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Most of us pride ourselves on keeping a tidy home, yet one of the dirtiest household items might be hanging right in front of our noses or rather, our windows. According to experts, curtains are one of the most overlooked items when it comes to cleaning, harbouring a shocking amount of bacteria, dust mites, and allergens that can affect your health and the freshness of your home.
Nancy Whittington-Coates, a window covering expert at Order Electric Blinds, says that while most people remember to vacuum, mop, or even scrub down their oven, very few ever think about giving their curtains a proper clean.
“People often don’t realise just how much dust and bacteria curtains can trap over time. They act like air filters, catching everything from pollen to pet hair and even cooking smells, yet they’re rarely cleaned,” she explains.
Curtains can hold allergens, mould spores, and bacteria
Curtains can accumulate far more than meets the eye. Studies have shown that they can hold allergens, mould spores, and even bacteria that thrive in humid or poorly ventilated environments.
Every time you open or close them, those particles get disturbed and released back into the air. For anyone who suffers from allergies or respiratory issues, that could be a nightmare waiting to happen.
“Think of how often you open your windows or cook in the kitchen: that airborne grease, dust and smoke will inevitably settle into the fabric,” Nancy says. “When left uncleaned for months or even years, your curtains can easily become one of the dirtiest surfaces in your home.”
According to research by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE), fabrics that collect dust and moisture can contribute to poor indoor air quality, especially during the winter months when homes are less ventilated.
Curtains, in particular, can attract and hold bacteria like Staphylococcus aureus and E. coli, both of which can trigger skin irritations or allergic reactions if they accumulate in large amounts.
How often should you clean your curtains?
Nancy recommends that curtains should be cleaned thoroughly at least twice a year, ideally once in spring and again in autumn. However, in homes with pets, smokers, or where cooking odours linger, more frequent cleaning, around every three months, may be necessary.
“If you notice your curtains looking dull, or if they smell musty even after airing out the room, that’s a clear sign it’s time to clean,” she adds.
For lighter maintenance, a quick vacuum using a soft brush attachment once a fortnight can help remove surface dust before it builds up.
“It’s a simple job that only takes a few minutes but makes a huge difference,” Nancy says. “You’ll be surprised how much fresher your room feels.”
The right way to clean your curtains
So, what’s the best way to tackle this overlooked chore? Nancy explains that it largely depends on the material.
“Always check the care label before doing anything. Some curtains can be machine-washed on a gentle cycle, while others, like velvet or lined drapes, might need professional dry cleaning.”
For day-to-day freshness, Nancy recommends an easy trick. “A light spritz with a fabric refresher can go a long way. Choose something that neutralises odours instead of masking them, and avoid anything too heavy in perfume as that can trap more dirt over time,” she says.
“For anyone who doesn’t want to take their curtains down, a handheld steamer is a brilliant tool. It not only smooths out creases but also kills bacteria and dust mites instantly.”
Experts also suggest taking advantage of sunny days to let your curtains air out naturally. Hanging them near an open window can help eliminate lingering smells and moisture.
“Sunlight is nature’s best disinfectant,” Nancy adds. “Just avoid prolonged exposure on delicate fabrics as UV rays can cause fading.”
The health impact of neglecting curtain care
Neglecting your curtains isn’t just a visual issue, it can affect your wellbeing too. According to Allergy UK, indoor allergens are one of the most common triggers for sneezing, coughing and itchy eyes, particularly in homes where fabrics like curtains, rugs, and upholstery aren’t cleaned regularly.
“People spend hours cleaning visible surfaces like counters and floors, yet forget about what’s hiding in the fabrics,” Nancy says. “Once you realise how much grime your curtains hold, you’ll never look at them the same way again.”
In bedrooms, unwashed curtains can even disturb your sleep. Dust and allergens can circulate overnight, particularly if you keep windows slightly open. For anyone struggling with nighttime allergies or asthma, regular curtain cleaning can make a noticeable difference.
Keeping your curtains fresh doesn’t have to be a monumental task. “Most people build it up in their minds as something time-consuming or complicated,” says Nancy.
“But once you find a method that works, like quick steam cleaning or monthly vacuuming, it becomes second nature. You don’t need to wash them every week, just show them a little attention now and then.”
As energy costs rise and people look for ways to make their homes more efficient, clean curtains can even help retain heat. “Dust-laden fabrics can lose their insulating properties,” Nancy explains. “Keeping them clean not only improves hygiene but also helps with warmth retention, which can save money in the long run.”
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