Suffering from allergies can take a whole lot of the fun out of your life if there is a flare up. Usually this occurs when we travel to foreign areas or go close to places where there are chemicals or other smells in the air, or pollens that we don’t usually encounter.

However, there are times when our allergies can be irritated by items around our home, which means we need to find some way of preventing this from happening, so we can enjoy our special place. One area that can impact how much our allergies are affected at home is the type of blind that we have installed.

Avoid Horizontal Dust Collectors

For people who suffer from allergies, dust and dust mites can become a real problem. Therefore, blinds that collect the least dust will be the best choice of blind for people who suffer from allergies. Essentially, almost any blind that has horizontal slats with rows of horizontal surfaces for dust to collect are going to become the worst enemy for someone with allergies.

Having said that, slatted horizontal blinds that are wiped clean very regularly, have a much better chance of not causing allergic reactivity. Blinds such as Venetian, wood or faux wood with slats, are the kind that tend to attract dust to their surfaces, so these must be avoided.

Vertical Blinds are the Best

When it comes to dust accumulation, vertical blinds are going to prevent a lot of build-up of dust, which, in turn, will assist in preventing allergic reactions. However, the type of material that the blind is made of will make a big difference as to how much dust accumulates.

Blinds made of a single sheet of fabric or a sheer fabric will be more likely to not hold the dust, which can prevent dust mites from setting up residence too.

Where Do Dust Mites Live?

Dust mites generally will live on any kind of soft furnishing or fabric, such as mattresses, quilts, lounge, pillow and some clothing. When it comes to blinds, they will be more likely to live on fabric blinds made from non-waterproof fabrics. So any kind of fabric that is non-waterproof could become a home base for dust mites.

Of course, they cannot live on blinds made of hard materials such as aluminium or wood. Regular cleaning of blinds will go a long way towards keeping surfaces free from dust and dust mites.

Blind Concepts has a cleaning and maintenance service, which can assist with keeping blinds clear of dust and grime, so talk to us today about how we can help.

Unlike dogs, who will likely not attempt to look out of windows that are behind blinds, cats are extremely curious, and will want to know what is on the other side. As a result, depending on what sort of blind you have on your windows, there may be a chance that your curious cat will get themselves into trouble. Whether or not the blinds are dangerous for your cat, or the other way around, is another factor to consider.

Due to cats’ ability to go about their business as they please, without regard for anyone or anything that is in their way, often blinds will suffer from their exuberance. There are some types of blinds that are a better choice for cats, so read on for more information about how the different styles of blinds measure up against a cat.

If all else fails and you have already experienced your cat destroying your blinds, Blind Concepts provide a service for cleaning, repairing and replacing broken blinds.

Roller Blinds

Roller blinds might seem like the best choice for any situation as they have a simple design, no hooks or chains and are easy to use, however, unfortunately, they are not the best choice with cats. Without a second thought, a cat will use the fabric on the roller blind to climb up, while chasing insects, or stretching, which will cause holes in the fabric. The type of fabric being used is also important to consider with the issue of cat fur, which will need cleaning regularly.

Vertical Blinds

As you can imagine, horizontal blinds will not work well with cats, as they will likely crash into them when attempting to view something they have seen on the other side. However, vertical blinds allow for the cat to see past the blinds to whatever has piqued their interest on the other side. Cats will naturally be attracted to the swinging of the vertical panels, and could happily spend a lot of time with this activity alone.

The main issue with vertical blinds is that if they have the chains on them, then it is very likely that the cat will either get tangled in them, or break them, so you may need to reattach the chains over and over. With these blinds, there is also the issue of fabric being damaged by the cat.

Venetian Blinds

Like other blinds, the most important factor in the longevity of your venetian blinds is the material. Metal venetian blinds will not last too long with an exuberant cat, as they will likely become bent over time. The other factor would be to do with the cords and whether they are dangling in a cat attractive fashion.

Child-friendly cords can alleviate this problem too. The most hard-wearing material for cats is wooden blinds, and in the venetian blind style they will generally last the best.

Blinds are an important part of your home décor, not only creating privacy from the curious eyes of people passing by, they also set the tone of your home. Similar to the frame for the rooms of the house, the quality and condition of the blinds can make a huge difference as to how the room feels.

