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In terms of uniqueness and a look of sophistication, few drapery options are quite as stunning as silk. However, with all its greatness, this option does come with somewhat of a challenge. Silk drapes have special care instructions that must be followed accurately in order to avoid damage and keep them looking good. Make sure you know how to care for your drapes to get the most out of them.

Placement

The first care tip is to ensure you place the silk drapes in the right room. Ideally, you don't want to have to wash your silk drapes very often. Although you can wash your silk drapes, more frequent washing only weakens the integrity of the fabric, causing it to look dull and worn.

Placing them in a room that might require frequent washing, such as in a dining room near the table everyone eats at, isn't a wise choice because there is a high chance that the drapes can get stains from splashing food and need to be washed more regularly.

Dusting

Similar to other drape fabrics, silk can also be a magnet for dust. Make sure you are making dusting a regular part of your silk drape care routine. One of the more efficient and safe ways to dust your drapes is to use a small, hand-held vacuum or a hand-held attachment.

Grab a small section at that base of the drape and hold it firmly. Next, place the vacuum at the top of the drape and slowly move it downward until you reach the bottom. Continue this step until you have covered the entire area. By holding the base of the drapes tightly, you prevent too much of the fabric from getting sucked into the hose, allowing it to simply skim over the area and reduce the chance of ripping the silk.

Cleaning

In the event you stain your silk drapes, spot cleaning should be your first step. Prepare a mixture of mild detergent and water. Dip a sponge into the mixture and squeeze it out and then gently blot it against the stain. Silk is especially sensitive to water; failing to squeeze out the sponge thoroughly can lead to water marks.

Using a towel, blot out any excess water left behind and allow it to air dry. In the event of significant staining never place your silk drapes in a machine without first reading its care instructions. Additionally, even if your drapes say they are dryer safe, it's best to air dry them to minimize damage and extend their life.

Remember, the more effort you put into caring for your drapes, the better the outcome. Make certain that proper care becomes a priority. Contact a professional at a company like Frieda Ross Draperies, Blinds and Fabrics for more information.