How to Look After Your Outdoor Blinds This Winter

When Winter arrives, typically, your outdoor space will see less action. But this doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t take care of your outdoor furniture, especially your outdoor blinds. Winter is the rainy season, and the extra wetness, humidity and wind from storms can cause a lot of damage if you forget about your outdoor blinds during the colder seasons.

However, taking care of your blinds shouldn’t be a hassle and that’s why we have put together a few tips to help you keep them clean this winter.

Clean your blinds

The best way to keep your outdoor blinds in good condition is to clean them regularly. Here are the steps you should take to clean your outdoor blinds before and after the winter.

1. Brush both sides of your blinds with a soft-bristled brush to remove dust, dirt and dry mud.
2. Gently clean any remaining dirt with a soft cloth and lukewarm soapy water.
3. Rinse the blinds with fresh water.
4. Wipe the blinds dry with a clean towel or cloth.

Maintain and Lubricate your Tracks

In general, maintenance is not necessary for the smooth running of Ziptrak® blinds. However, occasionally you might want to apply lubricant to dusty settings to help the blind continue to operate smoothly when led by tracks.

Use a silicone spray made for food, such as Helmar H4000. Apply the silicone spray in the gap between the spline tape and the track after completely lowering the blind to the ground. From top to bottom, lubricate the track completely, taking roughly 10 seconds. It only takes a little bit of spray. Spray only one side of the blind with both the left and right tracks. After application, open and close the blind numerous times to disperse the silicone evenly within the track.

It is very important that you do not use any oil based lubricants such as WD40, as they will damage the spline tape and clog the dust inside the track.

Keep mildew and rust away

The rain and humid conditions of the winter can cause mildew, rust and corrosion to appear much quicker than during the warmer seasons. The best way to avoid this is by keeping your blinds as clean and as dry as you can. Try to wash your blinds during sunny days when the sun’s rays will speed up the drying process and keep your blinds open until they are completely dry. Clean any spots of mildew and rust immediately to avoid stains. Also make sure that your blinds’ opening and closing mechanisms are rust free, dry and lubricated to prevent future corrosion.

Secure your blinds during storms

Storms in Australia can cause major property damage. If your outdoor blinds are not secured properly, they can also experience this damage. It may not always be possible, but you should try to tie up your blinds securely or roll them up if a storm is approaching or you expect any heavy winds. Then, once the storm has passed, you can open the blinds and remove any drops of water to allow them to dry properly.

What to avoid

When winter approaches, here are a few things you want to avoid doing with your outdoor blinds.

• Don’t leave any dirt or grime such as bird droppings, dust, mud or tree sap to remain on the outdoor blinds for extended periods of time.
• Don’t keep your blinds rolled up for long periods. Instead, regularly roll them down to air them out and avoid creases.
• Don’t roll up your blinds when they’re damp. The dampness will encourage mould and mildew to grow, which can cause damage such as rust and permanent stains.
• Avoid harsh rubbing and scrubbing when you clean your blinds, as this can spoil the fabric.
• Don’t use strong and abrasive cleaning products that can damage or discolour your blinds.
• Don’t use a pressurised hose to clean your blinds.

Regular cleaning, maintenance and care are the best ways to keep your outdoor blinds in good condition through the winter season. However, if you want a product that will withstand Australia’s harsh weather conditions for years, you should invest in top quality outdoor blinds from All About Shade. We are specialists in outdoor blinds, awnings, shutters, and folding arm awnings in Perth.

To arrange a free quote, fill out the “Free Measure & Quote” form, and one of our friendly team members will get in touch.