10 Tips for Extending the Life of Your Window Treatments

Window treatments deliver a terrific mix of fashion and function. They come in a wide range of sizes and styles and help complement the design of any room in your home. Plus, window treatments make it easy to manage light levels, temperature and privacy. And for many homeowners, window treatments have been shown to drive down energy costs as well.

It’s clear that blinds, shades and other window treatments work hard for your home. But without proper maintenance, window treatments can’t perform at their best. Knowing how to take care of your window treatments can help you extend their lifespan.

Here are 10 ways to prolong the life of your window treatments:

1. Sweep Away Dust

With a feather or microfiber duster or cloth, remove dust from faux wood blinds, roller shades and other window treatments. To guarantee the best-possible results when dusting, ensure the window treatments are fully extended and all slats are closed and face in the same direction. Dust lightly in the same direction as the slats; then, turn the slats approximately 90 degrees and dust once again. Finally, tilt the slats so that you can clean the other side.

2. Break Out the Vacuum

Heavy dust sometimes can be tough to remove with a traditional hand duster or cloth. Fortunately, a vacuum can help you remove heavy dust from window treatments. Use the small brush attachment of a vacuum cleaner over shades or blinds and work in the same direction as the slats. Ensure the vacuum suction is on the lowest setting to minimize the risk of twisting or warping.

3. Use a Dryer Sheet

Did you know that a dryer sheet may help you reduce the amount of time that you spend dusting and vacuuming your window treatments? Simply rub window slats with a dryer sheet after cleaning, and you may be able to prevent significant dust build-up.

4. Use Compressed Air

Compressed air may prove to be a fast and effective solution to remove dust from shades and blinds. Of course, you’ll want to keep a close eye on the amount of pressure use on your window treatments—too much pressure could damage them.

5. Perform Spot Cleaning

Spot cleaning with lukewarm water and a soft cloth or moist sponge can help you eliminate stains on shades and blinds. With wood blinds, water may damage their surface, so you should substitute water with lemon oil or a wood preservative for effective spot cleaning. Additionally, avoid abrasive cleaners or chemical solvents, as these products can cause surface damage or discoloration.

6. Bathe Your Blinds

Metal, painted and plastic blinds can be cleaned in the bathtub. Use a combination of water and a few drops of dish soap to remove debris, dust and grime. Next, towel dry each slat from front to back to avoid streaking.

7. Untangle Your Window Cords

Although tangled cords might not always affect the functionality of your blinds, they can be frustrating. Tangled cords can also detract from the overall appearance of your window treatments. If you manage your window treatment cords and hang them straight at all times, you can avoid the hassle of having to untangle them.

8. Keep the Cords Wrapped

Cord cleats are plastic or metal safety devices that allow you to wrap dangling window treatment cords. They are simple to install and enable you to keep cords tangle-free and safely out of reach of children and pets.

9. Whiten Your Window Cords

If your window treatment cords appear worn-down, try washing them with mild soap and water to give them a fresh appearance. Or, in some cases, white shoe polish can be used to cover up faded or stained window cords.

10. Clean Your Windows Carefully

Glass cleaner that is applied directly to a window may splatter on to window treatments and damage their appearance. Instead, spray glass cleaner on to a cloth and use the cloth to clean your windows.

The key to keeping your window treatments in top shape for years to come is making sure they’re clean and tidy. With these tips, your blinds and shades will continue to work hard, saving you energy, maintaining privacy, and adding to the style of your home.

Katie Laird is the Director of Social Marketing for Blinds.com and a passionate home decorator for her family with a love of all things Mid-Century Modern and blue. Discover the wide selection of window blinds on Blinds.com, as well as more tips on how to keep your treatments in great shape.