Trends in interior design are no different from fashion trends in clothing. They both become the “in thing” for a time, with demand for certain shapes, colours and textures desired to the exclusion of all others. However, trends are transient. We become bored with what was once new and exciting, and it becomes tired and uninteresting. This prompts us to look for something else.

Blinds need to be Resilient in our Harsh Climate

This applies just as much to curtains and blinds as it does to furnishings. However, blinds have the advantage of having a more permanent presence than curtains, probably because they are much more resilient. Our climate is harsh, so our window treatments need to withstand extreme weather events, but at the same time, be stylish and attractive.

Current Buying Guides Highlight What is Popular This Year

There are different styles of blinds, some more popular than others. It is also interesting that some of our most favoured types of blinds, such as the Venetian, have been around for hundreds of years. This year, current buying guides used by interior designers have flagged several styles as being the “must haves” for the modern dwelling.

Venetians on Top of the List Again

It is no surprise that, even after hundreds of years, Venetian blinds are still the most popular. The original idea is still practical, featuring a number of horizontal slats joined by cords or strips of cloth.

This arrangement is so versatile that just by changing the width of the slats, and using different materials such as timber, plastic, and UV-resistant fabrics, all now available in an array of colours, this style reinvents itself every season.

Vertical and Romans Still Loved

Vertical blinds are still on the current style list, and although less popular now for formal settings like lounge rooms, they are the perfect product for large windows and even larger patio doors. Roman blinds are still popular, and available in various materials and colours as well as linings to suit different temperature zones.

What’s not to like about Roller Blinds?

Roller blinds never go out of fashion, especially if your budget for window dressings is limited. The basic models are perfect for wet areas, but these days, the more stylish up-market styles feature valances that hide the roller mechanisms, as well as double blinds which are installed on the same bracket and feature block-out and UV-resistant capabilities, in a range of materials and colours.

These are just a few of the choices available this year, but no matter how good they look when they are new, eventually they will need cleaning or repairs to keep that sparkle. Here at Blind Concepts, we are professionals at cleaning different types of blinds. Our ultrasonic cleaning method will gently remove dirt, stains and bacteria. Don’t trust your precious blinds to anyone else.

There are many tasks that as householders, we all perform regularly, and some of them we look forward to as we test our skills at gourmet cooking, painting and gardening, to name a few. Cleaning our blinds is most likely not one of these tasks, so most of us avoid it for as long as possible. As a result, when we do start cleaning, it is hard work to remove the built-up dust and grime.

Ever Considered Using a Professional to Clean Your Blinds?

Many householders with busy lives think nothing of paying service providers to mow lawns, tidy gardens, wash windows, clean carpets and do other common household tasks. Why, then, when it comes to our blinds, do we immediately assume that the only way to get them clean is to do the job ourselves? Is it just that we have never previously considered having them professionally cleaned?

The Job is Bigger than What You Think

There are a few compelling arguments against DIY blind cleaning. First, there is the magnitude of the task. The average four-bedroom home could have up to twenty windows as well as sliding doors. Various blind styles could include Venetians, roller blinds, verticals, Roman blinds and others in different materials and fabrics. This could take a householder not hours, but days.

If You DIY, Are you happy with the result?

Second, is that the effectiveness of the cleaning methods used and that the possibility of using the wrong cleaner could ruin the entire look of the blinds. For badly soiled blinds the usual combination of warm water and household detergent will get them partially clean but may not remove the grime embedded in tight spaces. To get a poor result after hours of hard work is neither cost-effective nor efficient.

At Blind Concepts , we offer a comprehensive professional blind cleaning services that uses the latest ultrasonic technology. This cleaning method is both environmentally responsible and gentle on blinds, as there is no hard scrubbing involved. Instead, high frequency sound waves create millions of tiny bubbles that gently remove all the dirt, grease and grime as well as the bacteria living there.

Think About Your Own Safety

A final important argument when comparing professional cleaning with do-it-yourself is your safety as the DIY householder. Considering variables such as your age, health and fitness levels as well as the suitability of the equipment you are using, such as a step ladder that has been in the garage for years, your task could be described as hazardous.

In a workplace, a risk assessment would be required for this job, the hazards assessed, and a safe system of work put in place to protect anyone required to clean the blinds. A professional cleaning service would already have this in place but a householder most likely would not. Now which option would you prefer?

