PRODUCT FEATURES

Fading

All fabrics will fade if subjected to high levels of direct or indirect (reflected UV) sunlight. Adequate care must be taken to protect furnishings fabrics. Avoiding direct sunlight and the use of sun filters will lessen the effects of UV.

Cleaning

We recommend regular vacuuming (minimum of fortnightly) to avoid the build-up of dust. This will reduce the build-up of soiling and ingrained dirt. Soiling may result in the breakdown of the yarns in the fabric, resulting in premature wear. We recommend professional cleaning every 12-18 months to remove the dust and dirt that vacuuming cannot. 

Color fastness

All fabrics are tested to industry standards. It is important to note that no fabric is 100% colour fast and that it is impossible to prevent colours fading if adequate precautions are not taken in the home. Winter sun, sitting lower in the sky, can cause the most damage, particularly when protective curtains have been pulled back to ‘warm the room’.

Natural fibers

We suggest that fabrics of a predominant cotton or linen construction are not used for roman blinds as faded striping may result.

Shrinkage

All fabrics are prone to shrinkage and it is important that sufficient allowances be made. An allowance of 3% is considered an acceptable industry standard. Shrinkage in any fabric can be minimized if your curtains are dry cleaned.
A curtain care guide is included with your order. We recommend that this is kept for your future reference.

Sun damage

Constant exposure to the direct rays of the sun will break down fabric fibers, causing them to become brittle and resulting in the affected area breaking when cleaned.
So when machine-washing curtains and draperies, use the gentle cycle, cool or lukewarm water, and mild detergent. If possible, hang on a clothesline to dry, or put them in a clothes dryer on a no-heat or delicate setting.

Oxidation

Fumes from chimneys,  open fires, gas fires, stoves, or wherever combustion is present, produce a sulphur compound which when combined with humidity and oxygen in the air produce a mild sulphuric acid. This matter is absorbed by or clings to the urnishing fabric and contributes to discoloration and deterioration of the fabric. So when cooking, keep the kitchen door closed.

Yellowing

Fumes and atmosphere in any room where tobacco is smoked will cause a yellow/brown stain on most fabrics. Therefore, try to limit smoking to outdoors only.

Movement of curtains in situ

When making curtains, it always allow for atmospheric movement and fluctuations in length, as the result of changes in temperature and humidity. Fabrics absorb moisture and this can result in stretching or shrinking. It is reasonable to expect as much as a 3% change in any curtain length or width.
For instance, a 2.5m curtain length may move up to 8cms up or down in different conditions. Heavier fabrics, looser weaves and those with thicker yarns of natural fibers will react to changing humidity.
For curtains, we recommend leaving generous hems to allow easy alteration and adjustment after hanging.