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How to Clean Plantation Shutters
The beautiful, clean lines of plantation shutters offer your home an elegance
and timeless grace that is unparalleled by other window covering options.
However, just like any other window covering, plantation shutters need to be
cleaned from time to time to ensure that they maintain their classical beauty.
The proper cleaning method will keep your plantation shutters looking stunning
throughout the lifetime of your home.
Regular Dusting
Every couple of weeks, your plantation shutters will need a basic dusting to ensure that they continue looking their best and do not accumulate grime. Use a dry or lightly dampened microfiber cloth or disposable duster to do your dusting. To begin, open the shutters and dust the entire structure from the top to the bottom. Take special care to open the louvers and dust each individually on both sides. Be sure to also dust the window details and sill to keep your shutters at their cleanest.
More Detailed Cleaning
Although a simple regular dusting should keep your plantation shutters looking amazing for years to come, there are some times when they will need special cleaning for one reason or another. When your shutters clearly need more love than a simple dusting can provide, mix up a solution of a teaspoon of dish soap in a gallon of hot water. Dip a soft cloth or sponge into this solution, and then wring it out thoroughly, until it is just barely still damp. Clean as you would when dusting, starting from the top, working your way through each louver, and finishing by cleaning the window itself. Once the grime has been removed from your shutters and windows, use a fresh cloth that has been dampened in plain water to remove the soap and any other residue.
Remember the Location
Your plantation shutters are going to have different cleaning requirements depending on their location. Shutters that are located in your bathroom, kitchen, dining areas, and children's rooms are more likely to require a more detailed cleaning than shutters in other parts of your home would. These shutters can easily accumulate grease, airborne food particles, accidental food splatters, hairspray, dirt, and other forms of difficult to remove grime. For these locations, it is important for you to give your shutters a deep clean regularly to prevent unsightly grime buildup. Failure to frequently give shutters in these areas a detailed cleaning can make them more difficult to clean in the short term and shorten their lifespan in the long term.
Regular Dusting
Every couple of weeks, your plantation shutters will need a basic dusting to ensure that they continue looking their best and do not accumulate grime. Use a dry or lightly dampened microfiber cloth or disposable duster to do your dusting. To begin, open the shutters and dust the entire structure from the top to the bottom. Take special care to open the louvers and dust each individually on both sides. Be sure to also dust the window details and sill to keep your shutters at their cleanest.
More Detailed Cleaning
Although a simple regular dusting should keep your plantation shutters looking amazing for years to come, there are some times when they will need special cleaning for one reason or another. When your shutters clearly need more love than a simple dusting can provide, mix up a solution of a teaspoon of dish soap in a gallon of hot water. Dip a soft cloth or sponge into this solution, and then wring it out thoroughly, until it is just barely still damp. Clean as you would when dusting, starting from the top, working your way through each louver, and finishing by cleaning the window itself. Once the grime has been removed from your shutters and windows, use a fresh cloth that has been dampened in plain water to remove the soap and any other residue.
Remember the Location
Your plantation shutters are going to have different cleaning requirements depending on their location. Shutters that are located in your bathroom, kitchen, dining areas, and children's rooms are more likely to require a more detailed cleaning than shutters in other parts of your home would. These shutters can easily accumulate grease, airborne food particles, accidental food splatters, hairspray, dirt, and other forms of difficult to remove grime. For these locations, it is important for you to give your shutters a deep clean regularly to prevent unsightly grime buildup. Failure to frequently give shutters in these areas a detailed cleaning can make them more difficult to clean in the short term and shorten their lifespan in the long term.
Shannon Hodges is Director of Marketing at Eclipse Shutters. Eclipse Shutters is an Atlanta-based custom shutter provider with a network of licensed fabricators around the country. Their company has grown to become the number one shutter selling company in North America and largest manufacturer of tailor-made plantation shutters. Eclipse Shutters was established in 1992 and offers customers fast delivery and a 25-year warranty. Learn more about plantation window shutters at http://www.eclipseshutters.com/about-eclipse-shutters.html.
