The Zen of Proper Care and Maintenance of Plantation Shutters
One of the wonderful things about living in this day and age is the variety of choices you have when it comes to choosing window coverings for your home. It’s like being offered 50 different kinds of bottled water when you’ve been lost in the desert—sheer heaven. Tradition is out the door, and experimentation and choice are everything.
So when you think about choosing window treatments for your home, take the opportunity to try something you haven’t tried before. If you’ve never considered plantation shutters, now is your opportunity.
In the past, plantation shutters—shutters with slats over two inches wide—spoke of tradition and classic taste. However today, anything goes when it comes to decorating with these shutters. From southwest design to soho loft to stark ultra-modern, there’s a shutter for every taste and need.
Plantation shutters are traditionally made of selected basswood for strength and durability; they’re hand sanded for a high quality finish. Still, with the multitude of individual slats, cleaning the shutters can be a bit of a challenge. So, here are a few cleaning tips to help you along your way.
Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions. If there are no instructions, start your cleaning routine with a dry cleaning method. Use a soft cloth or soft toothbrush to loosen dirt and dust. Use a hand vacuum with a soft brush to vacuum away the loosened debris while being careful not to scratch the shutters.
Clean away any stains and spots with a soft rag and a mild cleaning agent. Apply the agent to the rag and not the wood; this protects the shutters and provides for a more even application. When finished, wipe the plantation shutters dry rather than let them air dry, to prevent water damage and spots. Remember that weekly dusting with a soft cloth or feather duster will help prevent dust buildup and reduce the number of times you need to spring clean your shutters.
Plantation shutters are quite versatile and can fit into your own unique décor. Maintain them well and they’ll provide years of beauty and enjoyment for you and your whole family.
For more information about plantation shutters, please visit Budget Blinds Canada corporate website.