Keeping your custom window treatments clean not only enhances the look of your home but also helps preserve your investment. Whether you’ve chosen elegant draperies, classic shutters, modern shades, or motorized options from Window Designs by Landy Brown, understanding the proper way to clean custom window treatments is essential. This guide is tailored specifically for homeowners in Oconomowoc, WI and surrounding areas who want to maintain the beauty and longevity of their blinds, shades, draperies, shutters, and motorized coverings.
Why It Matters to Clean Custom Window Treatments
Oconomowoc’s seasonal changes bring everything from summer humidity to winter dryness, and that can affect your window coverings. Dust, pollen, and pet hair are common, especially in areas like Summit, Hartland, and Delafield. If left unchecked, buildup on your treatments can lead to discoloration, fabric wear, and even allergy flare-ups. That’s why knowing how to clean custom window treatments the right way is so important.
Cleaning Custom Blinds
Wood Blinds
Wood blinds add a timeless charm to many Oconomowoc homes, but they require delicate care:
- Dust regularly: Use a microfiber cloth or a soft duster to gently wipe slats.
- Avoid moisture: Do not use water or sprays, as wood can warp. If needed, use a slightly damp cloth followed by immediate drying.
- Spot cleaning: For tougher spots, use a wood-safe cleaner applied to a cloth, not directly on the blinds.
Faux Wood and Aluminum Blinds
- Dust first: Use a vacuum with a brush attachment or a static duster.
- Wipe clean: A damp cloth with mild soap can safely remove grime. Be sure to rinse with a clean cloth and dry thoroughly.
If you’re unsure about the material of your blinds, reach out to Window Designs by Landy Brown at (262) 490-1541.
Cleaning Custom Shades
Custom shades come in a variety of styles—cellular, Roman, roller, and more—and each requires unique care.
Cellular and Honeycomb Shades
- Vacuum gently: Use a low-suction handheld vacuum with a brush attachment to clean from top to bottom.
- Spot clean: Lightly blot stains using a damp cloth and mild detergent. Avoid excessive pressure to prevent crushing the cells.
Roman Shades
- Dust and vacuum: Roman shades gather dust in their folds. Gently vacuum with a brush attachment weekly.
- Fabric-safe spot cleaning: Use fabric cleaner or mild soap to address spills or smudges.
Roller Shades
- Wipe down: Use a microfiber cloth with mild soapy water. Fully extend the shade, clean both sides, and let air dry before rolling back up.
Learning to clean custom window treatments like shades properly can preserve their color, shape, and operation.
How to Clean Custom Draperies
Custom draperies elevate a room with soft texture and flowing design, but they also collect dust and allergens.
- Vacuum regularly: Use a low-suction vacuum with an upholstery attachment.
- Check the label: Many draperies are lined or made from delicate fabrics that require professional cleaning.
- Steam: A handheld fabric steamer can remove light wrinkles and freshen fabric between deep cleanings.
For households in Okauchee or Pewaukee, where lakeside living can bring in extra dust or moisture, be sure to clean custom window treatments frequently to prevent mold and fading.
Maintaining Custom Shutters
Shutters—whether wood or composite—are sturdy and low-maintenance but still benefit from regular attention.
- Dry dust weekly: Use a clean, dry cloth, feather duster, or vacuum attachment.
- Deep cleaning: A slightly damp cloth with diluted dish soap can help remove grease (especially in kitchens).
- Avoid oversaturating: Always dry thoroughly after wiping.
If your shutters are motorized or part of a larger window automation system, take extra care to avoid moisture near mechanical components.
Caring for Motorized Window Treatments
Motorized shades and blinds are a popular choice in high-ceilinged homes and modern designs across Oconomowoc and Lake Country.
- Power off before cleaning: Always disconnect power sources or use remote controls to disable movement.
- Dust the hardware: Use a dry microfiber cloth to clean tracks, brackets, and casings.
- Clean fabric surfaces: Follow the fabric care instructions for the specific treatment.
- Schedule maintenance: Motorized components benefit from annual inspections. Window Designs by Landy Brown offers support to keep your system running smoothly.
Maintaining the look and function of your motorized features means knowing how to clean custom window treatments without damaging the built-in technology.
