4 Tips to Give Natural Care to Your Plantation Shutters
Plantation shutters are more popular than ever. Equally attractive in both contemporary and period homes, these window coverings are an investment in your property that you won't regret. However, like every investment, they need protecting to maintain their value and appeal. Here are some ways of cleaning and caring for your shutters that will care for the environment too.
Use Proper Tools for Dust Removal
Keep the shutters dusted regularly using a feather duster. This is gentle enough not to damage the louvres and is able to fit in between the narrow slots.
For the best results, use a real ostrich feather duster, not a synthetic equivalent or cheap feather duster. The ostrich feathers are the most effective at removing dust due to the long barbs that are ideal for picking up tiny particles.
You can also wash an ostrich feather duster and it should last for years. Synthetic dusters are made of plastic that is not recyclable, but ostrich feathers are a by-product of ostrich farming (an environmentally-friendly source of meat), making these dusters the greener choice.
Use the Right Cleaning Agents to Protect Against Mould
Vinegar is a fantastic natural mould preventative. If damp is a problem in your house, once a month, spray the shutters and window frame with undiluted vinegar. The smell naturally dissipates after a few hours, but if it is too strong for your liking, add some lemon juice to the mix and wipe the shutters down 5 minutes after the application.
Do not use baking soda, as although this is another good natural mould treatment, it is also abrasive. Wiping the shutters with a baking soda solution might scratch the finish on the louvres.
Use the Right Oils to Keep Creaks at Bay
Oil the hinges regularly to prevent stiffness when opening and closing the shutters. It will also prevent any creaking noises during movement in the hinges. WD40 would be the usual oil used in this scenario, but it contains harmful ingredients. Natural alternatives are olive oil or coconut oil. Wipe up any residue if using olive oil and if using coconut oil it may require some softening first; just warm it slightly in a saucepan.
A lot of these maintenance solutions can be applied to your other window coverings, whether removing dust from venetian blinds or keeping the mechanism of your roller blind running smoothly. Use natural care to keep your home looking naturally its best. For more tips or assistance, consult resources like Queensland Blinds and Awnings.
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