Invisible Enemies of Your Draperies This time of year seems to signal a new attention to our home furnishings. Whether it is the change in temperature, the upcoming holidays or just coincidence, I'm not sure, but since many folks are looking at their draperies, slipcovers and carpets and thinking, "Should I clean or replace?" I thought I'd share some thoughts with you, from the Wisconsin Better Business Bureau. The BBB publishes a booklet called, 'Invisible Enemies of Your Draperies' that contains many helpful hints and useful information. Here's what they have to say: " Because of the many invisible factors that might affect both the life and appearance of draperies and curtains, the retail store cannot guarantee how long they will last nor can the drycleaner always determine what the result of the drycleaning process will be. You the consumer, however, will benefit by remembering the following hints. 1. Know the fiber, weave and finish of a drapery or curtain you select. 2. Examine the quality of the construction. 3. If possible, rotate draperies from sunny windows to an unexposed side of the house; or vary window treatments to equalize the environmental effect. 4. Inform your cleaner of the fiber content in your draperies. 5. Remember the life expectancy of lined draperies is five years; unlined four years; sheer fabrics-three years. However, exposure to sunlight and certain atmospheric conditions in the home will substantially shorten their life. 6. Send you draperies and curtains to a reliable drycleaner." The atmospheric conditions the BBB is referring to are humidity, moisture, cooking fumes, second hand smoke, oxidation, etc. Regular cleaning will remove these pollutants and help keep your draperies looking better and lasting longer. It is a good rule of thumb to consider cleaning your draperies and window treatments every two to three years to ensure a longer life expectancy. Email us and one of our experts will come to your home for a free estimate of their condition and cost of cleaning. As your professional cleaner, this is just one of the many services we offer to keep your clothes and your home looking the best for years to come!!!