Plantation shutters are an excellent way to add personality to your home decor. It adds value to your indoor aesthetics and grabs the eye of anyone who enters. But it requires regular care and maintenance for a healthy and striking appearance.
Although plantation shutters are the robust and hardwearing window dressing options available, they still require maintenance and upkeep to work effectively and continue providing the stylish look they offer homes and shops.
In today’s blog, we will discuss plantation shutter cleaning and maintenance. We will also focus on how different shutters require different care routines.
How Often Should You Clean Your Plantation Shutters?
Cleaning frequency for plantation shutters can vary depending on factors such as the environment, dust or debris in your home, and personal preferences. However, here are some general guidelines for cleaning frequency:- Dusting: It’s recommended to wipe your shutters every week. Regular dusting helps prevent debris buildup and keeps the shutters looking clean and fresh. Use a soft cloth, a microfiber duster, or a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment to remove dust from the surface of the shutter.
- Intensive Cleaning: It’s advisable to perform a more thorough cleaning with water and a mild detergent once a month. The deeper cleaning allows you to remove any accumulated dust or grime that may have settled in the nooks and crannies of the shutters.
Timber Plantation Shutter Cleaning and Maintenance
Moisture can damage timber plantation shutters, causing warping or breakage. Therefore, it’s essential to be cautious when cleaning them. Here are some additional tips for maintaining timber plantation shutters:- Dusting: Regular dusting with a soft cloth or duster effectively keeps timber shutters clean. It helps to prevent the accumulation of dust and debris, which can affect the appearance of the shutters.
- Furniture Polish: Using a furniture polish designed explicitly for wood can help restore the vibrance of the timber and provide some protection. Apply a small amount of furniture polish to a clean, soft cloth and gently wipe the shutters, following the grain of the wood. Remember to use a non-abrasive cloth to avoid scratching the timber
- Avoid Liquids and Detergents:As you mentioned, avoiding using liquids or detergents when cleaning timber shutters is crucial. Excessive moisture can seep into the wood and cause damage. Stick to dry or slightly damp cloths for cleaning purposes.
- Gentle Cloth: When wiping down the shutters, always use a gentle cloth to avoid scratching the timber surface. Microfiber clothes or soft cotton clothes are good options. Avoid using abrasive materials or rough scrub brushes.
- Spot Cleaning: For minor stains or marks, use a slightly damp cloth with mild soap and water to gently clean the affected area. After spot cleaning, dry the area thoroughly to prevent moisture damage.
PVC Plantation Shutter Cleaning and Maintenance
PVC plantation shutters require low maintenance and are easy to clean. Here are some additional tips for cleaning PVC plantation shutters:- Dusting : Regular dusting is vital to prevent the accumulation of dust and allergens. Use a soft cloth, a microfiber duster, or a vacuum cleaner to remove dust from the surface and between the shutter blades. It should be done at least once a month or more frequently if needed.
- Damp Cloth Cleaning : You can use a wet cloth to wipe down the PVC shutter blades for deeper cleaning. You can mix plain water with a mild detergent for more stubborn dirt or stains. Gently wipe the surface of the shutters with a damp cloth, making sure to remove any residue or grime.
- Avoid Harsh Cleaners: It’s important to avoid using household cleaners or bleach on PVC shutters, as they can strip the paint or finish and cause damage. Stick to mild soaps or detergents specifically designed for gentle cleaning.
- Rinse and Dry: After cleaning with a damp cloth, rinse the shutters with clean water to remove any soap residue. Dry the shutters thoroughly with a clean cloth to prevent water spots or damage.
- Avoid Excessive Pressure: When cleaning PVC shutters, avoid applying excessive pressure or scrubbing too vigorously, which can scratch or damage the surface. Gently wipe, and pat dry the shutters instead.
Aluminium Plantation Shutters Cleaning and Maintenance
Aluminium plantation shutters are known for their durability and easy maintenance. Here are some cleaning tips for aluminium shutters:- Regular Dusting: Use a soft cloth or duster to dust the surface of the aluminium shutters regularly. It will prevent the accumulation of dust and maintain their appearance.
- Damp Cloth Cleaning: For more thorough cleaning, you can use a wet cloth to wipe down the shutters. A mixture of water and mild detergent can be used to remove dirt or stains. Gently wipe the surface of the shutters, paying attention to any problem areas.
- Avoid Harsh Cleaners: Harsh cleaners should be avoided as they can damage the powder coating or finish of the aluminium shutters. Stick to mild soaps or detergents specifically designed for gentle cleaning.
- External Shutters: If your aluminium shutters are installed externally, you can use a hose to rinse them. Start by hosing off any loose dirt or debris, and then use a soft cloth or sponge with mild detergent to clean the shutters. Rinse them thoroughly with clean water and allow them to air dry.
- Check for Damage: While cleaning, it’s a good idea to inspect the shutters for any signs of damage, such as dents or scratches. If you notice any issues, contact the manufacturer or a professional for guidance on repair or replacement.
Additional Tips
- Avoid excessive water or allowing water to pool on the shutters, as it can cause warping or damage.
- For stubborn stains or heavily soiled shutters, consider consulting a professional cleaner who specialises in plantation shutter cleaning.
- Regularly inspect the shutters for any signs of damage or wear. Replace any damaged parts or seek professional repair if needed.