How to Wash Blackout Curtains

How to Wash Blackout Curtains

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Need to know how to wash blackout curtains? Blackout curtains are a bit of a wildcard when it comes to cleaning because it’s not always as simple as bunging them in the washing machine.

It’s important to know there are two types of blackout curtain out there. And it’s vital you know this because washing blackout curtain lining will vary depending on the type draped in your living room.

how to clean blackout curtains

The first is the tight-weave fabric curtain.

These are typically very heavy, will have at least two or more layers and are made using a very densely woven yarn. Because of this composition, they’re very effective at light-blocking and working as blackout curtains. In addition to this, when you think about how to wash blackout curtains, you have far more options than if you were to have the other type.

how to clean blackout curtains

This “other type” is the foam-lined-back curtain.

Instead of using a tight weave, they have a foam layer making them very effective at insulating; so, they work well within homes that are typically cold due to aspects such as single or double-glazed windows.

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They’re also very useful for older buildings with Grade II listed features that can’t be renovated or upgraded, even if you wanted to.

However, as these curtains have a foam lining, when washing the blackout curtain lining, they can often get damaged.

Now we’ve had our introduction to the two types of blackout curtain on the market, it’s time we get down into the nitty-gritty of why you’re really here; how to wash blackout curtains!

spot cleaning blackout curtains

Four Ways To Clean Backout Curtains

Here are four ways you can get your blackout curtains clean:

Vacuum Cleaning

Dust is everywhere.

And, because it comes from us (it’s our skin), there’s really no escaping it. So we need to be prepared to dust every furnishing, small and large. 

When thinking how to wash blackout curtains the first port-of-call should always be the vacuum.

This is because your curtains might just have a lining of dust that needs to be taken off the curtain before it’s renewed into its former glory. 

This method of washing blackout curtain lining can be used for either of the two blackout curtain types.

As long as you haven’t got the suction-power-3000 that will tear away your curtain in the blink of the eye, your curtains should fare just fine. 

When using a vacuum cleaner, you’ll need to start with your curtains draped and drawn.

Then, with one hand, hold the bottom of the curtain while you slowly run the vacuum cleaner down the curtain from top to bottom. 

Do this a few times on both sides to allow the suction to agitate the dust and the fibres before allowing the dust to be swept away. 

four ways to clean blackout curtains

Spot Cleaning

Next up is the spot clean.

When there is a stain that “magically” appears on your curtain with your Youngen smiling the cheekiest of grins, you don’t want to be deep cleaning.

So, we suggest opting for a single-spot clean. 

What you’ll need to do first, is remove the curtain from the rod or its hooks and take it to a sink. 

Grab a large pot, pan or cleaning bucket, place it into the sink and fill it with freshly boiled water so the steam rises nicely.

The next step is to carefully drape your curtain (namely, the stained area) over the steaming water without letting it directly touch as this can burn and tarnish the curtain’s fibres. 

Next up is the important part; you need to choose a laundry soap that is soft, doesn’t contain fabric softener and doesn’t contain harsh chemicals or fragrances.

This is because they can harm your skin and your curtains in one fell swoop.

Finally, it’s time to get scrubbing.

Gently rub the detergent over the stained area but make sure you’re going in a slow and circular motion using lukewarm water.

Then, simply continue until you see the stain wash away and you’re good to hang the curtain back up to dry.

blackout curtain cleaning

Deep Cleaning

Unfortunately, the answer for how to wash blackout curtains with a deep clean isn’t going to be as simple as throwing them into a laundry machine and adding a capful of detergent and pressing start. 

So, if you have a bathtub, it’s time to get it filled.

If you don’t, no worries. But you may have to find yourself a large plastic storage box! 

Fill the tub or box with warm water and mix-in your laundry detergent.

If you have a tight-weave fabric curtain, you can get away with adding some extra stuff such as fabric conditioner and fragrance pearls.

However, if you’ve got a foam-lined-back curtain, washing blackout curtain lining can only be done with the gentle soap. 

Give the tub a stir and add your curtains one-by-one.

Give the fabric a good squeeze to allow the water to penetrate the fibres and then leave it to stew for around four hours. When you come back, be prepared to face the colour of your water; but, at least, you’ll know the curtain is clean!

When you’re ready, remove the curtain from the tub or box and rinse with cold water until the water runs clear. Finally, hang your curtains back on their rods and hooks to air dry.

Dry Cleaning

Here at Laundry Life, we’re very much a DIY lovers paradise of cleaning.

We’ll always suggest the ways you can do the cleaning yourself, at home, using all the ingredients you know, love and trust.

However, it’s not always possible when you have blackout curtains. Especially if they are old.

This is because fabrics that become sun-bleached or have a few extra years on them can become weaker and need the extra TLC a dry cleaner can provide.

Plus, dry cleaners will also do spot repairs on your blackout curtains, too. 

And that wraps up our article on how to wash blackout curtains in 4, 3, 2, 1… We’ve spot-cleaned four ways for you to reduce any dust or stains on your curtains no matter which of the two types you have.

So, now you can get to washing blackout curtain lining (or taking them to a place that can help) in no time. 

Here at Laundry Life, it’s where laundry really is life; we talk about all the different ways you can clean and bring life back to all the things you love most.

Whether it’s an old pair of trainers, some blackout curtains or something to do with that pesky iron.

Keep chiming into the website to find out about the news and products you need for your own laundry life.

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