Cleaning Window Treatments for Spring: Blinds and Shutters

As the weather warms up and the sun shines brighter, it’s time to give your home a spring cleaning. One of the best places to start spring cleaning is your windows and window treatments. Many people remember to clean their windows, but not as many remember to clean their window treatments. Dust, allergens, and dirt can accumulate on blinds and shutters over time, so thoroughly cleaning them can significantly improve your home’s air quality and appearance.

Plantation shutters  have a traditional, rich look that benefits from regular care. Cleaning shutters made from wood is relatively straightforward, requiring regular dusting and occasional deep cleaning. Start by dusting the louvers with a microfiber cloth or a feather duster, working from top to bottom. For thorough cleaning, dampen a cloth with a mild cleaning solution and wipe down each slat individually. Dry them immediately to prevent water damage.

Use a soft brush or toothbrush dipped in warm water mixed with mild detergent for stubborn stains or built-up grime. Gently scrub the affected areas, then wipe them clean with a damp cloth. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as they can damage the shutters’ finish. Once cleaned, open the louvers to allow air circulation. Ensure that they’re completely dry before closing them again.

Vinyl or composite shutters can also be wiped with dryer sheets. Avoid abrasive cleaners or solvents; clean them with mild products, a sponge, and warm water. Vacuum them with a brush attachment as needed.

Blinds  also come in various materials, like wood, vinyl, and aluminum. Each requires different cleaning methods. Dust wood blinds regularly with a soft cloth or vacuum cleaner’s brush attachment. Avoid using water or liquid cleaners on these, which can warp or damage the wood. Instead, use a specialized wood cleaner or a mixture of water and vinegar applied sparingly on a cloth for spot cleaning.

Vinyl and aluminum blinds tolerate moisture better. To clean them, close the blinds and wipe them down with a microfiber cloth or sponge dampened with water and mild detergent. Remove the blinds from the window and soak them in a bathtub filled with warm, soapy water for deeper cleaning. Then, rinse thoroughly with clean water and let them air dry completely before reinstalling.

A spring cleaning will preserve the appearance and functionality of cellular blinds. Start by lowering the blinds fully to access both sides. Working top to bottom, use a soft brush or vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment to gently remove dust and debris from the blinds’ surfaces. For stains, apply a mild solution of warm water and gentle detergent with a sponge or cloth, taking care not to saturate the fabric. Rinse with clean water and air dry completely before raising the blinds.

If you’re ready to upgrade your window treatments, look no further than Custom Wood Shutters & Blinds. Our interior design team will answer your questions and help you make the right choices.  Contact us for more information on selecting and cleaning window treatments near Tustin, California.

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