Caring for Fabric Window Coverings
Window treatments, like blinds, can perform both a highly practical and aesthetic function. Fabric window treatments can be tailor-made to your exact requirements and last many years with the right care. But, how do you keep them looking fresh and new?
In this post, we will look for the answers to that question.
How do you wash window treatments?
That will depend on the care instructions for the fabric you have chosen and the type of window treatment. Cotton drapes, for example, can usually be put in the washer and cleaned as you would normal washing.
Blinds are trickier. If they’re cotton, canvas, or some other material that it is possible to wash at home, you can take them and clean them yourself. Hand-wash them in the tub using warm water and a mild detergent. Let them soak to get some of the grime off and then rinse and hang to dry.
If they are made from a material that is not washable, like silk, it’s best to take them down and drop them off with your dry cleaner instead.
What is the easiest way to clean fabric blinds?
Again, this depends on how sturdy the fabric is. Most of the time, your best bet is to vacuum them using the brush attachment. Always use the lowest possible strength setting and do pay attention to the creases where dust might settle.
If you vacuum them at least once a week, you’ll be able to get away with not having them professionally cleaned for a lot longer. You’ll also be able to catch stains before they have had a chance to set.
How do you get stains out of fabric blinds?
We sound a bit like a broken record, but, again, this depends on the fabric. Whatever the material, start by applying a little talcum powder. Then take a soft, clean toothbrush and gently scrub using a circular motion. This should help the stain to lift. Vacuum up the powder and give the blinds a once over.
If the stain is still there, what you do will depend on whether you can get the fabric wet or not. If you can, you can try applying a little plain soda water, letting it soak for a few seconds, and then blotting the stain. If that doesn’t work, take the blinds down and wash them.
If the fabric is too delicate to be washed, it needs to go to the dry cleaner as soon as possible. Do this quickly, and hopefully, the stain won’t have had time to set.
Conclusion
Fabric window treatments allow you to customize the way a room looks. Most of the time, a good vacuuming on a regular basis will be all that you need to lift away the worst of the grime. Do check with the suppliers of the blinds what the best cleaning solution is and be guided by what they suggest.
If you’re not sure, do consider taking them to a good dry cleaner and ask them for what they’d suggest.
If you have any questions at all, give us a call any time – 519-756-9790. We’re happy to help!