Curtains are often forgotten in cleaning routines, but they shouldn’t be.

Like other home components, your curtains should be cleaned on a regular basis.

But cleaning your curtains the wrong way could ruin them.

Close up of woman hands hanging curtain with metal hooks on ceiling ledge.

Photo:Valeriy G/Getty Images

So, heres everything you better know about cleaning differenttypes of curtainswith various methods.

How Often Should You Clean Curtains?

Consider vacuuming the curtains once or twice a month as well.

If you plan to wash the curtains in the machineor tubGazzo recommends every 8 to 12 weeks.

And according to Mock, the correct cleaning method will depend on which material the curtain is made of.

And, its always important to check the care label before cleaning, she tells me.

These are some of the cleaning methods to consider.

Vacuum

Vacuuming your curtains regularly can helpcut down on dustand buildup, Mock explains.

Steam

Gazzo, says his favorite way to clean curtains is to regularly use a garment steamer.

If they are blackout shades, do not put them in the dryerair dry preferably, Gazzo recommends.

Dry Clean

If the instructions recommend itdry cleanyour curtains.

What About Plastic Curtains?

If you have plastic curtains (like shower curtain liners).

Gazzo says you’re able to also clean them by hand.

And, he notes that plastic curtains are more resistant to more abrasive cleaning products, like bleach.

In addition, Gazzo notes that plastic curtains are usually washing machine safeunless the instructions indicate otherwise.