Curtains play a vital role in enhancing the aesthetics of a home or office while also acting as a barrier against dust, allergens, and pollutants. Over time, they accumulate dirt, pet dander, odors, and stains, making professional cleaning necessary to maintain their freshness and longevity.

For Brooklyn residents looking for curtain cleaning services, understanding the pricing factors is essential. Curtain cleaning costs can vary depending on several factors, including fabric type, cleaning method, size, and level of dirt or stains. Whether you're considering dry cleaning, steam cleaning, or eco-friendly washing, knowing what influences the cost will help you make an informed decision.

This guide explores the key factors that impact curtain cleaning prices in Brooklyn, helping you budget effectively for professional cleaning services.

1. Type of Curtain Fabric

The material of your curtains significantly affects the cleaning price. Delicate or high-maintenance fabrics require specialized cleaning techniques, which can increase the overall cost.

Common Curtain Fabrics & Their Cleaning Costs

✔ Cotton & Polyester Curtains – These are relatively easy to clean and cost less compared to delicate fabrics. They can often be machine-washed or steam-cleaned.

✔ Silk & Velvet Curtains – These luxurious fabrics require dry cleaning or hand washing with specialized detergents. They demand extra care and handling, increasing the cleaning price.

✔ Linen & Wool Curtains – Natural fibers like linen and wool require gentle cleaning techniques to prevent shrinking or distortion, making them slightly more expensive to clean.

✔ Blackout & Thermal Curtains – These curtains often have multiple layers, including a heat-resistant backing that can be damaged if not cleaned properly. Specialized cleaning methods add to the cost.

✔ Sheer & Lace Curtains – Delicate and lightweight, these curtains require gentle hand washing or dry cleaning to prevent damage. Their fragility increases cleaning costs.

2. Curtain Size and Length

The larger and longer your curtains, the higher the cleaning cost. This is because more fabric means more time, detergent, and effort are required for thorough cleaning.

• Short Window Curtains (3-5 ft.) – Lower cleaning cost due to minimal fabric usage.

• Full-Length Curtains (6-9 ft.) – Slightly more expensive due to extra fabric and labor.

• Drapes & Heavy Curtains (Over 9 ft.) – The most expensive to clean, as they require deep cleaning, pressing, and sometimes stain treatment.

Some cleaning companies charge per square foot or per panel, so be sure to check how they calculate costs.

3. Cleaning Method Used

Professional cleaners use different methods depending on the curtain material and level of dirt. The cleaning method directly affects the pricing.

Common Curtain Cleaning Methods & Their Costs

✔ Dry Cleaning – Best for delicate fabrics like silk and velvet. It involves a chemical solvent that removes stains and dirt without using water. Dry cleaning is one of the more expensive options due to the specialized process.

✔ Steam Cleaning – Ideal for heavy fabrics, steam cleaning removes deep-seated dirt, dust, and bacteria without damaging the fabric. This method is moderately priced but may not be suitable for all curtains.

✔ Hand Washing – Required for lace, sheer, and embroidered curtains to prevent tearing or distortion. Hand washing is labor-intensive, making it more expensive.

✔ Machine Washing – Suitable for cotton or polyester curtains that can withstand regular washing cycles. This is the most affordable cleaning method.

✔ On-Site Cleaning – If curtains cannot be removed, some professional cleaners offer on-site steam cleaning, which is usually more expensive than off-site services.

4. Level of Dirt and Stains

If your curtains are lightly soiled, cleaning will be relatively inexpensive. However, heavily stained or smoke-damaged curtains require special treatments, which increase the price.

Common Issues That Increase Cleaning Costs

✔ Stubborn Stains – Wine, coffee, pet urine, or grease stains require pre-treatment, spot cleaning, and sometimes multiple cleaning rounds.

✔ Mold & Mildew – Brooklyn’s humid climate can cause curtains to develop mold, which needs antimicrobial treatment to prevent regrowth.

✔ Pet Hair & Dander – If you have pets, your curtains may require deep cleaning to remove hair, odors, and allergens.

✔ Smoke & Odors – Homes with smokers or kitchens near curtains may have grease and smoke residue, requiring deodorizing and additional cleaning steps.

The more intense the dirt and stains, the higher the overall cost.

5. Pickup & Delivery Services

Many Brooklyn curtain cleaning companies offer pickup and delivery services, saving homeowners the hassle of removing and reinstalling curtains. While this is convenient, it may come at an extra cost depending on:

✔ Your location within Brooklyn – Some areas may have higher service fees.
✔ Urgent or Same-Day Requests – Faster services typically cost more.
✔ Curtain Removal & Rehanging – If professionals need to remove and reinstall curtains, expect additional labor fees.

6. Eco-Friendly & Organic Cleaning Options

More Brooklyn residents are choosing organic, chemical-free curtain cleaning services to reduce allergens and environmental impact. However, these eco-friendly methods often cost more than traditional cleaning.

✔ Biodegradable Detergents & Plant-Based Solutions – Gentler on the fabric but requires longer cleaning times.
✔ Water-Conserving Methods – Some cleaners use low-moisture techniques to reduce water waste.
✔ Fragrance-Free or Hypoallergenic Cleaning – Ideal for those with sensitivities but comes at a premium price.

While eco-friendly cleaning costs more, it prolongs curtain lifespan and is safer for homes with children, pets, or allergies.

Average Curtain Cleaning Prices in Brooklyn

While prices vary based on the factors above, Brooklyn curtain cleaning services generally charge:

• $5 - $15 per linear foot for standard cleaning

• $25 - $50 per panel for delicate fabrics

• $60 - $150 per set for large drapes or blackout curtains

• Additional $20 - $50 for stain or odor treatment

If you opt for pickup and delivery, expect to pay $10 - $30 extra, depending on distance.

Tips to Save on Curtain Cleaning in Brooklyn

✔ Schedule Regular Cleaning – Don’t wait for curtains to get extremely dirty, as maintenance cleaning is cheaper than deep stain removal.
✔ Remove and Reinstall Curtains Yourself – If possible, take down your curtains and deliver them to the cleaner to avoid extra service fees.
✔ Ask for Discounts – Some companies offer seasonal deals, first-time customer discounts, or bundle pricing if you clean multiple curtains at once.
✔ Choose a Local Cleaner – Hiring a Brooklyn-based cleaner reduces transportation costs compared to services coming from other boroughs.
✔ Opt for Washable Curtains – If budget is a concern, consider switching to machine-washable curtains for easier maintenance.

Conclusion

The cost of curtain cleaning in Brooklyn depends on various factors, including fabric type, cleaning method, size, stain level, and extra services like pickup or eco-friendly cleaning. While professional cleaning may seem like an added expense, it extends the life of your curtains, improves indoor air quality, and enhances the look of your home.

Understanding these pricing factors helps you budget wisely and choose the right cleaning service based on your needs. Whether you need a simple refresh or deep stain removal, investing in professional cleaning ensures your curtains stay fresh, clean, and in top condition.