How to Get Stiff Curtains
Crisp curtains hanging from newly washed windows make any homemaker proud. Washing curtains and windows is part of many spring-cleaning rituals. Starching curtains may seem a bit old-fashioned, but the result will make friends and family members wonder how you manage to have such a fresh look for your window treatments. Starching curtains rather than using a spray starch will keep them looking nicer for a longer period of time. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
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1
Wash your curtains prior to starching using your normal washing method.
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2
Fill a large cooking pot three-quarters full of water, and heat until boiling.
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3
Mix 4 tbsp. of cornstarch with 2 cups of cold water in a bowl. Use a whisk to remove all the lumps.
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4
Pour the cornstarch mixture into the boiling water and stir to blend.
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5
Stir continuously while the water and mixture boil for four minutes, then remove from the heat. Stirring will prevent the starch from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
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6
Fill a 5-gallon pail halfway with hot tap water. Pour the starch mixture into the pail, and stir to mix thoroughly. Diluting the starch will prevent your curtains from becoming too stiff.
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Place your curtains into the pail. Use rubber gloves to immerse your curtains into the starch solution.
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8
Remove the curtains from the pail, and place them into your washing machine on a gentle spin cycle. This will remove excess water.
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9
Remove the curtains and place them in your dryer on a low setting. Check often to prevent over-drying.
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10
Remove immediately when dry and iron if necessary.
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