How to Keep Your Blinds & Shades Pristine

Quality window treatments are a home investment that you will most definitely see a 100% return on. Not only do they provide a great deal of insulation and privacy, but they will also add an tremendous amount of character to any home. Once you’ve chosen a treatment that that suits your style and needs, proper maintenance is the key to a lengthy lifetime. Use this handy how-to guide to keep your blinds and shades in pristine condition.

Blinds

Plastic/Vinyl: Clean your blinds monthly to avoid any dirt build-up. Residue can be difficult to clean if allowed to sit for extended periods of time. Stay on top of it! Lower your blinds and close the slats. Wipe with a damp rag, being sure not to press too hard, as significant pressure can result in denting or cracking of the slats. Close slats the opposite direction and clean the underside with your damp rag.

Wood: Real wood blinds must be taken great care of. An excess of dampness or moisture on wood blinds can cause the slats to warp or discolor. It is not recommended that wood blinds are physically washed. In order to care for them properly, dust on the regular. The slats are smooth and the dust should be easily removed. A clean soft dust cloth works best.

Aluminum: These blinds are a magnet for dust. For easy cleaning, turn the slats closed. Spray a mixture of a small amount of dish soap and warm water onto a lint free towel (you might also use an all purpose cleaner of some sort like Windex Multi-Surface). Wipe the slats in the direction that they are facing so as to avoid any snags. Turn blinds the opposite direction and repeat. Dusting blinds frequently can also prevent build-up and makes for an easy clean when the time comes.

Shades

Cloth Pleated: Yeah, they’re a pain to clean. But regular maintenance can make the process that much easier. Do not use a cleaner of any sort on cloth shades. A vacuum works best to remove dust and dirt build-up. A clean bristle head vacuum attachment will make for an easy sweep. Keep your shades in the closed position in order to minimize grimy residue. Should you find the dirt in a state of permanence, a damp micro-fiber towel will help. Gently and quickly wipe the surface of the shades, being careful not to leave excess moisture.

Cellular Pleated: These predominantly anti-static shades require very little cleaning. A quick vacuum on the regular should keep them looking like new. Should a deeper cleaning be necessary, wipe with a soft, damp cloth using lukewarm water. To prevent staining, be sure not to over saturate.

Rolling: These shades can be easily vacuumed or wiped down with a damp cloth. As with most shades, a regular sweep with the vacuum can prevent dusty build-up.

In some cases, window treatments are beyond just a quick cleaning. In this case, it is wise to consult an expert for proper cleaning techniques.