Spot Cleaning Tips for All Window Treatments
Sometimes, spot cleaning is all that’s needed to refresh the appearance of your treatments between deep cleans.
- Test first: Try any cleaner on an inconspicuous area.
- Use white cloths: Avoid color transfer from dyed towels.
- Blot, don’t rub: Rubbing can spread the stain or damage fibers.
Whether you live near Lac La Belle or in suburban neighborhoods closer to downtown Oconomowoc, environmental factors like dust and humidity mean that knowing how to clean custom window treatments at the spot level can make a big difference in upkeep.
Professional Cleaning vs. DIY
While weekly dusting and light spot-cleaning are safe for most homeowners to handle, there are times when calling in the pros is the best route:
- Draperies with linings or specialty fabrics
- Motorized treatments needing recalibration
- Water-damaged or heavily soiled materials
Window Designs by Landy Brown can refer you to trusted cleaning partners in the Oconomowoc area and even help remove and reinstall your treatments as part of service packages.
How Often Should You Clean Custom Window Treatments?
Frequency depends on your household, location, and window placement, but here are general guidelines:
- Dust weekly
- Vacuum monthly
- Deep clean every 6–12 months
If you have pets, allergies, or live near busy roads like Highway 16 or I-94, you may need to clean more frequently to avoid buildup.
Knowing when and how to clean custom window treatments keeps your space healthier and your home looking polished.
Tips for Bedding, Pillows, and Coordinated Accessories
Many homeowners in Oconomowoc and surrounding areas choose custom bedding and throw pillows to coordinate with their window treatments.
- Follow fabric care tags: Some fabrics require dry cleaning.
- Vacuum weekly: Especially for decorative pillows.
- Spot clean gently: Mild detergents and light blotting preserve shape and texture.
When you order custom pieces from Window Designs by Landy Brown, we provide care instructions tailored to each product.
What Not to Do When Cleaning Custom Window Treatments
Avoiding common mistakes will extend the life of your coverings:
- Don’t soak fabrics. Too much moisture can damage fibers and linings.
- Don’t scrub. Rubbing can distort weaves or remove finishes.
- Don’t use bleach or strong chemicals. Always stick with mild soap or cleaners designed for fabrics.
- Don’t ignore hardware. Clean tracks, cords, and motors regularly.
Whether you have full-length blackout drapes in your bedroom or woven wood shades in your sunroom, it’s important to avoid shortcuts that might shorten the life of your treatments.
Seasonal Considerations for Wisconsin Homes
In Oconomowoc, WI, seasonal shifts bring different challenges when it comes to keeping window treatments clean:
- Spring: Pollen and pet shedding increase. Vacuum and dust more frequently.
- Summer: Humidity can lead to mold or mildew. Use dehumidifiers and ventilate rooms.
- Fall: Dry leaves and outdoor debris can enter through open windows. Clean treatments near doors and entry points often.
- Winter: Dry air and heating systems increase dust circulation. Wipe surfaces more frequently and consider professional cleaning for fabrics.
Taking a seasonal approach to how you clean custom window treatments ensures they remain attractive and functional year-round.
Trust Window Designs by Landy Brown for Expert Advice
We proudly serve Oconomowoc, WI and surrounding communities including Hartland, Delafield, Okauchee, and Summit. Whether you need help identifying your fabric type or want recommendations on how to clean custom window treatments in a specific room, we are here to help.
Our services include:
- Custom Blinds
- Draperies
- Shades
- Shutters
- Bedding and Pillows
- Motorized Window Coverings
Reach out to us at (262) 490-1541 or email Landy@windowsbylandy.com for guidance or to schedule an in-home consultation.
Final Thoughts: Clean Custom Window Treatments with Confidence
Learning how to clean custom window treatments the right way ensures you maintain the beauty, function, and value of your investment. From blinds and draperies to motorized shades and shutters, each style benefits from proper care. By following the tips above and working with trusted local professionals, homeowners in Oconomowoc, WI can keep their window treatments looking their best for years to come.
Don’t hesitate to reach out to Window Designs by Landy Brown for personalized recommendations. Your custom solutions deserve expert attention—and we’re just a call or email away.
Window Designs by Landy Brown
Serving Oconomowoc, WI & Surrounding Areas
Phone: (262) 490-1541
Email: Landy@windowsbylandy.com
Comments are closed