Cleaning Instructions for Shangri-La Shades

Shangri-La shades, with their elegant and delicate fabric, combine the features of sheer shades and blinds, allowing for soft light diffusion and privacy. Because of their unique design, they require careful cleaning to maintain their appearance and functionality. Follow these instructions for regular upkeep and deep cleaning of your Shangri-La shades.

1. Regular Dusting

Routine dusting is essential to prevent dirt from accumulating on the fabric vanes and the sheer sections.

  • Feather Duster or Microfiber Cloth: Gently dust the fabric vanes and sheer material with a feather duster or microfiber cloth. Be sure to lightly clean the front and back of the shades to remove any dust that may settle on the fabric.

  • Vacuum with Soft Brush Attachment: For more thorough dusting, use a vacuum cleaner with a soft brush attachment. Set the vacuum on a low suction setting, and carefully vacuum each vane and the sheer sections, moving horizontally. Avoid pulling or stretching the fabric.

2. Spot Cleaning

For small stains or marks on the fabric, follow these steps for spot cleaning:

  • Mild Soap Solution: Mix a small amount of mild dish soap with lukewarm water. Avoid using harsh chemicals, bleach, or strong cleaners, as these can damage the delicate fabric and cause discoloration.

  • Dampen a Cloth: Dip a clean, soft cloth or sponge into the soapy water, then wring it out to remove excess moisture. Gently blot the stained area of the shade. Be careful not to rub or scrub, as this could damage the fabric or sheer material.

  • Rinse the Cloth: Use a separate damp cloth (with plain water) to blot the area and remove any soap residue. Ensure that you do not oversaturate the fabric.

  • Air Dry: Allow the shade to air dry fully before adjusting or retracting them. Avoid using any heat sources, such as a hairdryer, as this can cause shrinkage or warping of the fabric.

3. Deep Cleaning

If your Shangri-La shades require a more thorough cleaning due to dust, grime, or grease buildup:

  • Avoid Soaking: Never immerse Shangri-La shades in water or soak them, as the fabric can be easily damaged and the shades’ functionality may be compromised.

  • Wipe with Damp Cloth: For more extensive dirt, use a damp cloth and a mild soap solution to wipe the shades carefully. Focus on the vanes and sheer fabric, making sure not to over-wet the material.

  • Professional Cleaning: If the shades are heavily soiled, it’s advisable to seek professional cleaning. A professional window treatment cleaner can deep clean the fabric without damaging the shades.

4. Cleaning the Mechanism and Headrail

It’s important to maintain the headrail and operating mechanism to ensure the smooth operation of your Shangri-La shades:

  • Dust the Headrail: Use a dry microfiber cloth to gently dust the headrail and operating cords. Avoid using any liquids near the mechanical parts.

  • Cord and Motor Care: For shades with cords, clean the cords using a damp cloth with mild soap. For motorized shades, be sure to avoid moisture near the motor, and keep the housing clean with a dry cloth.

5. Cleaning the Sheer Sections

The sheer portions of Shangri-La shades are delicate and require special care to avoid tearing or fraying:

  • Handle Gently: Always handle the sheer fabric with care. When dusting or spot cleaning, make sure to avoid applying too much pressure to the sheer material to prevent damage.

  • Compressed Air for Sheer Sections: For any dirt or dust trapped in the sheer fabric, use compressed air to gently blow the particles away. Hold the air canister at a safe distance to avoid harming the fabric.

6. Grease and Stains from Kitchens

If your Shangri-La shades are installed in a kitchen or high-traffic area where they may be exposed to grease:

  • Vinegar and Water Solution: In cases of grease, mix equal parts water and white vinegar to create a mild cleaning solution. Dampen a cloth with this solution and blot the affected area gently. Make sure to test a small, inconspicuous area first to ensure no discoloration occurs.

  • Avoid Scrubbing: Never scrub the sheer fabric or vanes, as this can damage the material and cause visible wear.

7. UV Protection and Sun Exposure

Prolonged exposure to direct sunlight can cause fading over time, especially in the sheer sections:

  • Rotate the Shades: To prevent uneven fading, regularly adjust the position of the shades. Alternate between fully open and fully closed to distribute sun exposure evenly.

  • Use Liners or UV Coating: Consider using liners or opting for shades with UV-protective coatings to minimize damage from direct sunlight.

8. Motorized Shangri-La Shades

For motorized Shangri-La shades, extra care should be taken with the motorized mechanism:

  • Wipe the Motor Housing: Use a dry or slightly damp cloth to wipe down the motor housing. Ensure that no moisture gets into the motor, as it can cause malfunction.

  • Check Power Sources: Regularly check batteries or power connections for motorized shades to ensure they function smoothly. Replace batteries as needed.

9. General Care Tips

  • Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Do not use bleach, ammonia, or abrasive cleaning agents on Shangri-La shades, as these can weaken and discolor the fabric.

  • Avoid Excessive Moisture: Excessive water can damage the fabric and cause operational issues with the shades. Always use minimal water during cleaning.

  • No Machine Washing: Shangri-La shades should never be machine-washed or dry-cleaned. These methods can permanently damage the fabric and structure of the shades.

10. Professional Cleaning

If your Shangri-La shades are heavily soiled or you are concerned about damaging the delicate fabric, it’s recommended to consult a professional cleaning service that specializes in window treatments. They can safely clean your shades without causing any harm to the material or mechanism.

By following these cleaning instructions, you can maintain the beauty and functionality of your Shangri-La shades for years to come. Regular maintenance, such as dusting and spot cleaning, will help keep them looking new and prolong their lifespan. If in doubt, always consult a professional cleaner for more intensive cleaning needs.