Shutter Maintenance 101: Basic Cleaning and Care Tips

Investing in quality shutters enhances your home’s style and function for years to come. But like any fixture, shutters require periodic maintenance to keep them looking and performing their best. From routine dusting to thorough deep cleaning, proper care keeps shutters beautiful. Preventative maintenance also catches minor issues before they become problems.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover shutter maintenance basics from quick cleaning tips to seasonal inspections. Follow our tried and tested shutter care regimen to preserve their finish, operation, and longevity.

Quick Tips for Surface Cleaning

Regular quick cleaning keeps shutters looking sharp:

• Use a feather duster on louvers and frames to whisk away dust.
• Wipe down accessible areas with a dry microfiber cloth.
• For smudges, gently rub with damp rag and let air dry.
• Check for debris or cobwebs around hinges and hardware.
• Use cotton swabs dipped in water to clean hardware grooves.
• Take shutters down periodically for thorough backside cleaning.

Frequent surface cleansing maintains your shutters’ pristine appearance.

Shutters with Special Considerations

Certain shutter types require modified cleaning methods:

Painted Shutters

• Use non-abrasive cleaners and microfiber cloths to avoid scratches.
• Avoid excessive water to prevent paint swelling.
• Touch up paint nicks and scratches to prevent exposed wood.

Stained Shutters

• Wipe along the wood grain to prevent catching.
• Re-stain worn areas to maintain consistent coloring.
• Avoid harsh chemicals which may react with stain.

Vinyl/PVC Shutters

• Use only mild detergents, not strong cleaners.
• Rinse thoroughly to prevent chemical residue buildup.
• Replace individual louvers if badly warped or faded.

Tailor cleaning practices to your specific shutter materials.

Seasonal Deep Cleaning

In addition to quick cleanings, shutters benefit from periodic deep cleaning:

Spring

• Open shutters fully to access areas needing cleaning.
• Vacuum out dust and debris around louvers and frames.
• Scrub hardware and hinges to remove grime.
• Check for damage from winter weathering.

Fall

• Clean rear of exterior shutters before closing for winter.
• Lubricate hardware so it moves smoothly after disuse.
• Check caulking and seals around windows.
• Close shutters to protect from winter wind and moisture.

Seasonal deep cleaning protects shutters and hardware.

Recommended Cleaning Supplies

Use these gentle shutter-safe cleaning supplies:

• Microfiber cloths or dusting wands
• Soft bristle cleaning brushes
• Feather or retractable dusters
• Cotton swabs
• Mild dish soap for grime
• Specialty shutter cleaner solutions
• Paint thinners for oil-based finishes
• Silicon or lithium spray lubricants
• Caulk gun for sealing gaps

Quality specialty products clean thoroughly without damage.

Mix Up a Homemade Shutter Cleaner

Whip up this effective DIY shutter cleaning solution:

Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup white vinegar
• 1/2 gallon warm water
• 2 drops mild dishwashing liquid
• 1 tbsp baking soda

Instructions:

• Mix ingredients in bucket until baking soda dissolves.
• Dampen rag in solution wringing out excess.
• Gently wipe shutters following wood grain.
• Rinse with clean water and let fully dry.

The vinegar cuts grime while baking soda whitens.

Cautions When Cleaning Shutters

Exercise care when cleaning to avoid shutter damage:

• Test cleaners on inconspicuous area first.
• Never use abrasive scouring pads or brushes.
• Don’t let cleaners sit on shutters to prevent discoloration.
• Avoid applying cleaner directly to wood or hardware.
• Rinse thoroughly and dry shutters completely after cleaning.
• Wipe spills immediately to prevent staining.

Gentleness prevents ruining your shutters during cleaning.

Hardware Care and Lubrication

Regular hardware maintenance keeps shutters operating smoothly:

• Inspect hinges and pivot points for stiffness or squeaking.
• Clean out dirt and debris with cotton swabs and cleaner.
• Lubricate moving parts with silicone or lithium spray lube.
• Open and close louvers to distribute lubricant.
• Replace loose screws or damaged hardware components.

Proper hardware care prevents seized or broken parts over time.

When to Call a Professional

Consider contacting pros for shutter maintenance help with:

• Therapeutic cleaning for heavy soiling or mildew
• Repairs needed beyond basic upkeep
• Hardware replacement requiring disassembly
• Skilled touch-up of damaged finishes
• Securing unstable or sagging shutters
• Adjusting hinges for smoother operation
• Re-sealing drafty shutters and window frames

Sometimes it pays to have the experts handle maintenance – ask us how we can help!

Keep Your Shutters Looking New

With proper care and cleaning, your shutters will keep impressing as a focal point of any room’s décor and function. Implement regular quick cleanings, seasonal deep cleanings, hardware lubrication, and pro maintenance as needed. Consistent shutter maintenance pays dividends in enhancing your shutters’ lasting beauty and performance.