For anyone currently building a new home or renovating an existing dwelling, the relief you feel once all the major components are in place will soon be replaced by the realisation that critical decisions are needed now regarding your window treatments. Getting this right will be the finishing touch that brings all your efforts together.

Window Treatment Options

Modern fabric blinds currently offer a huge range of colours and patterns in price ranges to suit every budget. They can be recessed into the window frame or face mounted, and old favourites like roller blinds can now compete favourably with Romans, Venetians, verticals and honeycomb blinds. Panel blinds should also be considered for large window spaces.

Fabric is a Versatile Choice

Fabric blinds are also versatile enough to control heat and light. By choosing options such as block out fabric for bedrooms, soft, light filtering fabrics that are perfect for living areas and sunscreen products that block out 95% of UV rays and provide daytime privacy, there is a fabric for every situation.

Easy Cleaning Methods

Cleaning blinds with care is important.

With fabric blinds, keeping it looking crisp and clean is no different from any of the other regular maintenance tasks that home occupiers do every week. Roman blinds, rollers and panel blinds can be kept crisp and clean by a regular vacuum.

Take care, however, to use the brush attachment and put the cleaner on a low setting to avoid the possibility of stretching, or worse still, tearing the fabric. Honeycomb blinds respond best to a hair dryer on a cool setting blasting away any dust or dead insects trapped in the crevices.

Tricks and Tips

Another option is to give fabric blinds the onceover every couple of weeks with a lint roller. This is a quick way to pick up pet hair and cobwebs that are sometimes difficult to remove with a vacuum cleaner on the recommended low setting. S

pots and small soiled areas are best treated carefully by spraying a cleaning solution onto a soft cloth, then gently rubbing the area, followed by rinsing off with a microfibre cloth dipped in clean water. Dry immediately by using an electric fan.

While these methods will keep your fabric blinds in good condition, the pace of modern life means that even with the best of intentions, regular maintenance may lapse for months or even years. When this happens, Blind Concepts is here to help.

Our cleaning service uses the latest ultrasonic technology. This eco-friendly method of cleaning blinds requires minimal amounts of chemicals and water. We clean your blinds in our workshop and return them to you within 24 hours, ready to hang.

Window blinds continue to be a popular and effective way of controlling the amount of light, heat and cold entering dwellings, and still offer a quick and easy way of ensuring privacy to building occupants. There are now many different types of blinds available in a wide range of materials to suit most window and door openings, so today’s consumers have plenty of options.

Modern Verticals Suitable for Every Room

In the past, it was usual for vertical blinds to be found in bedrooms and living areas in homes, and they were also a favourite in office buildings. They were not just used to cover windows but were a popular alternative to floor length curtains on large sliding doors. Modern verticals can now be found in hard-working areas such as kitchens, bathrooms and laundries.

Many Features and Shapes Available

Vertical blinds are perfect for covering large spaces of glass such as picture windows and patio doors. Available in UV and fade-resistant fabrics, modern verticals can also offer buyers the option of chainless blinds and weights that are sewn into the fabric, making them safer for pets and children. Some manufacturers also offer sloping verticals for angled or shaped windows.

Cleaning Options for Vertical Blibds

The choice of materials will determine the cleaning regime needed to keep the verticals looking new. PVC verticals and other rigid fabrics are suitable for kitchens and laundries as they are water-resistant and easy to clean with a spray cleaner and a quick wipe down.

High-quality fabrics are in demand for living areas and can be kept clean and dust-free with regular vacuuming. We are in the business of helping clients keep their window blinds clean. We use advanced blind cleaning technologies that make the task easy.

Here at Blind Concepts, we also offer blinds repair services to give them a second life. Our ultrasonic cleaning process gently removes ingrained dirt and grime, keeping your expensive blinds in good condition. Dirty, damaged or both, we can have them looking like new.

Horizontal Blinds Noted for Versatility

Horizontal blinds are popular because they are versatile, easy to operate and offer greater privacy protection than verticals. While genuine timber blinds are still in demand, the modern option is now faux timber. This is due to its qualities of durability and tolerance for surface scratches, as well as resistance to moisture and cost effectiveness.

Faux timber also comes in an array of colours, cordless options and decorative valances, which add to the luxury look.

