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DDL: How To Take Good Care of Your Curtains & Blinds

Window coverings seem like the most basic of home elements, yet it is one we put a lot of thought into. When chosen carefully, window treatments can make a world of difference in your enjoyment of your home. Even interior designers rely on windows to create the correct brightness factor for the room — an important part in interior decoration.

However, with all the importance we place on curtains and blinds, how much are we doing to take care of these important décor accessories? Regular maintenance of your blinds and curtains is important for the protection of your home furnishings as well as for your privacy, comfort, and personal preference. Here are four ways you can take better care of them:

Consider the Sun
As much as we love natural lighting to brighten our homes, sunlight can be destructive to fabrics – especially delicate fabrics like velvet or silk. Light-coloured fabrics generally reflect sunlight and resist fading. However, dark colours absorb light and fade quickly. While you cannot completely stop the deterioration process, you can protect fabrics from the sun by using sunscreen blinds or sheer curtains that remain closed during the day. Alternatively, invest in lined blinds and curtains, or apply tinting to your windows for extra protection.

Do the Dusting
Curtain fabrics and blinds can attract a lot of allergens and dust. These are the two main causes of allergic reactions such as sneezing, coughing or runny noses. Blinds should be dusted and gently wiped, over the front of the fabric, once a month to help avoid any harsh cleaning. Keep your drapes dust-free by regular gentle vacuuming with the appropriate soft vacuum attachment. Removing dust from the folds and headings will help stop grit from corroding the fabric.

Wish Washing
As well as routine touch-ups, your curtains need a thorough clean every few months. The type of drapery will determine the washing technique you need to use, but the safest method is to take them to your local dry-cleaners every three months. If you insist on doing it yourself, here are a few guidelines:

  • Lightweight Curtains: Most lightweight curtains can be cleaned in your washing machine. Use a gentle cycle with cold water and a mild detergent.
  • Delicate Curtains: Wash any sheer, delicate curtains by hand to prevent shrinking and tearing. Avoid scrubbing — put them inside an old pillowcase to stop them from getting damaged.
  • Heavy Curtains: Depending on individual fabric recommendations, curtains with linings can usually be machine-washed. The heavier the fabric, the longer it will take to dry.
  • Fabric Blinds: Spot-clean individual stains or patches with a dry sponge, mild detergent and warm water. Avoid washing fabric blinds at home completely
  • Wooden Blinds: Avoid using water on timber blinds because the wood will absorb the water and may decay. Wipe the blinds with a dry wood polish and sponge from top to bottom so any residue falling off gets picked up as you work your way down.
  • Aluminium Blinds: Wipe these down with wet cloth and soapy water. You can also soak your blinds in the bath or sink if that’s easier for you.

It’s All About the Labels
Heavy drapes, sheer curtains, metal shutters and roman blinds — there is a window treatment for every taste and style these days. While there are general maintenance tips you can follow, the best indication of what your curtains or blinds need to live up to their maximum beauty lie in the labels. Make sure to check the manufacturer’s cleaning instructions, especially if they are custom made.

Looking to turn your windows into a hanging pleasure? The interior décor specialists from DDL will guide you through all available options and help you pick the perfect window treatment for your home. Visit their showroom floor in Kramerville, Sandton for more interior décor accessories and custom-made furnishings.

For more visit DDL.


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