How to Freshen Curtains

One item in the home that seems to get neglected is the curtains. Once they are hung up it seems they are forgotten. Draperies are the places where dust and dirt settle on. That's why it is so important to clean your curtains on a regular basis by dusting or vacuuming. Obviously you couldn't wash your curtains every week because that would ruin them. However, there are a few things you can do to keep them fresh and clean.

First vacuum your curtains out or use a feather duster to brush off the lint. Then, look over your curtains for any stains or dirty areas. Spot clean your draperies with a little water. This can be done often to prevent them from becoming too dirty.

If you want to thoroughly clean your curtains or draperies, then follow this tip. Run your curtain through the delicate cycle in your dryer. Throw in a damp towel and a fabric softener sheet with your curtain. Make sure you only do one panel or curtain at a time. You do not want to get your curtains too wet because it could ruin them.

Another way to keep them fresh is to steam clean them. You can add about three drops of eucalyptus essential oil to your steamer. You can find this at homeopathic stores or online. Once the steamer is ready to use guide it over the entire curtain. Allow the steam to go directly through the fabric. Work your way in sections starting at the top and move down to the bottom. Once you have done all your panels the eucalyptus will leave a fresh smell. The eucalyptus will also keep any bugs from making a home in your curtains.

You can also make your own lavender water spray. However, you will need a few things to make this. First you will need a plastic spray bottle and a mason jar. You will also need the following ingredients: 15 drops of lavender essential oil, two cups of water (distilled), and three tablespoons of vodka. The vodka acts as an adjutant to stabilize the lavender oil. Using regular rubbing alcohol would interfere with the smell of the lavender.
You will need to mix the essential oil and the Vodka together first. Then, you can add the water in the mixture. Once it is all mixed together seal in a mason jar for two weeks before using. Keep this mixture in a dark place while storing. Once the two weeks are up it will be ready for use and you can pour this into a plastic spray bottle.
This spray should have a wonderful lavender scent. Keep in mind that this lavender water may stain white or light colored fabrics.

Once you have cleaned your curtains make sure and vacuum or dust off the fabric once a week. Spraying on a fabric refresher or lavender water will help detour odors. These tips can freshen your curtains and keep them looking like new.

Sources:

www.cleaningtips.net
www.febreze.com