How to Wash Velvet Curtains

Clean velvet curtains with dishwashing soap.

Velvet curtains can add style and sophistication to any room in a person's home. These curtains can also be very expensive and very heavy. It can be difficult to take down the curtains for cleaning so the proper care of the velvet curtains can occur while the curtains are hanging, or they can be taken down. Cleaning and caring for velvet curtains will ensure that they remain luxurious and durable for several years to come.

Things You'll Need

• Vacuum
• 1 tsp. liquid dish soap
• 3 cups water
• Sponge

Instructions

1. Take the curtains down, if desired. Lay the curtains out onto a flat surface.

2. Vacuum off any dust or debris on the curtains with a hose attachment.

3. Mix 1 tsp. of dishwashing soap and 3 cups cool water. Stir.

4. Soak a sponge with the dishwashing mixture and wring out the majority of the liquid.

5. Dab at the stained areas of the curtains with the sponge. Avoid allowing too much water to come in contact with the velvet as this could cause damage.

6. Allow the curtains to dry thoroughly, which could take anywhere from 24 to 48 hours depending upon the thickness of the velvet.

7. Hang the curtains back in their original spot.

Tips & Warnings

• Rub the sponge over the curtain in the direction of the velvet's nap. Rubbing against against the nap can cause the velvet to appear tattered.

References

• How to Clean Stuff: How to Clean Velvet
• Velvet Cat: What Can You Do With Red Velvet Curtains?