Treatment FAQ

how to clean a handmade window treatment

by Nelle Gerhold Published 2 years ago Updated 2 years ago
image

  • Method 1: Basic Homemade Window Cleaner Recipe. Most DIY glass cleaners use water as a base. We recommend using distilled water instead of water from the tap.
  • Method 2: Rubbing Alcohol DIY Window Cleaner. The addition of rubbing alcohol to this recipe helps the solution evaporate quickly on glass surfaces, reducing the chance of leaving water spots ...
  • Method 3: Dish Soap DIY Glass Cleaner. Dish soap provides a simple, effective cleaning agent for glass surfaces, and you only need a small amount to make it work.

These lightweight fabrics are prone to snags and wrinkles if not properly cleaned. Hand wash delicate window treatments in a sink of cool water with one tablespoon liquid dish detergent. Allow the curtains to soak for about 10 minutes to loosen any dirt and debris.

Full Answer

How can I make my window treatments look good?

A beautiful window treatment doesn’t need to cost a lot to look good. Combine a sophisticated fabric with a simple mini-blind to create your own Roman shade. Remove most of the slats, leaving the remaining ones evenly spaced. Sew a lining to the back of your fabric of choice, then glue it to the mini-blind. 13. Cheap and Cheerful DIY Valance

What is the best way to clean a glass window?

1 Vinegar. The main reason why distilled white vinegar makes such a good glass cleaner is because it contains acetic acid. 2 Lemon Juice. Similar to white vinegar, the acidity of lemon juice can effectively break down grime on glass surfaces such as windows. 3 Dish Soap. ... 4 Essential Oils. ... 5 Hot Water. ...

How do you use natural window cleaners?

For best results, here’s how to use your new natural window cleaner: “First spray the glass with ordinary tap water and rub off excess dust and grime with a cloth,” says Tom J. Byrne, creator of tjbyrne.com. “Then spray with the mix and use a fresh cloth to wipe the glass down. It dries quickly and doesn’t leave streaks.”

Do homemade window cleaners really work?

Read on to see professional cleaning experts’ suggestions for homemade window cleaners that really work. Dish soap is one of the best ingredients for homemade window cleaners—and, luckily, you don’t need much of it. Mix the ingredients together in a spray bottle, suggests Jen Stark, founder of Happy DIY Home, and shake it all up.

image

How do you clean custom drapes at home?

Hang them outside and spray with a hose, then use a gentle detergent to sponge clean. Rinse with cold water and leave to dry, making sure the backs of the curtains don't touch anything.

How do you clean window treatments?

Spot clean soiled areas with warm soapy water or an all-purpose spray cleaner on a clean, soft cloth; rinse well with a clean, moistened cloth. For vinyl or aluminum blinds, place towels or a tarp under the blinds to catch drips. With a sponge and soapy water, wash the full length of each slat, both sides, until clean.

How often should you clean custom drapes?

The above basic maintenance steps will suffice most of the time but every two or three years you are going to need to have your custom drapes thoroughly cleaned, preferably by a professional. If you have sheer drapes you'll want to have them cleaned more often; typically once a year.

How do you clean fabric shades?

0:010:44How to Clean Cellular Shades with SelectBlinds.com - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipDo not use strong liquid detergents or spa removers made for carpets carefully wipe the affected.MoreDo not use strong liquid detergents or spa removers made for carpets carefully wipe the affected. Area with the damp cloth to remove the stain.

How do you clean an upholstered valance?

Dust with a feather duster, or lightly vacuum with an upholstery attachment. For dust inside the cells, a blow dryer on the lowest, cool air setting will blow the dust-out. Clean with a sponge and a mild detergent/warm water solution and blot dry. Dry cleaning and ultrasonic cleaning are not recommended.

How do you wash window treatment curtains?

Hand wash delicate window treatments in a sink of cool water with one tablespoon liquid dish detergent. Allow the curtains to soak for about 10 minutes to loosen any dirt and debris. To restore your fragile curtains to a like-new appearance, hire professionals to come in and properly wash your window treatments.

How do you clean curtains without washing them?

Want to Make Your Curtains Look like New without Washing Them?1) Dust Hard. Before cleaning a room, give the curtains a good shake to get rid of the dust. ... 2) Vacuum Weekly. To get rid of built-up dirt, a session of thorough vacuum-cleaning once a week is all you need. ... 3) Clean the Window. ... 4) Steam Often.

Should curtains be washed or dry cleaned?

