Tips On How To Clean Window Coverings

Windows and doors can be cleaned regularly with little effort, but cleaning blinds, shades, shutters, or other window coverings can become hectic. You may find yourself asking: What do I use? Will this stain? How do I remove stains? In this article, we have added a few tips on how to clean your window coverings.

Cleaning your blinds, shades, and plantation shutters regularly will ensure they always look their best. Don’t let dust build up on your window coverings.

Blinds, shades, and shutters give a unique touch to any house or office, but they also collect dust and grime, especially if you have pets or kids. Even if the windows are kept closed most of the time, other factors can still make them dirty. Cleaning them may seem like a mammoth task, but don’t worry. 

Here, we provide easy ways to clean them without any hassle.

Whether you have aluminum blinds, wood or faux wood blinds, curtains, roller shades, solar shades, plantation shutters, or cellular shades, we can assist you with cleaning your window coverings. Window coverings keep rooms cool or maintain privacy and add a different touch to your home or office space.

When our window coverings get dirty, they become a nuisance. Everything requires occasional cleaning, and your window coverings can be cleaned at home without hiring a professional cleaning service.

Things Required for Cleaning Blinds at Home

To clean any blind or shutter at home, gather the following items: microfiber cloth, soft brush, warm water, baking soda, vacuum cleaner, multipurpose cleaner, and sponge.

Easy Ways to Clean Blinds with Plastic or Metal Material

• Step 1: Ensure the blinds are closed so that each slat can be reached for cleaning.
• Step 2: Use a Swiffer duster to dust the blinds. Swiffer dusters can absorb dust effectively.
• Step 3: If a Swiffer duster is unavailable, use a microfiber cloth to dust the blinds.
• Step 4: Mix dish soap in warm water and use a sponge to apply it to the blind slats from top to bottom.
• Step 5: Repeat this step on the other side of the slats.
• Step 6: Clean the backside of the blinds to ensure thorough cleaning.

How to Remove Hard Stains from Blinds

• Step 1: For very dirty or greasy blinds, especially kitchen blinds, soak them in a mixture of dish soap and warm water for a few minutes, then clean them with a dry cloth or microfiber cloth.
• Step 2: If stains persist, use a multipurpose cleaner to remove all the dirt.
• Step 3: Wipe the blinds and let them dry for about an hour.

Note: This method is only recommended for some materials. Please contact us for more information before you expose your product to this much water.

When to Clean Blinds 

Blinds can be cleaned monthly, but the frequency depends on how dirty they become. There is no specific rule for cleaning them; they can also be cleaned twice a month. The more frequently you dust, the better off your window coverings are.

How to Identify If It Is a Wood Blind

Wood blinds are more delicate and require more care than plastic blinds and shutters. Many PVC blinds are designed to look like natural wood. If you need clarification on the material, consult a professional or the company that sold you the blinds. Ensure that the blinds are made of natural wood or PVC. Generally, wood blinds are lighter, have a grain pattern, and tend to become lighter in color with moisture. Once confirmed, follow the steps below.

Best Way to Clean Wood Blinds

• Step 1: Close the wood blinds and clean them using dish soap and warm water from top to bottom, ensuring you do this carefully and lightly to avoid leaving too much liquid on the wood.
• Step 2: Wood blinds cannot be dipped in water.
• Step 3: Use a small amount of dish soap or a gentle soap. First, use a multipurpose cleaner to test a small area for hard stains.

How To Clean Plantation Shutters

• Step 1: Use a feather duster to remove all dust from the shutters.
• Step 2: Wipe down with a damp cloth and water. You may mix in a small amount of mild soap if needed.
• Step 3: Dry the shutters with a dry cloth or rag.

How To Clean Fabric Blinds And Shades

Cleaning fabric blinds can seem daunting, but with the right approach, you can keep them looking fresh and new. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you clean your fabric blinds efficiently:

Step 1: Gather Your Supplies

• Vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment
• Microfiber cloth or any other clean, soft cloth
• Dish soap
• Lukewarm water
• Soft brush (optional)

Step 2: Vacuum the Blinds

Use a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment to gently remove dust from the fabric blinds or shades. Start from the top and work your way down, cleaning both sides of the blinds.

Step 3: Prepare a Cleaning Solution

Mix a small amount of dish soap with lukewarm water. Ensure the soap is mild to avoid damaging the fabric. Could you spot a sample before to ensure there will be no issues?

Step 4: Wipe the Blinds

Dip a microfiber cloth in the soapy water solution, then wring it out so it’s damp but not soaking wet. Wipe the blinds from top to bottom in a gentle, vertical motion. This helps prevent dirt from spreading and ensures a thorough cleaning.

Step 5: Clean Both Sides

Repeat the wiping process on both sides of the fabric blinds. If you don’t have a vacuum, lower the shades and use a soft brush to remove dust before wiping with the cloth.

Step 6: Remove Stubborn Stains

For more persistent stains, dip the stained area in the soapy water solution and let it soak for up to an hour. After soaking, gently blot the area with a clean cloth to lift the stain. Always test a small, inconspicuous spot first to ensure no adverse reactions.

Step 7: Dry the Blinds

After cleaning, allow the blinds to air dry. Ensure they are fully extended to prevent water spots or streaks. Depending on the fabric, this may take 2 to 3 hours.

When to Clean Fabric Blinds and Shades

Fabric blinds should be cleaned twice monthly to avoid dark stains or dust, especially in kitchens or bathrooms. Regular dusting reduces the need for extensive cleaning.

Note: Always use mild soap to avoid damaging the blind material and color, and always spot-check before cleaning new shades or using a new cleaning product!

Disclaimer: These are suggestions. Please contact the manufacturer or salesperson who sold you your window coverings to ensure proper cleaning methods.

Regular Maintenance Tips:

• Clean your fabric blinds at least twice a month to prevent dust buildup and stains.
• Regularly dust your blinds with a soft brush or vacuum to reduce the need for deep cleaning.
• Spot clean any stains as soon as they occur to prevent them from setting into the fabric.

By following these steps, you can keep your fabric blinds looking clean and fresh, enhancing the overall appearance of your home. If you have any specific concerns or your blinds require special care, consult the manufacturer’s guidelines or contact a professional cleaning service.

Conclusion

Cleaning your window coverings, whether blinds, shades, or plantation shutters, is essential to maintaining their appearance and functionality. Regular cleaning can prevent dust buildup and prolong the life of your window treatments. Whether you have plastic, metal, wood, or fabric blinds, following the appropriate cleaning methods will ensure they stay in top condition.

Each type of window covering has specific cleaning requirements, from vacuuming fabric blinds to wiping down wooden blinds with care. Using the right tools, such as microfiber cloths, soft brushes, and mild cleaning solutions, will make the task more manageable and effective.

Extra effort and the correct cleaning techniques can make a significant difference for those tough stains and hard-to-reach areas. To avoid damage, always test cleaning solutions on a small, inconspicuous area first.

If your window coverings need to be cleaned or repaired, consider replacing them. New blinds or shades can give your home a fresh look and improved functionality.

You can contact Southern Exposure for expert advice and professional installation of new window coverings. Our team is ready to help you choose the perfect treatments to enhance your home’s style and comfort.

Call Southern Exposure today at (239) 560-2062 and set up a free consultation. Let us assist you in keeping your window coverings clean and beautiful!