hands to help distribute the baking soda evenly.
- Rinse your burlap curtains with clean water and wring out the excess moisture. Do not twist or squeeze the fabric too hard, as this can damage the fibers.
- Dry your burlap curtains in the dryer on low heat or air dry them outside. Avoid high heat or over-drying, as this can make the fabric stiff and brittle.
- Iron your burlap curtains with steam or spray them with water and vinegar to remove wrinkles and odors. Use a high heat setting and iron on both sides of the fabric.
Conclusion
Burlap curtains are a great way to add some texture and charm to your windows, but they can also be rough and unpleasant to touch and smell. By using some simple methods and products, you can soften your burlap curtains and make them more comfortable and attractive. Whether you use the washing machine, hair conditioner, or baking soda, you can transform your burlap curtains into soft and cozy window treatments.
Dale is the colorful mind behind HuetifulHomes.com, where he shows you how to create a home that is as fun and fabulous as you are. He has a passion for color and a knack for DIY, with years of interior design experience he shares his tips and tricks on how to create a home that reflects your personality and style. He believes that color is the key to happiness, and he wants to help you make your home more Huetiful.
