How Much To Dry Clean Curtains in Uk?

Dry cleaning is gentle on fabrics, an effective stain-removal process, and it helps last the curtains for a longer period. However, the process requires careful handling otherwise the curtain material can easily get damaged.

Therefore, if you want to get professional help, how much to dry clean curtains?

Prices can range from £3.95 to £18 per square metre or per item. However, the price varies, typically depending on size, fabric type, and condition. With delicate materials like silk and velvet, the price will be on the higher end. To save, compare quotes from different cleaners and look for discounts.

This is not the end, we will guide you to the complete cost breakdown of dry cleaning curtains. Stick around to learn more!

How Does Dry Cleaning Curtains Work?

Dry cleaning curtains is a bit like giving them a spa day but without the water. Here’s how it goes down:

• First up, the dry cleaner has a good look at your curtains to spot any stains or areas that need extra attention. They’ll treat these bits with a special solution to make sure they come out in the wash.

• Next, your curtains take a tumble in a dry cleaning machine. But instead of water, they get swished around in a liquid solvent. This solvent gets to work on the dirt and grease, making your curtains clean without the soak.

• Once the machine’s done its thing, it drains away the solvent and gives the curtains a spin to get rid of any leftover cleaning fluid. Then, it’s into a dryer where warm air fluffs them up.

• The last step is a press. This is where the dry cleaner irons out any creases, giving your curtains that crisp, fresh look.

And there you have it, clean curtains without a drop of water in sight. It’s a bit more expensive than your home washing, but it’s the business for keeping those fancy fabrics looking top-notch.

What’s The Cost of Dry Cleaning Curtains In The UK?

The cost of dry cleaning curtains in the UK can vary depending on a few factors, including the type of curtain, the size of the curtain, and the location of the dry cleaner. Here’s a table outlining the average costs you can expect to pay:

Type of Curtain	Unit Measurement	Lower Range Cost	Higher Range Cost	Average Cost
Net curtains	Per m²	£3.95	£5.53	£4.74
Unlined	Per m²	£3.70	£6	£4.85
Lined	Per m²	£4.25	£7	£5.60
Heavy lined	Per m²	£4.75	£8	£6.40
Interlined	Per kg	£12.50	£16.50	£14.50
Standard lined	Per kg	£10	£14	£12
Blackout lined	Per kg	£14	£18	£16
Shower curtain	Per kg	£9.90	£13.86	£11.88

Note: These are ballpark averages and the actual cost may vary depending on your specific curtains and location. It’s always best to get a quote from a reputable dry cleaner before you go ahead.

Also Read: How Much Is An End Of Tenancy Clean

Factors Influencing Dry Cleaning Costs

Alright, let’s break down what influences the cost of dry cleaning curtains, keeping it straight to the point for you:

Size

The more curtains you have, the more it’s going to cost to clean. Most dry cleaners will look at the size in square metres to figure out the price.

To get your curtain’s size, just multiply the height by the width in metres, and there you have it – your square metre figure (for example, 1.72m high by 3.04m wide equals 5.24 sqm).

Sometimes, you might find a place that charges by weight, but that’s not the norm.

Material

Now, curtains come in a mix of materials – think silk, linen, cotton, and polyester. Each one needs a different touch when cleaning:

• Silk: It’s a bit posh and needs extra care, which means a higher price, usually somewhere between £80 and £120 for each set.
• Linen: Grabs onto dirt quite a bit, so keeping the area dust-free helps. Cleaning linen curtains might set you back about £70 to £105.
• Cotton: Not too fussy, but watch out for shrinkage. You’ll likely pay between £65 and £95 for each set.
• Polyester: Similar to cotton, it doesn’t ask for much and costs about the same, around £65 to £95.

Lined or Unlined?

Lined curtains have that extra fabric layer, giving them some muscle against the sun and helping to keep your room’s temperature steady. Unlined ones are more lightweight and ideal for the warmer months. The price gap between lined and unlined can range from an extra £0.90 to £3 per square metre.

Your Location

Some cleaners will sort you out right at your home, or you can pop into their shop. If they have to remove the curtains themselves, they might charge a bit more. But if you can take them down and bring them in yourself, you might save some cash.

Plus, keep an eye out – some places chuck in free delivery if you hit a certain price.

How to Reduce Dry Cleaning Costs

Dry cleaning those curtains can make your home look fabulous, but the cost can add up. Don’t worry, there are ways to keep your curtains spick and span without breaking the bank! Here are some tips to reduce dry cleaning costs:

Maintenance Tips

Daily Dust-Off: Get into the habit of a daily dust-off. Use a soft brush attachment on your vacuum cleaner to gently remove any dust and allergens that have settled on the fabric.

