How to wash blackout curtains in a washing machine?

Blackout curtains are renowned for their light-blocking properties. Their ability to completely block out sunlight, even in the morning and afternoon, is what makes them so popular. They create a comfortable environment for rest—even the brightest rays won't disturb a child or adult's light sleep.

Like any home textile, curtains require regular cleaning. Let's find out whether blackout curtains are machine washable and how to properly dry and iron them.

Let's study the characteristics of the fabric

Blackout fabric was developed in Finland. It's a three-layer polyester material that blocks out bright sunlight, as well as street noise and cold. These unique curtains are ideal for bedrooms, living rooms, and children's rooms.

The popularity of blackout fabric is easy to explain:

• very durable;
• wrinkle-resistant;
• blocks bright sunlight;
• easy to care for;
• hypoallergenic;
• has soundproofing and heat-insulating properties;
• is characterized by a long service life.

It is very important to clean blackout curtains regularly. Most blackout curtains are suitable for both hand and machine washing. If your curtain has an acrylic layer or a metallic coating, you cannot put it in the washing machine.

When purchasing items, be sure to read the care label for the manufacturer's instructions. The label will indicate the recommended temperature range and the preferred washing method. If you clean the fabric according to the instructions, it will retain its properties.

The outer layers of blackout curtains have a special structure that repels dust, making them less likely to stain.

It is enough to thoroughly wash blackout curtains 1-2 times a year.

Is it acceptable to use a machine?

The preferred care method for blackout curtains can be found on the packaging. Blackout curtains with a standard three-layer weave are usually machine washable. However, if the material has a special coating or an acrylic layer, the washing machine may damage the curtains.

If the manufacturer allows machine washing, you can safely throw your curtains in the drum. It's important to choose a good detergent. Gels for delicate fabrics, wool, and silk are best for blackout. Avoid using dry detergents, as they may leave streaks on the curtains.

The procedure for automatic washing of blackout curtains is as follows:

• remove the curtain;
• Disconnect all fasteners, hooks, and fasteners. Wash the elements separately in a soapy solution;
• place the curtains in the drum;
• pour the cleaning agent into the powder dispenser;
• select a delicate program;
• Make sure that the water heating temperature is 40°C (the manufacturer may recommend a different temperature setting, in which case follow the information on the label);
• set the minimum spin speed;
• wait until the cycle is complete, remove the item from the machine;
• hang the blackout curtains in their original place.

It is important to immediately remove the curtains from the washing machine and hang them up; otherwise, the fabric will wrinkle and require additional ironing.

You can turn off the automatic spin cycle completely, but then you will have to prepare basins to catch the water from the curtains.

We wash it in the traditional way

Machine washing makes washing curtains quick and easy. However, sometimes hand cleaning is the only option for blackout fabrics. For example, for curtains with special layers or coatings that make them unsuitable for the washing machine.

Washing curtains by hand isn't difficult. Here's how:

• While the curtain is still hanging on the cornice, vacuum it on both sides using a special nozzle;
• take down the curtains;
• Disconnect the fasteners. Hooks and latches can be washed separately in a soapy solution;
• Fill a large basin or bath with warm water (40°C or another temperature recommended by the manufacturer);
• add the required amount of detergent to the container, stir until completely dissolved;
• soak the curtains in the solution for an hour;
• wash the curtains using a crumpling motion;
• Rinse the curtains in clean water several times. You can also spray the curtains with a shower head;
• hang the product over the bathtub to allow excess water to drain off;
• attach the curtains to the curtain rod.

Avoid wringing out multi-layered fabrics by hand. It's best to wait until the water drains off the curtains on its own before hanging them in their permanent location.

We clean curtains on site

Most blackout curtains have a simple design and are easily pulled off the curtain rod, making them machine or hand washable. You can clean curtains directly on the curtain rod if there are difficulties with removing the fabric or if there is minor, localized contamination.

Without unfastening the curtain from the curtain rod, blackout fabric can be cleaned:

• vacuum cleaner;
• manual or stationary steam generator;
• with a sponge soaked in soapy water.

A vacuum cleaner can be used for dry cleaning, removing dust from the material. A steam generator will not only remove stains but also quickly straighten the fabric. It's advisable to combine these two devices. This will ensure that dirt is removed both from the outside and inside the fibers.

When using a steam cleaner for the first time, test its effect on an inconspicuous area of ​​the blackout.

You can “wash out” local stains on curtains with a soap solution:

• fill a basin with 5 liters of warm water;
• add 2 tablespoons of washing gel to the container;
• stir the solution, avoiding foaming;
• Dip a soft sponge in soapy water and squeeze out the foam;
• Wipe the curtain while it's hanging. Move from top to bottom.

When cleaning blackout curtains this way, there's a chance that soap stains will remain on the fabric. These will become visible after the curtains dry. You'll need to remove the whitish stains separately with a cloth dampened with clean water.

Drying the curtain

There are no special techniques to follow when drying curtains. Blackout curtains can be dried by simply securing them over the bathtub or hanging them on a curtain rod. In the latter case, it is necessary to place containers under the curtains to collect the water.

Experts do not recommend:

• speed up drying using electrical appliances (heaters, hair dryers);
• throw the curtain over a rope - this will leave a deep fold in the canvas;
• dry the curtains in the bright sun.

It's best to let the curtains dry naturally. You can first leave them hanging over the bathtub until most of the water has drained, then attach them to a curtain rod to finish drying.

Should I use an iron or a steamer?

Ironing blackout curtains is completely unnecessary. If you remove them from the machine promptly and dry them properly, the fabric will straighten itself under its own weight. The desired shape will be achieved without the need for an iron or steam generator.

If creases appear, they can be removed with an iron. Set the soleplate to the lowest temperature and prepare a piece of gauze or a special cloth to iron the curtain through.

Removing wrinkles will be easier with a steam generator. You can treat and straighten the curtain without even removing it from the rod.

Care for this type of curtains

By following expert advice, you can preserve the attractive appearance and performance of your blackout curtains for a long time. Here are some tips:

• Dry clean your curtains regularly – vacuum them every two weeks to remove dust. Then, washing will only be required every six months or every year.
• do not wring out the blackout fabric when spinning;
• When choosing a cleaning method, strictly follow the manufacturer's recommendations;
• Be sure to remove removable decorations from curtains before washing;
• If you are unsure whether the curtain can be machine cleaned (if the label is lost), it is better to wash it by hand.

It's important to rinse curtains thoroughly, otherwise they may become streaked. Blackout curtains with complex designs, combining multiple materials and decorative elements, are best left to professional dry cleaners.

   

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