From sheer curtains to roller blinds, try a little tenderness. Here are our top tips for cleaning your curtains and blinds.

How to Clean Sheer Curtains

Wash your sheer curtains, or sheers, annually and ensure that any hooks are removed first. Sheers are delicate and require gentle cleaning; however, sheers can be washed in the washing machine. Allow them to soak in cold water for five minutes prior to washing, then rinse and drain the water. Use a mild detergent and select a gentle wash cycle until complete, including the spin cycle. Rehang the sheers while slightly damp and gently pull into shape.

Tip: To iron your sheers, choose an appropriate setting (polyester, linen or cotton) that matches the fabric.

How to Clean Fabrics with Linings

Gently vacuum your curtain fabrics every six months with a low setting. For your vacuum cleaner, select an appropriate attachment (small brush head or dust attachment) to disturb any loose dust or dirt from the curtains. For stubborn dirt and mould, mix mild detergent and mould removing agent in five litres of lukewarm water, and sponge clean the fabric. For cleaning linings and smaller areas, spot clean linings with mild detergent. Remember to change the water regularly, especially for cleaning larger areas.

Tip: Do not wash or dry clean fabrics with linings. Fabrics with linings can be heavy and bulky, and are unsuitable for washing machines and dryers.

Tip: For cleaning fabrics with linings, do not use bleach.

How to Clean Blinds

Wipe down roller blinds with a damp cloth every fortnight, and gently vacuum fabric blinds every six months with a low setting. For stubborn dirt and mould, mix mild detergent and mould removing agent in five litres of lukewarm water, and sponge clean blinds. For cleaning smaller areas, spot clean blinds with mild detergent. Remember to change the water regularly, especially for cleaning larger areas.

Tip: Do not saturate blinds.

Tip: For cleaning blinds, do not use bleach.