Preventing Sun Damage and Fading for Curtains
Nearly any home has windows, and these windows have curtains on them. Curtains do more than just frame the window; they also establish the aesthetic tone of your room and provide a textured appearance along with a sense of warmth. But the problem is that they are made of fabrics, and they need to be protected like any other thing. After a while, you may see that the colors have faded or the fabric has become brittle. All of these are effects of sun damage fading. So, what can be done to prevent sun damage and fading on curtains? Today, we will be answering this very question in detail.
Why Curtains Fade and Deteriorate in the Sun
Sun damage occurs when the UV rays of the sun directly hit your curtains. These rays then penetrate deep within the fabric fibers to break the chemical bonds within the dyes and the fibers. With time, the color fading occurs, which causes the bright deep colors to fade faster than lighter shades. The fibers of the fabric become soft or start to tear more easily. Some luxury fabrics like silk or cotton lose their texture, and even the synthetic fabrics start to warp. This fading is a slow process, but when it happens, it will be a permanent one. This is why you need to prevent it when you can.
10 Things To Do To Prevent Sun Damage And Fading For Curtains
To protect your investment in the high-quality curtains, we present some prevention tips. When you apply these tips, it will prevent the curtains from sun damage and color fading.
1. Choose UV-Resistant Fabrics from the start.
When you are about to buy window curtains, we recommend opting for UV-resistant fabrics. Many of the modern fabrics are treated with UV-resistant chemicals during their production. What you need to look for is a solution-dyed acrylic or polyester because they hold colors better than natural fibers. Densely woven fabrics are another excellent choice, as they have tighter weaves that block more sunlight. There are also the outdoor-grade fabrics that resist the intense sunlight damage and color fading.
2. Add a Protective Lining
Curtain linings are the best and most common way to protect your curtains. These linings add an extra layer between the curtains and the incoming sunlight. The best option is the blackout lining, which blocks almost 99% of light for ideal protection. This makes them perfect for bedroom curtains or living room curtains. Then there are the thermal linings, which block the light as well as allow for thermal insulation. Lastly, we have the standard cotton linings for drapes; they might block less light, but they still limit the UV exposure.
3. Use Sheer Curtains as a First Defense
Interior designers not only love this method, but also use it extensively. This tip is to have layered curtains with light sheers behind your main drapes. These sheer curtains allow a soft, gentle light diffusion while taking the full damage of the UV rays. This arrangement allows you to shield your decorative fabric from behind it. The best sheers to use are the ones that are made from UV-treated fabrics or polyester. Keep these sheers fully drawn during the peak sun hours of the day.
4. Install UV-Blocking Window Films
Window films are another innovative way to protect not just your curtains but also the indoor stuff. They keep the UV rays blocked from damaging your rugs, floors, and furniture. They are transparent or tinted films that will block about 99% of the UV rays without causing any darkness in the room. A clear window film will not have any effect on your window’s appearance. It will reduce the heat buildup, which protects the fabric from any heat damage that might cause it to become brittle. It is a one-time installation cost, but it will provide protection as long as it is firmly in place.
5. Use lighter colors and patterns.
Dark and rich colors for curtains fade much faster compared to lighter colors like cream, soft pastels, brown or beige. Patterns are also a wonderful way to hide those steady color changes. If you love those deep tones, it’s best to opt for curtains with a protective measure like a UV film or a curtain lining. This way, your curtains get a desired visual appeal without losing their longevity.
6. Keep the Room Ventilated
One of the culprits for curtain damage is the heat. If the curtains are trapping the heat behind them, the fabric starts to deteriorate quickly. You need to have a well-ventilated space that offers a cooler airflow to limit the stress on the material. The best way to limit this heat buildup is to keep your windows a little bit open whenever possible. It’s best to use ceiling fans to allow proper air circulation. Do not press your curtains tightly against the glass during the hot weather.
7. Wash with care.
One of the lesser-known causes of fabric tearing is improper washing of blackout curtains. It’s best to follow the care instructions for the curtain fabric when you wash it at home. The guidelines you need to follow are to use gentle cycles of cold water washing. Do not use any harsh detergents or bleach. It’s best to let the curtains air dry in a shaded area rather than in the sun. The best way to clean curtains made of delicate fabrics that are exposed to direct sunlight is to have them dry cleaned.
8. Rotate the curtain panels periodically.
Rotating the curtains is one of the most recommended methods to prevent sun damage and fading. Even if the curtains are in the same room, you must swap the left and right panels once every few months. This practice will allow for the curtains to have an even fade. Yes, it won’t stop the fading completely, but it will prevent one side from looking older or duller compared to the other.
Final Thoughts
Sunlight entering the home is essential; it makes the place look bright and inviting. However, the UV rays can be harmful to your curtains over time. If you wish to know what to do to prevent sun damage and fading curtains, our tips above will be of help. Think of these tips as a skincare routine but for your curtain fabrics and their colors. Apply them, and your curtains will thank you, protecting your investment and reducing the need to replace them often.
