Michigan Institute of Laundering & Dry Cleaning

Invisible Enemies of Draperies

Occasionally draperies or curtains, just back from the dry cleaner, are found in a torn or faded condition. When this happens it is apt to conclude that the cleaner has damaged them and should either replace them or make a satisfactory adjustment. Because the dry cleaner is frequently not at fault, this article has been prepared to give you facts as to the principal causes of drapery failure.

Today's shopper has available a great variety of drapery fabrics and patterns. Most of these are intended to give long, satisfactory service. However, some, like an article of fashion apparel, are created mainly for beauty rather than serviceability. It is wise to inquire about the durability of fabrics when making your selection.

In addition to the limitations of wearability in the fabrics themselves, there are various invisible enemies which are constantly attacking the fibers of the material and shortening its life.

Draperies or curtains may appear to be in perfect condition when sent for dry cleaning. Actually, however, they could be so deteriorated that even the moderate agitation necessary to remove soil would cause them to fall into shreds. When this occurs, it is not carelessness or incompetence on the part of the cleaner, but rather the result of one or more of the following factors:

Sun Damage: Constant exposure to the bright, hot rays of the sun will damage the strength of most fibers. Sometimes this happens after only a few months of use. Indirect sunlight is also damaging, but not to as great a degree. Lined draperies naturally resist sun damage better than unlined. However, it is poor economy to line quality drapery fabric with an inferior lining which might deteriorate long before the drapery itself.

Effect of Sunlight on Certain Dyes: When just one color of a printed fabric is adversely affected, it is the result of the chemical action of sunlight on certain dyestuffs. Colors most frequently affected are yellow, red and chartreuse. Buying vat or solution dyed fabrics reduces this possibility.

Sun Fading: After the soil has been removed, faded or yellow streaks are often in evidence, a condition which dry cleaning will not correct. These streaks will be more prevalent in the folds exposed to direct sunlight. Upon inspection, some evidence of fabric weakness is usually found in the faded areas. The description of a fabric as "sunfast" is generally inaccurate as none is completely resistant to sun damage.

Oxidation: Fumes from chimneys, auto exhausts, furnaces, cooking, etc. contain certain chemicals which cling to curtains and draperies. When combined with humidity and oxygen in the air a mild acid forms, which contributes to the discoloration and deterioration of the fabrics.

Shrinkage: Up to 4% shrinkage can be expected unless the fabric has been completely pre-shrunk. An adjustable hem that could be let down when needed will solve this problem.

Humidity: Loosely woven fabrics are affected by humidity changes. The amount of humidity in the air can cause draperies to shrink or stretch.

Pigment Prints: A variety of vivid colors, which are resistant to sun fading, can be obtained by a process known as pigment printing. The design is printed on the surface of  fabric by means of a binder or an adhesive and does not penetrate the fibers as dyes do. The serviceability of pigment printed fabrics depends on the fabric itself as well as the method by which the pigment is applied. Some of these colors can become considerably lightened or removed altogether in the cleaning process. Inquire about limitations of some prints of this type when selecting drapery material.

Fume Fading: Gases and fumes in the atmosphere of the home often react upon certain dyes in fabrics containing acetate and generally cause a reddish color. Blues, greens, and colors containing the blue dyes are the most susceptible.

Water Marks: Condensation on windows, contact with rain, etc., will frequently cause drapery fabrics to become water marked. Stains result which sometimes are not noticeable until the general soil has been removed in dry cleaning. In most instances, these stains are impossible to remove safely.

Helpful Hints

Because of the many invisible factors that might affect both the life and appearance of draperies and curtains, the retail store cannot guarantee how long they will last nor can the dry cleaner always determine what the result of the dry cleaning process will be. You, the shopper, however will benefit by remembering the following hints:

• Buy from reputable stores.
• Shop for quality merchandise.
• Ask for sanforized or pre-shrunk fabrics.
• Buy dyed fabrics that are resistant to sun fading.
• Buy properly labeled material.
• Good workmanship in the construction of draperies is as important as the quality of the fabric itself.
• If possible, frequently rotate curtains and draperies from sunny window to an unexposed side of the house to equalize the effect of the sun.
• Inform your launderer or dry cleaner if your fabrics contain glass yarns, as they would require special handling. Manufacturers and testing laboratories recommend the use of a water process with which your dry cleaner is familiar.
• Inform you cleaner of the fiber content in your draperies or curtains.
• Have your draperies cleaned regularly. Imbedded soil can cause light backgrounds to discolor and eventually will deteriorate fibers.
• The life expectancy of lined draperies is five years; unlined - four years; sheer fabrics - three years. However, exposure to sunlight and certain atmospheric condition in the home will substantially shorten their life.
• Send your draperies and curtain to reliable dry cleaners or launderers