Many people might think that the key to maintaining the brilliance of your blinds is all about how well you clean them, when doing your yearly spring cleaning. The truth is that keeping your blinds looking brilliant is all about weekly/or at least regular dusting and maintaining, to avoid any build up.

When dust is left on things it can gradually deteriorate their finish, which over time will affect the quality of the materials and cause them to look a bit drab. The manufacturer will likely provide you with some information specific to your blinds, so be sure to follow the instructions for cleaning and maintenance.

Follow our Blind Concepts tips for keeping your blinds looking as brilliant every day, as the day they were installed:

Say Goodbye to Dust

If you stay on top of regular dusting it is likely that your blinds will maintain their brilliance very easily, and you won’t need to pull out the soap and water. Depending on what blinds you have in your home, there is a variety of different options for keeping them dust free. A vacuum cleaner with a brush fitting, or a feather duster or a dusting cloth will assist you with removing the dust before it has set in. You will likely be able to dust them while they are still hanging. Be sure to turn them both ways so you can dust both front, and back.

Gently Wipe Away Stubborn Dirt

If it has been a little while since you have dusted, and you have vacuumed the blinds and noticed that there is built up dust and grime that hasn’t moved, you will likely need to use a little bit more ‘elbow grease’. Different types of blinds will require a different method. If they are wood blinds you might want to use a soft cloth with furniture polish to wipe them, both sides. For plastic or metal blinds, you may need soapy water. Be sure to wring out the cloth to avoid putting too much water, and then wipe them gently on both sides. Leave them open to dry.

Restoring Their Former Glory

If your blinds are heavily soiled you might need to take them down to give them a good cleaning with soap and water. Alternatively, we offer an ultrasonic cleaning method for that deeply ingrained dust and dirt, which minimises the use of chemicals and restores the brilliance of your blinds. If all else fails, at Blind Concepts we offer a service to repair and replace parts of the blinds to restore them to their former glory, without needing to replace them completely.

Although the eastern states have had a wetter than usual start to spring, it is still the perfect time to sweep away the winter blues and get your dwelling clean, bright and tidy. A grubby, tired-looking living space can be depressing, and with mental health now a major issue for many people, a thorough spring clean is sure to lighten the mood.

One Room at a Time?

Some people like to clean one room at a time, starting at the ceiling and working their way to the floor. A vacuum cleaner with a brush accessory will remove cobwebs and most dust from walls, light fittings and furniture. Now wash everything down with sugar soap and water. When possible, move furniture when vacuuming to obtain a better result. When the first room is sparkling clean and start on the next.

One Item at a Time?

Others like to start with one item, such as a window or a blind, and clean every single one before moving to a different cleaning target. Start with the dirty windows first using a glass cleaner, sponge and squeegee. Rub over with a soft cloth for a sparkling finish. Then, move on to the next window.

Blinds Need Special Care

Blinds require an individual approach to cleaning, depending on the style and material they are made from. Roller blinds, for example, should be fully extended and surface dust removed with a vacuum cleaner and brush accessory. Follow with a damp cloth to remove stubborn dirt or stains and let the surface dry before rolling up. Roman blinds can also be cleaned using this method.

Extra Tips for Venetians

Venetian blinds made from PVC or aluminium are sturdier than other materials, so some vigorous rubbing on stubborn stains should be safe. Close the slats and do a preliminary vacuum to remove loose dust. Then, with an old sock on your hand, wipe the hand along each individual slat, removing stubborn grime.

Keep Water Away from Timber Venetians

Timber venetians need more care. Avoid using water as the timber may warp. First try cleaning any stains with a soft cloth or paper towel. If that does not work, dab a small amount of wood cleaner onto the cloth and gently rub the stains, then follow up with a duster or vacuum cleaner.

However, there is an easier way to spring clean. Our service here at Blind Concepts offers clients the opportunity to have their blinds taken away and cleaned, then returned spotless, ready to rehang. Our ultrasonic cleaning technology is environmentally friendly and removes dirt and grime from hard to reach places. We clean your blinds while you clean everything else.

