How to Prepare Your Drapes for the Change of Seasons

Just like the way you swap out throw pillows or hang a festive wreath when the seasons change, your drapes should get the same kind of upkeep. They can collect dust and lose their vibrancy after months of sun exposure. Plus, changing weather affects the way they hang and how well they block light or trap heat. Seasonal care helps them do their job beautifully.

But what kind of care do your drapes really need each season? Some may require a deep clean, while others simply need a light airing or rotation. In this post, we go through simple ways to clean, refresh, and store your drapes to match the rhythm of the seasons.

When the bright summer light begins to fade and cooler air starts rolling in, it’s the perfect time to give your lightweight sheers some attention. These airy panels collect more than just sunlight. They trap dust, pollen, and humidity from open windows and air conditioning.

Proper drapery cleaning before storage keeps them looking crisp and prevents the stale smell that tends to creep in by spring.

How to Freshen and Store Sheers

Before you fold them away, a few simple steps can make all the difference.

1. Start with a gentle clean. Run your sheers through a delicate cold-water wash (if the tag allows) or opt for a professional curtain cleaning service for delicate fabrics like linen or voile. Avoid harsh detergents that can yellow or weaken fibers.
2. Dry completely before storing. Any trace of moisture can cause mildew. Let them air-dry on a clean surface instead of using high heat, which can cause shrinkage or wrinkling.
3. Fold or roll, don’t stuff. Store them in a breathable fabric bag instead of plastic, which traps humidity. Add a sachet of lavender or cedar to keep them smelling fresh through winter.
4. Label each set. Make it easy on yourself when spring rolls back around by labeling which room each set belongs to.

Caring for sheers this way means they’ll be ready to hang again next season. No wrinkles, no mystery stains – just soft, clean fabric that instantly brightens your space.

As fall turns to winter, your heavier drapes become more than décor. They help insulate your home and keep out cold drafts. But those thick fabrics can hold months of dust, pet hair, and even the faint scent of summer humidity.

Giving them a proper window treatment cleaning now ensures they look elegant and perform their best during the colder months.

How to Clean and Restore Heavy Drapes

Once you decide to give them a seasonal tune-up, here’s how to get it right.

1. Vacuum first. Use the upholstery attachment on your vacuum cleaner to remove loose soil and surface dust. Work from top to bottom, paying attention to pleats and folds.
2. Check for stains or odor. Spot-treat minor stains using a fabric-safe solution, but if you notice smoke residue or deep soil, call a professional Drapery Cleaning Service. They’ll use solvent-based or low-moisture methods that won’t damage linings or shrink heavy fabric.
3. Steam lightly. Once cleaned, use a handheld steamer to smooth wrinkles and refresh fibers. Avoid pressing directly with an iron, as heat can flatten textured fabrics or leave water marks.
4. Rehang properly. Don’t rush this step! Rehanging while slightly warm from steaming helps the drapes settle back into a natural, polished shape.

After cleaning, your drapes will hang beautifully, feel fresh, and help seal in warmth. Think of it as winter-proofing your home, stylishly.

Spring means open windows, fresh air, and pollen sneaking into every corner of your home. Drapes are one of the biggest culprits when it comes to trapping allergens. Regular drapery cleaning and window treatment cleaning during this season can drastically cut down sneezing and itchy eyes, especially if you live near trees or high-pollen areas.

How to Clean Drapes During Spring

Here’s how to keep your drapes allergy friendly without sacrificing comfort or style.

1. Choose the right timing. Clean your drapes just before peak pollen season hits, usually late March to early April in most regions. That way, you start fresh.
2. Use professional cleaning for deep fabrics. If you have thick, lined drapes or layered treatments, look for professional drapery cleaners or drapery dry cleaners. Professionals use specialized solvents that remove pollen and dust mites without damaging the fibers.
3. Keep maintenance simple. Once cleaned, vacuum your drapes weekly with a soft brush attachment and wipe down nearby windows, blinds, and sills. This prevents pollen from building back up.
4. Opt for allergen-resistant fabrics. When it’s time to replace, consider tightly woven cotton or linen blends, which trap fewer particles and are easier to clean regularly.

Taking these simple steps not only keeps your drapes spotless but also helps you breathe easier all season long. A little preparation now can save you from countless sneezes later.

Rotating or replacing drapes each season isn’t only about style, but also about giving your fabrics a break and maintaining their shape. Heavy materials like velvet or linen can wear unevenly if left hanging year round, while lighter fabrics fade faster under constant sun exposure.

By swapping or rotating your window treatments, you protect your investment and keep your interiors feeling fresh all year.

Tips When Swapping Drapes Each Season

Here’s how to decide what’s right for your home and when to make the switch:

1. Rotate based on fabric weight. Use lighter fabrics like linen or cotton for summer and heavier materials like wool or velvet for winter. This not only improves insulation but also gives each set time to rest between uses.
2. Check for wear and tear. When rotating, inspect for discoloration, frayed hems, or damaged pleats. If they look worn beyond repair, consider contacting a professional drapery cleaner for restoration or to discuss replacement options.
3. Store properly. Always clean and fully dry drapes before storage. Fold or roll them carefully, and keep them in a climate-controlled space away from moisture or direct sunlight.

Rotating or replacing your drapes seasonally adds a subtle but powerful touch. Your rooms stay stylish, your fabrics last longer, and your home always feels in tune with the changing weather.

Freshen your drapes for the season ahead! Call Arrowhead Cleaners & Laundry for all your drapery cleaning needs in Bismarck, North Dakota. We offer a premium Drapery Cleaning Service that restores elegance and color to everything from pleated panels to delicate sheers.

Our team uses advanced cleaning techniques and gentle care to remove dust, allergens, and stubborn stains, leaving your window treatments spotless and revitalized. To get started, provide us with information about your draperies, such as the size and material of the drapes or any specific concerns like stains, odors, or fabric damage. This helps us tailor our service to your unique needs.

Let’s get your drapes season ready today! Call (701) 760-4647, visit us at 1140 North 3rd Street, Bismarck, North Dakota, 58501, or book online at arrowheadcleaners.com to schedule your Pickup and Delivery Service. Your clean, refreshed home starts with Arrowhead Cleaners & Laundry!