Cleaning Fabric Shades, Blinds and Window Panels

Spring Cleaning!

It’s spring cleaning season again, and you know what that means. Time for a little tlc for your favorite fabric shades, blinds and window panels. But when it comes to cleaning, knowing the best way to address fabric window coverings can be tricky - not to mention intimidating. But don’t worry. We’ve put together a few basic guidelines to help you with the process. Don’t hesitate to reach out to us here at Just Add Shutters. We’ve got solutions for all of your unique window coverings needs!

Special Instructions and Warnings

When cleaning fabric window coverings, always stop to consider any special directions or warnings that may have come with your window covering. Remember, many fabrics and other materials are specially treated or coated to repel dust, dirt, UV rays, and increase their light filtering properties. Because of this, it is important to choose your cleaning products and tools carefully. Never use magnetic cleaners such as a dusting mitt on any material with a special backing to block light, as it is likely to cause damage.

Remove Dust & Debris

The first step is always to remove dust and debris, such as pet hair, that has collected. Regular dusting goes a long way to help keep your blinds, shades and panels looking like new. Handle carefully, to avoid any soiling from the oil in your hands. For more thorough dust removal, you can use the brush attachment of your vacuum cleaner. Again, remember to ensure the brush is clean attachment is completely clean before use.

Spot Cleaning

The next step is spot cleaning. Again, double-check that spot cleaning is suitable for your window covering, as certain shadings and honeycomb materials may be more susceptible to damage. You can typically use a soft cloth or sponge, lightly moistened with lukewarm water. A mild detergent, such as Dawn may be added as needed. To dry, gently blot with a clean, natural fiber towel or cloth to avoid adding creases or damaging the fabric. Also, do an initial check for color-fastness and soiling levels. Otherwise, spot-cleaning can sometimes result in “clean patches” that are more distracting than the initial spot itself.

Cloth Tapes

A test for colorfastness is recommended prior to cleaning cloth tapes as well, preferably on the reverse side of the tape. Fabric cleaning wipes widely available at most grocery and discount stores are a good option for cleaning. Polyester responds best to cool, distilled water and a clean, white cloth. You may also use a mild detergent such as Dawn. Be particularly cautious when dealing with a tape that is shiny or has a luster. This fabric is often a rayon or acetate, which will result in a water stain. For best results with all kinds of fabrics, fabric cleaning wipes are the way to go.

Steaming

If you do end up with creases as a result of your spot-cleaning, some fabrics respond well to steaming. A hand-held travel size steamer on a continuous steam setting is best. The larger, more professional standing steamers are not recommended, as they tend to provide a heavier steam that may overwhelm your window covering.

Your Go-To Source

To learn more about the fantastic selection of stylish shutters, shades and blinds, contact your local Nashville area Just Add Shutters. When you need beautiful, stylish, shutters, shades and blinds, we are you go-to source! We also specialize in custom installation. Don’t delay, give us a call at Just Add Shutters today at (615) 296-0661. We look forward to hearing from you!

For information about special offers from Just Add Shutters, click below: http://www.justaddshuttersnashville.com/