Many Dubai residents notice that their curtains lose shine and colour within a few months of hanging. Curtains are not just for blocking sunlight; they protect the homes from dust, sunlight, and dusty desert winds.
Keeping those curtains fresh and clean year-round can be challenging in a dusty climate like Dubai, where high humidity, sandstorms, and intense sunlight directly affect the fabric. There are two options: wash or dry-clean them. Both methods have their own pros and cons.
Home Washing Vs Dry Cleaning: Choosing the Right Option
Choosing the washing or dry cleaning method for curtain cleaning depends on various factors, for example, the curtain fabric, the amount of dirt buildup, and the lining etc.
The following is a detailed comparison of both methods that will help homeowners to decide which method suits them best.
When to Choose Home Washing
Washing is most often the cheapest and the easiest option for curtain cleaning in Dubai. However, you have to first see the fabric of your curtains and the labels as well. The fabrics polyester, linen, and cotton are considered to be washable fabrics. Some pros and cons of washing are listed below.
Pros:
- Budget Friendly
- Immediate Results
- Can be done whenever you like
Cons:
- Risk of fabric shrinkage and fading of colours due to the strong sunlight in Dubai.
- Improper drying of large curtains indoors, as most of the apartments do not have outdoor space for drying.
- Not recommended for delicate fabrics.
Step-by-Step Process of Washing
- Read the Label:
If the labels of your curtains say “Dry Clean Only”, do not take the risk of washing them, as it can damage the fabric. Take the help of professionals in this case.
- Vacuum Before Washing:
Use a soft brush attachment to lift the dust from your curtains before washing. Moreover, in Dubai’s dusty climate, it is advised to vacuum the curtains once a month to keep them clean for longer.
- Patch Test
First, use a mild detergent or cleaner, but it is still recommended to patch test the hidden part of the curtain first to test for fading of colours.
- Remove the Attachments & Hooks
Take off all the attachments, including tiebacks, hooks, and rings, before washing.
- Machine Wash or Hand Wash
If the fabric is machine safe, use lukewarm or cold water, a gentle cycle, and low spin functions.
If the fabric is delicate, soak the curtains in mild detergent for 30 minutes and then gently agitate and rinse thoroughly. Do not scrub.
- Drying Instructions
Avoid hanging in direct sunlight as the strong sunlight in Dubai can fade the colours. If you are drying the curtain indoors, use a dehumidifier or AC with ceiling fans on to speed up the drying process.
- Rehang When Damp
Hanging back a slightly damp curtain will help with wrinkles and avoid ironing heavy panels.
When to Choose Dry Cleaning
Some curtain fabrics are too delicate to risk with washing methods, for example, velvet, silk, and lined fabrics. They are recommended to be dry-cleaned only. Moreover, if you have large, floor-to-ceiling curtains, it is better to dry clean them.
Pros:
- Gentle on delicate fabrics.
- Stubborn stains are handled with professional care.
- No direct contact with sunlight or water protects colours and fabric.
- Most cleaning services in Dubai offer pick up and delivery, thus reducing time and effort.
- Professional machines remove allergens, pollutants, and dust mites deep down in the fibres and result in improved indoor air quality.
Cons:
- High Costs that vary depending on the length and the type of fabric.
- Some dry cleaning solvents have chemical odours and may impact the environment as well.
- You have to wait for 2-5 days for cleaning and delivery.
- You are totally dependent on the service provider. If they are not skilled in their task, the fabric is at risk.
Step-by-Step Process of Dry Cleaning
- Pickup & Inspection
Most professional cleaning companies in Dubai, like Churchill Building Cleaning first send representatives to check the fabric, size, and types of stains before pick-up.
- Cleaning Process
Depending on the fabric, the professional will decide on the method of dry cleaning, like steam sanitising or gentle wet cleaning. The process also involves extra steps for the removal of odours.
- Price Estimate
Prices may vary according to the size and material of the curtain. An average cost estimate is given below.
- Light Fabric: AED 15-40 /sqm
- Heavy Lined Fabric: AED 100+ / large panel
- Steam or On-site Cleaning: AED 150-300 per room, depending on the curtain size and condition.
- Turnaround Time
Usually takes 2-5 days. Express service is also available, but it will require an extra cost.
Why Curtain Cleaning Matters More in Dubai
Talking about the climate in Dubai, the fine desert sand, coastal humidity, and powerful UV exposure combine to create a dirty environment, thus affecting the curtains directly. Even if the windows remain shut, the fine dust particles can enter from air vents and settle on every surface, including the curtain fabric.
Quick Facts
- Due to lots of construction going on around the whole UAE, there are suspended dust particles in the environment.
- According to research, the humidity levels along the coastal area average nearly 60% which can be even higher in winter. This means the air will have more moisture, and if the curtains are not dried properly, there will be a chance of mould and mildew.
- Curtains block sunlight, but they bear the harsh sunlight directly, resulting in fading of colours and weakening of fabric fibres due to high UV rays.
Keeping in mind all the above facts, the importance of curtain cleaning becomes clearer and essential. It is not only a matter of clean looks but also about maintaining healthy indoor air quality. Dirty curtains can be a greater accumulator of dust, triggering allergies and other respiratory issues.
Final Thoughts
In a city like Dubai, where the climate is humid due to 24/7 air conditioning and sandstorms are frequent guests of every household, curtain cleaning is not only about aesthetics, it is part of keeping your home environment healthy.
The method you choose for curtain cleaning is dependent on various factors discussed below. However, some pro tips can help maintain the cleaning for a long time, for example, regular vacuuming, proper drying, and protection from sunlight.
