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Short answer
Fabrics collect dust, and dust mites and mould thrive in Malaysia's warm, humid air. For allergy and asthma sufferers, choose curtains you can wash regularly, smooth, tightly woven fabrics that hold less dust, and polyester that resists mould. Vacuum curtains and upholstery often, keep humidity down, and in the bedroom consider washable sheers or a wipe-clean blind. This guide covers fabric choices; for medical advice, speak to your doctor.
Why fabrics matter for allergies
- Dust mites live in house dust and soft furnishings, and thrive in warm, humid rooms.
- Mould grows on fabric that stays damp, such as curtains touching wet glass in air-conditioned rooms. See Mouldy Curtains.
- Dust settles in folds, deep pile and open textures, and is released when the curtain moves.
Choosing curtains
| Choose | Why |
|---|---|
| Washable polyester sheers and dimouts | Can be washed often; polyester resists mould |
| Smooth, tight weaves | Hold less dust than deep pile and open textures |
| Simple headings that come down easily | S-fold unclips from the track, so washing is quick |
| Detachable linings | Face and lining can be cleaned separately |
| Fewer layers in the bedroom | A washable sheer or a wipe-clean blind collects less dust |
Good to know
Many curtain fabrics must be washed cool, so follow the care label rather than washing hot. Frequent washing and vacuuming matter more than the temperature.
Choosing upholstery
- Tight, smooth weaves and short-pile velvets are easier to vacuum clean than loose textures and boucle.
- Removable, washable cushion covers let you clean the parts that touch you most.
- Polyester absorbs little moisture and dries quickly.
Keeping fabrics clean
- Vacuum curtains and upholstery weekly with a brush attachment; a vacuum with a HEPA filter traps fine dust.
- Wash sheers every few months and main curtains once or twice a year, or more often for sufferers. See How to Wash Curtains.
- Keep indoor humidity down with air-conditioning or a dehumidifier, and air rooms when you can.
- Keep curtains off cold, wet glass to stop mould.
Tip
Wash the bedroom curtains and vacuum the headboard at the same time as you change the bedding. It keeps the room where you spend the most time cleanest.
Frequently asked questions
What curtains are best for allergies?
Washable polyester curtains with smooth, tight weaves and simple headings that come down easily for regular washing. In bedrooms, a washable sheer or a wipe-clean blind collects less dust.
Do curtains make allergies worse?
Curtains collect dust, which can hold dust mites, and damp curtains can grow mould. Regular washing and vacuuming, and low humidity, keep them cleaner.
Is velvet bad for allergies?
Deep pile can hold more dust, but a short-pile velvet that is vacuumed weekly is manageable. Smooth, tight weaves are easiest to keep clean.
Are blinds better than curtains for allergies?
Wipe-clean blinds collect less dust than fabric. Washable curtains cleaned regularly also work. Many homes use a blind with a washable sheer.
How often should curtains be washed for allergy sufferers?
More often than usual: vacuum weekly, and wash sheers every few months and main curtains at least twice a year, following the care label.
Curtain maker, upholsterer or designer?
Specifications are public on every collection page. JOTEX dealers can log in for live stock and pricing, and our team can send samples or open a dealer account.