Drapery Care Guidelines

Dry cleaning is recommended for drapery products. Laminated draperies are not washable and are dry cleanable only by the Stoddard 105 method. Many curtains and draperies are unnecessarily dry cleaned. A regular soft brushing or careful vacuum cleaning will generally keep curtains and draperies looking bright and new for many seasons. If dry cleaning does become necessary  BE SURE TO USE A PROFESSIONAL DRY CLEANER.

Commercial machines can harden the lining and face fabric as well. Because coated drapery lining and fabrics are so different from other materials, special care should be exercised to protect them from potential harm. The following procedures are recommended by the INTERNATIONAL FABRICARE INSTITUTE (Note: Check the manufacturer's recommendations for specific care and cleaning instructions for their particular fabrics.)

1. Inspect draperies for labels that recommend special care. Classify them for a cleaning method.

2. Make sure the draperies have been measured before cleaning. Pass this information to the finisher.
 

3. Run underweight loads. Do not overload.

4. Give a short run without adding moisture:

White Spirits (Petroleum solvent) ….. 10 to 15 minutes … or

Perchlorethylene …………………….5 minutes ………...or

Fluorocarbon………………………...5 minutes…………

5. Give normal extraction.

6. Tumble Dry. DO NOT EXCEED 120°F (50°C) TUMBLER TEMPERATURE!

7. Hang immediately. Do not leave in hamper.

Caution: If draperies are cabinet or air dried, do not place the coated side over the bar– place the fabric side over the bar. If the drapery is damp with solvent or water and is folded so that the coated side comes in contact with itself, the fabric may self-stick while drying and shred or tear the foam when separated.

Copyright © 2011 by Creative Draperies, Inc.