How Often Should Hotels Replace Old Drapes?

In a hotel, the details matter—sometimes more than you realize. Guests notice the small things: a plush pillow, a crisp bedspread, or a fresh carpet underfoot. But they also notice when something is worn or outdated. Drapes, in particular, are easy to overlook, yet they play a huge role in how a room feels. Faded, stained, or malfunctioning curtains can make a space feel tired, even if the hotel room is otherwise immaculate. Knowing when to replace drapes, alongside other key items, is essential for any hotel renovation and can make a big difference in guest experience.

Hotel drapes take a beating. Daily use, sunlight, frequent laundering, and constant handling all add up. In general, hotels find that drapes last every 4 to 8 years, depending on how often rooms are occupied and the type of fabric. High-traffic areas—like rooms near elevators or a major hotel lobby—may need replacements sooner, while suites that see fewer guests can often go longer. Choosing durable, well-made drapery can stretch that lifespan, but eventually, every hotel will need fresh window treatments to maintain a polished look.

Sometimes it’s obvious. Other times, the signs are subtle. Look for:

When these issues start appearing, it’s time to replace. Guests may not comment directly, but worn drapes can leave an impression that the room is neglected. Over time, this can contribute to bad reviews, even if the carpet, bedding, and bathroom are pristine.

It’s easy to underestimate the power of a well-chosen drape. Faded or ill-fitting curtains can make a room feel dim, dated, or less inviting. They can also interfere with sleep, especially if sunlight seeps in where it shouldn’t. A thoughtful update to drapes—along with pillow, bedspread, and linen improvements—helps a hotel feel cared for. Small touches, like functional blackout curtains or plush fabrics, can boost guest comfort and leave a lasting impression.

Many hotels build drapery updates into a larger checklist for renovations. Most hospitality experts recommend reviewing drapes every 3 to 4 years and planning full replacements every 4 to 8 years. The timing often depends on occupancy, sunlight exposure, and fabric quality. Rolling updates make it easier to manage logistics and keep rooms looking fresh year-round. Importantly, drapes are part of a unified design approach, spanning from the lobby and public areas to individual guest rooms, ensuring a cohesive aesthetic throughout the entire property. Working with a trusted provider like Drapery Manufacturing Inc. (DMI) can simplify the process—they handle everything from field measuring to installation, ensuring your drapes meet brand standards while complementing other room elements like carpet, pillowcase, and bedspread.

While minor repairs can help, sometimes replacing drapes is the smarter move. Constant patching or heavy laundry room loads can cost more over time and still leave a room looking tired. Installing new, high-quality drapes improves the feel of the space and can even help with energy efficiency. In hotel renovations, drapes are often updated alongside walls and flooring, appliances, HVAC, and bathroom fixtures to create a cohesive, refreshed room.

If your hotel is planning a renovation or working on a property improvement plan, don’t overlook drapes. Updating window treatments alongside pillows, duvets, and blankets ensures every room feels complete. Proper planning can prevent problems like leaky windows, odor, or mildew from affecting guest comfort. A clear timeline and checklist make sure drapes are replaced at the right moment, keeping your property looking modern and welcoming year-round.

Replacing drapes in a hotel isn’t just about picking a fabric. It’s about precision, quality, and timing. Drapery Manufacturing Inc., based in Oklahoma City, has been serving hotels since 1975. They specialize in custom drapery, valances, and other window treatments for hospitality, multi-housing, and commercial projects. From professional measuring to manufacturing and installation, their team makes sure every drape meets brand standards and complements other room updates like carpet, bedding, and pillow choices. Working with experts saves time, avoids headaches, and ensures every room is ready for guests.

Old drapes might seem minor, but they have a big impact on how a hotel room feels. Timely updates, paired with fresh carpet, bedspreads, and pillowcases, keep rooms inviting and help prevent bad reviews. By working with a trusted provider like Drapery Manufacturing Inc., you can keep your property looking its best, maintain brand standards, and ensure a positive guest experience. Whether you’re planning a major hotel renovation or following a regular replacement schedule, fresh drapes make a difference that guests will notice.

Contact Drapery Manufacturing Inc. at dmiok.com or call (405) 745-2931 to discuss custom drapery solutions tailored to your hotel.