Simple care tips from North Carolina’s window treatment experts

Natural wood blinds are one of those finishing touches that make a room feel complete. Their warmth, character, and timeless appeal add a sense of craftsmanship that’s hard to replicate with other materials. But like any high-quality feature in your home, they need the right care to keep looking their best.

The good news? You don’t need to be a pro to take care of them—you just need to know what not to do, and how to build a simple maintenance routine. At Prestigious Window Fashions, we’ve helped homeowners all over North Carolina choose, install, and protect their window treatments, and we’re happy to share what works.

Dust Regularly (It Really Makes a Difference)

The easiest and most effective thing you can do is keep dust under control. Over time, dust buildup can dull the wood’s finish and make your blinds look older than they are.

• Use a microfiber cloth, soft feather duster, or the brush attachment on your vacuum, set to low suction.
• Close the slats in one direction, gently dust, then reverse and repeat on the other side.
• A quick dusting once a week can go a long way in keeping your blinds looking great.

Avoid Moisture

Unlike faux wood or vinyl, real wood blinds can be damaged by water. Moisture can cause slats to warp, crack, or discolor—none of which are easy to fix.

1. Never spray cleaner directly onto your blinds.
2. If needed, lightly dampen a soft cloth with water and a drop of mild soap to spot clean small areas.
3. Always dry the spot immediately with a clean, dry cloth.
4. For a bit of shine or extra care, use a wood-safe polish, but apply it to the cloth—not directly to the slats.

Spot Clean Gently

Smudges, fingerprints, or marks from pets and kids are inevitable. Just be sure to take a gentle approach when cleaning them.

1. Use a slightly damp cloth to spot clean—just enough moisture to lift the mark.
2. Test any cleaner or damp cloth in an inconspicuous area first.
3. Dry the cleaned area right away to prevent moisture damage.

Avoid scrubbing or using harsh chemical cleaners—they can damage the finish or discolor the wood.

Inspect the Moving Parts

Natural wood blinds work hard every day, and it’s a good idea to check in on the parts that keep them running smoothly.

1. Check lift cords for signs of fraying or tangling.
2. Test the tilt mechanism to make sure it’s still operating smoothly.
3. Inspect the brackets and mounting hardware—loose or uneven brackets can cause performance issues or even damage.

If you notice something not working quite right, it’s better to address it early before a small issue becomes a bigger repair.

When to Call Prestigious Window Fashions

While regular maintenance is easy to manage at home, some issues are best left to the professionals. You should reach out to us if:

1. Slats are warped, cracked, or permanently stained
2. The blinds no longer tilt, lift, or close properly
3. Hardware is damaged or coming loose
4. You’re thinking about replacing your blinds or updating your window treatments

We don’t offer cleaning services—but when it comes to repairs, replacements, and expert recommendations, our team has you covered. We've been proudly serving homeowners across Raleigh, Durham, New Hill, and the surrounding North Carolina area for years, and we’re always happy to help.

Final Thoughts

Natural wood blinds are a beautiful, long-lasting choice for your home, and with just a little regular care, they’ll stay that way for many years. Dust them regularly, avoid water, clean gently, and keep an eye on their hardware. When something’s off—or if you’re ready for a fresh look—Prestigious Window Fashions is here to help.

Need advice or repair help? Contact us today. We’re proud to be North Carolina’s trusted name in custom window treatments.