Blinds and Shades

Dear Homeowner,

Purchasing window treatments can be a major investment. You can protect this investment by engaging in proper maintenance for your blinds and shades.

·         Blinds and shades will stay in shape if you dust them monthly with a soft cloth or vacuum's brush attachment. For heavier dust on mini-blinds, use a finger-like brush designed to clean five slats at a time. Clean stained-wood blinds with furniture polish.

·         When metal or plastic mini-blinds need a more thorough cleaning, take them outside and wash the slats with a sponge and soapy water. Then, hang the slats from a clothesline and rinse with a hose. Shake off excess water, drain rails and towel dry to avoid water marks and rusting.

·         If you can't take your blinds down, fill one bucket with a solution of grease-cutting household detergent and another bucket with water. Working from the top down, wash both sides of each slat, then rinse using a second sponge dipped in plain water. Dry slats with a towel.

·         Fabric roller shades should also be taken down for a good cleaning. Place the unrolled shade on a flat surface and sponge with lukewarm water and mild soap, trying not to soak the fabric. Work in sections, removing excess moisture with a dry cloth. Hang the shade at the window, pull it down to full length and let it dry. Then, roll the shade to the top and leave it for a few hours to give a crisp, ironed look.

·         Some non-washable shades can be cleaned with wallpaper cleaner, others need dry cleaning.

For more home-and-family tips, call Real Living Sugar Pine Reality at (209) 586-3242.