Proper care and cleaning keeps shutters looking their best. Follow these maintenance tips to help your shutters retain their beauty and function for years.

Dust Shutters Frequently

Regular dusting prevents dirt buildup that can damage shutter surfaces and louvers long-term. Use a microfiber cloth or feather duster to gently remove dust and debris weekly.

This light cleaning helps shutters stay cleaner between seasonal deep cleaning. Dust into the louvers also hampers operation.

Wash with Mild Cleaner and Soft Brush

Clean shutters every few months with a mild detergent and soft brush. Avoid harsh chemicals that may strip or discolor finishes.

Dip the brush in the cleaner and gently scrub surfaces and louvers. Rinse thoroughly afterwards with clean water.

Pay Attention to Hidden Areas and Edges

Don’t just spot clean visible areas. Fully open shutters and clean all surfaces inside the frame and along the edges. Buildup in concealed areas affects function and appearance.

Check under hinges and pivot rods for dirt accumulation that impedes smooth shutter operation or causes wear.

Lubricate Moving Parts

Apply lubricant spray to hinges, pivot rods and louvers as needed to maintain fluid movement after cleaning. Lubrication prevents squeaking and sticking.

Silicone or Teflon-based sprays work best for wood and vinyl shutters. Use oil-based lubricant for metal shutters.

Avoid Harsh Cleaners that Can Damage Finishes

Never use abrasive cleaners, bleach, ammonia or alkaline products on shutters. These can strip protective finishes, discolor surfaces, or corrode hardware over time.

Check cleaner labels and only use gentle cleaners labeled specifically safe for shutters and louvers.

Touch Up Finish Nicks, Scratches or Peeling

Touch up any nicks in the finish to avoid damage spreading. Dab matching wood filler, paint, or stain into scratches and reseal.

For peeling or blistering paint, fully strip and repaint. Match new finish sheen and color closely to existing for uniform appearance.

Keep Shutters Dry to Avoid Mold and Warping

Ensure shutters stay dry with proper sealing and ventilation to prevent warping or mold growth in humid climates. Promptly wipe away any moisture that gets through.

Leave louvers open during wet, muggy periods so air circulates freely behind them.

Reseal Outdoor Shutters Yearly

Exterior shutters take a beating from rain, sun and salt air. Renew protective sealants and paints annually to waterproof surfaces.

Fading or peeling finishes expose bare wood or metal to moisture damage. Proper resealing maintains integrity.

Schedule Professional Deep Cleaning Periodically

Every few years, have window care professionals thoroughly deep clean shutters to revitalize them. They use specialized tools and products for superior results safely.

Thorough periodic deep cleaning restores beauty between regular maintenance. Professionals identify any needed repairs too.

Conclusion

Consistent simple care like dusting, cleaning and lubricating keeps shutters looking pristine. Addressing finish flaws and resealing protects them from deterioration. With proper maintenance, quality shutters will stay beautiful for years.