Dial-a-Maid
There's more to think about when choosing a window treatment than just color and style, says a 40+ year old Residential Cleaning Service in Mt. Prospect, Il. In fact, window treatments can make a room feel more comfortable by keeping heat in during the winter and out in the summer, says Martha Stewart's Homekeeping Handbook.
Honeycomb, or cellular shades, which are composed of horizontal rows of hollow channels, are among the most energy-efficient window treatments available. Their channels provide an effective layer of insulation that manufacturers claim can more than double the energy efficiency of a double-pane window. But even plain vinyl blinds can effectively block the sun's rays, which is one of the most effective ways to keep a room cool. To ensure that they keep rooms warmer in winter, install them as close to window-panes and the sides of the window frame as possible to create an effective air barrier.
If you have Pleated Shades, dust them monthly with the dust-brush tool on the vacuum, set the suction on low. Regular vacuuming is the only way to clean these shades.
Solar shades should be dusted monthly, using the dust-brush tool on the vacuum, set on low suction, or wipe with a damp cloth. Twice a year, wipe with a cloth dampened with warm water and a mild dishwashing liquid.
Draperies and Curtains should be dusted monthly with the upholstery tool on the vacuum, set on low suction. Once a year, if the fabric is washable, launder in the machine on the gentle cycle. Hang to dry and iron while still damp. If the fabric is not washable, dry clean. Draperies and curtains in the kitchen or bath or in particularly dusty climates may need to be cleaned more frequently.
Wood Blinds and Shutters should be closed before cleaning. Dust with a feather duster, a lamb's wool duster, an electrostatic cloth, or the dust-brush tool on the vacuum, set on low suction. Close them in the opposite direction and repeat. Wood blinds and shutters should not be exposed to steam or moisture in a kitchen or bath. Twice a year, wipe each slat with a slightly dampened cloth, then dry, says a 40+ year old Residential Cleaning Service servicing the North and Northwest suburbs of Chicago.
