How to Clean and Wash Blackout Curtains: The Complete Guide

Blackout curtains not only add decorative appeal to your windows, but also have many other benefits. They block out the bright sunlight and reduce the noise coming from outside, allowing you to concentrate on your work and get a better sleep. They also insulate your room, thereby saving energy.

But just like cloth curtains, they also collect dust and if not cleaned regularly, they develop stains and start smelling bad. So, if you want your curtains to last long, then keep cleaning them on regular basis.

However, they cannot be washed regularly like cloth curtains. Special blackout coating or multi-layer design requires gentle handling to prevent damage. In this guide, we will run you through how to clean and wash the blackout curtains correctly-step-by-step-so they live long and continue their best performance.

Why blackout curtain requires special care?

Blackout curtains contain multiple layers of fabric as well as a coated backing layer of foam or acrylic, which excludes sunlight and provides insulation. This coating is one that makes cleaning more difficult than regular curtains. While it’s effective, it’s also sensitive to heat, harsh detergents, or rough washing methods.

Improper cleaning can cause:

• Peeling or cracking of the coating
• Shrinkage or warping of the fabric
• Loss of light-blocking ability
• Permanent creases or stiff texture

This is why you will need to follow specific cleaning methods that protect both outerwear and internal coating.

How many times should you clean the blackout curtain?

The frequency of cleaning curtains depends on the location in which they are installed and the cleanliness and conditions in your home.

• Light dusting or vacuuming: every 1-2 months to prevent dust build-up.
• Spot cleaning: As soon as you stain or spread.
• Deep cleaning: every 6–12 months to completely refresh.

If you live in high-dumplings or are pets, you may need to clean them more often.

Pre-cleaning checklist

Before starting, it is important to prepare properly:

1. Check Care Label
   This is the manual direction of your curtain. Not all blackout curtains are machine washable. Some are better off hand washing or dry cleaning. Check the label before you wash.
2. Test patch
   Test a small, hidden section with light detergent and water to ensure that the coating is not a reaction or discoloration.
3. Collect
   • Soft-brusal brush or vacuum with upholstery attachment
   • Mild liquid detergent (pH-plate)
   • White vinegar (for optional, deodorant)
   • Big towels to dry
   • A clean, ventilated place for hanging

When choose dry cleaning?

Not all blackout curtains can be safely washed at home. If the label says “dry clean only” then do not ignore it or else your curtains may get damaged. In such a situation, it is better to dry clean them.

Dry cleaning is also a safe option if:

• The coating is already peeling or damaged
• Curtains are extra large or heavy
• You don’t have enough space to dry proper

If you like to quit the trouble, consider hiring a blackout curtain cleaning service. Professional cleaners use specialized equipment and techniques that protect the blackout coating while doing a deep cleaning.

How to do machine wash blackout curtains

If the label says it’s safe to machine wash the curtains, follow the steps below to wash them safely:

1. Remove all hardware
   Hook, ring, or wait so that they do not stop the cloth.
2. First vacuum
   Use a soft-brash attachment to gently remove dust from both sides.
3. Use a gentle cycle
   High temperature may damage curtain coating. So, always use low temperature (under 30°C (86°F) machine cycle to wash blackout curtains. This will give gentle wash.
4. Use mild detergent
   The cloth of Blackout curtains are very much different from the normal curtains. That’s why they need special wash. While washing these curtains, make sure that the detergent is not too harsh, otherwise the colour and back layer of the curtains can get damaged. So, choose a mild detergent to wash them. You can also use a fabric conditioner to make your curtains smell good. If your curtains have a foul odor, add half a cup of white vinegar to the rinsing cycle. This will eliminate odour and keep your curtains looking fresh – just check the wash guide to make sure it is safe for your curtain’s coating.
5. Wash one panel at a time
   This prevents build-up, which can cause wrinkles or stress on the fabric.
6. Leave spin cycle
   If possible, reduce or release spinning to avoid damage to the coating.
7. Hang to dry immediately
   Never look at the dry blackout screen. Instead, hang them in a well ventilated place, away from the sun, drip drip.

How to wash hands blackout curtains

If your curtains are delicate or you prefer a gentler approach, then the hand was washed.

1. Fill the bathtub or basin
   Use cold or lukewarm water and add a small amount of light detergent.
2. Dip the curtain gently
   Allow them to soak for about 15 minutes, sometimes water rotates with your hands.
3. Avoid scrubbing or ringing
   These motions can cause damage to the coating. Instead, press the cloth lightly to release the dirt.
4. Rinse thoroughly
   Dry the tub and refill it with clean water until there is any sup.
5. Remove extra water
   To remove water from the curtains, just take a dry towel and place the upper part of the curtain on it. Then press gently to squeeze out the extra water out of the curtain. Avoid twisting as it may damage your curtain.
6. To drip drip
   Use a strong rod or clothesline to support equal weight.

Drying and Post-Care Tips

• Say no to direct heat: Avoid processes that expose the curtains to direct heat such as tumble dryers, radiator drying and also protect the curtains from intense sunlight.
• Iron with care: If needed, press on the reverse side using low heat and place a pressing cloth between the iron and the fabric.
• Smooth when moist: Hanging them back to the rod while slightly moist helps them to leave naturally and prevents them from getting reduced.

Conclusion

Blackout curtains require thoughtful care to see them and perform their best. By following the right washing method – whether machine, hand wash, or professional dry cleaning – you will expand their lives and retain their blackout power.