Video:Tips for Sprucing Up Curtains

Transcript:Tips for Sprucing Up Curtains

Hey guys, Jonathon Stewart here for About.com with today's 90-second quick tip. They say that the eyes are the windows to your soul, but I'd say that the glass panes that let allow light to shine into your living room are the windows to your house. Take a look at the following tips and let your windows look their best by sprucing up their dressings. Check it out:

Curtains Should be Cleaned

Curtains of any fabric tend to collect dirt, dust, and other debris very easily, and start to look drab over the course of time. If your fabric is washable, start by taking down your curtains and washing them in your machine on the delicate cycle, and drying them on a very low setting with no heat.

Remove the curtains before they are completely dry, and either hang them on a clothesline or back on your curtain rod to dry completely. Just make sure your curtains aren't bunched up if you finish drying them on the rod, or they can get moldy, which leaves you worse off than when you began.

Also, be sure your windows are closed, or they might pick up even more dirt in their dampened state.

Vacuum Curtains

If you can't wash your curtains, try vacuuming them. Run the widest vacuum attachment you can from the top to the bottom of the curtain, being careful not to fray the edges.

Depending on the fabric, you might also consider using a lint roller - just know that this method will require a bit of patience, depending on the size of your curtains. Ironing can be an easy way to put life back into your curtains as well, again making sure the fabric is something that is able to be ironed.

Hang Sheer Curtains

Hanging sheer curtains is another great and inexpensive way to both protect and enhance the appearance of your outer curtains. When hanging them, alternate loops with your outer curtain to give it more volume and weight. Pleating your curtains will give them more texture, and allow them to hang as evenly as possible - start at the top and gather the material between your fingers, and work your way all the way down to the bottom. Move back to the top, and repeat.

Well Maintained Curtains Add Style

Finally, be creative with your curtain ties. Using a colorful scarf or piece of fabric can be an easy way to give your windows the accent that they deserve. And then get yourself on a curtain maintenance schedule. Run a vacuum over them as part of your weekly cleaning, and whatever you do, stop wiping your nose on them. They're not your very own giant hanky. Thanks for watching! To learn more, visit us on the web at About.com.