How to Clean and Care for Curtains in Dubai’s Dusty Climate

Dust and sun are the two biggest enemies of curtains in Dubai. A little regular care keeps them looking fresh and makes them last much longer.

Quick answer: In Dubai, vacuum or shake curtains weekly to remove dust, wipe tracks every few months, and wash according to the fabric: gentle cool cycles for polyester and sheers, dry cleaning for lined, velvet and silk curtains, and dry dusting only for wooden blinds.

Weekly

• Shake curtains gently or vacuum with a soft brush attachment
• Wipe roller blinds with a dry microfibre cloth
• Dust wooden blind slats with a cloth or a blind duster

Every few months

• Vacuum curtains top to bottom, including hems
• Wipe tracks and gliders so curtains slide easily
• Check hooks and gliders for cracks

Washing by fabric

• Polyester and sheers: usually machine washable on a gentle, cool cycle. Hang back up while slightly damp to drop out creases.
• Lined and blackout curtains: often dry clean only. Check the label.
• Velvet and silk: professional cleaning.
• Roller blinds: spot clean with mild soapy water. Do not soak.
• Wooden blinds: dry dusting only. Water can warp the slats.

Taking curtains down safely

Lift curtains off the hooks rather than pulling, to avoid loosening the track. If your track is in gypsum, avoid hanging your weight on it. If a bracket moves, read curtain track fell down.

Protect against sun damage

• Use linings on sun facing windows
• Close sheers during peak sun to protect heavier curtains behind
• Rotate panels between windows once a year if they fade unevenly

Choosing new fabric? See the best curtain fabrics for Dubai.

Frequently asked questions

How often should curtains be washed?

Every 6 to 12 months for most homes. More often near busy roads or construction.

Can blackout curtains be machine washed?

Some can, but the coating can crack. Check the label. Many need dry cleaning.

How do I remove creases after washing?

Hang curtains back up while slightly damp. The weight drops out most creases.

Related guides

• Blackout vs Dim-Out vs Sheer Curtains: What Is the Difference?
• The Best Curtain Fabrics for Dubai’s Hot, Dusty Climate