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How to clean plantation shutters.

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Care 3 minute read Regency Custom Window Treatments

One advantage of plantation shutters is how easy they are to maintain. But the question still arises of how best to do this. After all, such a valuable home investment deserves the ultimate in care. The following describes the easiest ways in which to keep your exterior and interior plantation shutters looking like new for many years to come.

How to Clean Plantation Shutters 101

  • How to clean plantation shutters: the do’s and don’ts
  • Easy maintenance for wood and polyvinyl interior plantation shutters

How to clean plantation shutters: the do’s and don’ts

One thing that everyone loves about plantation shutters is how easy they are to care for. But you should be aware of a few do’s and don’ts.

Do clean them regularly

The slats are gorgeous to look at but can be somewhat of a dust magnet. Wiping them down every week will prevent any buildup of unwanted debris.

Do use microfiber or lambswool cloths/dusters

These are soft on the surface and won’t scratch the finish.Do pay attention to the corners: This is where dust tends to congregate, so be sure to wipe right into here when cleaning.

Don’t use excessive water

No matter what material the shutters are made from, it’s important to not soak them when cleaning.Don’t use cleaning solutions: These can be harmful to wood and polyvinyl, damaging the integrity of the shutters. All that’s required is a light dusting or, if necessary, damp cloth to remove stains.Don’t forget to vacuum after cleaning the shutters: This lessens the chance of any dirt that you’ve removed floating back to settle on the shutters once again.

Easy maintenance for wood and polyvinyl interior plantation shutters

Regular maintenance and cleaning of your shutters takes only minutes if carried out regularly. Tilt the slats to the open position.

Wipe each slat from the center to the outside edge. This can be done with a duster or microfiber cloth.

If necessary, use a soft toothbrush to remove any buildup of dirt in the corners. Also, pay attention to the end of the individual slats.

If you come across any marks that can’t be removed by dusting alone, use a well-squeezed out damp cloth (water only) to gently rub until the mark is gone. Be sure to dry thoroughly once done.

And that’s it…! Job done.

How to Clean Plantation Shutters: the ‘cheat’ sheet

  • When time is of the essence: interior plantation shutter cleaning tips

When time is of the essence: interior plantation shutter cleaning tips

When you’re short of time (and, to be honest, who isn’t, at least once in a while?) the following shortcuts mean you can still keep up with regular maintenance and cleaning your plantation shutters.

Fully close all the slats and wipe the whole surface with a microfiber cloth

Or…Using the soft upholstery attachment on your vacuum cleaner, gently run it across each slat to remove dust. You can do this with the shutter slats in either the open or closed position. It’s also a good option to clean around the frame too.

Regency are the Go-To Providers for Window Dressings

Getting plantation shutters fitted is best approached through a professional service. No-one serves this better than South Florida’s Regency. Based in Delray Beach, their bespoke and off-the-shelf range of top quality window dressings is the reason savvy homeowners trust them with their design needs.

Their experts are happy to advise on the options that best suit your property and lifestyle, and they provide a customized service that satisfies every shape and style of window imaginable.

Visit to find out more and schedule an appointment to speak with their friendly advisors.

If you would like a hand deciding, that is what the consultation is for. A designer comes out, looks at the actual room, and brings the fabrics that suit it. Book a free in-home consultation, or see the gallery.

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