Let's be honest – cleaning window treatments isn't exactly at the top of anyone's fun-to-do list. But here's the thing: dirty, dusty shades can make even the most beautiful room look neglected. The good news? Cleaning your window treatments doesn't have to be a huge hassle if you know the right methods. And that's why AOSKY's team prepares this cleaning guide for you!
Whether you've got roller shades in your living room, Roman shades in your bedroom, or cellular shades throughout your house, we're going to walk you through exactly how to keep them looking fresh and new.
At AOSKY, we want your window treatments to look as good as the day you installed them, so we're sharing all our best cleaning tips and notes.
Why Cleaning Your Window Treatments Actually Matters
Before we jump into the how-to stuff, let's talk about why this matters.
Clean window treatments don't just look better – they actually work better too. Dust and dirt can clog up the mechanisms, make fabrics fade faster, and even affect how much light they filter. Plus, dirty shades can harbor allergens and dust mites, which isn't great for anyone with allergies.
However, we do understand that cleaning usually refers to loads of work to do. To most people, it's a headache. But with our tips, you can handle it like a piece of cake.
Regular cleaning extends the life of your window treatments. We've seen shades that are 10+ years old still looking amazing because their owners took good care of them. On the flip side, neglected shades often need replacing within just a few years. That's why every customer buys shades from us, we would suggest them keep a regular and simple cleaning.
How Often Should You Clean Different Types of Shades?
But how long shall I clean my shades? Well, not all window treatments need the same cleaning schedule. Here's what we recommend:
Weekly: Light dusting with a microfiber cloth or vacuum brush
Monthly: Spot cleaning for any stains or marks
Every 3-6 months: Deep cleaning depending on the room and shade type (Don't worry, we have step by step guide for you)
Annually: Professional cleaning for expensive or delicate treatments (This only for old or shades that's not been washed for a long time )
Rooms like kitchens and bathrooms need more frequent cleaning because of grease, steam, and humidity. Bedrooms and living rooms can usually go longer between deep cleans.
Related Cares & Tips
6 Easy Steps to Clean Your Kitchen Shades
6 Easy Steps to Clean Your Bathroom Shades
Cleaning Roller Shades
Roller shades are probably the easiest window treatments to clean, which is one reason they're so popular. The smooth fabric surface doesn't trap dust like pleated styles do.
For regular maintenance:
Start by fully extending your roller shade so you can see the entire surface. Use a microfiber cloth or vacuum with a brush attachment to remove surface dust. Work from top to bottom in smooth strokes – don't press too hard or you might damage the fabric.
Note: If you do this, you might not need deep cleaning. Daily or Weekly maintenance save your trouble for the future!
For deeper cleaning:
Mix a small amount of mild dish soap with lukewarm water. Dip a clean cloth in the solution, wring it out well (it should be damp, not wet), and gently wipe the shade surface. Follow up with a clean, damp cloth to remove any soap residue, then let the shade air dry completely before rolling it up.
Pro tip: Never use harsh chemicals or bleach on roller shades. AOSKY roller shades are made with high-quality polyester that cleans easily with just soap and water.
For blackout shades, be extra gentle around the edges where the blackout backing meets the decorative fabric. This area can be more delicate than the rest of the shade.
Keeping Cellular Shades Dust-Free and Fresh
Cellular shades need a bit more attention because dust loves to settle in those honeycomb cells. But don't worry – with the right technique, they're still pretty easy to maintain.
Weekly dusting routine:
Use a vacuum with a brush attachment on the lowest suction setting. Work from top to bottom, going with the direction of the cells, not against them. A clean paintbrush also works great for getting into the cells without damaging the fabric.
Monthly deep clean:
For a more thorough cleaning, use compressed air to blow dust out of the cells. You can buy cans of compressed air at any office supply store. Hold the can upright and use short bursts to avoid condensation.
For stubborn stains:
Mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Lightly mist the stained area (don't soak it), then blot with a clean cloth. The vinegar helps break down stains without damaging the fabric. Always test this on a hidden area first.
Important note: Never submerge cellular shades in water. The glue that holds the cells together can dissolve, ruining your shades.
Roman Shades
Roman shades are gorgeous, but those beautiful folds can be dust magnets. The key is working with the fabric, not against it.
Regular maintenance:
When the shade is fully lowered, use a vacuum brush attachment or microfiber cloth to clean each fold section. Work from the center of each fold outward to avoid pushing dust deeper into the creases.
Spot cleaning:
For stains, make a paste with baking soda and water. Apply it to the stain, let it sit for 15 minutes, then gently brush it away with a soft bristle brush. Follow up with a damp cloth to remove any residue.
Deep cleaning options:
Some Roman shade fabrics can be removed and machine washed, but check your care instructions first. AOSKY Roman shades come with detailed care guides that tell you exactly what's safe for your specific fabric.
If your Roman shades are lined or have blackout backing, stick to surface cleaning only. The different materials can shrink at different rates, causing puckering or warping.
Zebra Shades
Zebra shades have that cool dual-layer design, but it also means there are more surfaces to keep clean. The good news is that the smooth fabric makes cleaning pretty straightforward.
Daily maintenance:
Close the shades so the opaque bands align, then dust from top to bottom with a microfiber cloth. This position makes it easier to clean the entire surface evenly.
