Maintenance and Cleaning

All blinds and shutters require some regular cleaning maintenance in order to preserve their integrity. In all cases, the cleaning process should first be tested in an inconspicuous area.

General Maintenance

Most roman blinds and roller blinds simply require regular vacuuming in order to keep them in top condition.

If you have venetian blinds, we also recommend the use of a static duster to prevent dust build up.

Dust should be brushed off at regular intervals using a clean, soft dust cloth or with a vacuum cleaner and a soft brush attachment. Washing is not recommended, as excessive dampness may cause warpage and discolouration of the blind.

Stain Removal

To remove wet or embedded stains - Sponge the blinds clean with a damp cloth. Dilute washing liquid in warm water and avoid rubbing the stain if possible. Do not immerse blinds in water.

Spot Cleaning

Small dry marks may be rubbed off quite effectively with a gum-based eraser. If this fails, use the method described in the paragraph above (stain removal).

PVC Coated Fabrics

Strong PVC coated fibreglass fabrics are particularly resistant to soiling and be wiped, or vigorously rubbed with a soft cloth. These fabrics are also more tolerant to detergents than most, and be treated with more caustic cleaners if absolutely necessary.

Water Damage

Blinds do not usually get water damage from a small amount of water if removed within a short space of time, usually 20-30 minutes.

Larger volumes of water splashed onto blinds or shutters that are left for more than 30 minutes - can penetrate through the coating and/or up the end grain of the slats, route holes and slots. This will severely damage the blind and must be avoided at all times.

Salt Damage

Salt mist from near sea locations can settle on the surface of blinds or shutters and cause them to degrade.

The salt build up can be noticed by passing your fingers over the surface and observing an oily/moist film, which smears upon touch. The salt film becomes liquid in periods of higher humidity and as with water, it will penetrate through the painted or lacquered surface, and damage it.

If a buildup of a salt layer is observed, it should be removed by wiping it down with a moist soft cloth and mild soapy warm water. Once the salt layer has been removed, and the surface is dry - it is best to apply a good quality furniture wax or polish to the surface in order to enhance the water-repellent properties and protect it.

Do not use silicon based products as this will prevent refinishing your blind or shutter if its required in the future.

Prevention

Avoid repeated or heavy water contact with the blind or shutter. Remove any water as quickly as possible.

Ultrasonic Cleaning

Ultrasonic cleaning can be very effective way to improve the condition of your blinds, especially older blinds showing signs of age related soiling. However, ultrasonic cleaning may lead to fabric shrinkage and/or distortion as it involves complete immersion in water.

Before consulting any ultrasonic cleaner, we recommend that you ask them if they guarantee their work.

Mould Prevention

Many of our fabrics are treated with mould repelling agents, however under certain conditions, even these preventative measures can be rendered ineffective. High levels of humidity inside your house can lead to mould grown on any surface, including your blinds. Obvious areas like bathrooms are most common, but any room can have a humidity problem.

When the warm air inside your home comes into contact with the cold glass of your windows, condensation can occur. This can trap a layer of moisture between your windows and your blinds. Over time, this may lead to the growth of mould.

Proper ventilation is the simplest way to reduce humidity levels. However where this is not possible, installing a de-humidifier is another way to solve the problem.

p. P.O. Box 153 Vaucluse, NSW, 2030