When the summer sun is streaming through your windows, there’s nothing better than having stylish and functional blinds or shutters to keep your home cool and comfortable. 

But with brighter days, increased dust, and stronger UV rays, it’s also the time when your window coverings can take the biggest hit.

So, how do you keep your blinds and shutters in top shape this summer? 

This blog covers it all – from general cleaning and maintenance tips to UV protection hacks, and why your blinds and shutters are more than just good-looking features during the warmer months.

Why Summer Maintenance Matters

Summer is the season when blinds and shutters get put to work the most. 

They’re opened and closed multiple times a day to keep out glare, let in fresh air, or create shade. At the same time, they’re exposed to heat, dust, pollen, and harsh sunlight – all of which can wear them down faster if they’re not looked after properly.

Prolonging the life of your window coverings is as simple as a few tweaks to your cleaning routine and knowing what to watch out for.

General Cleaning Tips: Keep the Dust and Grime at Bay

1. Quick Weekly Dust-Down

Start with the basics – dust. Whether you’ve got wooden shutters or Venetian blinds, dust is your biggest enemy during summer when windows are often open. 

Use a microfibre cloth, feather duster or even the brush attachment of your vacuum cleaner to gently run across each slat once a week. For fabric blinds, a handheld vacuum with a low suction setting will do the trick.

Top tip: Close the blinds in one direction, dust, then flip and repeat on the other side for thorough cleaning.

2. Monthly Deep Clean

Once a month, give your blinds or shutters a deeper clean. For aluminium or PVC blinds, you can wipe them down with a damp cloth and mild detergent. Avoid soaking them as this can damage the mechanisms. 

Wooden blinds and shutters should be cleaned with a dry or slightly damp cloth – never too wet, as excess moisture can cause warping or peeling of the finish.

Pro tip: Add a dash of white vinegar to your cleaning water to naturally break down grime and leave a streak-free finish.

Tackling Summer-Specific Build-up

Summer means more than just dust – think pollen, insect splats, and sticky fingerprints from kids on holiday. 

Use baby wipes or gentle all-purpose wipes for quick spot-cleaning on the go. And for blinds in kitchens or bathrooms, where heat and humidity are high, consider a grease-busting spray that’s safe for your material type.

UV Protection: Shielding Your Blinds and Shutters from Sun Damage

The summer sun might be great for your garden, but it’s not as kind to your blinds and shutters. Constant exposure to UV rays can cause colours to fade and materials to weaken, especially in south-facing windows.

1. Rotate or Adjust Regularly: Adjust the position of your blinds or shutters slightly every few days so the same spots aren’t constantly exposed to direct sunlight. This simple trick helps even out exposure and reduce fading.
2. Use Sheer Curtains or UV Window Film: If you’re worried about long-term sun damage, pair your blinds with sheer curtains or consider applying a UV-filtering film to the windows. This cuts down UV exposure while still allowing natural light in – ideal for rooms where you don’t want to block the sun entirely.
3. Opt for UV-Resistant Materials: If you’re in the market for new blinds or shutters, consider UV-resistant options like composite wood or treated faux wood. These are made to withstand the elements and are less likely to warp or discolour over time.

Don’t Forget the Mechanisms!

Blinds and shutters aren’t just about the slats – the cords, rods, and hinges play just as important a role in keeping everything working smoothly.

1. Inspect Cords and Chains: Give all cords, chains, and tilt wands a once-over every few weeks. Check for fraying, tangling, or signs of wear and tear. If something looks like it’s on its way out, don’t wait for it to break – most parts are inexpensive to replace.
2. Lubricate Hinges and Tracks: If you have plantation shutters or sliding blinds, use a silicone-based lubricant on the hinges or tracks to prevent squeaking and sticking. Avoid oil-based lubricants as they can attract dust.

Benefits of Blinds and Shutters in the Summer

You’ve got the cleaning sorted, but let’s not forget why blinds and shutters are summer superheroes in the first place.

1. Temperature Control: They’re brilliant at keeping your home cooler – especially during heatwaves. Close blinds or tilt shutters during the hottest parts of the day to block out direct sunlight and prevent your room from turning into a sauna.
2. Energy Efficiency: By reducing indoor temperatures naturally, you’ll rely less on fans or air conditioning – saving you money on energy bills. It’s a small change that adds up over the course of a hot summer.
3. Privacy Without Losing Light: Shutters and certain styles of blinds let you maintain privacy while still letting some natural light through. Perfect if you’re working from home or want to avoid feeling like you’re living in a cave.
4. Protection for Interiors: Not only do they protect themselves, but blinds and shutters also help protect your furniture, flooring and artwork from fading due to prolonged sun exposure.

Bonus Tips for Families

If you’ve got children at home during the summer holidays, consider the safety side of things too:

• Opt for cordless or wand-operated designs to reduce hazards. 
• Install cord safety cleats or tension devices to secure loose cords. 
• Teach children not to swing or tug on the blinds – it’s not a playground

Final Thoughts: A Little Care Goes a Long Way

Blinds and shutters are more than just decorative features – they’re functional parts of your home that deserve a little TLC. With just a small amount of regular maintenance, you’ll keep them looking and working their best all summer long (and beyond).

So, grab a cloth, adjust those slats, and give your windows the attention they need – your home (and your energy bill) will thank you for it.

Should you have any questions about our ranges and styles of blinds and shutters, then please don’t hesitate to contact our professional team, we are always more than happy to help. Also, if you would prefer a home visit, you can easily arrange one within the vast areas we cover at a time that works best for you.