{"id":4023,"date":"2022-10-26T19:06:10","date_gmt":"2022-10-26T19:06:10","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/affordableblinds.com\/blog\/?p=4023"},"modified":"2023-10-31T13:58:21","modified_gmt":"2023-10-31T13:58:21","slug":"clean-solar-shades-blinds","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/affordableblinds.com\/blog\/clean-solar-shades-blinds\/","title":{"rendered":"How to Clean Outdoor &#038; Indoor Solar Screens, Shades &#038; Blinds"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>Want to keep your sun shades in working order and looking as good as new? The secret lies in regular care of these dust magnets! <a href=\"https:\/\/affordableblinds.com\/blog\/the-ultimate-guide-to-cleaning-window-blinds\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Clean<\/a> them once or twice a year to prevent grime, mildew, bird droppings, or dry rot from damaging the solar shade fabric.<\/p>\n<p>Cleaning your <a href=\"https:\/\/affordableblinds.com\/features\/outdoor\">outdoor shade<\/a> is a simple, straightforward process. Just remove dust, dirt, stains, and heavier grime from the slats or fabric weave of your shades. Here are some quicker, more cost-effective methods to try.<\/p>\n<p>Microfiber cloth and lukewarm, soapy water is a cost-effective way for general cleaning. Alternatively, you can use a vacuum with hose attachment. For tough stains, prepare a solution of one part white vinegar and one part water in a spray bottle and generously spray the affected areas of solar fabric.<\/p>\n<p>Use a ladder to carefully wash your <a title=\"sun shades\" href=\"https:\/\/affordableblinds.com\/shades\/solar-roller-shades\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">sun shades<\/a> they are <a href=\"https:\/\/affordableblinds.com\/r\/installation-instructions\/\">installed<\/a> on. A better way is to remove them and spread out flat on a smooth surface for washing.<\/p>\n<h2>Why Clean Your Sun Shades?<\/h2>\n<p>A sun shade is a parasol, an awning, or a protective window film that blocks harsh <a href=\"https:\/\/www.oxfordlearnersdictionaries.com\/definition\/english\/uv?q=uv\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">UV<\/a> rays from entering your outdoor living space. A well-placed and well-maintained sun blind can make your time outdoors more comfortable and pleasant by providing shade on sunny days or blocking rain on wet days.<\/p>\n<h2>Things to Consider Before You Start Cleaning<\/h2>\n<p>Before you roll up your sleeves and start cleaning your <a href=\"https:\/\/affordableblinds.com\/shades\/solar-roller-shades\/elite-solar-shades-14-percent-openness\">sun shades<\/a>, consider the following things:<\/p>\n<p><strong>Type of Fabric<\/strong><\/p>\n<figure id=\"attachment_8204\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-8204\" style=\"width: 650px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/affordableblinds.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/fabric-selection-1.jpg\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-8204\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-8204 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/affordableblinds.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/fabric-selection-1.jpg\" alt=\"Fabric selection\" width=\"650\" height=\"550\" srcset=\"https:\/\/affordableblinds.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/fabric-selection-1.jpg 650w, https:\/\/affordableblinds.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/fabric-selection-1-300x254.jpg 300w, https:\/\/affordableblinds.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/fabric-selection-1-70x60.jpg 70w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 650px) 100vw, 650px\" \/><\/a><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-8204\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Fabric selection<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>Determine the type of fabric used to manufacture your shade. It will affect your choice of cleaning method. Exterior or <a href=\"https:\/\/affordableblinds.com\/blog\/inside-or-outside-mount-what-should-you-choose\/\">outside<\/a> shades are usually made from cotton, nylon, knitted mesh, and solid or woven shade cloth.<\/p>\n<p>Gather Cleaning Supplies: Gather supplies, like soft cloth, feather duster, water, soap, bottle, and towel.<\/p>\n<h2>Cleaning Method 1: Spraying<\/h2>\n<h3>Things You\u2019ll Need<\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li aria-level=\"1\">A spray bottle (1 qt.)<\/li>\n<li aria-level=\"1\">Lukewarm, warm, or hot water (1 qt.)<\/li>\n<li aria-level=\"1\">Liquid dish detergent (1 tsp.)<\/li>\n<li aria-level=\"1\">Borax (1 tsp.)<\/li>\n<li aria-level=\"1\">A garden hose with a spray nozzle<\/li>\n<li aria-level=\"1\">A plastic bristle brush (optional)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>Step 1: Fill Bottle with Cleaning Ingredients:<\/strong><\/p>\n<figure id=\"attachment_8947\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-8947\" style=\"width: 650px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/affordableblinds.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Fill-bottle-with-cleaning-ingredients.jpg\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-8947\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-8947 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/affordableblinds.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Fill-bottle-with-cleaning-ingredients.jpg\" alt=\"Fill bottle with cleaning ingredients\" width=\"650\" height=\"550\" srcset=\"https:\/\/affordableblinds.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Fill-bottle-with-cleaning-ingredients.jpg 650w, https:\/\/affordableblinds.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Fill-bottle-with-cleaning-ingredients-300x254.jpg 300w, https:\/\/affordableblinds.