Regular Maintenance: Drapery can be easily maintained without removing the panels. To keep your drapery clean and free of dust, vacuum regularly using a gentle suction setting and an upholstery or drapery attachment. Steaming once a month will help freshen the fabric, eliminate odours, and provide light disinfection (a handheld clothing steamer will do the trick). Always test a small, hidden area before steaming. Be cautious with materials like wool or silk, as they may shrink when exposed to steam—check the care instructions for these fabrics.
Machine Washing: DO NOT machine wash any drapery as it will permanently damage the panels. If you only take away one tip from this post – this is it – DO NOT EVER MACHINE WASH DRAPERY!
Stains & Spot Cleaning: We always recommend consulting a professional first! Avoid DIY stain removal whenever possible, as improper treatment can set stains or damage delicate fabrics. If you choose to proceed (with caution), first identify the fabric type and review care instructions. For solvent-clean-only fabrics, do not use water. For water-safe fabrics, gently blot (never rub) with a clean cloth to absorb excess liquid. If needed, use a mild detergent solution and continue blotting lightly. Rinse with clean water, blot dry, and allow the fabric to air dry completely.
For fabrics with an "S" cleaning code, use a solvent-based upholstery cleaner and follow the product's instructions – do not use water. Avoid using bleach, harsh chemicals, or scrubbing vigorously. For stains that cannot be removed through spot cleaning, have the drapery professionally cleaned.
Professional Cleaning: For a deeper clean, it’s best to have your drapery professionally cleaned by a specialist. Before cleaning, ask the cleaner to perform a spot test on the fabric. Discuss the possibility of shrinkage and how to prevent it with the cleaner. Be sure to inform them to handle any hand-stitched hems and pleats with care.
UV Damage: UV (ultraviolet) rays can damage fabric over time. While many fabrics offer UV protective finishes, they may still fade with prolonged sun exposure. Drapery linings protect the face fabric from UV rays. Stacking open the panels away from the window on sunny days when they are not in use will help prolong the fabric's lifespan.
Pet Hair & Pests: Some fabrics, such as velvet, attract pet hair more easily. Insects may also find their way into the hem or lining over time. Regular vacuuming and steaming can help address both issues, and for pet hair, a lint roller is a great tool for quick maintenance.
Loose Threads: On rare occasions, you may notice a loose thread in hand-sewn elements of custom drapery. Do not cut or pull it. Instead, thread the loose end onto a needle and gently weave it back into the fabric.
A Note on Finished Lengths: Due to the organic nature of fabric, hems may vary slightly at the time of fabrication—typically within an acceptable range of 1/8" to 1/4". After installation, we cannot guarantee that finished lengths will remain exact, as natural factors such as humidity and gravity may cause changes over time – especially with natural fibres such as linen, cotton and wool. Variations in floor level may also affect the appearance of the hem-to-floor distance, which is beyond our control.
This guide is intended as helpful general guidance. Cleaning methods and results may vary, and Hemme Custom cannot be responsible for outcomes based on the information provided.