If you have invested in woven wood shades, you would like to keep their rustic look and functional potential intact, won’t you? There are several easy ways to clean and maintain your woven wood or bamboo shades. However, you need to treat them with extra care, as the natural materials they are made from may get broken or damaged. For example, you can use a soft cloth or duster to gently clean the surface. And you will need to use a brush attachment on your vacuum cleaner when cleaning highly textured and easy-to-snag woven wood shades.
Things to Consider when Cleaning and Maintaining Woven Wood Shades
Here are a few things to consider when cleaning and maintaining woven wood shades.
- Use a Soft Touch: Woven wood shades are delicate window treatments. So, the use of too much force or pressure when cleaning and maintaining can damage the fibers or it can cause them to become misshapen. So, always use a gentle touch when dusting, spot cleaning, or vacuuming your woven wood shades.
- Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Window treatments made from woven wood are made from natural fibers, so harsh chemicals can damage or discolor them. So, always use mild detergents or natural cleaning solutions like vinegar.
- Avoid Using Water: Avoid using water on your woven wood shades, as it can damage the motorized lift mechanism and cause the natural fibers to discolor.
Step-by-Step Guide to Clean and Maintain Woven Wood Shades
There are many ways to clean and maintain woven wood shades that can be followed haphazardly. However, if you go for a step-by-step procedure, it will ensure better cleaning and maintenance of your delicate and beautiful window treatments.
1. Gently Dust Your Shades: You can use a soft, dry cloth or a feather duster to gently remove any dust, dirt, or debris from the surface of the woven wood shades.
2. Vacuum the Shades
After dusting your woven wood shades, you can use a soft brush attachment on the vacuum cleaner to gently vacuum the shades to remove any residual dirt or dust. However, make sure to use low suction and avoid pulling or tugging on the woven wood fibers.
3.Spot Clean Any Stains
If you notice any spills or stains on your woven wood shades, use a soft, damp cloth to spot clean the affected area. Make sure not to wet the blinds, as this can damage their natural fibers. Avoid using harsh cleaning products, as these can also damage the fibers.
4. Use a Dry Sponge: A dry sponge, also known as a chemical sponge, can be an effective tool for removing dirt and stains from woven wood shades. Rub the sponge gently over the affected area, using a light touch to avoid damaging the fibers.
5. Use a Vinegar Plus Water Solution
If your woven wood shades are particularly stained or dirty, you can make a solution of equal parts white vinegar and water to clean them. You can apply the solution with a soft cloth, and work in the direction of the weave. Then use a damp cloth to rinse your woven wood shades thoroughly.
6. Do Not Soak the Shades: Be careful not to soak your woven wood shades or use too much water, as this can cause the natural fibers to warp or swell.
7. Avoid Using Abrasive Cleaners: Do not use abrasive cleaners, steel wool, or any other harsh materials when cleaning your woven wood shades, as they can scratch or damage the delicate woven wood fibers.
8. Clean the Shades Regularly: To keep your woven wood shades looking and working their best, clean them regularly using a gentle method like vacuuming or dusting.
9. Regularly Repair or Replace Damaged Parts: You should inspect your woven wood shades regularly and look for any damaged or broken parts that may need repair. If repairing cannot restore the curb appeal and functionality of your woven wood shades, you should go for replacement.
10. Consider Professional Cleaning: If your woven wood shades for windows are heavily stained or soiled, or if you’re unsure how to clean and maintain them safely, consider hiring a professional cleaning service. They will have the expertise and equipment to clean your shades thoroughly without causing any damage.
How to Clean Cordless Motorized Lift of Woven Wood Shades
A cordless motorized lift mechanism is safe for homes with young children and pets. However, you need to take extra care when cleaning the motorized lift system of your woven wood shades.
- Before you start cleaning the motorized lift, turn off the power to the window shades to prevent any accidents.
- Use a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment or a soft-bristled brush to gently remove any dust from the motorized lift.
- When cleaning the motorized lift system, avoid using excess water or moisture, as this can damage the motor or other electrical equipment.
- After cleaning your motorized lift, use a dry cloth to wipe away any excess moisture and allow it to air dry completely before turning the power back on and operating your rustic window treatments.
If you’re unsure about cleaning the motorized lift yourself, hire a professional cleaning expert.
Bottom Line
Woven wood shades for windows are made from natural materials like rattan, bamboo, reeds, grasses, and jute. So, they require delicate cleaning and maintenance for a fresh look and functionality. There are different easy ways to clean them, like dusting, vacuuming, and spot cleaning.