Cleaning your windows is probably part of your normal cleaning routine, but how often do you think about cleaning your window treatments? Our window treatments are working hard this summer to keep our homes cool but they are notorious for collecting pet hair, dust, and dirt. But how do we clean window treatments?
Luckily for us Hunter Douglas created a Care and Cleaning Guide for all of their window treatments and their approved care methods. Each Hunter Douglas product has specific care and cleaning instructions that can be found on the product page of the Hunter Douglas website under “Manual.” We highly recommend reading up on your Hunter Douglas care instructions prior to cleaning.
At Austinatious, our team is here for design consultations in-person and virtually to those who are eager to update or add window coverings. We have always found transforming a space with window treatments to be rewarding and we love to see our customers’ reactions upon installation. If you’d like to discuss a refresh of the window treatments in your home, schedule here. If you’re happy with your current window coverings, but know they could use a little love, keep reading for some tips on how to clean window treatments!
A few things you might need:
- Vacuum with a brush attachment (preferably a soft brush)
- Microfiber cloth
- Steamer
- Mild detergent
- Soft sponge
Dusting
Regular, light dusting maintains a like-new appearance of most blinds, shades, sheers, shutters and window panels. For vertical blinds, close the blinds and hold the bottom to stabilize. Wipe in downward motion to avoid unhooking them. For horizontal blinds follow the same process but wipe from side to side. Avoid using magnetic cleaners such as a dusting mitt on light-dimming fabrics. This will damage the light-dimming backing.
Vacuuming
You can also use the brush attachment on your vacuum cleaner to gently clean draperies or shades in a vertical stroke. A soft brush attachment is recommended to avoid damaging or scratching. Do not use a brush attachment or long vertical strokes to vacuum Luminette® Privacy Sheers as these actions will crease the fabric. Also, do not vacuum Architella® Elan® and Architella Elan Eclipse® fabrics.
Blowing
Dust and dirt can be removed from your window treatments by using a can of compressed air or a hairdryer on the cool setting.
Spot Cleaning
If you find there are stains on your window treatments, use a soft cloth or soft sponge moistened with lukewarm water to spot clean. If needed for a tougher stain, add a mild detergent. Make sure to blot gently rather than rub to avoid damaging the fabric.
Steaming
If your window treatments are wrinkled or need sanitizing, a hand-held steamer can be used to steam 6” to 8” from the fabric. Do not use a heavy-duty steamer, this could damage your window treatments.
Once you’d taken the proper steps to clean your window treatment, don’t forget to clean both the interior and exterior of your window and frame! This can have a major impact on the final look. Once finished, you can step back and enjoy your clean view!