Curtain Cleaning Myths Debunked: Can you wash blackout drapes in a machine?

Blackout curtains are the unsung heroes of modern homes and hotel rooms. They block sunlight, keep rooms cool, dampen noise—and they look sharp doing it. But when they start collecting dust or odours, many homeowners ask the same question: “Can I just throw them in the washing machine?”

As a professional curtain cleaning service in Kuching, we’ve heard every myth in the book. Let’s break down the biggest misconceptions—and what you should do to protect your investment.

❌ Myth #1: All blackout curtains are machine washable

Truth: Not all blackout curtains are made the same.Many blackout curtains have a rubber or acrylic coating on the back that can:

• Crack or peel in warm water

• Stick to itself during spin cycles

• Warp or shrink after drying

Even if the front fabric (like polyester or cotton) seems tough, the lining is the vulnerable part.

❌ Myth #2: A “delicate” cycle will keep them safe

Truth: Washing machines cause friction.Even on gentle settings, large blackout drapes rub against themselves and the drum. Over time, this leads to:

• Bubbling or blistering of the coating

• Fraying of stitched seams

• Colour fading, especially on darker panels

And let’s not forget: many curtains are too large to move freely in standard machines, leading to uneven washing and residue buildup.

❌ Myth #3: You only need to clean blackout curtains once a year

Truth: In tropical climates like Kuching, dust, humidity, and mildew build up fast. You should:

• Vacuum monthly to reduce surface dust

• Professionally deep clean every 4–6 months, especially in homes with allergies, pets, or smokers

• Consider more frequent cleaning if your curtains are in kitchens or near open windows
  

So... Can You Wash Blackout Curtains at Home?

✅ Yes — but only if:

• The care label explicitly says “machine washable”

• They do not have thermal or foam backing

• You use cold water, gentle detergent, and air dry flat

Still, even with those precautions, results can vary.

The Professional Advantage

At Sinar Saredah, we clean blackout and lined curtains using:

• Low-moisture extraction techniques to protect backing layers

• Fabric-specific stain removers for mould, grease, and odours

• Steam finishing to restore crisp pleats and natural drape

• Optional reinstallation service, especially for tall or multi-layered sets

You’ll get curtains that look hotel-fresh—without the risk of damage.

Common Questions

Q: My curtain backing has already cracked. Can it be repaired?A: Minor delamination can sometimes be fixed with lining replacement, but often it’s more cost-effective to replace the curtain.

Q: Can you clean sheer curtains and Roman blinds too?A: Yes! We handle all fabric types, including delicates, embroidery, and layered window dressings.

Related Services

Want to refresh your whole space while you’re at it? We also offer: – Professional carpet cleaning for rugs and floor coverings – Home and office cleaning packages to complement your curtain makeover – Fast response via our contact page if you're not sure what kind of fabric you’re dealing with