Tips on Properly Cleaning Window Treatments

Dec. 7, 2011 - PRLog -- Tips on Properly cleaning Shutters

Cleaning shutters is very similar to cleaning wood blinds. I would not recommend cleaning them with any detergents other than cleaning products specifically for wood. If dust and dirt build up is heavy, you can go over them (closed) with a vacuum fitted with a brush attachment.
Once excess dust is removed, open the shutters and wipe over each louver with a soft cloth dampened with a wood cleaning product, such as Pledge.
I do not recommend cleaning wood shutters with warm or hot water. No matter the quality of the shutters, even if they are high-end and resist humidity and moisture, direct contact with water on a regular basis could possibly cause warping and wearing of the finish over time.

Tips on Properly Cleaning Fauxwood Blinds
Cleaning faux wood blinds can be a quick, easy process if done correctly. Depending on the amount of dust on your blinds, there are various ways to clean them. You can either use a feather duster, a soft cloth or vacuum with a brush attachment. You can also use a mild, non-abrasive cleaning product with warm water if they need heavier cleaning. Do not use hot water, however. You can easily dry them with a clean, dry soft cloth.
It would be ideal to add this to your regular cleaning routine to avoid heavy dust build-up. Cleaning the blinds isn't something a lot of people think about on a regular basis, but doing so makes your cleaning routine a lot easier. It's also good for your allergies to get rid of that dust!

Tips on Properly Cleaning Real Wood Blinds
Cleaning real wood blinds differs greatly from faux wood. You need to treat it like it's your wood furniture. While you can still use a brush attachment on your vacuum, a soft cloth or feather duster, you do not want to use water or any soap. Dust the blinds regularly; then on occasion, you can wipe them down with a soft cloth and a wood cleaner/polish or maintain the wood's beautiful finish.

Tips on Properly Cleaning Mini Blinds
Cleaning your mini blinds is pretty easy, but sometimes a tedious task. But with vinyl mini blinds you definitely want to keep them clean, because dirt and dust tends to be pretty visible, and make your blinds look old. We recommend that you first open them and  vacuum them using a brush attachment to remove the excess dust. Then close them; and you can either take them off the headrail and lay them flat on the ground (depends on how they're hung) or you can leave them hanging and go over them thoroughly with a soft damp cloth and a mild detergent. It's best to wipe them dry with a dry, soft cloth in order to wipe away any other residue.

Tips on Properly Cleaning Draperies
The very first important tip you need to remember: NEVER machine or hand wash your drapes. The fabrics will most likely draw and shrink up and they'll no longer be usable. It will also cause them to loose their crisp, tailored appearance.
If your drapes are in much need of cleaning, let's say, because they are located in a high-traffic area or if you have small children or pets, then you'll more than likely need to dry clean them. Ask a few dry cleaners how much they charge and see if they have any consumer reviews online. Your drapes were a good investment that you want the best care taken of; much like a wedding dress or an expensive fur coat! Reviews online are a great way of choosing a company of any sort. You want to make sure the company you choose is reliable and is experienced in taking care of expensive, delicate materials.  
If in need of some light dusting, we recommend using a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment. Be careful with lighter and more delicate fabric; you don't want to "brush" the fabric while cleaning, that will cause pulls in the fabric. If your material is so delicate that you don't feel comfortable using a vacuum, you can take them outside, with the help of someone else holding them, gently brush over them with a feather duster. You may have to use your hands to pull off dust bunnies that collect at the hem.
If anything, use your discretion on how often your drapes need cleaning. No one knows as well as you what your drapes are exposed to. One thing is fur sure, regular cleaning and care will extend the life and the beauty of any draperies. Protect your investment and figure out a regular cleaning method and routine that works for you!

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