When you've invested in beautiful made-to-measure curtains for your home, proper care becomes essential to maintain their appearance and longevity. One of the most common questions we receive concerns cleaning: specifically, whether made-to-measure curtains can be machine washed. The answer isn't simply yes or no—it largely depends on the fabric type, lining, and construction of your curtains.
General Considerations Before Washing
Before attempting to machine wash any curtains, consider these important factors:
- Check the care label: Always follow manufacturer instructions if available
- Fabric composition: Different materials require different care approaches
- Size and weight: Heavy, bulky curtains may be too large for domestic machines
- Construction details: Pleated headers, interlining, and special finishes may not withstand machine washing
- Colour fastness: Some dyes may run when wet, especially in richly coloured fabrics
Fabric-Specific Machine Washing Guidelines
Cotton Curtains
Cotton curtains are typically the most machine-washable option. Use these guidelines:
- Wash in cold or lukewarm water (30°C)
- Select a gentle cycle
- Use mild detergent without bleach
- Remove promptly from the machine to prevent deep creasing
- Reshape and hang immediately while damp, or iron on appropriate setting if completely dry
Linen Curtains
Natural linen can be machine washed with care:
- Use cold water only (30°C or below)
- Select the gentlest cycle available
- Use mild detergent
- Expect some natural shrinkage (approximately 3-5%)
- Hang while still slightly damp to reduce wrinkles
- May require ironing on medium heat
Polyester and Synthetic Blends
Most polyester and synthetic curtains can be machine washed safely:
- Use cold water (30°C)
- Select gentle cycle
- Avoid fabric softeners which can degrade flame-retardant treatments
- Tumble dry on low heat or hang to dry
- Iron on low heat if necessary
Silk, Velvet, and Delicate Fabrics
These luxurious fabrics generally should not be machine washed:
- Dry cleaning is strongly recommended
- Hand washing may be possible for some silk varieties (test a small area first)
- Never wring or twist these fabrics
- Avoid direct sunlight when drying
Blackout and Lined Curtains
Take extra precautions with these specially constructed curtains:
- Check if linings are sewn in or attached with header tape
- Many blackout linings are not suitable for machine washing
- If washable, use cold water (30°C) and gentle cycle
- Reshape carefully when hanging to dry
- May require professional cleaning if heavily lined
Drying Techniques for Made-to-Measure Curtains
How you dry your curtains is just as important as how you wash them:
- Line drying is preferable for most curtain fabrics
- Hang curtains while slightly damp to help creases fall out naturally
- Avoid direct sunlight which can cause fading
- If using a tumble dryer, select the lowest heat setting
- Remove promptly and hang immediately
When to Choose Professional Cleaning
Consider professional cleaning services when:
- Curtains are very large or heavy
- Fabrics are delicate or luxury materials
- There are complex construction details like pinch pleats
- Curtains feature embellishments or trimmings
- You're unsure about fabric care requirements
- Curtains have not been cleaned for several years
Maintaining Your Curtains Between Washes
Regular maintenance can reduce the frequency of washing:
- Vacuum weekly using upholstery attachment on low suction
- Shake curtains outdoors to remove dust when weather permits
- Spot clean small marks with appropriate fabric cleaner
- Steam refresh to remove odours without washing
- Rotate curtains in rooms with direct sunlight to prevent uneven fading
Final Thoughts
While many made-to-measure curtains can be machine washed, always consider the fabric type and construction before proceeding. When in doubt, professional cleaning services offer the safest option for preserving your investment. Proper care ensures your bespoke curtains will continue to enhance your home for years to come.