Custom shades are built to last — and a little routine care keeps them looking new for years. Here's how to clean every type of shade, from rollers to shutters to exterior lanai shades, plus what to avoid.
Start with regular dusting
The single best thing you can do is dust regularly. A quick pass with a feather duster, a microfiber cloth, or a vacuum brush attachment on low suction keeps dust from building up and settling into the fabric. Dust often and most shades rarely need a deeper clean.
Roller and solar shades
Roller and solar shades are among the easiest to maintain. Dust them regularly, and for marks, wipe gently with a soft cloth dampened with water and a drop of mild soap, then let them dry fully before rolling up. The smooth screen fabric resists dirt and wipes clean easily.
Cellular and honeycomb shades
For honeycomb shades, vacuum gently with a brush attachment, or use a hair dryer on a cool setting or a can of compressed air to clear dust from inside the cells. For spots, blot — don't rub — with a lightly damp cloth.
Roman and fabric shades
Roman shades and other fabric styles do best with regular vacuuming on low suction. Spot-clean gently and avoid soaking the fabric. For a deeper clean, follow the specific fabric's care guidance — we'll go over this for your particular shades.
Plantation shutters
Plantation shutters are the lowest-maintenance of all. Dust the louvers with a cloth or duster, and wipe with a slightly damp cloth when needed. That's it — they're built to last and easy to keep looking sharp.
Exterior lanai and patio shades
For lanai and patio shades, hose or wipe the fabric with mild soap and water a few times a year, keep the tracks clear of leaves and debris so they run smoothly, and raise the shades in high winds. A little attention keeps motorized autoshades operating like new through Florida's seasons.
What to avoid
Skip harsh chemicals, bleach and abrasive scrubbers — they can damage fabrics and finishes. Don't soak fabric or cellular shades, and don't roll them up while damp, which can cause mildew. When in doubt, gentle and dry is the rule.
Ready to upgrade your space?
Have a care question about your specific shades, or ready for a refresh? Reach out anytime or call (352) 801-1586 — we're here long after installation.