It's estimated that window shades and blinds only last for six to eight years before you start to notice signs of wear and tear that could suggest replacement. But if you take the time to regularly maintain your blinds and shades, chances are that they're going to last for significantly longer. This can help save money while keeping your property looking good.
In this post, we'll discuss some of the maintenance steps you can take to ensure the long-term performance and aesthetics of your window treatments. Read on to learn more:
Tips for Maintaining Your Window Shades and Blinds
Here's a look at some tips for maintaining your window shades and blinds:
Routine Dustings
Like anything in your property, blinds and shades are bound to accumulate dust over time. And like anything that's accumulating dust, this can have a major impact on appearance. In the case of your window treatments, it may also impact their performance. The best way to prevent dust buildup on your blinds and shades is to make sure that you're dusting them regularly. Depending on the property, some window treatments may need to be dusted once or twice a week. In other cases, monthly dusting is acceptable.
In addition to dusting, make sure that you're regularly cleaning the hardware to keep any blinds or shades operating efficiently.
One additional benefit of regular cleanings is that you can more quickly identify any spots or stains that may need to be cleaned. These can be easily removed with a soft cloth and warm water. If necessary, a mild detergent can be used.
Remove Wrinkles and Replace Slats
Dust, spots and stains aren't the only thing that can impact the appearance of blinds or shades - so can wrinkles on shades and damage to blind slats. Here's a look at how to address each:
• Wrinkled shades: Shades can wrinkle over time, especially if they're raised and allowed to bunch up for an extended period. The good news is that it's fairly easy to remove wrinkles. Start by lowering the shades and keep them in this position for a few days. From here, you can either steam the wrinkles out with a handheld steamer or use some other sort of wrinkle-remover (i.e., sprays).
• Damage to blind slats: The easiest way to repair damage to blind slats is to simply remove the slats that need repair. Remove slats by first removing the plugs under the bottom rail of the blinds and then untie the cord lift. Gently pull the lift cord through the slats until you reach the impacted one and simply swap out the damaged slat for a new one. Thread the lift cord back and replace the bottom plugs.
Consider Professional Cleaning
Don't be afraid to seek professional cleaning for your window blinds and shades. While anyone can perform routine cleaning, a professional can help remove deeply embedded soils and ensure that your hardware is performing smoothly. Even just working with a professional every two to three years can make a big difference and ensure you maximize the lifetime of any window treatments on your property.
Be Gentle
One of the best ways to extend the life of your blinds and shades is simply to treat them well. Avoid applying excessive force when operating your window treatments that could potentially cause damage to the blinds or shades or the mechanisms that are used to operate them. Be gentle when you're opening and closing your treatments and keep any cords away from objects or appliances that they could potentially snag on.
Take Measures to Prevent Sun Damage
Exposure to sunlight over an elongated period can take its toll on certain materials, and blinds and shades are no exception. The sun's rays are strong and can cause fading and deterioration of blinds and shades over time, potentially resulting in premature replacement. One way to prevent fading and deterioration from the sun's rays is to install window films that block UV rays on your windows. These films are typically easy to install, don't impact the aesthetic of your windows and work effectively in preventing sun damage.
Work with a Reputable Window Treatment Manufacturer
Last but not least, there's value in working with a reputable window treatment manufacturer the next time you're selecting blinds or shades. You often get what you pay for - and window treatments are no exception. Quality manufacturers tend to produce higher quality products, from the treatment itself to the hardware that's used to operate it.
