How Often Should Curtains Be Cleaned?

 

Curtains are a beautiful addition to any home or office space. They add warmth, texture, and personality to a room while serving practical purposes like blocking sunlight, enhancing privacy, and insulating interiors. But while most people regularly clean carpets and windows, they often overlook curtains in household routines. The question is: how often should curtains be cleaned, and why does it matter?

The short answer? More often than you think. Let’s explore the reasons, recommended frequency, and the benefits of getting your curtains cleaned professionally.

 

Why Your Curtains Should Be Cleaned Regularly

Curtains are natural dust collectors. If you position them next to windows and radiators, you constantly expose them to:

• Outdoor pollutants, such as pollen and vehicle emissions
• Indoor dust, pet hair, and dander
• Cooking fumes, smoke, and airborne grease
• Moisture and condensation, leading to potential mould and mildew

Over time, these contaminants settle into the fabric. While the build-up may not always be visible, it can negatively impact your home’s air quality and trigger allergies or respiratory issues—especially in children, elderly individuals, or those with asthma or sensitivities.

 

Factors That Affect Cleaning Frequency

 

The frequency with which you should have your curtains cleaned depends on several factors:

 

1. Location of the Property

Homes in urban areas or near busy roads are exposed to higher levels of pollution. Properties near the sea may experience salt and moisture damage. These conditions warrant more frequent curtain cleaning.

 

2. Presence of Allergies or Health Conditions

If anyone in your household suffers from allergies, asthma, or other respiratory issues, having your curtains cleaned every 3–4 months can significantly reduce irritants in the air.

 

3. Pets in the Home

Fur, dander, and outdoor debris brought in by pets can quickly soil curtain fabric. Pet owners should consider having curtains cleaned at least twice a year.

 

4. Smoking Indoors

Cigarette smoke clings to fabrics and causes discolouration and odours over time. If smoking indoors is common, we recommend more frequent cleaning (every 3–6 months).

 

5. Fabric Type and Curtain Style

Delicate materials like silk or linen may require gentler, professional handling and less frequent washing, while thicker curtains such as blackout or thermal types might trap more dirt and need deeper cleaning.

You may also like: 5 tips on how to keep your home clean with pets

 

General Guidelines for Curtain Cleaning

Here’s a rough guideline for how often you should get your curtains cleaned, based on typical household conditions:

• Standard home, no pets or smokers – Every 6–12 months
• Home with pets or light smoking – Every 3–6 months
• Allergy sufferers or health concerns – Every 3–4 months
• Heavy smoking indoors – Every 2–3 months
• High-traffic commercial or hospitality use – Quarterly (every 3 months)

 

Curtains Cleaned by You vs. Professional Curtain Cleaning

While it’s tempting to remove curtains and pop them in the washing machine, DIY methods carry risks. Machine washing can cause shrinkage, colour fading, or damage to linings and stitching—especially with delicate or lined curtains.

Professional cleaning services offer:

• Fabric-safe cleaning tailored to your curtain type
• Steam, dry, or solvent-based cleaning for deeper results
• Removal of odours, dust mites, and allergens
• Optional take-down and re-hang services for convenience
• Use of non-toxic, eco-friendly cleaning solutions

For households aiming for cleanliness and longevity, getting your curtains cleaned professionally once or twice a year is an excellent investment.

 

Signs Your Curtains Need Immediate Attention

 

Regardless of the recommended cleaning frequency, there are signs that indicate it’s time to clean your curtains now:

• Visible dust or staining
• Discolouration or fading patches
• Musty or smoky odour
• Increased allergy symptoms at home
• Signs of mould or mildew near windows

Don’t wait for your curtains to become noticeably soiled—by then, the damage may already be done.

 

Additional Tips to Keep Curtains Cleaned and Fresh

• Vacuum regularly with a soft brush attachment to remove dust
• Avoid smoking indoors, especially near fabric surfaces
• Open windows to ventilate and reduce moisture build-up
• Rotate curtains if they receive uneven sunlight exposure to avoid fading
• Use air purifiers to reduce airborne particles indoors

 

Final Thoughts

Your curtains do more than just frame a view—they also act as air filters for your home. Regular maintenance not only keeps them looking their best but also supports a healthier indoor environment. Whether you live in a city flat, a family home, or manage a business space, getting your curtains cleaned professionally at regular intervals is a small but powerful way to boost hygiene and comfort.

 

Ready to Refresh Your Home?

If your home needs professional cleaner we are here for you. Feel free to contact us and request a cleaning quote. You can find more info about our carpet cleaning service at Merci Cleaning London or on our official Facebook page. 

You may also like: 5 reasons for hiring a professional house cleaner

 

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