Cleaning Tips for Blinds & Shades
One of the easiest ways to spruce up your home is to change out your window treatments for fresh, well-designed custom blinds or shades, which offer both functionality and updated style for your windows. However, purchasing them is only half the battle; to maintain their appearance and longevity, regular cleaning is an essential part of protecting your investment. Whether you have wood blinds, fabric shades, or roller blinds, each type requires specific care. In this post, we’ll share practical cleaning tips to help you keep your blinds and shades pristine, enhancing your home’s ambiance.
Best Blinds & Awnings is a company specializing in custom blinds and shades with locations in Spokane, Coeur d’Alene, and Lewiston. Not only can we help you select window treatments that reflect your unique style, but we can guide you through the ins and outs of cleaning and maintenance to keep them looking great!
Why Cleaning Matters: It’s About More Than Looks
You might be wondering, “Do I really need to clean my blinds and shades?” The short answer is yes, and here’s why:
- They’re dust magnets: Over time, blinds and shades collect dust, dirt, and even allergens.
- It’s about health: Keeping them clean means better air quality in your home. Your nose will thank you!
- Longevity is vital: Regular cleaning prevents wear and tear, helping your window treatments last longer.
- Appearance counts: Let’s face it, clean blinds just look better. They can completely brighten up a room.
Window treatments are often overlooked when cleaning, which is a shame since regular upkeep is so simple and makes a noticeable difference in your living environment. Now that you know, let’s roll up our sleeves and get to it!
Wooden Blinds: Treat Wood with Respect
Wooden blinds add a touch of elegance to any room, but they need a gentle approach:
- Regular dusting: Use a microfiber cloth or feather duster. It’s quick and easy. Make sure the cloth or duster you use is actually picking up the dust and not just moving it around.
- Dealing with spots: For stubborn marks, use a barely damp cloth with mild soap. Remember, wood doesn’t like too much moisture. Avoid overwetting it to prevent swelling, mildew, and cracks.
- Optional polish: If you want to add shine, a little wood polish goes a long way.
Cellular Shades (AKA Honeycomb Shades): Handle with Care
These energy-efficient shades can be tricky, but don’t worry, we’ve got you covered:
- Gentle vacuuming: Use a handheld vacuum with a brush attachment. Be gentle when handling blinds and shades to maintain their shape.
- Inner dusting: To clear dust or debris from inside the cells of the blinds, use canned air, aiming the nozzle into each individual compartment to blow out the dust.
- Spot cleaning: For stains, lightly dab with a mixture of lukewarm water and mild detergent. Avoid rubbing.
- Deep cleaning: For a thorough cleanse, consider professional services. They know how to handle these delicate shades, and some jobs are just better left to the pros.
Roller Blinds: Easy Does It
Good news! Roller blinds are pretty low-maintenance:
- Regular dusting: A quick wipe with a soft cloth usually does the trick.
- Deeper cleaning: When needed, use a sponge with mild soapy water. Let them completely dry while fully extended. Trapping moisture could cause discoloration or damage.
- Stain removal: Act fast on stains with a fabric-safe cleaner, blotting gently.
Fabric Shades: Treat Them Like Fine Clothes
Roman and other fabric shades need a bit more care:
- Careful vacuuming: Use a brush attachment and be gentle, especially on pleats or folds.
- Spot cleaning: Test cleaners on a hidden area first, then gently treat stains as needed.
- Professional help: For heavily soiled or delicate fabrics, professional cleaning might be your best bet.
Zebra Blinds: Maintain Their Stripes
These stylish blinds require a careful touch:
- Light dusting: A microfiber cloth works well for regular maintenance.
- Spot cleaning: Use a damp cloth on solid sections, being careful not to saturate the fabric. Test any soap or stain-removing product on a hidden spot before using it in a more noticeable place.
- Professional cleaning: For a deep clean, consider calling in the experts.
Tips for All Your Window Treatments
- Make it routine: Set a monthly reminder. Regular cleaning makes the job easier each time.
- Gentle products: Stick to mild detergents. Harsh chemicals can damage your blinds and shades.
- Quick response: The sooner you clean a spill or mark, the less likely it’ll become a permanent stain.
Call Best Blinds & Awnings Today
There you have it – your guide to keeping those window treatments in top shape. It might not be the most exciting task, but a little regular care goes a long way. Your blinds and shades will last longer, look better, and you’ll breathe easier, too.
Remember, if you’re in North Idaho, Eastern Washington, or the Lewis Clark Valley and feel like your window treatments need more than a clean — perhaps an update or a custom fit — Best Blinds & Awnings is here to help. We’re experts in making your windows look their best.
Happy cleaning! Your windows (and your home) will shine brighter for it.