How to Clean Curtains & Blinds
Written by Shannon, Owner and Founder of Long Island MaidsWindow treatments collect dust, allergens, and odors—often invisibly. Here's how to clean every type without damage, shrinking, or water marks.
Quick Reference: Window Treatment Types
Cleaning Curtains & Drapes
Before You Start
Always check the care label. Some curtains can be machine washed; others require dry cleaning. When in doubt, test a hidden corner first.
Machine-Washable Curtains
- Remove hooks, rings, and weights
- Shake outside to remove loose dust
- Wash on gentle/delicate cycle with cold water
- Use mild detergent—no bleach or fabric softener
- Hang immediately while damp (most curtains don't need ironing if hung right away)
Dry Clean Only Curtains
For velvet, silk, lined drapes, and curtains with intricate trims, professional cleaning is safest. Between cleanings:
- Vacuum monthly with upholstery attachment on low suction
- Use a fabric refresher spray for odors
- Steam (held 6 inches away) can refresh without water damage
Cleaning Blinds
Regular Dusting (Weekly)
Dust blinds weekly to prevent buildup:
- Close blinds completely
- Starting at top, wipe horizontally with microfiber cloth or duster
- Reverse/flip blinds and repeat on other side
Deep Cleaning Aluminum/Vinyl Blinds
For heavy buildup, remove and wash:
- Take blinds down and carry outside or to bathtub
- Fill tub with warm water + dish soap
- Lay blinds flat, soak 15-30 minutes
- Wipe each slat with soft cloth
- Rinse with clean water
- Hang to drip dry before rehanging
Cleaning Cellular/Honeycomb Shades
The pleated structure traps dust inside the cells:
- Lower shade fully and dust with soft brush attachment
- For stuck-on dirt, spot clean with damp cloth
- Never submerge in water—the pleats will lose shape
- Some can be ultrasonically cleaned by professionals
Dealing with Odors
Window treatments absorb cooking smells, smoke, and pet odors. To freshen without washing:
- Baking soda: Sprinkle on fabric, let sit 30 minutes, vacuum off
- Fabric refresher spray: Test on hidden area first for colorfastness
- Sunlight: UV helps neutralize odors naturally (but can fade fabrics)
- Steam: Steam cleaners kill odor-causing bacteria without chemicals
How Often to Clean
- Dust blinds: Weekly
- Vacuum curtains: Monthly
- Deep clean blinds: Every 3-6 months
- Wash/dry clean curtains: 1-2 times per year
- Kitchen window treatments: More frequently due to grease
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I put my curtains in the dryer?
Only if the care label explicitly says so. Most curtain fabrics shrink in the dryer. Air drying by hanging is almost always safer—gravity naturally smooths wrinkles while drying.
How do I clean blinds without taking them down?
Use a microfiber duster or cloth dampened with water. Close blinds, wipe horizontally from top to bottom, then flip and repeat. For stubborn spots, use a damp cloth with a drop of dish soap.
Why do my curtains smell musty?
Curtains absorb humidity and can develop mildew, especially in bathrooms or near poorly sealed windows. Wash if possible, or try baking soda treatment. For persistent mildew, professional cleaning may be needed.
Can I steam clean my blinds?
You can steam clean vinyl and aluminum blinds safely. Avoid steam on wood blinds (moisture damage) and be careful with fabric blinds (check for water-safe materials first).
How often should I clean my window treatments?
Dust blinds weekly. Vacuum curtains monthly. Deep clean blinds every 3-6 months. Wash or dry clean curtains 1-2 times per year. Kitchen window treatments need more frequent cleaning due to grease.
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