Caring For Wood Blinds: What You Should Know
Wood blinds can add a lot of warmth and character to your home. They're also extremely durable and, with proper care, can last for many years to come before needing to be replaced. Still, as with any type of blind, there are some basic care and maintenance tips you'll need to follow to keep your wooden blinds operating smoothly and looking their best.
Dust Often (And Properly)
One of the most important things you can do to keep your wood blinds clean is to dust them regularly. Because of their crevices and slats, blinds are notorious for collecting dust. This dust buildup can not only affect your indoor air quality but can dull the beauty of the natural wood as well. By taking the time to dust your blinds at least a few times a week, you can keep them looking great.
There are many ways to easily dust your wood blinds. A traditional feather duster swiped over each individual slat will get the job done well enough, as will a microfiber cloth. Another option for dusting your wood blinds quickly and easily is to use a soft-bristle brush attachment on a handheld or cordless vacuum. You can even repel dust from accumulating on your blinds by wiping a dryer sheet over them after dusting them.
Deep-Clean Once a Year
In addition to frequent dusting, you can give your wood blinds a "deep-clean" about once a year. This is ideal for removing grease and other debris that dusting alone may not take care of. When cleaning wood blinds, it's important to avoid using too much water, as this can cause the wood to swell and become damaged. The best way to deep-clean your wood blinds is to apply a small amount of a wood soap to a damp cloth. From there, you can wipe down each individual slat or even spot-clean your blinds as needed. While you clean, be sure to wipe dry immediately with a clean microfiber cloth.
Restore Shine With Polish
If the finish on your wood blinds is looking a little dull, then you can add some shine using your favorite wood polish. The thing to remember here is to apply the polish to a cloth before wiping it down on the slats; do not spray the polish directly onto the wood, as this could cause damage.
With the proper care, your wood blinds should remain beautiful and operational for many years. Just be sure to keep them well dusted and cleaned using these simple tips!
TO learn more about getting and maintaining your custom window blinds, contact professionals in your area.