Window treatments have the perfect way of creating the perfect ambiance, but how do you keep them looking pristine? Just like the rest of your home, cleaning blinds, shades, shutters, and drapery is key to banishing dust and allergens and maintaining that beautiful appearance. So, let’s dive into how to keep your window coverings crisp and clean!
Always Remember
If you bought your window treatments from a store, it’s wise to touch base with them to get the manufacturer’s recommendations for cleaning. For those who know the manufacturer or installed the treatments themselves, check out the booklets or tags that came with the product—they have the best suggestions on cleaning them. Since each window covering can have unique cleaning needs, it’s smart to stick to the specific instructions provided.
Cleaning Blinds and Shutters
Maintaining tidy blinds and shutters is easier than you may think since they are considered hard treatments, and often made of similar materials. Therefore, the cleaning process will sound alike.
- Dust Regularly: Grab a handheld duster, microfiber cloth, or even gloves made of clean, dry microfiber fabric. Thankfully, window blind cleaning kits come with a slew of tools to make this process easier. Start by closing the slats flat and dust by moving your cloth side-to-side. For the other side, angle the slats upward. If you need extra reach, consider an extension dusting kit.
- For Small Areas: Small areas, like the hinges of shutters, can be tricky. Try a natural fiber paintbrush or an unused, dry toothbrush. This will keep them looking fresh!
Dealing with tough spots can be inevitable. It is important to be mindful of the material when you’re cleaning blinds. Wood, metal or composite blinds and shutters may require different cleaning agents.
Window Shades and Fabric Blinds
It can be a challenge to keep your window shades or vertical fabric blinds looking pristine. Dusting regularly is key to keeping dirt and allergens at bay and maintaining the beauty of your window treatments. As you clean them, turn them to the closed position. It will help you access a flat surface. Here are some effective methods to help get the job done:
- Canned Air: This method is gaining popularity for cleaning fabric shades because it allows you to remove dust without spreading it around or damaging the shape of your coverings. Simply use a canned air rechargeable dusting tool or disposable cans of air to gently blow away the dust.
- Vacuum Attachment: Use your vacuum’s upholstery attachment on a low setting to gently clean fabric window treatments. Look for a multifaceted vacuum cleaner with adjustable suction control and specialized upholstery cleaning tools.
- Microfiber Cloth, Duster, or Gloves: Do not underestimate the power of a cloth, duster, or gloves! Similar to cleaning blinds and shutters, use a clean, dry microfiber cloth, duster, or gloves to dust your fabric shades. Start by closing the coverings and dust from side to side for regular cleaning. However, be cautious with heavy dust buildup to avoid spreading more dust across the fabric. For fabric vertical blinds, move from top to bottom for easier cleaning.
- Spot Cleaning: For visible dirt or stains, lightly dampen a sponge with lukewarm water and gently wipe the impacted areas of your fabric shades. Make sure that when you squeeze your sponge there are no drops of water! Allow them to dry completely before rolling or stacking them back up.
Cleaning Curtains and Draperies
There are some helpful tips and tricks to best clean the curtains and draperies in your home.
- Know Your Fabric: Figure out what kind of fabric your draperies or curtains are made of. This will help you choose the best cleaning method without risking any mishaps.
- Dry Cleaning: Most draperies require dry cleaning to prevent shrinking, especially if they’re made of more delicate materials. Check out local listings for drapery dry cleaning services to get a better idea of costs.
- Steam Cleaning: Give your draperies a refresh by steam cleaning them while they’re still hanging. You will eliminate dust and keep your curtains looking good.
- Test Your Fabric: To avoid color bleeding accidents, test a small, hidden section of your drapery fabric before cleaning the whole thing. By choosing an inconspicuous area, you’re ensuring you aren’t making a mistake.
- Machine Washing: If you’re very confident your curtains can handle it, opt for a gentle machine wash in cold water on a delicate cycle. Remember to remove them promptly from the machine and either hang them to dry or lay them flat.
- Troublesome Pet Fur: Draperies can be plagued with pet fur, due to the type of fabrics and how low they hang in your home. Use your vacuum or attachment to gently remove the fur. A nearby lint roller will also be a tremendous help!
Time to Get Cleaning
Window treatments make a home feel cozy and lived in. Therefore, they should be cared for properly. It is best to start by reaching out to the manufacturer or where you purchased them to determine the best way to clean and care for these products. Our At Home Blinds & Decor team is ready to help you find the perfect window treatments for your home. We have insight into suggestions for cleaning blinds, shutters, drapery, and shades. Contact us today to schedule a FREE consultation.
