How To Clean Window Treatments
In routine household cleaning, window treatments are frequently neglected. However, blinds, curtains, and shades, like any other part of your home, can accumulate dust and dirt. Regular maintenance of these window treatments not only reduces allergens in your living space but also enhances their aesthetic appeal and prolongs their lifespan. Ensuring the cleanliness of your window treatments contributes to a healthier environment and maintains the overall elegance of your home.
Cleaning Tips for Universal
Vacuuming
To clean dust and debris from the blinds or shades, use a gentle brush attachment on your vacuum. This will lessen the chance of dirt and filth accumulating.
Rubber Sponge
You can use a rubber sponge to clean the dust and filth from the blinds. You don't need to worry about breaking the motorized components of your window coverings because this procedure doesn't involve water.
Lamb's Wool
A lambswool dust cloth can be used for extra thorough cleaning. Starting at the top and slid it horizontally along each slat or panel, working your way down.
Cleaning Various Blinds
Wood blinds
Wood blinds with painted or stained finishes should be cleaned monthly with a feather duster, avoiding water. For an annual deep clean, follow these steps:
- Lower the blinds fully.
- Tilt the slats slightly open.
- Dust each slat.
- Wipe each slat with a soft cloth and wood spray polish.
Aluminum Blinds
Aluminum blinds can be cleaned monthly with a feather duster and annually with a deep clean. Follow these steps:
- Lower blinds fully and tilt slats slightly open.
- Dust each slat with a feather duster.
- Lightly vacuum with an upholstery attachment.
- Spot clean with a soft cloth or sponge using mild soap and warm water.
- Let blinds air dry with slats open.
Always use a soft cloth, dust cloth, or dusting mitt and avoid ultrasonic cleaning, chemical solvents, and scrubbing cleansers.
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Cleaning Various Shades
Cellular Shades
Cellular shades, also known as honeycomb shades, resemble an accordion when raised and lowered. To clean them:
- Pull the shades down and lightly dust or vacuum with the upholstery attachment.
- Spot clean with a soft cloth using mild soap and warm water, wiping gently parallel to the pleats.
- Allow the shades to air dry completely before raising them.
Avoid using spot removers or strong soaps, and be careful not to crush or wrinkle the fabric.
Roman shades
Roman shades come in various styles, including flat, pleated, tied, and swagged designs. For tailored Roman shades that require thorough cleaning, it is advisable to consult an experienced professional, as not all dry cleaners are equipped to clean them safely and effectively. For classic Roman shades, follow these steps:
- Remove the shade from the window.
- Fully open the shade and lay the fabric flat on a surface.
- Spot clean with a soft cloth, using mild detergent and warm water.
- Allow the shades to air dry completely before reinstalling and raising them.
This ensures your shades are cleaned properly without risking damage.
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Cleaning Various Drapery
Sheer Curtains
Sheer curtains, designed to filter light, require careful handling due to their delicate fabric. To clean them properly, follow these steps:
- Vacuum: Using the upholstery attachment, start at the top of the curtain and work in sections, pulling the fabric taut to clean the entire panel.
- Hand Wash: Fill a bucket with cold water and mild detergent. Submerge one panel at a time, letting it soak for 10 minutes. Swirl the panel, then drain and refill the bucket with cold water, rinsing until all soap residue is removed.
- Crisp Feel: To restore their crispness, soak the freshly washed panel in a sink of cold water with one cup of dissolved Epsom salt for 10 minutes.
- Dry: Gently press out excess water without rinsing. Hang the curtain to dry completely before rehanging on the curtain rod.
This method ensures your sheer curtains are cleaned gently and retain their quality.
Velvet curtains
Velvet curtains are generally thick and highly absorbent. After removing the curtains, shake them outdoors to remove loose dust, then soak them in water with detergent for about 15 minutes. After cleaning, gently wring the curtains to about 70% dry and let the remaining water evaporate naturally.
linen curtains
Linen curtains have a firm and structured texture, making them relatively easy to clean. However, improper cleaning can easily cause deformation, resulting in wrinkles and poor drape. Therefore, it is recommended to hand wash them to maintain their shape. If you do not mind potential deformation, you can use a washing machine, but be aware that dirt from the curtains may accumulate on the inner walls of the machine, making it very dirty.