Even if your window coverings are made of a washable fabric, the linings and seams could shrink in the wash. Play it safe and opt for dry cleaning if you are in doubt. Definitely dry-clean curtains and drapes with stitched-in pleats, swags, or other elaborate ornamentation that may not withstand a washing.

How do you clean heavy drapes?

Clean and Freshen Drapes in the Washing Machine If you're able to do laundry at home, rest assured, it is possible to put drapes and curtains in the washing machine if the fabric allows. The best way to clean curtains and drapes is to wash them on a gentle cycle, in cool to warm water, with mild detergent.

How do you clean dusty fabric blinds?

bathtub with warm soapy water and place them inside. Let sit for a while, then gently clean with a sponge. Rinse very well and lay flat to dry in a well-ventilated area for a day or two.

How do you clean fabric vertical blinds without taking them down?

To wash your blinds without taking them down, start by dusting them from top to bottom. Use your vacuum cleaner if you can to help remove dust quickly. Next, spot clean your fabric blinds using a mild detergent solution. Try using the solution on a hidden area to make sure it won't damage the blind fabric.

How can I make my fabric blinds white again?

Plug the drain and fill the tub with cold water until it covers the blind or slats. Add 2 or 3 cups of liquid bleach to the cold water as you fill the tub. Let the slats or blind soak in the bleach solution for about 10 minutes.

How to keep windows shiny after cleaning?

After you’ve used one of these homemade window cleaners, or even between regular window cleanings, keep your windows shiny by wiping them down with a piece of newspaper! “Newsprint’s ability to clean windows is due to its absorbency,” explains Cody McGovern of Cleaning Supply Lab. “It absorbs dust, impurities from the air, and grime stuck on the windows,” and it won’t leave streaks either. McCallum also recommends using a lint-free microfiber cloth —not just after or between cleanings, but also to brush dust off your window before you treat it with a homemade window cleaner.

What is the best tool to clean windows?

Experts agree: No matter what you use to clean your windows, a squeegee is a great tool to get the job done. “When you are cleaning your windows, you should always use a squeegee and wipe your windows down from top to bottom,” says Johnny Pallares, owner of Phoenix, Arizona-based cleaning company De La Rosa House Cleaning. “The squeegee ensures that your window won’t have streaks.” He emphasizes the importance of washing the edges of the windows, too. “People forget to squeegee the edges of the window and it leaves small streaks on an otherwise perfectly clean window.”

Why is my window smudge visible?

Of all the household chores we do, one of the trickiest is window cleaning. If a smudge of dirt or smear of residue remains on your window, it’s hyper-visible from some angle or another because of the window’s clear surface.

Is alcohol a good cleaner?

Alcohol is a strong cleaning agent that also has bacteria-killing power. Just make sure to be very careful when using denatured alcohol for window cleaning, however—it is toxic if ingested, as well as highly flammable. RELATED: Unusual Cleaning Solutions That Actually Work.

Can you use ammonia in window cleaner?

So, yes, these homemade window cleaners aren’t just an alternative to common store-bought window cleaners—they’re actually better. You may not want to use ammonia, either, even though that’s often touted as a homemade window cleaner. “I personally don’t recommend it because it’s a corrosive gas,” says McCallum.

Is natural cleaning product good?

But as with many other cleaning tasks, natural cleaning products are sometimes just as good, or even better—while being healthier for the environment as well as your budget.

How to Clean Hard Window Treatments

Hard window treatments are made with an exorbitant variety of materials; however, the cleaning process is relatively the same for all. Follow the below tips to treat your window coverings with the respect they deserve.

How to Clean Soft Window Treatments

It’s imperative to be mindful of how you clean your soft window treatments, especially when it comes to the fabric content they are made from. These can get damaged easier than the harder variety and their process of care may not be what you initially expect.

What are the Benefits of Cleaning My Window Treatments?

Cleaning your treatments is a safety measure. It’s crucial that your home breeds good health and not bacteria. Whether you choose a hard or soft treatment, they undoubtedly create a landing space for dirt, dust, or worse. If they are not cleaned adequately on a regular basis, you are exposing yourself to allergens and germs.

When in Doubt, Chat it out at Windows Dressed Up!

The interior window stylists love talkin’ dirty when it comes to window treatments. 😉 If you have any further questions about how to keep your window treatments cared for and looking spiffy, just reach out! We’re only a phone call away.

What is the best way to clean windows?