Cleaning Options for Horizontal Blinds

While timber blinds are lighter and better suited to large spaces, faux blinds suit most windows and are easy to keep clean. Just wipe-over with a damp cloth or purchase specialised dusters that will clean several slats at a time.

Once the poor relative of fancier blind styles such, as Romans, Hollands and Venetians, advancements in fabric choices and design improvements have created a new breed of roller blinds. In the past, they were relegated to bedrooms, but now they are suitable for most rooms in even the most stylish homes.

Night Shift Workers Love Blockout Blinds

Blockout roller blinds prevent light from entering the room when they are fully extended. In hot climates where rooms face west, they are excellent for keeping out the heat. They are also the best choice for night workers who struggle to get enough sleep through the day in bedrooms that are only partially darkened.

UV Rays Kept Out with Modern Fabrics

Modern roller blinds are available in materials containing sunscreen to keep out UV rays while letting in mood-enhancing light and retaining views to the outside. Double roller blinds have the added benefits of combining light and heat control with blockout, all in one, double layered blinds.

We know a lot about blinds. Our one-stop service provides top quality cleaning and repair services at reasonable prices.

Ultrasonic cleaning with Blind Concepts removes dirt, grime, stains, and bacteria. We take your blinds to our workshop, clean and repair them, where necessary, and return them to you ready to hang.

Cleaning Methods for Roller Blinds

The average homeowner, with a little effort, can keep roller blinds clean. For newly installed or recently cleaned blinds, regular maintenance is the secret. With the blind fully extended, vacuum from top to bottom and wipe over with a damp cloth to remove any remaining material or stains.

If a deep clean is required, take the blind down and soak in a bathtub of water and laundry detergent. Rinse with clean water, wipe over with a non-abrasive cloth, then remove from the tub and hang out to dry. Once the blind is completely dry, rehang in its usual position.

Wide Choice of Materials Offer Durability

Modern materials have increased the durability of roller blinds. For wet areas such as bathrooms and laundries, blinds made from mould and bacteria-resistant material, are available. Other materials that are fire retardant, non-flammable, resistant to dust, staining and fading from UV rays, are also available.

Repair Methods for Roller Blinds

The mechanisms, chains and cords on roller blinds can become damaged with wear and rough treatment, but those who are handy with basic tools can do repairs themselves. You can do simple repairs for blinds. An internet search will provide full instructions, as well as parts lists where required.

If this still seems too difficult, contact us and let our experienced team bring your precious blinds back to ‘as new’ condition.

Now is the perfect time of the year for a total household clean before the heat of a Queensland summer makes vigorous housework a sweaty and unpleasant prospect. The routine usually starts with decluttering, followed by dusting and cleaning every surface including furniture and fittings, hard floors, carpets, matting and windows.

Some mistakes are harder to fix than others

Of course, there is no point cleaning the windows without including the curtains and blinds. Cleaning window blinds is one of the least-favoured jobs as there are a number of things that can go wrong during the process. The task is complicated as different types of blinds need different cleaning methods and mistakes made may not be easy to fix.

Don’t forget to vacuum first

The first mistake is to assume that any surface dust will come off when the real cleaning starts. Not removing this dust just makes the job harder and can result in it becoming ingrained in the fabric. It is so much easier to vacuum the dust off first, leaving a smooth surface that will show up stains and marks that need extra cleaning attention.

Don’t mix cleaning products together

How many of us know what ingredients are in the cleaners we use, and in our ignorance, might think that combining two cleaners will give us a better result. White vinegar and bleach are both effective cleaners, but it would be a huge mistake to mix them together. This action produces chlorine gas which is dangerous.

Don’t dry off with paper towels

Paper towels are popular cleaning aids in most dwellings, and it is easy to have them on hand to blot dry the blind surfaces. However, this would also be a mistake. Cotton or microfibre cloths are more effective and they leave a clean, smooth surface, unlike paper towels that leave lint clinging to the blind. Some brands also have a rough surface that may damage the fabric.

Don’t close up roller blinds unless they are dry

A common mistake with roller blinds is to put a big effort into washing them clean, then not drying them before rolling them up. In a hot and humid climate, this is a perfect breeding ground for mildew. If this is not removed with a mould cleaner, not only will the blinds be damaged, but the spores can also cause health problems to the occupants.

