How Can I Wash Dry-Clean Only Curtains?

Silk curtains require dry cleaning.

Curtains can easily absorb stains and odors in your home. Many curtains are dry-clean only, which is expensive if your curtains require frequent cleaning. One solution is to wash your dry-clean-only curtains at home with a home dry cleaning kit. Two basic types of dry cleaning kits are available for purchase: with a steam bag or without. You can purchase either type at your local grocery store.

Things You'll Need

• Home Dry Cleaning Kit
• Curtains
• Clothes dryer
• Cloth

Instructions

Home Dry-Clean Bag

1. Place the curtains in the home dry cleaning bag. Only fill the bags half full to leave room for the curtains to tumble.

2. Place a home dry cleaning cloth in the bag, and close the bag completely.

3. Place the bag in your clothes dryer.

4. Follow the dry cleaning kit instructions to clean the curtains. Most home dry cleaning kits require you to turn the dryer to medium heat for 20 to 40 minutes.

5. Remove the curtains from the dryer and the home dry cleaning bag immediately after the cycle has ended. The curtains will be slightly damp.

6. Immediately hang the curtains to prevent wrinkles from forming as they dry completely.

Home Dry-Clean Solution

1. Dampen a clean cloth with a home dry cleaning solution.

2. Press the dampened cloth over the spots on the curtain. Agitate the curtain's fibers with the cloth until the spot is removed.

3. Place the curtains in your clothes dryer, and follow the dry cleaning kit instructions to set the heat and length of the cycle.

4. Remove the curtains from the dryer, and hang them immediately to prevent wrinkles from forming.

Tips & Warnings

• You can reuse the home dry cleaning bag many times, but throw out the home dry cleaning cloth after one use.

• Keep home dry cleaning kits away from children.

References

• Dryel: How Dryel Works
• Woolite: Dry Cleaner's Secret
• The New Homemaker: Dry Cleaning at Home
• Stretcher: Save Money on Dry Cleaning