Hunter Douglas EverWood® alternative wood blinds
As a window treatments designer, one of the most common questions I receive from clients during a design consultation is: how do I clean my new treatments?
In most cases, you already have the required tools laying around the house. And for window coverings that are more delicate or hard-to-reach, there are many cleaning services that specialize in window treatments.
Do you have window treatments on your spring cleaning to-do list but not sure where to start? Or are you considering purchasing new window treatments and want to choose the covering that is most easy to clean? Check out my expert tips and tricks below.
Hunter Douglas NewStyle™ hybrid shutters
What are the easiest window treatments to clean?
Faux or alternative wood blinds and shutters are the easiest window treatments to clean. They are impervious to mold and mildew and require just periodic dusting to stay looking their best.
How often should I clean my new window treatments?
I find that most homeowners rarely clean their window treatments which is a big mistake – regular care will extend the life and look of your window treatments. I advise clients to add their window treatments to their normal cleaning schedule. When you dust your furniture, dust your blinds or shutters. In some cases, all that is required is to simply operate the window coverings. Regular movement will help keep dust and grime from collecting on the surface.
For delicate treatments that need professional cleaning, I advise hiring a service every 5-7 years to keep your custom window treatments looking their best.
Should I remove the window treatments before cleaning?
Many online sources will advise you to clean some window treatments, like blinds, in the bathtub. I would not recommend this. In most cases, window treatments should be dusted or spot cleaned in place to avoid damage, shrinking or wrinkling.
For a more thorough cleaning of your Hunter Douglas blinds, you may remove your treatments and set them on a large flat surface.
Hunter Douglas Duette® Architella® Honeycomb Shades
What cleaning tools do I need?
Usually a soft damp cloth, sponge or duster are all you need to keep your window treatments looking clean. You can also use the brush attachment on your vacuum, but only if the suction setting is set to low. It’s important to only select cleaning products that are gentle on surfaces, like mild detergent, Windex or Pledge (for wood products only) and avoid abrasive products and bleach which may damage the finish.
And my secret weapon? A hairdryer. Window treatments with front and back panels, like honeycomb shades, often get bugs and particles trapped in-between the panels. A quick, cool-shot with your hairdryer will remove any unwanted debris.
When should I hire a professional?
Delicate window treatments and draperies often require care from a professional cleaner and should not be cleaned or laundered at home. Your neighborhood dryer cleaner is the best place to take your custom draperies, with the exception of silk fabrics. Custom shades and shadings will require the care of a service that specializes in electrostatic cleaning.
Are your window treatments hard to reach? Handyman services can provide the tall ladders or scaffolding necessary to access high-up window treatments.
Disclaimer: For more specific care instructions, it’s best to contact the manufacturer of your window treatments.
