How to Store Curtains: Keeping Them in Perfect Condition

Why Proper Storage Matters

Curtains are a significant investment — and how you store them when they're not in use determines whether they come out looking pristine or damaged. Poor storage leads to permanent creases, fabric distortion, mould, moth damage, and colour fading. The right approach takes only a little extra care and keeps your curtains in excellent condition for years.

Before You Store: Clean First

Always clean curtains before storing them. Storing dirty curtains — even ones that look clean — can lead to:

• Stains setting permanently over time
• Attracting moths and other insects (body oils, dust, and food residue are particularly attractive to moths)
• Mould or mildew developing if any moisture is present

Wash or dry clean according to the fabric care label, and ensure curtains are completely dry before folding or rolling for storage.

The Best Storage Methods

1. Rolling (Preferred for Most Curtains)

Rolling is gentler than folding because it avoids sharp creases that can permanently mark fabric.

1. Lay the curtain flat on a clean surface, lining side up
2. Place a roll of acid-free tissue paper or a clean cotton sheet along one edge
3. Roll the curtain around the tissue paper, keeping it smooth and even
4. Secure loosely with cotton tape or ribbon — never elastic bands, which can mark fabric
5. Store horizontally in a breathable cotton storage bag or wrap in a clean cotton sheet

Best for: Velvet, silk, linen, and any curtain where creases would be difficult to remove.

2. Folding

If rolling isn't practical, folding is acceptable for most fabrics — but do it carefully.

• Fold along the natural pleat lines where possible, so creases fall in places that won't be visible when hung
• Place acid-free tissue paper between each fold to cushion the fabric and prevent sharp creases
• Avoid folding velvet — the pile will be crushed at the fold lines
• Refold along different lines every few months if storing long-term, to prevent permanent creasing

3. Hanging (For Short-Term Storage)

For curtains being stored for a short period (a few weeks), hanging them in a wardrobe or on a spare rod is the simplest option. Use padded hangers or fold over a rod with a protective cloth to avoid hanger marks.

Storage Conditions

Where you store curtains matters as much as how you fold them.

• Cool and dry: Avoid attics (too hot in summer, too cold in winter) and basements (damp). A spare bedroom wardrobe or under-bed storage in a climate-controlled room is ideal.
• Dark: Light causes fading over time, even in storage. Keep curtains away from windows and direct light.
• Good airflow: Avoid airtight plastic bags or boxes, which trap moisture and can cause mildew. Use breathable cotton bags or pillowcases instead.
• Away from direct contact with wood: Untreated wood can transfer acids to fabric over time. Line wooden shelves or drawers with acid-free paper before storing curtains on them.

Protecting Against Moths

Moths are attracted to natural fibres — particularly wool, silk, and cashmere — but will also damage linen and cotton. To protect stored curtains:

• Use cedar blocks or lavender sachets in the storage area — natural moth deterrents that won't damage fabric
• Avoid mothballs (naphthalene) near delicate fabrics — the smell is very difficult to remove
• Check stored curtains every few months for any signs of moth activity
• Ensure curtains are clean before storing — moths are attracted to soiled fabric

Labelling Your Storage

If you're storing multiple sets of curtains, label each package clearly:

• Room (e.g., "Master Bedroom — East Window")
• Fabric and care notes
• Date stored

This saves significant time when you come to rehang them and ensures the right curtains go back to the right windows.

Bringing Curtains Out of Storage

When you're ready to rehang stored curtains:

1. Unroll or unfold carefully and hang immediately — gravity will help release most storage creases
2. For stubborn creases, use a steamer (preferred) or iron according to the fabric care guide
3. Allow curtains to hang for 24–48 hours before assessing whether any further pressing is needed — many creases will drop out on their own