How to turn darkening curtains from stiff to flexible?

Here are a few suggestions for how to make stiff darkening curtains more flexible:

1. Wash the curtains: Sometimes, washing curtains can help to soften and relax the fabric, making them more flexible. Use a mild detergent and a cool or lukewarm water setting on your washing machine.
2. Dry the curtains on a low heat setting: After washing, tumble dry the curtains on a low heat setting to help soften the fabric. Avoid using a high heat setting, as this can cause the curtains to become stiffer.
3. Use a fabric softener: Add a fabric softener to the rinse cycle of the washing machine or use a fabric softener spray on the curtains after washing. This can help to make the fabric softer and more flexible.
4. Iron the curtains: If the curtains are still stiff after washing and drying, you can try ironing them on a low heat setting to help relax the fabric.
5. Hang the curtains up: If the curtains are still stiff, try hanging them up for a few days before using them. The weight of the curtains may help to soften and relax the fabric, making them more flexible.

Please remember to follow the care instructions on the curtains to ensure that you don't damage the fabric.

I had some cheap walmart curtains that were so stiff they looked bad hanging up. I washed them and put a lot of fabric softener into the washer. It did the job. Adding vinegar is supposed to help also but the fabric softener really helped.