Curtains don’t just add warmth and style to our homes—they also trap dust, allergens, and odours, making regular cleaning a must. 

But with so many cleaning options, it’s easy to feel unsure about what’s best for your curtains.

We’ve answered the top curtain cleaning questions that Singaporeans have, and if you’re looking for an easy way to keep them fresh, our professional curtain cleaning services could be exactly what you need.

1. How can I clean my curtains?

Cleaning methods vary depending on the type of fabric. 

For machine-washable curtains, use a gentle cycle and mild detergent to avoid any risk of shrinkage or damage. For heavier or more delicate materials like silk, velvet, or curtains with intricate pleating or lining, dry cleaning is often the better choice to avoid shrinkage or color fade. 

Regular cleaning—at least once every six months—helps prevent heavy buildup, making the process easier each time. 

If you’d rather leave it to the experts, opt for a no-fuss professional curtain cleaning service that brings back freshness without any risk to your fabrics!

2. What’s the best thing to clean curtains with?

The best cleaning method for curtains depends on their fabric type. Here are some general options:

Vacuuming: The simplest way to keep curtains looking fresh and clean is to vacuum them regularly using a brush attachment. This removes dust and allergens.

Steam Cleaning: A steam clean works well on thicker fabrics. It removes smelly odours or light stains without needing to take them down. Using steam also helps to smooth out wrinkles.

Machine Washing: For curtains made from cotton or polyester, machine washing on a gentle cycle with cool water can give them a thorough clean. (Again, check the label first!)

Dry Cleaning: Delicate curtain fabrics like silk or velvet should be dry cleaned to prevent shrinkage or damage. This method ensures a deep clean while protecting the fabric’s texture and color.

Spot Cleaning: A mild detergent and water solution works well for treating isolated stains. Use a soft cloth to dab the area, ensuring that the fabric won’t be discolored by testing in a small, hidden spot first.

Remember to always consult the care label to choose the safest and most effective method for your specific curtain fabric!

3. How much does it cost to dry clean curtains in Singapore?

Dry cleaning prices vary widely in Singapore, depending on factors like fabric type, size and any special cleaning needs. You can expect a general range from $9 to $35 per piece. 

Heavier or more delicate fabrics may cost more. It's also worth checking if there are any additional charges for stain removal or extra services. 

Some dry cleaners offer discounts or deals for larger orders. Always confirm the pricing with your chosen dry cleaner before proceeding.

4. Is dry cleaning good for curtains?

Yes, dry cleaning is an excellent choice for curtains, especially when dealing with delicate fabrics. 

Curtains made from materials like silk, velvet, or wool, or those with intricate patterns and pleats, benefit from the gentle care of dry cleaning, which avoids the risk of damage that can come from using a washing machine.

The dry cleaning process uses specialised solvents rather than water, helping to preserve the fabric's texture, colour, and shape—perfect for fabrics that might shrink or lose their form in a regular wash. It's also fantastic for removing tough stains, dust and allergens, all without the need for harsh scrubbing, ensuring your curtains look and feel fresh. 

That said, not all curtains need dry cleaning—synthetic or cotton fabrics can often be machine-washed with ease.

5. Should curtains be washed or dry cleaned?

Whether curtains should be washed or dry-cleaned depends largely on the fabric type and care instructions. Here’s a quick guide:

Machine-Washable Fabrics: Cotton, polyester and some linen curtains can typically be washed. If you’re unsure, it’s best to send your curtains to a professional to do it.

Delicate or Specialty Fabrics: Silk, velvet, wool and other delicate or lined curtains often require dry cleaning to prevent shrinking, colour fading or damages.

Blackout and Thermal Curtains: These may have special coatings that could degrade in a washing machine. Dry cleaning or spot cleaning is usually recommended.

Heavily Soiled Curtains: If your curtains are really dirty or stained, dry cleaning is often more effective, as professionals have specialised treatments.

Dry cleaning is generally the safest option to preserve the fabric and quality of your curtains.

6. How do professionals clean curtains?

Professionals have equipment specifically designed to wash curtains. 

At Washlab, we take it a step further and invest in high-quality, professional-grade equipment from trusted suppliers Realstar, Girbau, IPSO and Unimac.

These powerhouse machines can handle all fabric types—from delicate sheers to heavy drapes—ensuring a spotless clean without any risk to the material. 

With advanced tech and an eye for detail, our team brings out the best in your curtains, leaving them looking refreshed, vibrant, and perfectly preserved.

7. Is it better to wash or dry clean curtains?

Choosing between washing or dry cleaning curtains depends on the fabric and design:

• Dry Cleaning is recommended for delicate or lined fabrics, like silk, velvet, or wool, as it helps prevent shrinkage and damage.

• Washing works well for sturdier materials like cotton or polyester. However, it may still require gentle handling to avoid shrinkage or color fading.

For the best results, check the care label or consult a professional to protect the fabric’s quality and longevity.

8. How can I keep my curtains clean between deep cleanings?

Keeping your curtains fresh between deep cleans is easier than it seems! 

Start by giving them a quick shake every week to release dust, and follow up with a vacuum using a brush attachment to get rid of any lingering particles. 

For a quick refresh, spritz a light fabric refresher to keep them smelling great, or even try a handheld garment steamer to keep them wrinkle-free. 

For high-traffic areas, close the curtains at night to reduce dust exposure and keep them looking clean longer. 

Little habits like these make a big difference!

9. Can I steam clean my curtains?

Absolutely! Steam cleaning is a fantastic way to breathe new life into your curtains without the hassle of taking them down. 

The steam can lift away dust, grime, and even light stains while refreshing the fabric. Just be sure to check the care label first—delicate fabrics like silk or velvet might need a gentler touch. 

For best results, hold the steamer a few inches away and sweep it down the length of the curtains, letting the warmth do the work while keeping your fabric safe and wrinkle-free!

10. Why should I choose WashLab for curtain cleaning?

WashLab is the go-to choice for hassle-free, professional curtain cleaning. 

We take the stress out of the process with a transparent pricing model and a full-service door-to-door solution—no need to take down, scrub, or rehang your curtains.

Our professional-grade cleaning solutions are designed to care for all types of curtains, ensuring they stay fresh, vibrant, and well-maintained. 

With WashLab, you get reliable, hands-off service with fair rates, and our convenient pickup and delivery options make the whole experience completely effortless. Let us handle the hard work while you enjoy beautifully cleaned curtains without lifting a finger.

Want to keep your curtains looking fresh without the hassle? 

Sign up with WashLab’s expert curtain cleaning service, where you can enjoy pristine clean curtains today!