Help! Can I wash curtains?

[Rollermum]

I rent a flat which has a mould issue. I have just taken down the curtains to wash them as have mould spots at the bottom. Was going to bung in the machine at 40 degrees, but just spotted a dry cleaners paper pinned to the corner.

They are quite heavy, I'd guess cotton, lined and have that old fashioned edging that has plastic hooks that go on a track - if that makes sense.

Can I wash them?

It would be a gamble. I'd not risk it if they had evidence of dry cleaning on them, given that you're renting. Do they look custom made or shop bought?

I've done it with mine after getting a £60 quote for dry cleaning them. Did it on the hand wash cycle and they were fine. Mine are heavy and lined.

They need doing again. Am actually thinking of buying a steam cleaner to do them with.....would a steam cleaner get mould spots out?

Yes they are custom I would say. Really don't want to dry clean because was hoping to out them up tonight - will go and get a quote and then decide. Bah!

Thanks for thoughts.

Viva I wouldn't have thought so.

That's saved me £60 then, thanks.

I realised the tickets said £29 each so put them in the wash. There is a silk / curtains setting. They seem fine but are really wet so tricky to dry.

If they haven't shrunk in the wash cycle I would put them on a faster spin so they'll be quicker to dry

If you can, hang them on the rail with the window open so they will hang dry in situ

I missed this, so too late to spin, but thanks. Hanging them is a good idea - they are draped on radiators at the mo.