Curtains: The Silent Dust Collectors
Curtains are often overlooked when it comes to home cleaning, even though they play a major role in filtering sunlight, framing our windows, and collecting dust, allergens, and odors over time. Whether you live in a coastal home near Balboa Peninsula or a modern condo off Pacific Coast Highway, your curtains need routine care.
But here’s the catch: many people destroy their curtains simply by washing them the wrong way. Fabric shrinks, hems unravel, and sunlight-filtering linings degrade — all because they weren’t cleaned with care.
Let’s break down how to clean in Orange County properly without ruining the fabric, so your home can look fresh without costly mistakes.
Step 1: Read the Tag (Yes, Really)
Before you touch a button or reach for detergent, check the care label. Manufacturers usually include specific instructions based on fabric type. If your curtains came with your home or have no tag, try to identify the fabric:
Cotton & Linen: Often machine washable, but prone to shrinking
Polyester & Synthetics: Typically safe in the wash, but may attract static
Velvet or Silk: Usually dry clean only
Blackout or Thermal Linings: Often require handwashing or vacuuming only
Ignoring this step is the number one reason people end up replacing their drapes.
Step 2: Remove Dust First
Before washing, give your curtains a thorough dusting. This minimizes lint and prevents your washer from becoming clogged with debris. Use:
A handheld vacuum with a brush attachment
A lint roller for pet hair and fine debris
A microfiber cloth to wipe along the folds
In Newport Beach, where ocean breeze brings in salt air and fine sand, this step is especially important.
Step 3: Choose the Right Cleaning Method
Machine Wash:
Use cold water and a gentle cycle
Avoid bleach unless the care label allows it
Use a mild detergent
Wash curtains alone to prevent pulling from zippers or buttons
Hand Wash:
Fill a bathtub or large basin with cool water and detergent
Soak gently for 10–15 minutes
Rinse until water runs clear
Dry Cleaning:
Best for velvet, silk, or lined curtains
Ask your cleaner to avoid strong solvents on blackout linings
Not sure which method to use? Test a hidden section with water to see if colors bleed or the fabric changes.
Step 4: Dry Without Damage
If your curtains are dryer-safe:
Use the lowest heat setting
Remove promptly to avoid wrinkles
Hang them slightly damp for natural wrinkle release
For delicate or non-dryer-safe fabrics:
Hang dry indoors
Avoid direct sunlight to prevent fading
Smooth out creases by hand while damp
Curtains can take several hours to fully dry, especially in humid beach climates.
Step 5: Iron or Steam for a Crisp Look
Once dry, give your curtains a finishing touch:
Use a low-heat iron for cotton or linen
Use a handheld steamer for synthetics and poly blends
Avoid direct heat on blackout linings
Rehang your curtains while they’re still slightly warm for best results — they’ll naturally settle and drape more smoothly.
How Often Should You Clean Curtains?
In Newport Beach homes where windows are often left open to let in the ocean breeze, dust and salt air build up quickly. We recommend:
Light dusting: Every 1–2 weeks
Deep cleaning: Every 3–6 months (more often in high-traffic rooms or homes with pets)
Prefer to Leave It to the Pros?
Some curtains are just too large, heavy, or delicate to handle on your own. If you need help with a full-home refresh, Marching Maids can connect you with experienced independent cleaners who know how to care for all types of window treatments.
As a referral agency, we don’t train cleaners directly, but we do vet, interview, and background-check every professional. Our Newport Beach clients appreciate having a team that’s familiar with high-end finishes, large-scale drapery, and the effects of coastal weather.
Final Thoughts
Washing your curtains the right way not only keeps your home looking polished — it also extends the life of your fabric and improves indoor air quality.
👉 Book your Newport Beach house cleaning today and let us help freshen up the details that often get overlooked.