Just like the carpets, bedding, and couches in your home, your window treatments also need to be cleaned regularly. Remember they are not just a decorative addition but something that can help protect your flooring, furniture and other accessories from sustaining damage due to sunlight. However, they’re often overlooked when it comes to cleaning a home. With regular maintenance, you can keep your window coverings looking great and ensure they last for a long time. With the below-mentioned tips, you can increase the life of your coverings, remove allergens which can cause respiratory issues and minimize dust to ensure they look great. Keep reading to find out what they are.
General Steps for Cleaning
Find proper tools for the job
Know the material you have to deal with
Go through the washing instructions, if there are any
Decide on a method
Implement and be careful
- 1. Fabric Vertical Blinds
Vertical blinds may seem difficult to clean but with regular dusting and vacuuming, you can limit the deep cleaning to twice a year.
Begin at the top of each slat and vacuum or hand dust it on both sides.
For heavily soiled areas, take the vane down and lay it on a flat surface. Using a soft cloth or sponge with a mild detergent and warm water solution, wipe it down and blot dry once finished. If you’re thinking of using a commercial cleaner, use it on a small part of the window treatment before applying it all over.
Never immerse the window treatment fully in water.
Exception: Vertical blinds in sheer fabric can be washed by unmounting it from the vanes. Wash on gentle cycle with a mild detergent and steam or press on low before putting them back in place. Don’t use an iron or steam while they are attached to the vanes as there’s a high chance the blinds might sustain damage. Also, don’t place the fabric in the dryer.
- 2. Curtains, Valances, and Draperies
Maintaining draperies has always been a topic of discussion among experts. Some suggest dry cleaning while others disagree. This is because they’re made with exotic and luscious fabrics that can get permanently damaged and shrink when dry cleaned. Regular vacuuming is generally sufficient to clean and keep them looking beautiful.
Pay attention to the top of the window covering, both on the front and back as dirt can settle on the pleating there.
If the material is washable, follow the care instructions. Use cool water and run it on a gentle cycle on your washer with a mild detergent. It can be ironed while damp to give it a crisp look. If there is lining on the drapery, make sure you know whether both materials are washable or not.
If the curtains can be detached, you can take it outside and dust it thoroughly.
3. Solar Shades
They are popular for both indoor and outdoor use and typically used on decks and patios to protect from the glare of the sun. Since they stay outdoors, they get dirty much quicker and need regular cleaning.
Vacuum both sides using the upholstery or brush attachment.
Use a mild detergent and warm water solution to softly brush.
Thoroughly rinse and let it dry completely before mounting.
Never immerse the shades in water.
4. Natural Shades Such as Bamboo and Woven Wood
All you really need do to keep them clean is regular dusting. Never use water on wooden blinds and shutters or any kind of liquid cleaner as it can cause extensive damage to the material.
Use a feather duster or a soft cloth to lightly dust.
Vacuum using a brush or upholstery attachment, from side-to-side, all the way from the top to the bottom.
If heavily soiled, wipe gently with a moistened cloth, but not wet.
5. Soft Horizontal Blinds
Lightly vacuum occasionally using a brush attachment.
When spot cleaning, use a soft cloth or a sponge with a mild detergent and warm water solution.
Dry cleaning is not recommended.
If you are looking for new window treatments for your home in Toronto, you might want to add cleaning and maintenance to the considerations, especially if you have pets and children. A professional service can help you choose styles and fabrics that can satisfy everyone’s needs and provide stunning and easy-to-care-for designs.
