Drapes can add a lot to a room: a splash of color, a little more or less sunlight, and vertical lines to give a sense of height. Even the best drapes can get dirty or damaged for any number of reasons, but, fortunately, simple steps can be taken to clean or repair your drapes.
Drape Washing
The best way to take care of damaged or dirty drapes is to keep them from getting damaged or dirty in the first place. Having them regularly dry cleaned by a professional or doing it yourself is going to make a huge difference in terms of how long they last. Only clean drapes yourself that are labeled "washable." Using a bathtub or washing machine full of cool water, a small amount of gentle detergent, and a half cup of oxygen cleaner should do the job. Test it out on an inconspicuous part of the drapes first to make sure it won't affect the coloring.
Let the drapes soak for 30 minutes or so, then hand wash them or put them on the shortest, gentlest cycle of the washing machine. They can then be hung to dry or put in the dryer on the lowest, gentlest setting.
Drape Vacuuming
Regular vacuuming is essential. Use a lower-pressure machine (like a hand-held one) or a lower setting along with a hose attachment on a large unit. Vacuum with, not against, the nap of velvet or velvet-like materials. Very fragile fabrics can be vacuumed through a fiberglass screen that you can find at a hardware store. Shaking out your drapes daily will also prevent dirt and dust build up in them.
Other Curtain Issues
Dry rot and water stains are serious enough damage that you'll want to have professionals take care of the drapes, especially if they are antiques. There are even businesses out there that specialize in cleaning drapes and antique fabrics.
Color fading from sunlight is, unfortunately, not a situation you can rectify. To prevent it, you can outfit the drapes with linings that face the window. Shades and blinds can serve a similar function, though they might work against the aesthetic you want. You can also tint the windows the drapes are in front of by using a certain kind of film you can buy at a home improvement store. As a last resort, move the drapes to another room with less sunlight.
If your drapes are very old or expensive, you should at least get a consult from a professional before you attempt to clean them. Different fabrics need different things. Clean drapes make a lot of difference to a room: brightening colors, reducing dust and allergens in the air, and sharpening the look and feel of everything. Keep up with cleaning and protecting your drapes and they're sure to keep your windows looking classy for years to come!