Curtains

Dry Cleaning or professional laundering can prolong the life of curtains. With proper care curtains will last many years. Some of the problems which can be encountered with curtains are as follows:

• Water damage and/or prolonged exposure to sunlight can seriously weaken curtain fabrics particularly cotton linings.
• The combined effect of age, moisture, light, heat, tobacco smoke and some atmospheric soils can cause fabrics to permanently yellow.
• Shrinkage can occur in many fabrics where the fabrics have not been pre-shrunk or where the fabric has been stretched in manufacture. The Australian Standard allows up to 5% shrinkage.
• Draperies with reflective polyurethane bonded linings can sometimes separate, peel or self-stick during cleaning.

• Closely woven fabrics are more durable than loosely woven fabrics.
• Consider the amount of sun exposure fabrics will receive and choose an appropriate fabric.
• Silk and cotton are the most vulnerable to light degradation while acrylic, polyester and glass fibres are the most resistant.
• Rotate curtains to vary light exposure. Take care to sight and read Care Labels on fabric before purchase.

    Remember that regular cleaning is important in not only prolonging the life of Textiles but also is part of the health chain ensuring the living environment remains clean and free from bacteria.