How To Clean Lace Curtains

Approximately two times a year, take down your lace curtains and wash them. Hand-washing is the safest option, especially the panels are made from high-end lace.

1. Add cold water to a basin and mix in a mild, dye-free laundry detergent until bubbles form.
2. Drop the panels into the mixture and swirl them around gently for a few minutes. Leave the fabric to soak for 5-10 minutes and rinse well with cool water.
3. Press out the excess water; avoid wringing, which can damage the lace.
4. Hang the panel over a clothesline without clothespins and allow it to dry completely. If you don’t have access to a clothesline, spread bath towels on the floor and lay the curtains flat to dry.

If your curtains are made from durable lace, or if they’re very dirty, you can clean them in the washing machine. Put each panel into a separate fine-mesh bag to prevent the lace from snagging and tearing. Wash on the gentlest cycle and a low temperature setting. Hang the curtains to dry.

If regular hand-washing doesn’t remove discoloration from your lace curtains, mix 1/4 cup of white vinegar or lemon juice into 1 cup of distilled water. Spread the curtain flat and dab the solution on the stained area using a clean cloth. Let the curtain sit for 10-15 minutes before rinsing with cool water.

If you’re dealing with large stains, mix a solution that’s one part vinegar to four parts water and soak the entire panel for 20-30 minutes. Rinse and line dry.