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Fill-bottle-with-cleaning-ingredients-70x60.jpg 70w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 650px) 100vw, 650px\" \/><\/a><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-8947\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Fill bottle with cleaning ingredients<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>Add water (lukewarm, warm, or hot), borax, and dish detergent in a one quart spray bottle.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Step 2: Mix Solution:<\/strong> Swirl the bottle well and avoid creating suds.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Step 3: Spray the Fabric:<\/strong><\/p>\n<figure id=\"attachment_8948\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-8948\" style=\"width: 650px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/affordableblinds.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Spray-the-fabric.jpg\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-8948\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-8948 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/affordableblinds.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Spray-the-fabric.jpg\" alt=\"Spray the fabric\" width=\"650\" height=\"550\" srcset=\"https:\/\/affordableblinds.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Spray-the-fabric.jpg 650w, https:\/\/affordableblinds.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Spray-the-fabric-300x254.jpg 300w, https:\/\/affordableblinds.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Spray-the-fabric-70x60.jpg 70w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 650px) 100vw, 650px\" \/><\/a><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-8948\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Spray the fabric<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>Fully saturate the entire <a title=\"fabric material\" href=\"https:\/\/affordableblinds.com\/blog\/the-benefits-of-each-type-of-window-blinds-material\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">fabric material<\/a> of the sun shade by generously spraying the cleaning (soap) solution over it.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Step 4: Soak the Fabric:<\/strong><\/p>\n<figure id=\"attachment_8950\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-8950\" style=\"width: 650px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/affordableblinds.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Soak-the-fabric.jpg\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-8950\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-8950 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/affordableblinds.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Soak-the-fabric.jpg\" alt=\"Soak the fabric\" width=\"650\" height=\"550\" srcset=\"https:\/\/affordableblinds.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Soak-the-fabric.jpg 650w, https:\/\/affordableblinds.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Soak-the-fabric-300x254.jpg 300w, https:\/\/affordableblinds.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Soak-the-fabric-70x60.jpg 70w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 650px) 100vw, 650px\" \/><\/a><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-8950\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Soak the fabric<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>Leave the fabric for 20 to 25 minutes to let the solution soak into it.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Step 5 (Optional):<\/strong> Scrub with a Brush: If necessary, use a plastic bristle brush to scrub at the sun shade fabric to remove any stuck on debris.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Step 6: Rinse with Water:<\/strong> Remove the soap from the sun shade fabric using a garden hose with a spray nozzle.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li aria-level=\"1\">If it is still mounted on your exterior wall, let the soap run off completely by spraying it down from the top to the bottom.<\/li>\n<li aria-level=\"1\">If it is lying flat on the floor, just rinse it.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>Step 6: Dry the Sun Shade Fabric:<\/strong> Leave the shade in the sun for 3 to 4 hours to allow it to fully dry.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Step 7: Reinstall the Shade:<\/strong> Reinstall, retract, or close your sun shade.<\/p>\n<h2>Cleaning Method 2: Multiple Treatments<\/h2>\n<h3>Things You\u2019ll Need<\/h3>\n<figure id=\"attachment_8439\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-8439\" style=\"width: 650px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/affordableblinds.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Cleaning-materials.jpg\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-8439\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-8439 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/affordableblinds.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Cleaning-materials.jpg\" alt=\"Cleaning materials\" width=\"650\" height=\"550\" srcset=\"https:\/\/affordableblinds.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Cleaning-materials.jpg 650w, https:\/\/affordableblinds.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Cleaning-materials-300x254.jpg 300w, https:\/\/affordableblinds.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Cleaning-materials-70x60.jpg 70w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 650px) 100vw, 650px\" \/><\/a><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-8439\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Cleaning materials<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<ul>\n<li aria-level=\"1\">Feather duster<\/li>\n<li aria-level=\"1\">Vacuum<\/li>\n<li aria-level=\"1\">Mild Soap or detergent<\/li>\n<li aria-level=\"1\">Warm water<\/li>\n<li aria-level=\"1\">Towels<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Step 1: Remove Sun Shade: Take your sun shade from the exterior of your wall or other outdoor space.