The Ultimate Spring Cleaning Guide: Freshen Up Your Curtains & Soft Furnishings

Spring Cleaning: Don’t Forget the Curtains and Soft Furnishings! 

Spring has arrived, the clocks have gone forward bringing longer days, warmer weather, and the perfect excuse to give your home a deep clean.

A proper spring clean is a perfect way to refreshing your living space, lifting your spirits, and creating a home that feels light, bright, and airy. And if you've already decluttered, think of all that extra space you have!

We're often asked, 'How do I clean my curtains?'

Here are our top five tips to tackle them efficiently, with minimal fuss and maximum impact - our easy cleaning recommendations: 

1. Vacuum Regularly – Use a soft brush attachment to remove dust, especially along folds and hems.

2. Shake & Air – Take them outside for a gentle shake and fresh air, avoiding damp surfaces.

3. Use a Gentle Fabric Brush – Lightly brush the fabric to lift dust and prevent build-up between deeper cleans.

4. Wipe Down Poles & Tracks – A damp cloth removes dust, and a light silicone spray keeps runners smooth—just avoid contact with fabric.

5. Steam Refresh – A handheld fabric steamer freshens curtains, smooths creases, and lifts light dust—all without washing.

Why Clean Curtains and Soft Furnishings?

Curtains and soft furnishings are great for many, many reasons but they do silently collect dust, allergens and grime throughout the year so giving them a thorough clean will make a big difference to how your home looks and feels. 

✔ Improves Air Quality: Curtains, sofas, and cushions act like giant dust traps, collecting allergens that affect the air you breathe. Cleaning them helps improve air quality, especially in spring when pollen levels rise.

✔ Preserves Fabric Quality: Dust and dirt can weaken fabric fibres over time. Regular cleaning keeps your furnishings looking pristine and extends their lifespan.

✔ Refreshes Your Space: Freshly cleaned curtains and cushions help brighten your home, giving it that crisp, just-cleaned feeling.

Step 1: Air It Out

One of the simplest ways to refresh your home is to start by airing it out. Open the windows wide, pull back the curtains, and let a cool spring breeze blow through. This is a quick, effective way to clear stale air and refresh your living spaces.

For Curtains:

• Air Outdoors: If possible, take lighter curtains outside and give them a vigorous shake to release dust. Hang them outdoors for an hour or two to freshen them up.
• Vacuum: For larger or lined curtains that can’t be easily removed, use the upholstery attachment on your vacuum cleaner. Pay special attention to the folds and hems, where dust tends to settle.
• Should I Wash or Dry Clean?:  Only if you are totally sure of the composition of the fabric, lining and interlinings - all will react differently so if you do need to clean, find a specialist curtain cleaning company. 

Step 2: Deep Clean Soft Furnishings

Your sofa, cushions, and upholstered chairs work hard year-round, so they’ll benefit from a proper spring refresh too. Dust, pet hair, and crumbs can hide in the nooks and crannies, so it’s time to give them a thorough clean.

Here’s How to Do It:

✅ Vacuum Thoroughly: Use your vacuum’s upholstery attachment to clean sofas, cushions, and fabric headboards. Don’t forget to lift and vacuum beneath the cushions!

✅ Spot Clean Stains: Mix a solution of warm water and mild detergent. Gently blot any stains on your soft furnishings with a damp microfiber cloth (avoid rubbing, which can damage the fabric).

✅ Wash Cushion Covers: If your cushion covers are removable and machine washable, pop them in the washing machine. Dry them naturally for a fresher, softer feel.

✅ Neutralise Odours: Sprinkle bicarbonate of soda over upholstered surfaces, leave it to sit for 20–30 minutes, and then vacuum it off. This trick naturally deodorises fabrics. (Also a useful trick to absorb unwanted odours in cupboards and even the fridge!)  

Step 3: Finishing Touches

With your curtains and soft furnishings fresh and clean, it’s time to add those little finishing touches that give your home a real lift.

✔ Fluff and Rotate Cushions: Shake out your cushions and rotate them to prevent uneven wear.
✔ Lighten Up: Swap out heavy winter throws for lightweight blankets in soft pastel shades or floral patterns to reflect the season.
✔ Let in the Light: Draw back your freshly cleaned curtains and allow as much natural light as possible to flood your rooms.

The Final Flourish

When your cleaning is complete, take a moment to enjoy your refreshed space. For an added touch of spring, bring in a bouquet of fresh flowers or spritz your curtains and cushions with a natural linen spray. You’ll love how calm, clean, and inviting your home feels!

Spring cleaning may take a bit of effort, but the rewards are well worth it—a cleaner, healthier, and more beautiful home. Start with your curtains and soft furnishings, and you’ll set the stage for a fresh, welcoming space all season long. 

Ima

While you're in the mood for a refresh, why not give your whole home a seasonal spruce-up? Here’s our full checklist to help you tackle every corner with ease.

Living Spaces & Bedrooms

✅ Dust surfaces, including skirting boards

✅ Vacuum sofas, under cushions, and rugs

✅ Wash throws and cushion covers

✅ Clean windows (inside and out), mirrors, and light switches

✅ Declutter shelves and storage spaces

✅ Rotate and vacuum under furniture

✅ Refresh bedding: launder pillows and duvets

✅Clean all pet bedding 

Kitchen & Bathroom

✅ Deep clean the fridge and cupboards

✅ Scrub the oven, hob, and extractor fan

✅ Descale the kettle and taps

✅ Wipe down small appliances and disinfect surfaces

✅ Scrub the shower, bathtub, and sink

✅ Wash bath mats, towels, and shower curtains.

✅ Clean the toilet, mirrors, and cabinets

Hallways & Entrances 

✅ Wipe down doors, handles, and railings

✅ Shake out and clean doormats

✅ Organise shoes, coats, and bags

✅ Sweep or mop floors

✅ Freshen up with a non-toxic room spray

✔  Open windows for fresh air
✔  Plump and rotate cushions
✔  Swap heavy fabrics for lighter, breathable ones
✔  Add fresh flowers for a seasonal touch
✔  Use a natural room spray for a soft, inviting scent
✔  Light a natural candle for a cosy wind-down at the end of the day

A little effort goes a long way in keeping your home fresh and inviting. At Stripe Interiors, we’re always happy to help with fabric care and styling advice.

Happy spring cleaning!