Is It Safe To Wash Curtains In Washing Machine?

If you’re looking for an easy and effective way to refresh your curtains, you might be wondering if you can wash them in the washing machine. After all, washing curtains by hand can be time-consuming and tedious, and taking them to the dry cleaners can be expensive and inconvenient. But is it safe to wash curtains in the washing machine? Will they shrink, fade, or get damaged?

The answer is: it depends. Some curtains can be safely washed in the washing machine, while others need special care and attention. The best way to find out is to check the care label on your curtains and follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

What types of curtains can be washed in the washing machine?

You can usually wash the following kinds of curtains in your washing machine at home:

• Cotton
• Linen
• Polyester
• Nylon

Curtains made from these fabrics are generally durable, lightweight, and easy to clean. They can withstand moderate temperatures and spin cycles without shrinking or losing their shape.

However, you should still be careful and use a gentle or delicate cycle, a mild detergent, and a low temperature (below 30°C) to avoid damaging your curtains. You should also avoid using bleach, fabric softener, or harsh chemicals that could harm the fabric or the color.

What types of curtains cannot be washed in the washing machine?

You should not wash the following kinds of curtains in the washing machine¹:

• Organza
• Velvet
• Silk

Curtains made from these fabrics are delicate, heavy, and prone to wrinkling. They can easily get ruined by the agitation, heat, and water of the washing machine. They may shrink, fade, tear, or lose their texture.

Instead of washing these curtains in the washing machine, you should either take them to the dry cleaners or hand wash them carefully. If you choose to hand wash them, use cold water, a gentle detergent, and a soft brush or sponge. Do not wring, twist, or rub the fabric too hard². Rinse thoroughly and gently squeeze out the excess water.

How to wash curtains in the washing machine?

If you decide to wash your curtains in the washing machine, here are some steps to follow:

• Remove the curtains from the rod and take off any hooks, rings, or other accessories that could get tangled or damage the fabric.
• Measure your curtains before washing them in case they shrink or stretch and you need to adjust them later.
• Check the care label on your curtains and follow the manufacturer’s instructions on how to wash them. If there is no label or you are unsure, test a small inconspicuous area of the fabric with water and detergent to see if it reacts negatively.
• Load your curtains into the washing machine and balance them with some towels or sheets if needed. Do not overload the machine or cram too many curtains into one load.
• Choose a gentle or delicate cycle, a mild detergent, and a low temperature (below 30°C) for washing your curtains. Avoid using bleach, fabric softener, or harsh chemicals.
• Start the cycle and let the machine do its work.

How to dry and iron your curtains after washing?

After washing your curtains in the washing machine, you need to dry and iron them properly to make them look fresh and neat. Here are some tips on how to do that:

• Line dry your curtains on a sunny and breezy day if possible. This will help them dry faster and prevent wrinkles. Avoid direct sunlight that could fade the color of your curtains.
• Alternatively, you can tumble dry your curtains on a low setting if the care label allows it. Remove them when they are slightly damp and let them air dry completely.
• Iron your curtains on a low setting according to the fabric type if needed. Use a clean cloth between the iron and the fabric to protect it from scorching. Iron from the backside of the curtain to avoid damaging the front.
• Hang your curtains back on the rod and adjust them as needed.

FAQs

Q: How often should I wash my curtains?

A: It depends on how dirty your curtains get and how often you use them. Generally speaking, you should wash your curtains at least once or twice a year to keep them fresh and clean. You should also dust and vacuum your curtains regularly to remove dust and dirt.

Q: How do I prevent my curtains from shrinking in the washing machine?

A: The best way to prevent your curtains from shrinking in the washing machine is to use a gentle cycle, a mild detergent, and a low temperature (below 30°C) for washing them. You should also avoid using bleach, fabric softener, or harsh chemicals that could shrink the fabric. If you are unsure about the fabric type or the care instructions, test a small inconspicuous area of the fabric with water and detergent before washing the whole curtain.

Q: How do I remove stains from my curtains?

A: If your curtains have stains, you should treat them as soon as possible before washing them in the washing machine. You can use a pre-wash stain remover or a mild detergent and water to dab the stain gently with a clean cloth or sponge². Do not rub or scrub the stain too hard, as this could damage the fabric or spread the stain. Rinse the area with cold water and blot it dry with a towel. Repeat if needed until the stain is gone.

Final Thoughts

Washing curtains in the washing machine can be a quick and easy way to refresh your windows and brighten up your room. However, you need to be careful and follow the care label instructions and the tips above to avoid damaging your curtains. Some curtains may need special care and attention, such as dry cleaning or hand washing. If you have any doubts or questions, feel free to contact us at Huetifulhomes.com.

Dale

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.