Blinds 4 Less
Quality Blinds, Shutters, & Shades
Proudly Serving Southern California since 1994
Free In-Home Shopping
(951) 924-9435
When It Comes to Aesthetics and Upkeep, Plantation Shutters Last Long
Quality faux plantation shutters are popular with homeowners because they maintain their original appearance for many years, and, unlike real wood shutters, they never have to be painted or sanded. With minimal care, they can last as long as you are in your home and improve the resale value when you move.
Well-made Faux Plantation Shutters are Built to Last
Good interior faux plantation shutters will not warp, crack, chip, discolor, or peel. They resist mold and mildew, which makes them perfect for bathrooms, kitchens, and other rooms where they may be subject to moisture. They are also the best choice for homes in hot, humid, and/or rainy parts of the country. Good faux plantation shutters are UV resistant, so they will not yellow or fade with exposure to sunlight. They can be easily cleaned with soap and water, so they are great for homes with children and animals.
No Need to Paint or Stain
Faux plantation shutters generally come in neutral colors that blend with the mouldings, paint, and décor of any home or office. Unlike real wood shutters which need to be painted or stained every few years to protect the wood, quality faux wood shutters never need painting. Because they will not flake, fade, or discolour, the finish will last for the life of the blinds.
Maintaining Faux Plantation Shutters
Generally, the only maintenance that faux plantation shutters need is simply regular dusting or vacuuming and an occasional cleaning. Most are made of some type of vinyl, which should be dusted once every week or two depending on how much dust is collected. You can slide a flexible microfiber wand over and between the shutters. You can also use the soft brush attachment on your vacuum cleaner hose. Tilt the slats up and gently vacuum them, and then turn them down and do the same. Remember to dust the tops and bottoms of the shutters as well.
When your shutters need to be cleaned, just use distilled water (to avoid spotting), a few drops of mild dish soap, and a soft cloth. Be sure to rinse and then dry the shutters with a clean cloth to ensure that there is no detergent residue.
The best way to ensure that you are providing the proper care for your shutters is to follow the instructions provided by the plantation shutter manufacturers. If you do not have the documentation that came with the shutters, call the manufacturer, or check their website for cleaning and other maintenance information.
Well-made Faux Plantation Shutters are Built to Last
Good interior faux plantation shutters will not warp, crack, chip, discolor, or peel. They resist mold and mildew, which makes them perfect for bathrooms, kitchens, and other rooms where they may be subject to moisture. They are also the best choice for homes in hot, humid, and/or rainy parts of the country. Good faux plantation shutters are UV resistant, so they will not yellow or fade with exposure to sunlight. They can be easily cleaned with soap and water, so they are great for homes with children and animals.
No Need to Paint or Stain
Faux plantation shutters generally come in neutral colors that blend with the mouldings, paint, and décor of any home or office. Unlike real wood shutters which need to be painted or stained every few years to protect the wood, quality faux wood shutters never need painting. Because they will not flake, fade, or discolour, the finish will last for the life of the blinds.
Maintaining Faux Plantation Shutters
Generally, the only maintenance that faux plantation shutters need is simply regular dusting or vacuuming and an occasional cleaning. Most are made of some type of vinyl, which should be dusted once every week or two depending on how much dust is collected. You can slide a flexible microfiber wand over and between the shutters. You can also use the soft brush attachment on your vacuum cleaner hose. Tilt the slats up and gently vacuum them, and then turn them down and do the same. Remember to dust the tops and bottoms of the shutters as well.
When your shutters need to be cleaned, just use distilled water (to avoid spotting), a few drops of mild dish soap, and a soft cloth. Be sure to rinse and then dry the shutters with a clean cloth to ensure that there is no detergent residue.
