i have washed mine several times the only problem was they are deep red and the colour came out a bit so now they have pale pink linings i washed them on a delicate wash
meant to say dont let them spin to long as they come out very creased if you can get them on the line for a good blow this takes most of them out and the rest fall out once you put them back up
I very carefully handwashed mine but have been completely unable to remove the creases, despite steaming etc. Also there was some shrinkage. Next time I'll put them in the launderette dry cleaning, a bit cheaper than a shop! Or I'll use my Tesco's vouchers for 4 times their face value, I think it's Johnson's that do that..
I have washed a heavy velvet lined curtain which covers our front door. But I do it gently by hand in the bath in warm water, let the water drain away for a few hours and then hang it flat over the open surface of my Hills Hoist, because when very moist, it's heavy. it has worked very well but you have to be patient and wait for a nice sunny or windy day to speed up the drying process. The problem with using a washing machine or tumble dryer is that the material will get very creased and the creases are difficult to remove afterwards.
Thanks folks for your individual responses to our question
Perhaps we'll have a try with the washing machine set on 'Delicates', which will give a short spin, and then hang the curtains on the line to drip-dry. They are somewhat too big to hand wash in the bath.
Please all take a bow before the curtains come down.