Window blinds that have not been cleaned properly for some time may require more time and effort than you can spare. Our team at Blind Concepts will pick up the blinds from your premises and clean them at our workshop, using our environmentally responsible ultrasonic technology. Within 24 hours we return your cleaned blinds to you, ready for re-hanging. We are waiting for your call.

Most householders like to keep their living spaces clean and tidy using a regular cleaning regime that keeps the worst of the daily grunge at bay without becoming fanatical about it. After all, who wants to spend all their spare time cleaning when they could be enjoying fun times with family and friends?

Time for a deep clean?

This relaxed approach to housekeeping allows time to run the vacuum cleaner and dusting cloths over the window blinds, perhaps not weekly but monthly. Venetian blinds, verticals and even roller blinds will stay reasonably clean for some time, but eventually, the time will come when all the window treatments in your dwelling will need a complete deep clean.

Incorrect cleaning techniques may damage blinds

Not only is this a major commitment in time and effort, but if not done carefully, householders may damage their expensive and cherished blinds if the cleaning is not done with care. Some wooden slat blinds, for example, may warp if they are immersed in water for too long, especially if they are genuine timber. The quality of the result when cleaning fabric blinds will depend on the material used. Different fabrics need different techniques so the manufacturer’s instructions should always be followed.

Venetians and Romans need special care

Did you know that when vacuuming Venetian blinds, you should hold the blinds at the bottom with one hand while moving the vacuum across the slats? If you don’t, there is a risk that some of the slats may twist or warp. Dust can be vacuumed off Roman and cellular (honeycomb) blinds, but stains and grime are a different story. Heavy duty cleaning methods such as scrubbing can easily result in tears in the fabric, which will ruin the whole blind.

Verticals and roller blinds can easily be damaged

Vertical blinds should be dusted or wiped clean from the top down, as brushing or wiping upward can cause the slats to become unhooked from their mountings. Hold the blind during the process to prevent breakage of the bottom chain links. Roller blinds, especially in a kitchen, can quickly become spattered with oil and grease during cooking. If scrubbing is necessary to remove dirt and stains, take care not to scrub so hard that it removes the colour.

If this all seems too difficult, we offer an easier alternative. Here at Blind Concepts we perform blind cleaning and repair services on a wide variety of window blinds. Our ultrasonic cleaning technique is an effective and environmentally responsible process that removes deeply seated dirt. Our process is effective and gentle, leaving your blinds free from damage and looking like new.

Householders who take pride in their homes know that getting the right window treatments for each room is the final touch in creating a comfortable space that welcomes them home each day. A regular cleaning regime is also part of this feeling of comfort, and while blinds don’t need cleaning every day, they should be on the cleaning schedule of every well-kept dwelling.

Cleaning Methods for Different Blinds

Window blinds are also expensive, so no householder wants to damage theirs during cleaning. Using different types of cleaning methods for diverse styles of blinds is one way to avoid accidental damage, especially if you are cleaning them on the window.

Cleaning Venetians with Care

Aluminium and plastic venetians, for example, can be safely cleaned using warm water, a soft cloth and an all-purpose household cleaner. Taking the time to clean each slat individually will give the best results, with no patches of dust or grime left behind. A gentle touch is best to avoid damage, and when one side is cleaned, flip the blind to the other side and repeat.

Go Easy on the Water

Wooden venetians need a little more care, as using too much water as part of the cleaning process may cause the slats to warp. The first step is to tightly close the blinds, leaving no gaps and gently wipe over with a microfibre cloth to remove any traces of dust, then repeating the process on the other side. This may be all that is needed, but if not, wipe with a slightly wet sponge for a final clean.

We understand how important clean windows and blinds are to house-proud people. Keeping your blinds in excellent condition is what we do at Blind Concepts. We use ultrasonic cleaning methods to get your blinds spotless and because our process uses very little water and chemicals, it is also environmentally friendly.

Too Scared to Clean Your Roller Blinds?

Many householders are afraid to tackle roller blinds, especially plastic ones, in case they use too much force and tear them from the roller. Have no fear.

1. Place a mild cleaner, even dishwashing liquid, in warm water and using a sponge, start at the bottom of the fully extended blind.
2. Wipe across gently, gradually moving upward until the entire blind has been cleaned.
3. Do both sides and leave them open to dry.

