How to Care for Rubber Backed Curtains

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Things You'll Need

  • Washer or bath tub

  • Cold water

  • Laundry detergent

  • Soft cloth or rag

  • Latex gloves

  • Dryer, clothesline or drying rack

  • Vacuum cleaner with crevice or brush attachment

It is not hard to clean and care for rubber backed curtains.

Rubbed backed curtains and drapes are strong, long-lasting and contain a cloth front. The curtains, over time, attract dust, dirt and grime that can eventually stain the curtains if not removed. When caring for rubber backed curtains, it is important to use a cleaning method that doesn't damage the curtains rubber backing but cleans the curtains front cloth. Excessive heat and abrasive cleaners can melt the curtain's rubber material as well as shrink the curtain's front cloth.

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Step 1

Check your rubber backed curtains fabric tag. If the tag contains the wording "Dry Clean Only," do not proceed to the next step. Have the curtains professionally cleaned at a dry cleaner.

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Step 2

Remove any hooks and fasteners from the rubber back curtains. Place the curtains in your home washer or a bath tub. If using a bath tub, place a stopper in the tub's drain or activate your tub's drain stopper control.

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Step 3

Fill the washer or bath tub with cold water. If using a washer, place the machine on the "Gentle" cycle. Add 1 cup of laundry detergent to the washer or tub for curtains that are not heavily soiled or 2 cups for heavily soiled curtains.

Step 4

Let the curtains wash in the washer or use a soft cloth or rag to wash the curtains by hand. If using a bath tub, scrub any soiled spots gently with the cloth or rag to break up the stains.

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Step 5

Unplug the tub's drain, if using a bath tub. Rinse the curtains with cold water from your tub's shower or faucet. Wring out any excess water thoroughly. If using a washer, remove the curtains from the machine when the cycle is complete.

Step 6

Place the curtains in your home dryer. Set the machine to a "cool" setting or hang the rubber backed curtains on a clothesline or drying rack to dry them.

Tip

For weekly cleaning, vacuum the rubber backed curtain’s front cloth and rubber backing with a vacuum cleaner’s crevice or brush attachment to remove any loose dust and dirt from the fabric.

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