Most of us are guilty of shopping without a list and buying items we already have because we didn’t check the pantry or cupboards first. With consumer prices rising on almost every supermarket item, savvy householders are looking for any opportunity to save money because these purchases can be a drain on the budget. So, how often have you doubled up on cleaning supplies just in case you run out?

Start with the Household Vacuum Cleaner

Of course, there are some cleaning jobs that need specialised products, but where your window blinds are concerned, most blind materials can be cleaned using supplies that you will already have around the house. Most households have a vacuum cleaner with a brush head attachment. Before you do anything else, run this over the blinds to remove excess dust, dirt and pet hair. It might be all they need.

No Harsh Chemicals Needed

For roller blinds that still have some stains on the fabric, no harsh chemicals are needed. Fully extend the blind and then soak a cleaning cloth in water containing a small amount of dishwashing liquid. Gently remove any remaining dirt or stains without vigorous rubbing. Keep the blind extended until completely dry to prevent mould growth.

A Practical Use for Old Socks

Waterproof venetian blinds such as aluminium, PVC and faux timber respond well to the vacuum cleaner treatment, but some stains may still remain. First, dampen an old sock with water, put it over your hand then draw it along each individual slat. Rinse the sock in water when soiled then repeat until all the slats have been cleaned.

Trapped in a Honeycomb

Honeycomb blinds have become very popular, which is understandable given their elegant looks and insulating qualities. However, they can be difficult to clean. The brush head vacuum cleaner may remove most dust, but some can be trapped within the unique structure. Set a common hairdryer on the “cool” setting and blow those pesky bugs and dust out of the crevices.

These suggestions will make your cleaning routine easier. However, there will come a time for a professional clean to keep them looking as good as new. At Blind Concepts we offer our ultrasonic cleaning method, which uses minimal amounts of biodegradable detergent.

Coupled with high frequency sound waves, this cleaning method removes grime and stains without any abrasive rubbing. As a result, it is kind to the blinds, the environment and the budget, as it will extend the life of your window blinds.

Every householder has their own approach to the way they keep their living environment. Some take the “place for everything and everything in its place” approach and clean daily, others are more relaxed and do a clean and tidy once a week and some never quite get around to cleaning up at all.

Regardless of whatever cleaning style you follow, your window blinds eventually will look dull and shabby. This detracts from the overall appearance of your dwelling, and the dust, grime and possibly mould covering the blind surfaces could cause lung related health issues.

Different types of blinds need different cleaning methods, but all will benefit from first running the vacuum cleaner with brush attachment over the surfaces.

Cleaning Venetian Blinds

Venetian blinds made of vinyl or aluminium can be cleaned while still on the window, but if a deep clean is needed, take them down and spread outside on a clean plastic sheet. Clean gently with a non-abrasive sponge and soapy water, then wipe clean with a soft cloth. Take care with wooden venetians as too much water may cause the slats to warp.

Roller Blinds Look Great After Cleaning

Leave vinyl roller blinds on the window fully extended then clean in the same way as the venetians. Fabric roller blinds may need to be taken down to clean them. Submerge them in a mild detergent and water mix in the bathtub, leave to soak for an hour and then go over them with a cleaning brush to remove all dirt and stains. Empty the bath and refill with clean water to rinse the fabric and hang out to dry. Do not roll them up damp as this will cause mould.

Vertical Blinds Respond Well to Cleaning

Fabric vertical blinds can also be cleaned on the window. After removing dust with the vacuum cleaner, spot clean any stains with a spray solution recommended specifically for the type of fabric. Machine washing is not recommended as it may damage the fabric.

Vinyl verticals can be cleaned in the same way as vinyl venetians, but if a deep clean is needed, remove the blades, lay them on a smooth, even surface and wipe over with a clean cloth, spot clean with soap and water then wipe dry.

For busy people with no time to spare this may seem like too much work. Luckily, our cleaning process here at Blind Concepts is the perfect solution. Our team will take your blinds to our workshop and by using our environmentally friendly ultrasonic cleaning method your blinds will be thoroughly cleaned and returned to you ready to re-hang. Leave the hard work to us.

We should all be aware by now that our climate is changing faster than predicted and as a result, householders are making their own decisions regarding the liveability of their properties. Rooftop solar panels continue to be installed across the country to lessen dependence on coal-fired power generation, and consumers are aware of their ability to influence change with their purchasing decisions.