For deeper cleaning:
Open the shades to the sheer position and clean each layer separately. Use the same soap and water method we described for roller shades. Make sure both layers are completely dry before closing the shades again.
Dealing with the mechanism:
The chain or cord mechanism needs occasional attention too. Wipe it down with a barely damp cloth and make sure it moves freely. If it starts sticking, a tiny drop of sewing machine oil on the moving parts can help.
Woven Wood Shades
Woven wood shades are beautiful and eco-friendly, but natural materials need different care than synthetic fabrics.
Regular dusting:
Use a vacuum brush attachment on low suction, moving along the grain of the wood, not against it. A clean, dry paintbrush also works well for getting between the weaves.
Dealing with humidity:
Wood naturally expands and contracts with humidity changes. If your shades start looking a bit warped, don't panic – they'll usually return to normal as humidity levels stabilize.
Stain removal:
For water stains, try gently sanding with very fine (220-grit) sandpaper, working with the grain. For other stains, a wood cleaner designed for furniture often works, but test it on a hidden area first.
What to avoid:
Never use water-based cleaners on woven wood shades unless the manufacturer specifically says it's okay. The wood can warp, and natural fibers can shrink.
Shangri-La Shades
Shangri-La shades combine sheer fabric with adjustable vanes, so you're essentially cleaning two different elements.
For the sheer fabric:
Treat this like you would any delicate curtain fabric. Light vacuuming or dusting is usually enough for regular maintenance. If deeper cleaning is needed, follow the same gentle soap and water method used for roller shades.
For the vanes:
The horizontal vanes can be cleaned individually with a microfiber cloth. Work from left to right across each vane, supporting it gently with your other hand to avoid bending.
When Shall I Need Professional Cleaning?
Sometimes DIY cleaning isn't enough, or you've got expensive window treatments that you don't want to risk damaging. Here's when professional cleaning makes sense:
- Delicate fabrics like silk or wool
- Heavily soiled treatments that haven't been cleaned in years
- Water damage from leaks or floods
- Complex mechanisms that aren't working smoothly
- Valuable antique or custom treatments
Most cities have companies that specialize in window treatment cleaning. They have special tools and cleaning solutions that aren't available to consumers, and they know how to handle different materials safely.
Maintenance Tips to Keep Your Shades Looking New
Rotate regularly: If you have shades that get direct sunlight, rotate their position occasionally so they fade evenly.
Handle with care: Always operate your shades gently. Yanking or forcing them can damage the mechanisms and fabric.
Control humidity: In very humid areas, run a dehumidifier to prevent mold and mildew growth on natural fiber shades.
Address stains quickly: The sooner you treat a stain, the easier it is to remove.
Keep pets in mind: If you have cats, trim their claws regularly to prevent snags. Dogs can damage shades by pawing at them, so consider the placement carefully.
Common Cleaning Mistakes to Avoid
Using too much water: Most window treatments aren't designed to get soaking wet. Always use damp, not wet, cleaning cloths.
Harsh chemicals: Bleach, ammonia, and other strong cleaners can damage fabrics and mechanisms. Stick to mild soap and water for most cleaning tasks.
Ignoring manufacturer instructions: Every shade type and fabric is different. Check your care instructions before trying any cleaning method.
Cleaning when wet: Never clean shades when they're damp from humidity or condensation. Wait for them to dry completely first.
Forcing mechanisms: If a shade isn't operating smoothly, don't force it. Clean the mechanism gently and lubricate if needed.
Seasonal Cleaning Schedule
Spring: Deep clean all window treatments as part of your spring cleaning routine. This is also a good time to check for any winter damage.
Summer: Focus on shades in sunny rooms that might be collecting more dust and fading.
Fall: Clean before closing up the house for winter. Check weather stripping and seals around your windows too.
Winter: Light maintenance only, unless you notice specific problems. Indoor air tends to be drier, which is actually easier on most window treatments.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I put my window shades in the washing machine?
It depends on the type and manufacturer. Some Roman shade fabrics can be machine washed, but roller shades, cellular shades, and most others cannot. Always check your care instructions first, and when in doubt, stick to gentle hand cleaning methods.
How do I remove stubborn stains from blackout shades?
For tough stains on blackout shades, make a paste with baking soda and water, apply it to the stain, and let it sit for 30 minutes before gently brushing away. Follow up with a barely damp cloth. Avoid harsh chemicals that can damage the blackout coating.
My cellular shades smell musty – what should I do?
Musty odors usually indicate moisture buildup. First, make sure the area is well-ventilated and dry. Then, lightly spray the shades with a 50/50 solution of white vinegar and water, let air dry completely. If the smell persists, you may need professional cleaning.
Is it safe to use a steamer on window treatments?
Most window treatments should not be steamed, as the heat and moisture can damage fabrics and adhesives. Woven wood shades are especially vulnerable to steam damage. Stick to dry cleaning methods or very lightly damp cloths.
How often should I clean window treatments in a kitchen?
Kitchen shades need more frequent cleaning due to cooking grease and steam. Plan on light cleaning weekly and deeper cleaning monthly. Consider easy-to-clean roller shades for kitchen windows since they're the most resistant to grease and easiest to maintain.
Keeping your window treatments clean doesn't have to be a chore. With the right techniques and a regular maintenance schedule, your AOSKY shades will stay looking beautiful for years to come. Remember, a little regular care goes a long way toward protecting your investment and keeping your home looking its best.