<\/p>\n<p>Step 2: Do Dusting: To make the cleaning process easier and more effective, first remove the top layer of dust or dirt on your outdoor shades. You can use a feather duster.<\/p>\n<p>Step 3: Do Vacuuming: If, after dusting a tougher layer of debris remains on any corner of the fabric, gently pass the soft brush attachment of your vacuum to for a better cleaning.<\/p>\n<p>Step 4: Do Washing: Take your garden hose with a lower pressure stream and wash away any remaining debris on the shades. Avoid using a pressure washer, as it will damage your exterior shade.<\/p>\n<p>Step 5: Apply Soap Solution: For further cleaning, prepare a solution of mild soap or detergent in warm water and apply it to the shade.<\/p>\n<p>Step 6: Scrub Away Stains: If you notice any stains or discoloration, gently scrub them away with a soft sponge.<\/p>\n<p>Step 7: Rinse the Shade: Use a hose with a low, even pressured stream of water to rinse the entire shade fabric off.<\/p>\n<p>Step 8: Ring Excess Water &amp; Dry: Wring out excess water from the fabric and spread it out in the sun for drying.<\/p>\n<p>Step 9: Rehang Them: Put your shades back on your outdoor living space.<\/p>\n<p>Note: Contact your product manufacturer or supplier to determine the type of cleaning solution that won\u2019t damage the fabric.<\/p>\n<h2>FAQs<\/h2>\n<h3>How do you clean outdoor sun shades?<\/h3>\n<p>Use a shop vacuum with a soft brush attachment to first remove the top layer of dust or dirt on the fabric. Hose off any sticky debris with a low-pressure stream. Use a mild dishwashing detergent and a medium (plastic) bristle brush to gently scrub away any stubborn stains from the fabric.<\/p>\n<h3>How do you clean sunshade material?<\/h3>\n<p>When cleaning sunshade material, avoid using acidic chemicals, as they can damage the solar fabric or weaken its resistance against UV light. A safe way is to use a cleaning solution, made from mild detergent and lukewarm water. If there is a thin layer of dirt on the slats, just dust it with a soft cloth or brush.<\/p>\n<h3>How do you clean sunscreen blinds?<\/h3>\n<p>If your sunscreen blinds are made of (horizontal) slats, an easier way to clean them is to wipe them with a wet cloth. If they consist of a sheet of woven fabric, dry clean them using a fabric-safe cleaning agent, such as a mixture of lemon juice and vinegar. It will remove stains without damaging the fabric. After that, you can thoroughly rinse the fabric with water.<\/p>\n<h3>What is the best way to clean solar screens?<\/h3>\n<p>The best way to clean solar screens is to use a soapy solution made from warm water and a special screen detergent.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li aria-level=\"1\">Fill your bucket with warm water.<\/li>\n<li aria-level=\"1\">Add a teaspoonful of special screen detergent and mix thoroughly.<\/li>\n<li aria-level=\"1\">Take a brush or cloth, soak it in water, and gently scrub the fabric to remove stains.<\/li>\n<li aria-level=\"1\">Rinse with clean water and dry &#8211; all done!<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2>Need More Help?<\/h2>\n<p>Need expert advice on how to prepare a fabric-safe solution to clean your sun shades? <a href=\"https:\/\/affordableblinds.com\/get-help\">Contact<\/a> our professionals using 24\/7 live chat or give us a ring at (800) 863-6109.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Want to keep your sun shades in working order and looking as good as new? The secret lies in regular care of these dust magnets! Clean them once or twice a year to prevent grime, mildew, bird droppings, or dry rot from damaging the solar shade fabric. Cleaning your outdoor shade is a simple, straightforward [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":7,"featured_media":8505,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[2],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-4023","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-blog"],"featured_image_src":"https:\/\/affordableblinds.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/12\/Solar-screens-600x400.jpeg","featured_image_src_square":"https:\/\/affordableblinds.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/12\/Solar-screens-600x550.jpeg","author_info":{"display_name":"Admin","author_link":"https:\/\/affordableblinds.com\/blog\/author\/affordableblindsadmin\/"},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/affordableblinds.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/4023","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/affordableblinds.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/affordableblinds.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/affordableblinds.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/7"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/affordableblinds.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=4023"}],"version-history":[{"count":13,"href":"https:\/\/affordableblinds.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/4023\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":9664,"href":"https:\/\/affordableblinds.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/4023\/revisions\/9664"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/affordableblinds.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/8505"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/affordableblinds.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=4023"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/affordableblinds.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=4023"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/affordableblinds.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=4023"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}