What Temperature to Wash Curtains (Without Ruining Them)

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Ever pulled your curtains out of the wash and thought… “Why do they look smaller now?”
You’re not alone.

A few months ago, I tossed my living room curtains into the washing machine without thinking. They came out clean… but also half an inch shorter. I had unknowingly washed them at a higher temperature — and just like that, the crisp look I loved was gone.
Washing curtains seems simple, but here’s the catch: the wrong temperature can shrink, fade, or ruin the fabric — and fast. Let’s fix that
This guide will walk you through the safest temperatures for common curtain fabrics, the right way to wash them, and a few tools that make the whole process easier.

What Temperature to Wash Curtains?

Most curtains should be washed at 30°C (cold) or 40°C (warm), depending on the fabric.
For delicate or sheer curtains, stick with cold water. Always check the care label first.
That’s the quick answer — but let’s break it down so you don’t risk damage.

1. Check the Fabric Type First

Not all curtains are made equal. Before choosing a temperature, the type of fabric tells you everything:

Cotton or polyester blend
You’re safe with a 40°C warm wash in most cases.
Sheer, lace, or silk
Cold wash only — 30°C max to avoid shrinking or tearing.
Velvet, linen, or lined curtains
These need extra care. Either spot clean or wash cold on a delicate cycle. Some may be dry-clean only

Pro Tip: Check for the laundry symbol tag sewn into the curtain hem. If it shows a water basin with a number inside — that’s the max temp it can handle.

2. Washing Temperature Guide by Fabric Type

If you’ve checked your curtain’s label and still feel unsure, here’s a clear guide to help you choose the right temperature based on fabric.

Fabric Type	Recommended Temp	Care Tips
Cotton	40°C (warm)	Use mild detergent. Expect slight shrinkage on first wash.
Polyester	30–40°C	Easy-care. Avoid high dryer heat.
Linen	30°C (cold)	Hand wash or delicate cycle. Hang to dry.
Sheer / Voile	30°C (cold)	Use a mesh laundry bag. Air dry flat.
Velvet / Lined	Cold or Dry Clean	Test with cold delicate cycle only if labeled washable.
Silk	30°C (cold)	Gentle hand wash only. No machine wash or tumble dry.

This is your cheat sheet. Bookmark it, print it, or screenshot it — it’ll save your curtains (and your time) later.

3. Machine Wash vs. Hand Wash: Which One’s Better?

Let’s be real — most of us toss curtains in the machine because it’s faster. And for many fabrics, that’s totally fine. But in some cases, hand washing will save your curtains from stretching, tearing, or fraying over time.
Here’s how to decide:
Machine Wash is fine if:

• Your curtains are cotton, polyester, or blends
• The label says “machine washable”
• You use a delicate or cold cycle
• You avoid overloading the machine

Go with Hand Wash if:

• Your curtains are sheer, lace, silk, or heavily lined
• The label doesn’t give clear machine wash instructions
• You want to play it safe on a fabric you love

If you choose hand washing, use lukewarm or cold water and a mild detergent. Soak gently and avoid scrubbing or wringing the fabric. Rinse thoroughly and press out water by rolling the curtain in a clean towel. For either method, hang dry is always the safest drying option.

4. Common Curtain Washing Mistakes to Avoid

Washing curtains isn’t rocket science—but a few small missteps can cost you the crisp, clean look you want. Let’s make sure that doesn’t happen.
Mistake #1: Using Hot Water on Delicates
Hot water can shrink or damage lightweight fabrics like voile, silk, or sheers. Always go cold when in doubt.
Mistake #2: Skipping the Label
Care labels exist for a reason. They tell you what temperature, cycle, and cleaning method is safest. Don’t guess—check.
Mistake #3: Overloading the Machine
Too many curtains in one load? That’s a fast track to uneven cleaning, stretched fabric, or torn seams.
Mistake #4: Tumble Drying Everything
High heat can warp or shrink curtains—especially synthetic or lined ones. Air dry is always the safer route.
Mistake #5: Using Harsh Detergents or Bleach
Stick to gentle, fabric-safe detergents. Bleach is usually a no unless your care label says it’s okay. Now here’s the thing—you don’t need to do it all alone. A few smart tools can make curtain care way easier (and safer).

I’ve rounded up some of my favorite low-effort, budget-friendly products that’ll protect your curtains and save you from costly mistakes. Let’s look at what’s worth adding to your laundry setup.

5. Best Products for Curtain Care

You don’t need fancy equipment to wash curtains properly—just the right tools. These are hand-picked for ease, safety, and better results, especially if you’re dealing with delicate or expensive fabric.

1. Mesh Laundry Bags
Protects sheer, lace, or lightweight curtains from getting tangled or torn in the machine. Great for hand-wash-only fabrics too—just toss them in cold water and gently agitate.

2. Mild Detergent for Delicates
Skip the harsh stuff. A gentle detergent keeps colors from fading and fabrics from stiffening. Look for one made for silk, wool, or baby clothes.

3. Clip-On Drying Hangers
No more draping wet curtains all over your furniture. These hangers with built-in clips make air drying a breeze, especially for longer panels.

4. Compact Garment Steamer
Great for giving curtains a fresh, wrinkle-free look without removing them from the rod. A lifesaver if you hate ironing.

5. Fabric Spray (Optional but nice)
If you want that clean, fresh scent between washes—or need to freshen up dusty panels fast—fabric sprays can help.

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Wrap-Up: Wash Smarter, Not Harder

Washing curtains doesn’t have to be stressful or risky. Once you know the fabric type, the right temperature, and a few simple tools to use—you’re golden. No more guesswork. No more shrinkage surprises.

Want help figuring out what size curtains to buy or hang next?
Use our Curtain Size Calculator to get perfect measurements every time.

Want more easy home care tips

How to Choose the Right Curtain Style for Every Room
Master Curtain Sizing: Your Ultimate Guide for Selecting Ideal Window Treatments

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