Can I was some curtains in the washing machine if they say "dry clean only"?

Question

I know I have washed my husbands dress pants in the washer and they say to dry clean them. Do I just do it on the delicate cycle or what? We are selling our house and I am trying to get rid of the pet smells in everything.

Answer 1

If they are lightweight ( sheers, lace ) and not especially dirty I would put them in the dryer on the air only cycle ( no heat ) with a dryer sheet.  This will get the dust, etc off of them and add a little fresh scent.

If they are heavier fabric, especially if there is a backing/lining on them I wouldn't put them in the washer.  Some of those lining materials, especially the foam ones, will disintegrate in the wash.  Use some Febreze or hang them outside for a bit in the sunshine and fresh air.

If they are really dirty ( stains, etc ) I would take them to the cleaners.

Otherwise just air them a bit.

Answer 2

I've used a product called Dryel.  It's for dry clean only items.  It comes with a zip up bag and you put in the clothes or whatever and a Dryel sheet (it's similar to a dryer sheet) in the bag and put the bag in the dryer.  It makes your clothes smell really nice.

Answer 3

I would only risk washing them if they have room for shrinkage or you don't mind having to buy more. I would say they are likely to shrink. You can buy dry cleaning products in supermarkets for use in tumble dryers, that might be a cheaper option than the dry cleaners.

Answer 4

It depends.  Some dry-clean-only fabrics can be safely washed in cold water and air-dried (no dryer).  However, some fabrics (usually imported) are not pre-shrunk and will shrink out of size and shape if they get water on them.

Answer 5

Depends on the fabric. You can wash them in cold water on delicate, or if your worried you could alway hand wash them.