For outdoor windows: Newspaper or clean microfiber cloths. A sponge. Water. Squeegee. Dish detergent. Ladder. Bucket.

Can Molly Maid do window cleaning?

While Molly Maid can’t provide outdoor window cleaning services, we can provide a wide range of whole- home cleaning services. Request a free estimate online or call (800) 654-9647 to learn how our services can fit your budget, timeline and preferences.

What is needed to clean window blinds?

The things needed to clean window blinds and draperies include a feather duster, hand held vacuum or an attachment which fits on a standard vacuum can work as well, all purpose cleaner, laundry soap, paper towels, a sponge and wood oil.

How to get rid of stains on blinds?

If there are stains or spots on the cloth blinds, you can take a dampened cloth to blot out any areas and a good mixture to use is ½ tsp. of mild laundry soap on a damp cloth. Caring for and maintaining your window treatments are not as hard as people might think.

Who owns Sunshine Drapery?

Bruce Bernstein is the owner of Sunshine Drapery. Sunshine has showrooms in Chesterfield and Sunset Hills and the corporate office/workroom facility located in Maryland Heights, Missouri. Sunshine services residential and commercial clients for window coverings and more with complimentary appointments.

Can shark vacuums clean dust?

However, be careful not to use shark vacuum poor suction because this vacuum might not be able to clean off the dust properly. Once the blinds have had most of the heavier residue removed, fill up your bathtub with cool water and add a capful of mild laundry soap.

Can you clean window blinds with allergies?

Layers of thick dust and dirt on the window treatments are never a good idea and can lead to respiratory and breathing issues for those with allergies. Window blinds are easier to clean than most people realize and draperies can be cleaned in the washing machine or taken to the dry cleaners for freshening up as well.

Can you clean fabric blinds?

If blinds are made of fabric, it can be a challenge to clean them, but it is not impossible. Most manufacturers recommend cleaning these types of blinds with a vacuum upholstery attachment or brush attachment to remove loose dust and debris.

What is the best way to clean a window?

While you could use paper towels, a soft microfiber cloth works best for first removing dust and loose debris from windows. Then use a separate clean microfiber cloth to work the homemade window cleaner along the glass surface and remove stubborn dirt and residue.

How to clean a window that is not streaky?

If the windows are dusty but not streaky, you can clean them without bringing a cleaning solution, homemade or otherwise, into the equation. Simply use a lint-free cloth to pick up and clear away the dust. Then , once finished, complete the job by polishing the glass to a streak-free shine with a different, clean cloth.

Why is white vinegar good for glass cleaner?

Vinegar. The main reason why distilled white vinegar makes such a good glass cleaner is because it contains acetic acid. The colorless organic compound not only gives white vinegar its pungent taste and smell, it also kills some bacteria.

How to clean a window with a lint free cloth?

With your homemade window cleaner now ready, spray the window glass with it and then, using a lint-free cloth, wipe the cleaner across the entire surface you’re cleaning. Be careful not to use a cloth or sponge that’s going to leave streaks (or even scratches). For best results, opt for a microfiber cloth or chamois.

How to make a glass cleaner with vinegar?

STEP 2: Mix the homemade glass cleaner ingredients and dilute with warm water. Mix your ingredients. In a spray bottle, combine a 1/4 cup white vinegar with a 1/2 teaspoon of liquid dish soap. Dilute the solution with two cups of water, then shake the bottle vigorously to mix the components. If you happen not to have white vinegar on hand, note ...

What happens when you mix bleach with vinegar?

When sodium hypochlorite, the basic chemical compound in bleach, mixes with the acetic acid found in vinegar, it turns into hypochlorous acid and gives off toxic chlorine gas. Chlorine gas can burn skin, cause shortness of breath, and can even be fatal with long-term exposure.

Do you need a fancy cleaner to make glass cleaner?

You don’t need any fancy cleaners or tools when you can make this DIY glass cleaner recipe for free from supplies in your house. Save some dollars and keep things simple by mixing up your own DIY window cleaner with nothing more than a few pantry staples you likely have on hand.

Why do we need window treatments everywhere?

The need everywhere is the same, to give a distinctive look to the area and to protect the interiors from the harsh effects of the sun and from curious and unwelcome intruders. Let us look at a few of the window treatments that are very easy to clean and maintain.

What are window blinds made of?