Materials and Insulation – Two Options for Sustainability

For example, sustainability can be applied to major projects or to buying new window dressing for the home. In the latter example, there are two ways that a consumer can have an impact when searching for environmentally responsible blinds and curtains. Firstly, these products are now available in sustainably produced materials and secondly, these materials can also be effective, energy saving insulators.

Reduce Energy and Transport Costs by Buying Locally

Mounting blinds within the window frames is ideal for effective insulation, which saves on energy. Finding a supplier offering blinds in quality fabrics that meet GreenGuard international standards is one option for practicing sustainability. Another is to source locally manufactured goods rather than imported ones. This reduces freight and fuel costs and stimulates the local economy.

Spare Parts Available for Locally Made Blinds

Low-cost blinds damage the environment by ending up in landfill within a couple of years because they are easily damaged and need replacing. Locally made blinds offer ready access to a range of spare parts and many local companies are able to repair broken blinds and extend their useful life.

Insulated Curtains Save on Energy Costs

Along with double glazing, carefully chosen curtains can reduce the loss of heating energy by 40% in winter and prevent almost 80% of heat entering the building during summer. Curtain materials with insulation backing have been available for some time, but they lose much of their effectiveness unless they are installed properly.

Take Care When Installing for Best Results

For optimum insulation in cool climates, curtains should just touch the floor, touch the wall on either side and have a pelmet at the top. Modern pelmets are visually attractive and non-intrusive, and made from a range of timber, recycled plastic and other sustainable materials. They reduce the likelihood of the rising heat being drawn down between the curtain and the window, cooling the space and creating condensation.

Keeping your window dressings clean and free of dust and bacteria is another easy way to practice sustainability. At Blind Concepts, we have been in the business of cleaning blinds long enough to know that regular cleaning extends the life of window dressings. By using our ultrasonic cleaning process, you are keeping blinds out of landfill that will still have a useable life.

As the frequency and severity of natural disasters increases across the globe, the move towards more sustainable choices in all aspects of life is also increasing. In various industries as well as personal services, medical, research, education and every other human activity, changes are happening to create an eco-friendly environment.

A Green Lifestyle is Possible

These changes extend to the products used to outfit our homes and other buildings, including the window treatments. We cover our windows with blinds and curtains, not only for aesthetic appeal and privacy, but also to insulate the rooms against both heat and cold. This reduces energy usage and assists in the transition to a green lifestyle.

Consciously Choose Window Blinds that Insulate

There are some styles of window blinds that are noted for their insulation abilities. When correctly sized and installed, such blinds trap a layer of still air between the fabric and the window surface. Roman blinds, for example, are effective at controlling, heat, light and sound. Honeycomb or cellular blinds, so-called because they are made of individual cells combined together, allow air to filter through the cells to provide effective, natural insulation.

Eco-Friendly Materials Available

Buying new window blinds is the perfect opportunity to demonstrate commitment to a green lifestyle by choosing designs made from eco-friendly materials. Some of the options available include bamboo, timber from sustainable plantations and natural fibres such as hemp and organic cotton. They are also available in a wide range of styles, colours and patterns. The sustainability bonus is that some of them are also recyclable.

Natural Fabrics are Elegant, Versatile and Practical

Bamboo can be used to make roman, roller and moving panel blinds and is the perfect material for a classic, timeless look. This amazing natural fabric is versatile, very flexible and well suited to a range of decors. Linen is another natural fabric that has stood the test of time. It has been used for centuries, and when used to make window blinds, it is noted for the elegance that it brings to a room. Timber blinds from sustainable sources are also versatile, available in various styles and colours and can be recycled when required.

Even Cleaning can be Eco-Friendly

All window blinds eventually need cleaning, and it is surprising how much longer your blinds will last if you have them professionally cleaned. Here at Blind Concepts, our contribution to an eco-friendly world is our ultrasonic cleaning process. This method uses high frequency sound waves combined with very small quantities of chemicals and water to remove embedded dirt, dust, grime and bacteria. Your blinds will look like new again with little impact on the environment.

Getting the right window treatment for any environment, whether it be an office building or a home, is an important decision and one that, done well, not only unifies the décor, but also affects the liveability of the premises. Choices include shutters, blinds, and curtains, with many variations available depending on current trends.

