If you’re like me, you love your curtains. They add color, texture and personality to your home. They also help block out unwanted light, noise and drafts. But what happens when you need to wash them? Do curtains shrink in the wash? And if they do, how can you prevent it or fix it?
Do curtains shrink in the wash?
Yes, curtains can shrink in the wash because of the way they are made. They are made with a lining that is usually cotton or polyester. When you wash them, the lining shrinks and pulls away from the fabric, causing the fabric to shrink as well. If your curtains are made of a natural fabric, then it’s likely that they shrunk because they were washed or dried at a high temperature. To fix this, you’ll want to machine wash them on a cold setting and use an air dryer instead of a machine dryer.
How to prevent curtains from shrinking in the wash
The best way to prevent your curtains from shrinking in the wash is to follow the care instructions on the label. Some curtains may be dry clean only, so don’t risk washing them at home. If your curtains are machine washable, here are some tips to keep them in shape:
- Wash them on a gentle cycle with a mild detergent and cold water.
- Avoid using bleach, fabric softener or harsh chemicals that may damage the fabric or the lining.
- Don’t overload the washing machine or cram too many curtains in one load. This may cause them to twist or tangle and shrink unevenly.
- Dry them on a low heat setting or line dry them on a sunny day. Avoid direct sunlight that may fade the colors or damage the fabric.
- Iron them on a low setting if needed, but avoid ironing the lining as it may melt or stick to the iron.
How to fix curtains that have shrunk in the wash
If your curtains have already shrunk in the wash, don’t panic. There are some ways to restore them to their original size and shape:
- Measure your curtains before and after washing them to see how much they have shrunk. You may need to stretch them back to their original dimensions.
- Wet your curtains again and lay them flat on a large surface. Gently pull and stretch them until they reach the desired size. You may need to pin them down or weigh them down with heavy objects to keep them in place.
- Let them air dry completely and then hang them back on the rod. You may need to adjust the hooks or rings to fit the new length.
- If your curtains are still too short, you can add some extra fabric or trim to the bottom hem. You can either sew it on or use some iron-on tape or glue.
FAQs
Q: How often should I wash my curtains?
A: It depends on how dusty or dirty your curtains get, but generally you should wash them at least once a year. You can also dust and vacuum them regularly to keep them fresh and clean.
Q: Can I wash my net curtains in the washing machine?
A: Yes, you can wash your net curtains in the washing machine with your usual laundry detergent. Choose a ‘delicates’ cycle, or a cool wash on a slower spin cycle2. You can also use a laundry bag or a pillowcase to protect them from snagging or tearing.
Q: What if my curtains are too heavy for the washing machine?
A: If your curtains are too heavy for the washing machine, you can either take them to a professional dry cleaner or wash them by hand. You can use a large sink or a bathtub to soak and rinse them with cold water and mild detergent. Don’t wring or twist them as this may damage the fabric or the lining.
Final thoughts
Curtains are an essential part of any home decor, but they can also be tricky to wash and maintain. If you want to avoid shrinking your curtains in the wash, make sure you follow the care instructions on the label and use gentle methods and products. If your curtains have already shrunk, don’t worry – there are some ways to fix them and make them look as good as new.
I hope you found this post helpful and informative. If you have any questions or comments, feel free to leave them below. And if you’re looking for some fun and quirky home furnishings ideas, check out my blog at Huetifulhomes.com!
