The Dangers of Dirty Curtains
Curtains are a great way to really complete the look of a room in your home. They can add a sense of personality and lift up the atmosphere of your home without spending a fortune on redecorating. Most people tend to forget about their curtains when cleaning other home interior accessories, such as carpets. Little did you know, curtains can cause serious harm to your health if left unattended for long periods of time.
1. CURTAINS ACCUMULATE ALLERGENS AND DUST MITES
Curtain fabrics can often attract a lot of allergens and dust. These are the two main causes of allergic reactions such as sneezing, coughing or runny noses. Due to their small size, they are easily carried by wind and accumulate on curtains after some time, especially curtains that are made from cotton. Some curtains are worse offenders when it comes to dust accumulation, particularly those made from thicker fabrics and multiple curtain layers in one. Allergens and dust mites are trapped between the layers and thus increase the chances of getting allergy symptoms. Removing the allergens hidden in your curtains can already help relieve allergy symptoms a lot without the help of meds.
2. MOULD AND MILDEW
Moulds can develop and grow in curtains, and they are most likely to thrive in a dirty curtain. Mould growth is something that can’t be ignored, and immediate curtain cleaning should happen since it can cause potentially dangerous health problems and puts everyone in the home or commercial space at risk.
Some moulds can trigger asthma and other bronchial or respiratory issues. Most images are susceptible to disinfectants found in individual cleaning solutions, aside from many other possible diseases or health conditions.
It’s best to seek the help of professional curtain cleaners since formulations must be based on the kind of material your curtain was made from. The overall quality and craftsmanship deserve to be well-cared for with the right cleaning products and techniques.
3. GERMS
Germs are one of the main causes of sickness in both humans and pets. What most people don’t know is that they love attaching themselves to curtains (mainly those that are hung in dark areas).
4. DUST AND TOXINS
Curtains in all homes can collect dust and toxins quickly. Mainly if the curtain material is thick and lined. Does one of your family members at home suffer from regular asthma attacks or bronchitis? If your answer is yes, then the cause is probably hiding in your curtains.
CONCLUSION: CLEAN YOUR CURTAINS PERIODICALLYYour drapes may play an important role in enhancing the overall ambiance of your home. Proper maintenance of curtains becomes absolutely essential if you want to have a healthy indoor environment for yourself and your family.
Spring gardening tips
Dreaming of a garden bursting with colour and fresh produce? Shane Fairbairn, Ryman Healthcare’s Landscape Manager, shares his top tips to make it happen. You’ll be set to create a gorgeous, relaxing space in no time - grab your trowel, and let’s dig in.
Click read more for more information.
Poll: Do you think NZ should ban social media for youth?
The Australian Prime Minister has expressed plans to ban social media use for children.
This would make it illegal for under 16-year-olds to have accounts on platforms including TikTok, Instagram, Facebook and X.
Social media platforms would be tasked with ensuring children have no access (under-age children and their parents wouldn’t be penalised for breaching the age limit)
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Do you think NZ should follow suit? Vote in our poll and share your thoughts below.
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84.6% Yes
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13.9% No
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1.5% Other - I'll share below
What's your favourite recipe for courgettes?
Kia ora neighbours. If you've got a family recipe for courgettes, we'd love to see it and maybe publish it in our magazine. Send your recipe to mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz, and if we use it in the mag, you will receive a free copy of our January 2025 issue.