How to Fold and Store Curtains and Drapes
One of the hardest parts about moving (or redecorating your home) is finding a way to pack and store your belongings with care.
It’s easy to wrinkle and damage curtains or drapes while packing and unpacking. Luckily, there are a few tips and tricks that will help you effortlessly fold and store your curtains.
Today, we’ll discuss how to fold curtains and store drapes for storage or moving:
How to Fold Curtains: 3 Functional Techniques
Whether you’re moving or replacing your curtains for seasonal decor, it’s essential to store your curtains and drapes correctly.
Proper folding and storage prevents damage and excess wrinkles so that you can preserve your curtains for future use. It’s also helpful to know how to fold heavy or hard-to-handle fabrics.
There are three practical ways to store your curtains for future use: folding, rolling or hanging.
1. Folding Your Curtains Into Containers
Folding your curtains is the most common means of storing curtains. But before you fold away, consider the following.
PROS of folding your curtains:
- Simple and easy
- Doesn’t take up much space
- Great for light fabrics
CONS of folding your curtains:
- Causes permanent creases and wrinkles in delicate fabrics
- Can develop mildew if stored in a warm or damp space for extended periods
Here’s how to properly fold curtains and store drapes.
First, make sure your curtains are clean and dry. Dust heavier fabrics and machine-wash lighter fabrics on a gentle cycle to clean your curtains without damaging them. More tips on how to clean your curtains here.
Next, fold your curtains in half until you reach the desired size. Try to make as few folds as possible and avoid pressing down the fabric while folding — this will create fewer, less prominent creases.
Lastly, find a place to store your folded curtains. Sturdy, air-tight containers are a great solution as these will block out moisture and keep your curtains fresh and clean.
You can also fold your curtains back into their original packaging — a perfectly-sized storage space tailored to your curtains. Don’t force your curtains into a container too small, as this will create wrinkles — give your curtains room to breathe!
2. Rolling Your Curtains Into Tubes
You can also store your curtains by rolling them into tubes.
PROS of rolling your curtains:
- Fewer wrinkles and damage
- Ideal for light, delicate fabrics
- Effective protection from the fading effects of sunlight
CONS of rolling your curtains:
- Difficult for drapes and heavier curtain fabrics
First, clean your curtains. Again, dust heavy curtains and machine wash lighter curtains on a delicate cycle.
Next, find a tube for storage that accommodates your curtain’s length, width and fabric type. Heavier, thicker curtains require a wider tube, while light curtains only need a thinner tube. Air-tight tubes are best if you’re worried about mildew.
Lastly, lay out your curtains or drapes on a clean, flat space. Fold your curtains in half until you reach the right length. Then roll until you can fit the curtains through the width of the tube. Gently slide your curtains into the tube and seal the top.
3. Store Curtains on a Hanger
Finally, let’s go over how you store curtains on a hanger.
PROS of storing curtains on hangers:
- Easy to do
- Ideal if you just want to switch out your curtains for seasonal decor
CONS of storing curtains on hangers:
- Heavy curtains will take up a lot of space
- Dust accumulates easily
- Not a protective, long-term solution
Start by cleaning your curtains (dusting or machine washing on “gentle”).
Next, find a heavy-duty hanger that supports the weight of your curtain panel. Hang one curtain panel per hanger. Fold the curtain panel gently to the appropriate width of the hanger.
Lastly, drape your curtains over the hanger and store them in a cool, dark and dry space.
Curtain Cleaning and Rehanging
Even with the perfect storage technique, wrinkles, dust, and dirt can still accumulate. You’ll always want to freshen up your curtains after long-term storage.
Use a duster to rid the fabric of any unwanted particles. Then, depending on the curtain’s care instructions, machine wash or dry clean again.
Most importantly, steam your curtains to remove the creases. Ironing is okay, but be cautious with delicate fabrics and use a low heat setting.
Once you’re ready to reinstall your curtains, use Kwik-Hang’s no-drill curtain rod brackets to rehang your curtains in minutes.
Just place the Kwik-Hang bracket on your window frame, tap it in and hang your curtains. That’s it! No screws, no drilling, no problems.
Kwik-Hang’s damage-free curtain hardware is perfect for frequent movers or those who enjoy swapping out seasonal window treatments! Try Kwik-Hang curtain rod brackets and rods today.