The best way to ensure that you are providing the proper care for your shutters is to follow the instructions provided by the plantation shutter manufacturers. If you do not have the documentation that came with the shutters, call the manufacturer, or check their website for cleaning and other maintenance information.
Shannon Hodges is Director of Marketing at Eclipse Shutters. Eclipse Shutters is an Atlanta-based custom shutter provider with a network of licensed fabricators around the country. Their company has grown to become the number one shutter selling company in North America and largest manufacturer of tailor-made plantation shutters. Eclipse Shutters was established in 1992 and offers customers fast delivery and a 25-year warranty. Learn more about plantation window shutters at http://www.eclipseshutters.com/about-eclipse-shutters.html.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Shannon_Hodges
Blinds 4 Less
Quality Blinds, Shutters, & Shades
Proudly Serving Southern California since 1994
Free In-Home Shopping
(951) 924-9435
Window Treatment Ideas for Your Bedroom
Your bedroom is your space to get away from it all. It should be relaxing and comfortable while making a statement about your personal style. One of the most important design elements in your bedroom is your window treatments. The window treatment has to flow with the all-around design concept of the room. There are a multitude of options to choose from that include floor-to-ceiling silk panels, heavier brocade drapes and even plantation shutters.
Simple Panels
Simple panels are a fresh way to bring a room's décor together. You can accomplish this in many ways via the use of color, pattern and texture. Simple panels are also a great way to create a stunning window treatment when accompanied by plantation shutters. By choosing different materials, you can set the tone of the room. You could choose linen panels for a simple, functional design or silk panels which encourage an elegant or romantic impression.
Valance and Drapery Panels
Valances and drapery panels are a wonderful way to accent a window. Valances can be covered in a pattern or a solid color to pick up the room's mood. They can add drama or invoke simplicity. Drapery panels are a versatile solution that when combined with window coverings such as indoor shutters can make a wonderful impression.
Versatility
Not every window treatment in your bedroom needs to be the same. One window may have plantation shutters and another may have drapery but when pulled together with the rest of the room's design it can create interest and depth.
Creating Intimacy
While a bedroom should be functional, it is always nice to have a romantic air about the room. A great solution is to create intimacy with layered panels such as floating sheer panels combined with panels of varying texture. Pairing luxurious plantation shutters for privacy and energy savings with romantic soft, drapes is another way to create intimacy.
The different styles of window treatments in varied colors, panels and textures can be used in a dizzying array of combinations. Your window treatments can be used as a focal point if they can effectively blend into the room's overall scheme. Regardless, they should be functional as well as beautiful. Plantations shutters are a wonderful way to save energy and to increase the room's privacy. They are elegant, durable, and add value to your home as well as fit well into just about any décor.
Simple Panels
Simple panels are a fresh way to bring a room's décor together. You can accomplish this in many ways via the use of color, pattern and texture. Simple panels are also a great way to create a stunning window treatment when accompanied by plantation shutters. By choosing different materials, you can set the tone of the room. You could choose linen panels for a simple, functional design or silk panels which encourage an elegant or romantic impression.
Valance and Drapery Panels
Valances and drapery panels are a wonderful way to accent a window. Valances can be covered in a pattern or a solid color to pick up the room's mood. They can add drama or invoke simplicity. Drapery panels are a versatile solution that when combined with window coverings such as indoor shutters can make a wonderful impression.
Versatility
Not every window treatment in your bedroom needs to be the same. One window may have plantation shutters and another may have drapery but when pulled together with the rest of the room's design it can create interest and depth.
Creating Intimacy
While a bedroom should be functional, it is always nice to have a romantic air about the room. A great solution is to create intimacy with layered panels such as floating sheer panels combined with panels of varying texture. Pairing luxurious plantation shutters for privacy and energy savings with romantic soft, drapes is another way to create intimacy.
