Spring Cleaning Tips: Don’t Forget the Window Coverings

March 19, 2020

Most people install window coverings and never give them a second thought until a thick layer of dust has accumulated. If you take the time to clean your windows this spring, don’t your window coverings deserve some attention, too? By cleaning your draperies, you can make them look bright and new again by removing the dust that dulls the fabric. Washing also helps to extend the life of the curtains: the sun breaks down the threads if you don’t wash them.

How to Clean Curtains & Drapes

Experts recommend cleaning window treatments once or twice per year, and the method of cleaning depends on the material. Follow the directions on the care tag or refer to these general guidelines.

Poly-cotton/cotton. Wash in a gentle cycle with cool water. Poly-cotton blends typically can be dried on medium heat, but 100% cotton curtains should be line-dried to prevent shrinkage.
Sheer/lace. Sheer or lace curtains may be washed in a gentle cycle with cold water, but should be line-dried. The high heat of a dryer can set wrinkles in sheers.
Lined curtains. Curtains and shades that are insulated can be washed on a gentle cycle in cool water, but should be line-dried to prevent damage to the insulation.
Silk. Most curtains made of silk require dry cleaning.
Brocade/suede/velvet. These heavy fabrics are often lined and pleated. Rather than taking them down, use a vacuum brush attachment to vacuum each panel on low, holding the brush about an inch from the fabric.

Roman shades can also be vacuumed, and vinyl shades can be sponge-cleaned. For wood and vinyl blinds, vacuum the slats and then wipe both sides clean with a cloth dampened with a solution of water and a bit of dish soap.

Get Tips on Cleaning Your Renewal by Andersen® Windows

No windows are easier to clean than Renewal by Andersen windows, made of our exclusive Fibrex® composite material. Check out our simple, step-by-step window cleaning checklist. For more window maintenance tips, visit our Window Care & Maintenance page.

Hear From Our Customers

From George, the salesman giving me a balance of wants and needs to Rosko and his team members doing a fantastic job on the window replacement and install. To the post inspection process and thank you package with additional information for cleaning and maintenance. All was great!

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The entire team was excellent, professional, respectful, thoughtful, and was always attentive of our needs. They always asked questions before they started to make sure we were on the same page. We already noticed savings on our electricity. We are so happy we chose Renewal by Andersen.

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