Blinds are Perfect for Versatility

Blinds in both office and residential settings are a popular choice, as they have some qualities in common. In the home, blinds may be required to give residents privacy from prying neighbours, to screen out noise from a busy street, and to control the amount of light that enters, both day and night.

Plenty of Styles to Choose From

In this situation, the style of blinds chosen could include Venetians, Hollands, roller blinds, verticals, or roman blinds. Some of these are more suitable for high traffic areas like kitchens and bathrooms. Roller blinds, for example, are perfect for a home where there are young children and pets as they are easy to adjust for light and shade, and easy to clean.

Blinds in a home can be used by themselves or in conjunction with curtains, usually in more formal areas such as a lounge/dining space or even bedrooms. The addition of curtains adds extra privacy protection and is an opportunity to include more texture and colour to the ambiance of the room.

Screen Glare a Nuisance

In an office situation, similar to a home, blinds are used to control light and shade, and to create a peaceful and inviting space for staff and customers. However, there are several other important considerations. Too much light entering an office space is disruptive for staff using screens, so office blinds are essential to minimise screen glare.

Energy Savings and Protection for Office Furniture

Correctly fitted commercial blinds save on energy costs as the blinds insulate the windows, reducing the amount of both heat and cold that enters the building. Air conditioning units are then more efficient, saving money. Office furniture and fittings are expensive, so with less sunlight entering, these items will be protected from fading over time.

Regular Vacuuming will Keep Blinds Clean

Blinds in both office and home settings are also easier to keep clean than curtains, which tend to attract more dust than blinds. A cleaning schedule, where vacuuming the blinds is included regularly, will keep them dust and pollution free for some time before they need to be taken down and thoroughly cleaned.

Our ultrasonic cleaning process at Blind Concepts gets into every nook and cranny of your blinds, whatever style they are, and removes dust, grime, and bacteria. We also repair damaged blinds to near-new condition, saving money for both householders and businesses.

Most householders would agree that they choose their furnishings and accessories to create a comfortable and inviting living space. These are moved around or replaced often to keep the overall look fresh, but this usually does not happen with their window treatments. They are more permanent parts of interior design, so they tend to become background features.

Busy People Don’t Have Time to Clean Blinds

When it becomes obvious that the blinds need cleaning, some people tackle the task themselves. However, others ignore the problem because they are busy with work and other responsibilities and avoid looking at the blinds when they get home. Unfortunately, this only avoids the problem when the solution is to have them professionally cleaned.

Clean Blinds Prevent Illness

Apart from the fresh look of clean blinds, there are several other reasons for handing them over to experts. One of the most important motives is to prevent illness in household members and visitors. Blinds attract dirt and dust, and if they are not cleaned regularly, the pollutants and allergens in the dust are released back into the air. Dust attracts microscopic creatures called dust mites, which multiply quickly and cannot be seen by the human eye.

Dust Mites and Bacteria Love Dirty Blinds

Allergy flare-ups and asthma attacks increase in interiors where dust is allowed to settle and where dust mites breed. This dust, especially in humid conditions, then gets damp and over time, becomes hard grime that settles into any small crevice. Bacteria can develop in this grime and cause illness, especially in people with underlying health conditions.

Dirty Blinds Deteriorate in Quality

There are sound financial reasons to hand blind cleaning over to professionals. Blinds and curtains are an expensive investment, and to get the best return, they should be kept clean. Dirty window treatments not only detract from the value of the home but also deteriorate in quality. This means they need to be replaced more often, costing the homeowner considerable time and expense.

Professional Cleaners Use the Right Products and Methods

Finally, professional cleaners have a wide range of processes, tools, and cleaning products available to them. They know which of these should be used for the many different materials now available in the production of window blinds. It is not unusual for a householder to use the wrong method or cleaner on a window blind, causing expensive and irreversible damage.

Here at Blind Concepts, we have a team of people fully trained and experienced in the use of our ultrasonic cleaning system. This method removes all hard to remove dirt, stains, grease, bacteria, and grime from window blinds, restoring their quality and sparkle. We also offer a repair service for blinds that need a little more attention. Call us for a free quote.