
HOW TO CARE FOR YOUR CURTAINS AND BLINDS
We all know the feeling of finally finding the perfect curtains or blinds.
They complete the room, control the light just so, and make you feel like you’ve got your life together (at least in the home décor department!).
But just like any prized possession, your window coverings need a little TLC to stay looking their best. It’s not as complicated as it might seem, and we’re here to give you the lowdown on keeping your curtains and blinds in top shape.
Care 101
The golden rule here is to always check the care label! Different fabrics have different needs, so it’s important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
Generally, though, most curtains, roman blinds and bonded blinds can be vacuumed regularly with a brush attachment to remove dust and cobwebs. For a deeper clean, we recommend a professional curtain and blind cleaner visits your home or office. Some curtains can also be taken to your dry cleaner or hand washed, depending on the fabric. Be careful as some fabric compositions such as cotton are prone to shrinkage when laundered.
And remember, if you’re ironing your curtains or roman blinds check the label first and have your iron on a low setting. Viscose, rayon and nylon fibers cannot be pressed at high heat or steamed.
Home Range blind maintenance made easy
The good news is BQ Home Range roller blinds, roman blinds and panel glides are pretty low-maintenance. Regular dusting with a soft cloth or a feather duster will usually do the trick.
For a more thorough clean, check the fabric label first. Usually you can wipe them down with a damp cloth and a mild detergent. Just be sure to avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as these can damage the blinds.
Spot cleaning savvy
Accidents happen, right? Whether it’s a rogue splash of coffee or a curious pet with muddy paws, knowing how to tackle those unexpected stains is key.
Treat spills and stains as soon as possible. For most fabrics, a gentle dab with a damp cloth and a mild stain remover should do the trick. But always test the stain remover on an inconspicuous area first, just to be safe. And if you’re dealing with a particularly stubborn stain, it’s best to call in a professional curtain or blind cleaner.
Use of soap or detergent with water should be approached with caution since overzealous rinsing to remove soap residue may result in overwetting and water marking.
You will find some fabric composition such as polyesters are easier to clean and don‘t stain.
At BQ Design we offer scotchgard treatment on request, applied to customised roman blind fabrics to repel spills and stains and to keep furnishings clean and looking new for longer. The scotchgard treatment will wash off if the blind is laundered.
Preventing problems before they start.
The best way to keep your curtains, roman blinds and roller blinds looking their best is to prevent problems before they even start.
This means protecting them from direct sunlight, which can fade fabrics over time. Natural fibres such as cotton, linen and silk are more prone to fade, especially bright and dark tone fabric colours, compared to polyester fabrics with good UV resistance. Lining can also be added to your curtains and blinds to help protect fabric from fading.
Also keeping your window coverings away from excessive moisture, which can lead to mould and mildew. Natural fabric fibres can be affected by mildew which will cause the fibre to deteriorate over time. Polyester and viscose fabrics or fabric compositions with these blends, are better at resisting mould and mildew.
We also have the ability to perform complex fabric pre-shrinking, prior to manufacturing your curtains and blinds. Fabrics up to 150cm wide, with compositions recognised to shrink or stretch but can tolerate heat are processed in our unique and specifically designed stenting oven. The oven’s heating process helps reduce the amount of natural movement in the fabric due to environmental factors such as heating and cooling, therefore ensuring your soft furnishings retain their shape and quality for many years.
And if you’ve got kids or pets, it’s a good idea to choose durable fabrics and materials that can withstand a bit of rough and tumble.
A little love goes a long way
Ultimately, caring for your curtains and blinds is all about showing them a little love. By following these simple tips and giving them regular attention, you can keep them looking beautiful and functioning properly for years to come.
And if you’re ever unsure about how to care for a particular type of curtain or blind, don’t hesitate to contact BQ Design on 1800 335 361 or email admin@bqdesign.com.au. Your interior specialist can also provide expert advice and help to keep your window coverings in top condition.
Ready to give your windows the star treatment they deserve?
Explore the incredible range of curtains, roman blinds, roller blinds and panel glides at BQ Design and find the perfect match for your style. Start browsing now and transform your home!