How to Clean Cellular Shades
Honeycomb shades are known for energy efficiency and versatile design, but dust tends to settle into their pleats over time. We recommend cleaning them every few months to prevent buildup from becoming a bigger problem later.
We feature Hunter Douglas Duette® Cellular Shades and Sonnette® Cellular Roller Shades and know how to keep them looking sharp without damaging the pleated structure that makes them work so well. Knowing how to clean honeycomb shades and cleaning them regularly helps protect these window treatments and keeps them performing as they should.
Use a Light Touch When Cleaning Cellular Shades
The honeycomb design of cellular shades traps air in individual pockets, forming an energy-efficient barrier at the window. Pressing too hard on the pleats or pulling them the wrong way during cleaning can flatten or crease the folds.
Many cellular shade fabrics are treated to repel dust and dirt, so harsh chemicals or excess moisture can damage the treatment. