• Curtains should be washed every three months in high-traffic areas and six months in low-traffic areas.
• Always check your curtain’s care label to be sure it’s machine washable.
• Vacuum or dust between washes for curtains that stay fresher for longer.

We often think about washing our bedding and clothes regularly—curtains, though, might not be the first thing that comes to mind. These breezy fabrics, which filter sunlight and provide privacy, don’t get dirty as quickly as other pieces in your home.

However, many curtains sit by drafty windows or even graze the floor, causing them to collect dust and grime over time. Certain materials and styles are also more susceptible to getting dirty.

So, how often should you wash your curtains? We tapped two cleaning pros for the answer—getting their insight into which types of curtains need washing and how to make the process easier.

The Verdict

While it depends on what kind of curtains you have, a good rule of thumb is to wash your curtains every three to six months.

“Got pets, smokers, or a busy street outside? Lean toward three months,” says Patricia Duarte, president and CEO of MaidPro Temecula. “Quieter spot? Six months is fine.”

It also depends on where your curtains are located in the home. For example, delicate curtains or those in guest rooms can be washed just once a year.

“Kitchen curtains, in particular, may need to be washed more often—about every two to three months—because they absorb grease, food particles, and odors from cooking,” says Robin Murphy, founder of Maid Brigade. “Over time, that buildup can discolor the fabric and contribute to lingering smells in the room.”

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What Kinds of Curtains Should Be Washed

Most cotton, linen, and polyester curtains can be washed at home, particularly if they’re unlined or lightly lined.

“Sheer curtains are usually washable, too, but they’re delicate—so gentle cycles and cool water are key,” Murphy says.

Silk, velvet, wool blends, and heavily lined or embellished curtains, however, are better off with professional dry cleaning.

“They can shrink, lose shape, or get damaged if washed at home,” Murphy notes. “Blackout or thermal curtains may also have coatings that don’t hold up well in water.”

Here are some tips for washing different curtain materials:

• Sheer Lace Curtains: These are fragile, so it’s best to hand-wash or dry clean them. “Swish gently, rinse, and hang or lay flat to dry,” Duarte says. “If your curtain rod is made of iron or steel, don’t hang it there to dry. The moisture could cause it to oxidize or rust.”
• Wool Curtains: Wool doesn’t handle water or heat well. “It is a delicate natural fiber, so it’s best to let your dry cleaner take the reins to avoid damage.”
• Cotton Curtains: Cotton is tough but can shrink with heat. “Machine-wash on cold with mild detergent [on a] gentle cycle,” Duarte suggests. “Tumble dry on low or hang to dry.”
• Polyester Curtains: Polyester is a more low-maintenance, forgiving fabric. “[It’s] perfect for chaos-prone homes. Machine-wash in cold or warm water,” Duarte says. Just make sure to avoid high heat.
• Blended Curtains: For curtains with blended materials, Duarte suggests cleaning them based on the fussiest fiber. “Cotton-poly? Cold wash, gentle cycle,” she explains. “Wool or silk in the mix? Dry clean. Hang or dry low, per the tag.”

Tips to Wash Curtains

• Skip fabric softener: Fabric softener leaves a film that traps dirt and soap. “[This makes] curtains dirtier faster and reduces their ability to filter air effectively,” Duarte says.
• Test for color bleeding: With colored curtains, you’ll want to test a small corner and make sure it doesn’t cause fading. “Nobody wants accidental tie-dye curtains!” Duarte cautions.
• Vacuum or dust between washes: To maintain the cleanliness of your curtains, Duarte suggests using a feather duster or vacuum brush every other week or month. “Once a month, take sturdy ones outside and shake them out—it’s quick and oddly satisfying,” she adds.
• Air dry or use a gentle cycle: To keep your curtains intact through laundry loads, Murphy recommends air drying when possible. “Or use a low heat setting in the dryer if the fabric allows,” Murphy says.
• Rehang curtains when they are damp: Hanging curtains while they are slightly damp helps release wrinkles naturally, so you don’t have to iron them, Murphy says.