How Often Should You Wash Curtains? Expert Advice

A cleaning expert shares recommendations on the ideal curtain washing schedule.

Mar. 14, 2026 at 5:00pm

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According to home care expert Sara Aparacio, curtains should be washed at least once every 6-12 months, with more frequent cleaning needed for curtains in high-traffic areas like kitchens and bathrooms, or for households with pets, smokers, or allergy sufferers. Aparacio suggests washing kitchen curtains quarterly and bathroom curtains every 1-3 months to prevent buildup of grease, steam, and mold. She recommends using a gentle cycle with cold water and a high-quality detergent like Dreft's Free & Gentle.

Why it matters

Regularly washing curtains can help extend their lifespan, improve indoor air quality, and keep a room looking fresh. However, many people overlook this chore, allowing dust, dander, and other grime to accumulate over time. Understanding the ideal washing schedule based on factors like room location and household needs can help homeowners maintain cleaner, healthier curtains.

The details

Curtains can collect a surprising amount of dust, pollen, pet dander, and cooking residue over time. While this buildup is a natural result of curtains doing their job of framing windows and filtering air, it can lead to discoloration and damage if not addressed. Home care expert Sara Aparacio recommends washing curtains at least once every 6-12 months, with more frequent cleaning needed in certain situations. Curtains in kitchens and bathrooms, for example, should be washed quarterly or monthly to prevent grease, steam, and mold buildup. Households with pets, smokers, or allergy sufferers may also need to wash curtains more often, around every 3 months, to remove potential triggers. When washing, Aparacio advises using a gentle cycle with cold water and a high-quality detergent like Dreft's Free & Gentle.

  • Curtains should be washed at least once every 6-12 months.
  • Kitchen curtains should be washed quarterly.
  • Bathroom curtains should be washed every 1-3 months.
  • Curtains in homes with pets, smokers, or allergy sufferers should be washed every 3 months.

The players

Sara Aparacio

The resident cleaning expert at house cleaning company Home Aglow.

Kim Romine

A P&G Fabric Care Scientist.

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What they’re saying

“To the question 'how often should you wash curtains', the short answer is 'it depends'.”

— Sara Aparacio, Resident cleaning expert

“I recommend washing on a gentle cycle with cold water in a high-quality detergent, such as Dreft's Free & Gentle Detergent.”

— Kim Romine, P&G Fabric Care Scientist

The takeaway

Regularly washing curtains, with more frequent cleaning for high-traffic areas and homes with pets or allergy sufferers, can help extend the life of curtains, improve indoor air quality, and keep a room looking its best. Following expert advice on washing methods and schedules can make this often-overlooked chore more manageable.