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Short answer
The wet months, roughly November to March during the northeast monsoon, bring higher humidity, fewer sunny days to dry washing, and sudden storms. Curtains and sofas suffer from damp rather than rain itself: mould on curtains pressed against cold glass, musty smells in closed rooms, and water marks where rain blows in. Keep curtains off the glass, air rooms between storms, wash curtains only when you can dry them fully, close windows before storms, and keep outdoor cushions under cover.
What does the rainy season do to curtains and sofas?
| Problem | Cause | Prevention |
|---|---|---|
| Mould spots on curtains | Fabric touching wet, cold glass; rooms that never air | Gap between curtain and glass; air the room |
| Musty smell | Damp fabric in a closed room | Ventilate; dehumidifier; vacuum |
| Water marks on curtains and sofas | Rain blowing through open windows | Close windows before storms; tie curtains back |
| Curtains that never dry | Washing on wet days | Wash on a dry spell, or professional cleaning |
| Faded or mouldy outdoor cushions | Rain, then trapped damp | Store or cover; dry fully before storing |
Curtains
- Keep the curtain off the glass, especially in air-conditioned bedrooms where condensation forms. See Mouldy Curtains.
- Air the room between storms: open curtains and windows, and wipe condensation from the glass in the morning.
- Tie curtains back from open windows so blown rain does not soak the leading edge.
- Wash only when you can dry fully, in a dry spell, and rehang in a ventilated room. See How to Wash Curtains.
- Polyester copes best with humidity; cotton and linen absorb more moisture. See Cotton vs Linen vs Polyester.
Tip
Run a dehumidifier in rooms that stay closed, such as guest rooms and store rooms, during long wet spells.
Sofas and upholstery
- Move sofas a little away from damp walls and windows that run with condensation.
- Vacuum regularly; dust and skin flakes feed mould and mites.
- Blot spills fast and dry evenly with a fan; damp patches dry slowly in wet weather. See How to Remove Stains from a Fabric Sofa.
- Air cushions in a dry, ventilated spot now and then.
- Velvet: brush the pile once dry to avoid crushed patches. See How to Clean a Velvet Sofa.
Balconies and outdoor cushions
Solution-dyed outdoor acrylic resists fading and dries quickly, but the foam inside can still hold water. Bring cushions in or cover them before storms, stand them on edge to drain, and dry them completely before storing so mould does not grow inside. See Balcony and Poolside Cushions.
What should you do if mould appears?
Act early. Brush loose spores off outdoors, wash or sponge with mild detergent, and dry thoroughly in a ventilated place. Mould that keeps coming back after washing means it is time to replace the curtain or lining. See How Long Do Curtains Last?
Watch out
Do not use bleach on coloured curtains or upholstery unless the care label allows it; it can strip colour and weaken fibres.
Frequently asked questions
How do I stop curtains going mouldy in the rainy season?
Keep them off cold, wet glass, air the room between storms, wipe condensation, and only wash them when you can dry them fully.
Why does my sofa smell musty?
Usually damp in a closed room. Ventilate, run a dehumidifier, vacuum, and air the cushions in a dry, ventilated spot.
Should I wash curtains during the monsoon?
Only in a dry spell when they can dry completely, or use a professional cleaner.
How do I protect outdoor cushions from rain?
Bring them in or cover them before storms, drain them on edge, and dry them fully before storing.
Curtain maker, upholsterer or designer?
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