Everyone loves the way their plantation shutters look when they are first installed, and keeping them looking that way will require some regular cleaning. There are a few different ways to clean plantation shutters based on the type of shutter that you have. In this blog post, we will be discussing those different ways to clean them as well a few tips for keeping your plantation shutters protected from the elements. Keep reading to learn more and if you have any questions, contact Shutters of the Strand today!
How to Clean Plantation Shutters
How to Clean Wooden Plantation Shutters
You will want to clean your traditional wood plantation shutters without using a lot of water or any harsh cleaning materials. The best way to clean your wood shutters is by using a dusting cloth or brush, a vacuum, and a small brush that you can lightly wet.
First, you should run the vacuum with the brush attachment over the shutter to grab up most of the dust and dirt. Then you should follow up using the dusting cloth or another small dusting brush to get into the spaces that the vacuum could not. Be sure to check for any materials that were not picked up. During this process, you may notice some dirt or other marks on the surface that were not able to be picked up with the dry cloth. You should first try to remove the dirt using the small brush without wetting it at all, but if that does not work, you can wet it slightly with water or another gentle cleaning material and scrub the dirty area. Be sure to dry off that area quickly and thoroughly to avoid any warping or damage to the surface of the plantation shutters.
How to Clean Polywood® Plantation Shutters
Polywood® Plantation Shutters, or any shutter made from a synthetic material, can be cleaned using harsher cleaning materials if needed. The best way is to start off with the same dry methods as used for wood shutters (a vacuum with a brush, a dusting cloth or brush, and a smaller brush) and then move on to harsher materials, like cleaning cloths with a prepared cleaning solution on them, as needed.
Be very careful when using any type of cleaning solution on your shutters, as they can be easily damaged with too much contact or with the wrong kind of cleaner. Always test any cleaning solution in an inconspicuous place before using it on the entire shutter. If there are any areas that seem particularly dirty or stained, you can use a stronger cleaning material on them, but be sure to rinse off the area well and dry it quickly afterward.
You should start off by using the vacuum with a brush attachment and then use the dusting cloth or small brush to get in the spaces that the vacuum could not, like the spaces where the frame and the shutters meet or the sides of the shutters. Then clean any spots or dirt that did not come off during dusting first using the dry brush and then using a wetted brush or wet cleaning cloth for any stubborn spots or dirtied areas.
How to Clean Vinyl Plantation Shutters
Vinyl shutters are the most water-sensitive type of plantation shutter, so you must be very careful with any cleaning materials that you use.
The best thing to do is clean your vinyl shutters using a dry cloth or brush first and then follow up by wiping any dirt or dust from them with a wet cleaning material or cloth. Be sure to only use a small amount of water and to dry the shutters quickly afterward.
You should start by using the vacuum with a brush attachment to remove any dust or dirt from the surface of the vinyl plantation shutters. Then, use a dry cleaning cloth or brush to clean off any marks or spots. If there is any dirt that does not come off with the dry brush, you can use a wet cleaning cloth or brush to lightly scrub the area and then dry it off quickly.
You should avoid using any harsh chemicals or materials on your vinyl plantation shutters, as they can damage the surface.
How to Clean Exterior Plantation Shutters
Obviously, Exterior Plantation Shutters require a bit of a different tactic since they are harder to reach, but all-in-all, they should still be fairly easy to clean.
First, start by pressure washing or using a hose to get all the loose dirt and material off of the surface of the shutter. If you have a powerful pressure washer, your job will likely be easier since it will be able to remove most of the dirt on its own.
Second, safely set up a ladder to access the shutters and set yourself up with a brush or cloth and a bucket full of your chosen cleaning solution. Dish soap and water will likely work well for most cleaning, but some bleach could help remove stubborn mold or other marks. If you’re using any cleaning solutions harsher than soap and water you may want to test scrubbing in an easily hidden area first to make sure you won’t discolor the shutter.
Third, use a dry item like a brush or cloth first to remove any dirt particles that were loosened by the water and then follow up with a wet cleaning solution and cloth or brush to remove stains and marks. Be sure to rinse off the area well before going on to using a different cleaning solution or material.
Once you’re done, continue hosing off all the shutters to remove any remaining soap. Then, when the soap is gone and they have been rinsed, make sure you hang your shutters for a day or two to dry. This will help make sure they are completely dry and any water stains have dissipated before putting them back up.
How to Protect Your Plantation Shutters from the Elements
If you want to protect your plantation shutters from the sun, wind, and rain, there are a few simple things that you can do.
The best way to protect your shutters is to keep them covered when they’re not in use. This can be done by using a shutter cover or simply placing a piece of cloth over them when they’re not needed.
Another great way to protect your plantation shutters is by making sure that you keep them clean, especially if you want them to last for years instead of just a few seasons. Keeping your plantation shutters clean will allow you to avoid staining the surrounding surfaces and will also get rid of any dirt particles that can cause rusting or warping.
Last, if you live in an area with a lot of wind, you may want to invest in some shutter locks to help keep them closed and protected from the gusts.
Cleaning plantation shutters can be a daunting task, but it's important to do it regularly to maintain their beauty and extend their life. By following these simple steps, you can keep your shutters looking great for years to come. Cleaning your plantation shutters regularly will also help keep them looking new and prevent any major problems removing stuck-on dirt or debris. If you have any questions about cleaning your shutters, we are here to help! Please don’t hesitate to contact Shutters of the Strand today to speak with someone on our team!