However, if you don’t have the time or energy for any of this, remember we are blind cleaning specialists. We will take your blinds back to our workshop, clean them and have them back to you in no time. Give us a call for a free quote.

How often in our busy lives do we walk past something in our dwelling that needs cleaning or even replacing without noticing it? Experts tell us that this is common behaviour simply because we become familiar with things that are around us all the time. This causes us to give them just cursory glances until we have reason to look more closely.

Often, the first time we notice the issue is when we are preparing our home for a party or some other social event. It is almost like we have suddenly looked through a magnifying glass and seen everything clearly. This usually sets off a frenzy of activity to rectify the situation.

Check behind the Curtains

Window blinds are often the most overlooked item, especially when they are hidden by curtains. Even when running the vacuum cleaner over the curtains to keep the dust at bay, how often do we stop to really examine the blinds behind them? If we did, we might see signs of wear that could be repaired to prolong their usefulness.

At Blind Concepts, extending the life of your blinds is the core of our business. Our clients save hundreds of dollars when they entrust their blinds to our cleaning and repair processes. Our ultrasonic cleaning technology removes built-up grime while our repair and replacement services restore the quality of your valuable blinds.

Are Your Blinds a Hazard?

There are some signs you should look for when checking to see if your blinds are at the replacement stage. Blinds not only should look good, but they must also be practical and suit your situation. If you now have very small children or pets living with you, blinds with cords that were no problem for adults are now a choking hazard.

Is there Irreparable Damage?

Over time, humidity, along with sun and water damage can cause the slats on timber Venetians to warp. While we can replace these slats as part of our service, there may come a time when so many are damaged that you may choose to replace the blinds with new ones.

Old Blinds Don’t Suit New Decor

If your blinds are very old, it may simply be a situation where they no longer suit the décor. Perhaps you have repainted the interior in modern colours, installed new floor coverings or replaced key furnishings and light fittings. This may leave the window blinds and curtains an unsuitable match for these major changes.

Before you make the final decision to replace your blinds, give us a call. Our repair personnel can examine your damaged blinds and possibly offer an alternative solution.

Window treatments such as those for blinds and curtains are not only expensive but are also a very public introduction to the homes and other buildings they adorn. In effect, the state of the windows in the premises you occupy, whether as an owner or a renter, is the first impression that a visitor forms when they arrive at your dwelling.

First Impressions Count

No doubt you would like that impression to be favourable, so if your window blinds are dirty, it may be time to break out the cleaning materials. Before you do though, take a moment to think about the type of cleaning materials you have, and what effect they are likely to have on your blinds. Depending on what they are made of, you may need to avoid chemical products to preserve the life of the blinds.

Take Care When Cleaning Timber Blinds

When cleaning timber blinds, remove the dust first either with a vacuum cleaner and the soft brush attachment, or wipe them with a clean, dry cloth. Any marks that are left can be rubbed gently with a clean damp cloth, remembering that excess moisture will cause the wood to swell. Avoid using liquids or chemicals as any varnishes, stains or other finishes on timber slats may fade and peel.

Need to Clean Roller Blind Mechanisms?

Roller blinds are the workhorse of window treatments and are perfect for rooms such as the kitchen and bedrooms. They are economical, easy to use and if they are made of plastic or PVC, easy to clean with standard household cleaners. However, if as part of your cleaning regime you need to clean the mechanism and if you are using a silicone spray, avoid getting this on the blind fabric. It could react to the chemicals in the spray and leave your blinds looking discoloured or bleached.

Soft Fabrics Make Roman Blinds Difficult to Clean

Roman blinds are more difficult to clean because generally, they are made from soft fabrics such as cotton or linen. Gentle dusting or vacuuming with a soft brush keeps dust at bay, but stains and marks are a different problem. Chemical stain removers should never be used on roman blinds as there is no way of knowing how this will affect the colour of the fabric.

Too Hard? Give us a Call

If all these do’s and don’ts seem daunting, the easy solution is to entrust the cleaning of your precious blinds to Blind Concepts. We clean verticals, Roman blinds, aluminium and timber Venetians, oriental and Holland blinds and others, using our ultrasonic cleaning process that is almost chemical-free. We take your blinds to our workshop, work our magic and return them, sparkling clean, to you within 24 hours, ready to rehang.