The different styles of window treatments in varied colors, panels and textures can be used in a dizzying array of combinations. Your window treatments can be used as a focal point if they can effectively blend into the room's overall scheme. Regardless, they should be functional as well as beautiful. Plantations shutters are a wonderful way to save energy and to increase the room's privacy. They are elegant, durable, and add value to your home as well as fit well into just about any décor.
Shannon Hodges is Director of Marketing at Eclipse Shutters. Eclipse Shutters is an Atlanta-based custom shutter provider with a network of licensed fabricators around the country. Their company has grown to become the number one shutter selling company in North America and largest manufacturer of tailor-made plantation shutters. Eclipse Shutters was established in 1992 and offers customers fast delivery and a 25-year warranty. Learn more about plantation window shutters at http://www.eclipseshutters.com/about-eclipse-shutters.html.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Shannon_Hodges
Blinds 4 Less
Quality Blinds, Shutters, & Shades
Proudly Serving Southern California since 1994
Free In-Home Shopping
(951) 924-9435
Have the Perfect View Through Your Countryside Plantation Shutters
By Mark Row
Wood Shutters - Protection and Style
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/7857710
Wood Shutters - Protection and Style
All of us working hard during the year, just cannot wait to escape the city, and all the noise and pollution, at least for a weekend, why it does not come as a surprise that many people have decided to buy (or at least rent) a house in the countryside where they can enjoy their holiday with no disruptions. If you are among those people who enjoy nature and a peaceful and calming atmosphere, there is always the question of decorating your countryside home in a way that will give you everything you might need. Well, an important decision you will have to make is the one regarding to your window treatments, so we say why not have the perfect view through your countryside plantation shutters.
Why Plantation Shutters?
Plantation shutters are a perfect choice regardless of the purpose you are obtaining them for, solely because they will serve you great wherever you place them. They will protect your privacy and allow you to control the light in your bedroom and living room, but also serve as an important decorative element if chosen in some unconventional color thus presenting a focal point of the room and making the rest of the interior looking even better and more stylish.
Not to mention that they are made of natural materials often additionally protected with different finishes all in order of improving their functionality and effectiveness, allowing you to place them in areas where moisture and water vapour may present a problem. This also goes for their structure since many options are available, thus you can opt for different types of wood, resulting in greater strength and ability to withstand breakage, making them perfect not only for peaceful places but also areas that can be under the influence of damaging weather conditions.
Why Choose Shutters for your Countryside Home?
Now that you are well aware of all the benefits of having plantation shutters within your home, it is time to move on to your countryside home design.
As mentioned before, your cottage in the country should be a place where you go to rest and escape everyday responsibilities, why it should be adequately decorated. Since surrounded with natural elements like unpaved paths, forests, maybe a barn or two, rich wildlife, these are the elements that should be incorporated into the interior design. Thus, try to avoid artificial materials, but instead use natural ones like wood for your floors, window frames, cabinets, tables and the rest of the furniture and combine them with cotton for table cloths and bed covers or straw and thatch for your doormats and decorations. Simply put, everything should match the exterior so just avoid using shinny and silky materials like steel or granite, but rather replace them with iron and chrome. Everything needs to be rustic, so choose all the items accordingly. This is exactly why wooden shutters are a perfect match, even if you are not buying new ones, since even older ones whose color has faded over the years or are a bit scratched, can nicely fit into the atmosphere you tend to create.
Apart from the materials, you will also need to choose proper colors. Probably the most important thing is not going overboard with bright and intense colors which are more immanent to a modern design. A lot of earthly tones like brown, cream and beige with admixtures of light and dark green or maybe some matte red will look just fine. This also goes for the patterns. Some stripes, polka dots or squares for light curtains or table cloths will make a nice addition to the overall look. This can also be applied to your window treatments. You can go for a more traditional option with brown ones, or make them stand out with some bold red or green. The good news is that you can order a pre-painted shutters in the color of your choice or just repaint the ones you already have which is not a complicated task since all you need is some paint and a few brushes.