Gentle Spot Cleaning: If you spot a small stain, don’t wait for it to set. Use a mild detergent and a clean, damp cloth to dab at the stain. Be gentle to avoid damaging the fabric.

Air Them Out: Every so often, take your curtains down and hang them outside on a dry day. The breeze will remove odours and dust, keeping your curtains fresh without chemical intervention.

Sunlight Management: Fading from UV light can make curtains look old before their time. Use blinds or sheer curtains to filter the light during the day, protecting your heavier drapes from direct sunlight.

Comparison Shopping

Get Multiple Quotes: Don’t be shy to ring around or check online for different prices. Some dry cleaners might offer a better rate for the same service.

Understand the Service: Make sure you’re comparing apples with apples. Check what’s included in the price, like pick-up and delivery services, or the treatment of special fabrics.

Read Reviews: Cheapest isn’t always best, especially when dealing with delicate materials. Look at reviews to find the best value for money.

Special Offers and Deals

Loyalty Programs: If you have a go-to place, ask if they have a loyalty program. Over time, those points or stamps can add up to a free cleaning or a hefty discount.

Seasonal Promotions: Some cleaners offer discounts during slower periods. Plan your curtain cleaning for these times and you could pocket the savings.

Bulk Discounts: If you’re doing a big clean and have several sets of curtains, ask if there’s a discount for larger loads. It’s more efficient for the cleaners, and they might pass on the savings.

Alternative Options to Dry Clean Curtains

Exploring alternative options to dry cleaning curtains can be a pocket-friendly way to keep your drapes looking decent. Here are a few:

Machine Wash at Home

If your curtains are made of cotton or synthetic materials and the label says it’s okay, you can chuck them in the washing machine.

Set it to a gentle cycle with cold water and use a mild detergent. The cost? Just what you pay for water, power, and detergent, which could be as little as a few pence per load.

Hand Washing

For more delicate fabrics, or if you’re just playing it safe, hand washing is your friend.

Fill up the tub with lukewarm water and add a squirt of delicate detergent. Give your curtains a good swish without being too rough, rinse thoroughly, and hang them up to dry.

Steam Cleaning

Got a handheld steam cleaner? This can be a nifty way to freshen up your curtains where they hang. It’s especially good for materials that can’t handle a full wash.

Depending on your steamer’s model and how often you use it, this method will set you back a bit for the initial purchase (maybe around £20-£50 for a budget-friendly option). But then it’s just the cost of electricity and water – minimal for each use.

DIY Dry Cleaning Kits

You can buy a DIY dry cleaning kit from the supermarket or hardware store. These usually come with a stain remover, a cleaning bag, and moist cleaning cloths.

You put your curtains in the bag with the clothes, then tumble in your dryer. Kits can range from £5 to £40, depending on the brand and size.

Professional Laundry Service

While similar to dry cleaning, some laundry services offer wet cleaning, which is a more eco-friendly method that uses water and specialized detergents and can be gentler than traditional dry cleaning. Prices are often comparable to home washing once you factor in your time and resources.

FAQs

Does dry cleaning curtains get rid of mould?

Dry cleaning can indeed get rid of mould on curtains. The solvents used in the process are pretty good at breaking down mould. However, for the best results, point out any mould spots to the cleaner beforehand. They’ll then pre-treat these areas to ensure the mould says goodbye.

What material curtains are a must to dry clean?

You must dry clean curtains made of delicate materials like silk, wool, and velvet. These fabrics can shrink, lose colour, or get damaged if you just chuck them in the washing machine.

Always check the label; if it says “Dry Clean Only,” then it’s best to leave it to the professionals to avoid any mishaps and keep your curtains looking sharp.

Can you put curtains in the dryer?

Yes, you can put some curtains in the dryer, but it depends on the fabric. Check the care label: if it says machine washable, you’re usually good to go. Use a gentle, low-heat setting to avoid shrinking or damage.

For delicate fabrics like silk or linen, skip the dryer altogether to play it safe. Air drying is the best bet for these. Always follow the label to keep curtains in top nick.

Conclusion

Now you know the answer to ‘how much to dry clean curtains?’

Dry cleaning curtains can vary in cost depending on their size, fabric, and condition. While delicate materials like silk and velvet might need special care and thus cost more, keeping your curtains clean through regular maintenance can save you money in the long run. It’s wise to compare prices and look out for special offers from dry cleaners. Happy cleaning!