Setting them is a relatively easy task, and they can be mounted on any window. They are generally built from PVC or composite wood but give the appearance of real wood at much lower prices. These materials are moisture resistant and are hence perfect to be set up in areas such as the kitchen or the bathroom, where water droplets can quickly form on the surface. This makes them last long and extremely durable, so cleaning them is not a big deal. All you need is a soft or damp cloth, and just give them a gentle, clean swab once a while. That is all you require.

What are aluminum venetian blinds?

Aluminum Venetian blinds are sleek and stylish window blinds that are incredibly durable and a perfect addition to a modern and contemporary home . With the versatility that they carry, they are well-suited to be installed on windows of any kind of room. Available in a wide range of colors and patterns, they have a naturally modern and sleek appeal, and they let you have easy control and access to them. They can be customized accordingly to suit your preferences, and they use strings and/or wands to control light and privacy.

What is the purpose of roller solar shades?

So you can sit in a comfortable and cozy environment and keep an eye on your property. You also get excellent protection from UV rays and light glare that may otherwise damage your skin and have lasting and detrimental effects on the other items placed inside the house.

Why are vertical blinds so popular?

Since they hang vertically, they don’t allow as much dust as a horizontal solution to rest on the surface. They are also made from smooth PVC or faux wood materials which merely needs a single swipe to wipe them clean. Beyond these qualities, they are amazingly attractive window blinds that lend a formal vibe to your indoors. They are perfect to be used in corporate offices, for the same reason. In your house, you may consider setting them up in your study or home office if you prefer working from home and do not like to be disturbed by outside heat and light.

Wool and Cashmere

Hand these babies to the dry cleaner. They're very delicate and are not made for machine or hand washing.

Cotton

If they are unlined, drapes made with cotton can be hand or machine washed. If they are lined, they must be dry cleaned as to not ruin the lining.

Synthetic Fabrics

These shouldn't be dry cleaned because dry cleaning solvents can often degrade synthetic fabrics. You can hand or machine wash these or even find a professional service that handles synthetic fabrics.

Silk Curtains

These should be hand washed with mild dishwashing soap and very gentle movements. Hang them up to dry. You can use this process with other delicate fabrics as well.

Sheer curtains

Sheer curtains need to be cleaned often because you run the risk of experiencing discoloration if too much time passes in between cleanings. Sheer fabric is delicate and so should be soaked in cold water with a mild detergent. You can use a machine, but only with the gentlest cycle.

How to make a window look shabby chic?

Layering linen and lace can give any window a shabby chic look for mere pennies. Linen is a low-cost fabric you can find just about anywhere. Drape it around the window and play with its lines until you find the right look. Staple it in place, add some fabric roses for an upscale touch.

What are window shutters?

Window shutters bring a vintage vibe to this kitchen space. Custom fitted to the window opening, shutters make a great choice for light control and privacy. This project involves using low-cost bed slats to create the shutters. A bit of paint, some rustic handles, and mounting hardware complete this custom window treatment.

What are window valances for kids?

Kids’ rooms offer a place to bring in color and fun. Simple window valances made in a colorful fabric tied up with bright ribbon offer simplicity and fun in one. The panel itself is just fabric hemmed on all sides. Ribbons, sewn at different points along the top, tie up to the curtain rod for the easiest installation possible.

How to make a Roman shade?

Combine a sophisticated fabric with a simple mini-blind to create your own Roman shade. Remove most of the slats, leaving the remaining ones evenly spaced. Sew a lining to the back of your fabric of choice, then glue it to the mini-blind.

What is a stencil shade?

Stencil your way into a sophisticated shade. Roller shades are a cost-effective option for filtering light and gaining privacy. Their neutral color actually makes them a perfect choice for stenciled designs. Choose a stencil design you love and match it with a color palette of your choice. With a few dabs of paint, your shade becomes elegantly beautiful.

Is Roman Shades reversible?

They say that Rome wasn’t built in a day . But, these Roman shades sure can be. This versatile DIY window treatment is perfect for almost any room in your home. Made with two different fabrics, it is easily reversible with a tension rod for ease of installation. Pick fabrics that enhance your decor for the perfect look.

Can you use window treatments for decorative purposes?

You can use window treatments for purely decorative purposes to enhance your décor, but don’t forget the functionality; privacy curtains let in light but keep the eyes of passers-by out, black-out shades let you sleep peacefully even after sunrise, and a variety of adjustable shades allow you to adjust light as the sun moves lower in the sky in the afternoon. Whatever your needs, from full-length curtains to tie-up shades to valances, we have DIY window treatment ideas for every taste, style, and function.

image
A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9