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It’s around May when it hits—what looked fine all winter suddenly doesn’t. As the light shifts and sun streams in longer and stronger, curtains that once blended into the room start to look... tired. Dust shows up in folds, stains appear where there were none before, and fabric that seemed cream now leans suspiciously grey.

The change in daylight doesn’t just brighten a space—it throws everything into sharper focus. And curtains, often left hanging for months without a second thought, take the brunt of it.

Why Light Reveals More Than You’d Think
It’s easy to miss what’s building up throughout the darker months. Curtains absorb a bit of everything—dust from the air, moisture from cooking or shower steam, and even odours from pets, heating, or open windows.

When the angle of the light changes in spring, it cuts across the room differently. That soft layer of dust on the hem? Suddenly highlighted. Faint water marks near the bottom edge? Now sharp and noticeable.

Discolouration also creeps in over time. Sun exposure fades fabrics unevenly, especially if curtains are drawn to one side more often. When brighter days return, those pale patches stand out—making even clean curtains look grubby.

Cleaning Curtains Without Causing Damage
Washing curtains isn’t quite as simple as throwing them in the machine and hoping for the best. Different fabrics handle cleaning in different ways—and one wrong move can lead to shrinking, stretching, or colour bleeding.

Check the label first. Many curtains come with care instructions stitched in. If it says dry clean only, it’s best not to chance it.

For machine-washable curtains:

• Remove any hooks or weights before washing.
• Use a gentle cycle with cool water and mild detergent.
• Avoid fabric softener—it can leave a residue that traps dust.
• Hang to dry, ideally outside on a breezy day, and avoid wringing or twisting.

Steam-cleaning works well for delicate or large curtains that can’t easily be taken down. Using a handheld steamer, move slowly across the fabric from top to bottom. Always test a small area first to check how the material reacts.

Vacuuming while they’re still hanging helps with regular upkeep. Using the upholstery attachment on a low setting, run gently down each panel. It won’t replace washing but does remove a good amount of surface dust.

Keeping up with light cleaning every few weeks reduces the build-up that makes curtains look dull once brighter light rolls in.

When a Professional Clean Makes More Sense
Some curtains just need more than a home refresh. If they’re heavy, floor-length, lined, or made from tricky materials like velvet or silk, professional cleaning is often the safer route.

Dry cleaners who specialise in curtains know how to handle bulkier items without damaging stitching or altering shape. They can also tackle stains more effectively, especially ones caused by damp, smoke, or set-in dust.

Mobile cleaning services are another option. These cleaners visit the home and steam curtains without taking them down, making it ideal for those with tall ceilings or fitted tracks.

Having curtains professionally cleaned once or twice a year—especially during spring when the light changes—keeps them looking brighter and extends their lifespan.

A Quick Reset While They’re Down
If you do take curtains down for cleaning, it’s the perfect time to reset the whole window area.

• Dust the curtain rods and brackets. These collect cobwebs and dust that fall straight back onto clean curtains if ignored.
• Wipe down window frames and sills. Use a mild spray and soft cloth to avoid streaks.
• Vacuum or clean any blinds. They tend to get missed but show every speck of dirt once light shines through.
• Clean the windows themselves. With curtains out of the way, it’s easier to get a streak-free finish.

Putting freshly cleaned curtains back into a clean frame makes the whole room feel lighter. It’s not just about the fabric—it’s about the space around it too.

FAQs

Can sunlight really make clean curtains look dirty?
Yes, strong spring light exposes dust, fading, and stains that aren’t obvious in winter lighting. What looked fine in January can look worn by May.

Is it safe to steam all curtain fabrics?
Not always. Some delicate fabrics can warp or spot with steam. Always test a small area first or check the care label before starting.

How do I keep curtains cleaner between washes?
Vacuum them gently every few weeks and make sure windows, sills, and nearby vents are dust-free. This stops grime from building up too quickly.

© London Domestic Cleaners