01.05.2014
Basic Window Coverings Care
Window Coverings can cost a lot of money these days, and if you are happy with the way that they look, then there are a few simple things to do to help keep them in good shape and make them last longer. Window Coverings provide 2 functions, blinds and drapes – they are practical (they protect or shade windows) and they are decorative, an important part of a room’s look.
To help keep drapes and blinds clean, vacuum regularly with a soft attachment to remove dust, lint and debris.
Next make some dust clothes that will sanitize items such as blinds that collect dust. To make these dust cloths mix a teaspoon of liquid detergent with 2 teaspoons turpentine in 1/2 to 1 gallon of hot water. Soak some clean white rags in the solution for 8 to 10 hours (remember to use protective rubber gloves to protect yourself!); now let the cloths air-dry. Another option is to is to mix 1
cup lemon oil in 2 cups hot water. Soak some clean white cloths with the solution; wring out and air dry. Store in an airtight container. For light cleaning you can also use a static charged duster. When maintaining your window coverings with light cleaning try not to push dust onto the cords.
Also a dust repellent to help blinds repel dust from collecting on them can be made; combine one part liquid fabric softer with 4 parts water and put in a labelled spray bottle; spray on soft cloth and apply to blinds and other items that have or tend to get static electricity. This will reduce the amount of dust that will otherwise collect on them. Another simply way to reduce the static on window coverings is to wipe them with a fabric softener sheet.
Because window treatments are on windows, they are very susceptible to fading and sun damage. Where window coverings are the same size, rotating them from sunny to less sunny will extend the life of that group of window coverings. Use window covering mechanisms to open and close drapes to avoid stretching by pulling the drape material.