Cleaning Window Treatments: 5 Mistakes Homeowners Make

Wed, 21 Apr 2021 22:22:00 +0000

If you are to clean your window treatments, it’s advisable to do it right. It is the best way to remove dust, hair, dirt or any other debris from your signature pieces and fabrics. Some people do it right, and others get it wrong. Below is a look at how and where most of us go wrong.

Using harsh chemicals

Resorting to harsh industrial cleaners to clear deep stains or remove discolorations could do more harm than good. The harsh power cleaners can ruin and further discolor blinds,shades or curtains altogether. If you have heavily stained window treatments, contact a professional cleaning service for heavy-duty cleaning.

Ignoring cleaning and care instructions

Almost every window treatment comes with its own special instructions on how to clean and maintain. Based on the material, it could be as simple as vacuuming the dust or using a damp cloth. Regardless of what you think you know, ensure you follow the instructions given.

Not testing the cleaning solution before using it on visible areas

When it comes to your window treatments, it is necessary to test the product you want to use. Select a part of your blind that’s not easily noticeable and apply the cleaning solution. Leave it for a few hours and later check for any changes in color or damage. To be safe, if there are any changes, do not use it. Some cleaning companies are willing to offer free samples for testing, so feel free to contact them before purchasing a cleaning product you are not sure of.

Soaking and using excessive water on the window treatment

As much as water is important in cleaning the window treatment, too much of it can stain or discolor the fabric. Make sure you completely wring out the cleaning cloth before cleaning the window treatment, especially wooden blinds, which soak up the moisture. Always use a dry cloth to wipe off any excess moisture.

Not giving immediate attention to stains/spills

In case of any spills or splashes on your window treatment, clean in it as soon as possible. If left to linger for long, the liquid will settle in the fibers of the fabric, resulting in a big stain, which will be difficult to clean. Get a damp cloth immediately and wipe the blinds to soak out as much as liquid as you can. DO NOT rub it as this is likely to cause a deeper stain. You can also use spot-cleaning treatments to prevent permanent damage. If you don’t notice the spots until much later, forget about regular cleaning and get a qualified cleaner to do the work for you.

Cleaning window treatments may seem as easy as just vacuuming or wiping them. However you, risk damaging them if you don’t know the correct cleaning products for your fabric. If you are unsure of anything regarding window treatments-from cleaning to the best window fabric to purchase-feel free to contact us.

What Are Solar Shades?

Wed, 17 Mar 2021 15:07:00 +0000

Solar shades offer excellent sun- and light-blocking benefits. If excessive sunlight shines through your windows, then solar shades may be the ideal solution. Solar Shades are an excellent window treatment option for windows in rooms that are exposed to the sun. Besides simply blocking the light, solar shades also reduce glare, protect against harmful UV rays, and prevent fading from the sun on carpets, furniture, and household surfaces.

When it comes to choosing window treatments, you may notice that some solar shades may have different percentage options. These percentages represent the openness factor, or how much UV rays and light are filtered through the shades. A lower percentage number indicates a greater solar shade opacity.

For example, if you want a significant amount of light and UV protection, you should choose a solar shade with 1% -3% openness. For moderate light control and protection, 5% solar shades are a good choice. However, if you want to allow more light, you can choose solar shades with up to 14% openness.

Do Solar Shades Provide Privacy?

Solar Shades offer moderate daytime privacy and can prevent people from being able to see into your home. Of all the solar shade options, 1% solar shades offer the most privacy, since they have the tightest weave. If you’re looking for maximum privacy over light control however, you may be better off with a more protective option, a roller shade.

Do Solar Shades Block Out Heat?

Yes, solar shades reduce heat by minimizing glare and blocking out light. Similar to the degree of light that is allowed in, the level of heat protection from solar shades also depends on the openness of the weave (the solar shade percentage). The fabric color can also influence heat and light blockage. Since lighter fabrics reflect more light compared to darker ones, choose darker fabrics if you want to block more light and heat.

Want to learn more? Contact us today and talk with our solar shades specialist.

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