Good curtains should be included in the routine cleaning, and time built in to allow for it. The designers or contractors should also be asked to prepare a care package as a part of the installation. A little foresight will save a huge dry cleaning bill after which even if you have fabrics re-textured, they are never quite the same, as much of the fabric dressing has been removed leaving the surface more likely to collect dust & dirt in the future.

Vacuum the curtains once a month if possible making sure to wiggle the furnishings brush into all the folds and pleats in the headings. Remember to vacuum the back as well. All those black dots & bits of spider will, if left, leave marks that become difficult to remove. Give the curtains a good shake and dress them back into their folds.

At least once a year, take the curtains down, give them a good brushing with a soft brush and hang outside for a few hours if possible. Some fresh air and a little sunshine will do wonders.

While the curtains are out of the way, give the track a birthday. A damp cloth followed by a small spray of silicon will ensure smooth running for another year. If you have a corded track, wash the cord as a clean white cord will look so much better than grubby cord. Wood poles can be cleaned with just a little spray polish on a cloth and metal poles will only need a good dusting as most of them will have a lacquered finish to preserve their good looks.

After the airing, re-hang; give the curtains a light spray of fabric freshener, dress into their folds and leave drawn back for 24 hours if possible, so that they settle back into position.

Unless there is damage or the guests are very heavy smokers, there should be no need to send curtains to the cleaners for at least 10 years. The maintenance process can be helped by having some spare curtains if your room windows are standard, allowing curtains to be removed for maintenance without rooms having to be taken off let.