Finally, let's discuss the decorations. Just think of everything that reminds of nature and you will not make a mistake. A lot of flowers handpicked from your garden placed in clay vases, decorating a wooden table or a cabinet filled with small, antique tea cups will look great. An old rocking chair and a small, flat coffee table covered with a milieu will also make a nice addition. You can even decorate your countryside shutters by placing a short transparent curtain at the top, just flapping in the wind every time your window coverings are wide open, allowing you to enjoy the summer sun and a gentle summer breeze. When you get tired of the heat during the day, just keep your shutters completely shut and enjoy a complete blackout without the chance of anything disrupting your afternoon nap.
Why Plantation Shutters?
Plantation shutters are a perfect choice regardless of the purpose you are obtaining them for, solely because they will serve you great wherever you place them. They will protect your privacy and allow you to control the light in your bedroom and living room, but also serve as an important decorative element if chosen in some unconventional color thus presenting a focal point of the room and making the rest of the interior looking even better and more stylish.
Not to mention that they are made of natural materials often additionally protected with different finishes all in order of improving their functionality and effectiveness, allowing you to place them in areas where moisture and water vapour may present a problem. This also goes for their structure since many options are available, thus you can opt for different types of wood, resulting in greater strength and ability to withstand breakage, making them perfect not only for peaceful places but also areas that can be under the influence of damaging weather conditions.
Why Choose Shutters for your Countryside Home?
Now that you are well aware of all the benefits of having plantation shutters within your home, it is time to move on to your countryside home design.
As mentioned before, your cottage in the country should be a place where you go to rest and escape everyday responsibilities, why it should be adequately decorated. Since surrounded with natural elements like unpaved paths, forests, maybe a barn or two, rich wildlife, these are the elements that should be incorporated into the interior design. Thus, try to avoid artificial materials, but instead use natural ones like wood for your floors, window frames, cabinets, tables and the rest of the furniture and combine them with cotton for table cloths and bed covers or straw and thatch for your doormats and decorations. Simply put, everything should match the exterior so just avoid using shinny and silky materials like steel or granite, but rather replace them with iron and chrome. Everything needs to be rustic, so choose all the items accordingly. This is exactly why wooden shutters are a perfect match, even if you are not buying new ones, since even older ones whose color has faded over the years or are a bit scratched, can nicely fit into the atmosphere you tend to create.
Apart from the materials, you will also need to choose proper colors. Probably the most important thing is not going overboard with bright and intense colors which are more immanent to a modern design. A lot of earthly tones like brown, cream and beige with admixtures of light and dark green or maybe some matte red will look just fine. This also goes for the patterns. Some stripes, polka dots or squares for light curtains or table cloths will make a nice addition to the overall look. This can also be applied to your window treatments. You can go for a more traditional option with brown ones, or make them stand out with some bold red or green. The good news is that you can order a pre-painted shutters in the color of your choice or just repaint the ones you already have which is not a complicated task since all you need is some paint and a few brushes.
Finally, let's discuss the decorations. Just think of everything that reminds of nature and you will not make a mistake. A lot of flowers handpicked from your garden placed in clay vases, decorating a wooden table or a cabinet filled with small, antique tea cups will look great. An old rocking chair and a small, flat coffee table covered with a milieu will also make a nice addition. You can even decorate your countryside shutters by placing a short transparent curtain at the top, just flapping in the wind every time your window coverings are wide open, allowing you to enjoy the summer sun and a gentle summer breeze. When you get tired of the heat during the day, just keep your shutters completely shut and enjoy a complete blackout without the chance of anything disrupting your afternoon nap.
Take a look at Shaftesburys for more info on our high end Interior Plantation Shutters.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Mark_RowArticle Source: http://EzineArticles.com/7857710
Blinds 4 Less
Quality Blinds, Shutters, & Shades
Proudly Serving Southern California since 1994
Free In-Home Shopping
(951) 924-9435
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