Things You'll Need
Large pot
Cornstarch
5-gallon pail
Crisp curtains hanging from newly washed windows make any homemaker proud. Washing curtains and windows is part of many spring-cleaning rituals. Starching curtains may seem a bit old-fashioned, but the result will make friends and family members wonder how you manage to have such a fresh look for your window treatments. Starching curtains rather than using a spray starch will keep them looking nicer for a longer period of time.
Step 1
Wash your curtains prior to starching using your normal washing method.
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Step 2
Fill a large cooking pot three-quarters full of water, and heat until boiling.
Step 3
Mix 4 tbsp. of cornstarch with 2 cups of cold water in a bowl. Use a whisk to remove all the lumps.
Step 4
Pour the cornstarch mixture into the boiling water and stir to blend.
Step 5
Stir continuously while the water and mixture boil for four minutes, then remove from the heat. Stirring will prevent the starch from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
Step 6
Fill a 5-gallon pail halfway with hot tap water. Pour the starch mixture into the pail, and stir to mix thoroughly. Diluting the starch will prevent your curtains from becoming too stiff.
Step 7
Place your curtains into the pail. Use rubber gloves to immerse your curtains into the starch solution.
Step 8
Remove the curtains from the pail, and place them into your washing machine on a gentle spin cycle. This will remove excess water.
Step 9
Remove the curtains and place them in your dryer on a low setting. Check often to prevent over-drying.
Step 10
Remove immediately when dry and iron if necessary.
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