Drapery Cleaning Overview

There are many different varieties of window covering products and they all require maintenance. They fall into one of several categories when it comes time to clean them. Some fabrics can only be dry cleaned. Others should be washed. Still others require specialty cleaning such as hand-held dry cleaning equipment or Ultrasonic cleaning.Most draperies must be dry cleaned using dry cleaning fluid (petroleum distillate solvent).

Washing drapery fabrics in water will almost certainly result in shrinkage or other damage. Spot cleaning for stains is usually not recommended because attempts to remove a stubborn stain could result in a large ring being created where the sizing has been disturbed. This ring is often more noticeable than the stain.Sheers can also be dry cleaned, but since they can also be washed in water without the risk of shrinkage, washing usually produces a better result.Valances and Roman shades are no exception. Valances and Roman shades made of drapery fabric, must be dry cleaned. We perform this with hand-held equipment which does not require extensive drying with heat This eliminates the risk of shrinkage or distortion of the fabric weave, yet provides excellent results. Valances and Roman shades made of sheer fabrics usually can be cleaned with water. We also do this with hand-held equipment, but using water rather than dry cleaning solvent.

Cellular shades and most shade products that were made in a factory, rather than sewn in a drapery workroom, require Ultrasonic cleaning in a water solution. Before cleaning they are inspected and subjected to compressed airflow to remove surface debris such as insect residue, dust, pet hair and other loose particles. 

Since these shade products cannot be placed in a machine that agitates, they are instead placed in a large tank with water and special detergents. Ultrasonic sound waves pass through the water, creating microscopic bubbles that thoroughly clean the fabric. Because water stains are water soluble stains, they are usually removed or dramatically improved in this process. The Ultrasonic process is very effective.Krause Drapery Cleaning Service is dedicated to providing the very best take-down, cleaning and rehanging service for all of your window coverings.

Give us a call to discuss the details of your project!