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Spring Cleaning Tips for Window Treatments
April 11, 2024
What's the first sign of spring? For some, hearing birds calling again or the beginning of spring sports might mark the start of the season. As a Midwest homeowner, think of the first day you can open your windows and breathe in the fresh air.
With these first signs of warm weather comes spring cleaning. Homeowners set out to tackle tasks that didn't get done over the winter and prepare for spring and summer holidays. Since open windows signify spring, your window treatments must be clean and ready for the season.
Let's look at some spring cleaning tips for your window treatments to set the tone for a great spring.
Open Your Windows
After using candles and air fresheners all winter, there's nothing like smelling the spring breeze once you open your windows. Opening windows can serve a greater purpose than simply bringing in new smells–it can air out your home. The Consumer Product Safety Commission asserts that growing scientific evidence indicates that air within homes can become more polluted than outdoor air in many cities. When we use water heaters, gas ovens, and fireplaces, we may release pollutants into our home's indoor air cycles, and opening our windows may help clear them out.
That said, keeping windows open for extended periods in the spring can bring in allergens or even insects. Homeowners must plan with their families how long and often they'll keep windows open and ensure they have proper window protection.
Wash or Dry Clean Drapery
Custom drapery adds style and function to your home. If you are opening and closing drapery throughout the spring, you may notice stains or inconsistencies in the fabric. Those with young children and pets should carefully examine the drapes when cleaning. Accidents happen; if stains are in the folds of drapery or on the opposite side, they can be easy to miss.
While some drapes can be cleaned and cared for at home, other varieties may require dry cleaning. Unlined cotton and linen can usually be washed in cold water or delicate cycles at home. If your drapes have a lining, embellishments, or beading, dry cleaning is your best bet. When in doubt, consult the information that came with drapery, ask at a dry cleaner, or check out our online guide.
Clean Shutters and Shades
Like drapery, homeowners often forget to clean their shutters and shades regularly. Shutters are notorious for picking up dust particles. The beginning of spring is a great time to do a longer deep clean of shades and shutters, and then each week, ensure you dust and maintain the treatments. All-purpose cleaners might work for your shutters, but it all depends on the material they are made of. Homeowners should consult a window treatment expert or the store where they got the shutters.
Basic Window Cleaning
What good is an open window if it's dirty? Window cleaning can be tough in the winter, so homeowners may tackle it for the first time in a few months come spring. If your home has windows high up on the property or in difficult-to-reach spaces, it may be beneficial to get them professionally cleaned.
For easier-to-reach windows, cleaning with an appropriate glass cleaner or treatment can help windows look spic and span. Cleaning around the window panes is also crucial, ensuring dust or debris doesn't pile up. Once again, follow instructions unique to your windows or consult an expert.
Sliding Glass Doors
Spring is the start of the outdoor hosting season. Remember to clean your sliding glass doors if you're a homeowner with a patio, deck, or balcony. While cleaning the glass part of the door is critical, cleaning the metal track across which the door slides is equally essential. Debris from shoes or the outdoors can get stuck in these grooves and then track into the house. Take a few minutes this spring to clean these grooves and check them after hosting a get-together.
Pest Prevention
As humans enjoy the transition into spring, so do many insects and household pests. Midwest homeowners should watch for ants, clover mites, termites, mice, and more in the spring. Unfortunately, windows are common entrances for household pests in the spring and summer. While cleaning your windows, ensure no gaps or cracks in the windows or panes.
Window Health
Amidst the rest of these cleaning tasks, homeowners can analyze the overall health of their windows. Windows play a significant role in insulating homes and contributing to their security. If you've had your windows for quite a while or want to upgrade, spring is an excellent season to do so. Replacing windows will involve a professional window company, money, and time, but the results can be tremendous.
Refresh Your Windows
As you clean your windows, you may notice it's time to update your window treatments or try something new. Changing the colors or designs of your window treatments can be a straightforward change that improves the entire room. Luckily, homeowners have many options to choose from nowadays and can consider which window treatments will fit their space's vision.
Call Proctor Drapery Today
At Proctor Drapery, we believe in the power of personalized service and collaboration. Michael Proctor is our Window Design Specialist with 50 years of experience. He knows this business inside and out and is ready to work directly with homeowners, interior designers, and property managers from the initial concept to the completion of your next project.
Contact us today if you're looking for custom drapery, blinds, shutters, and more in Greater STL!
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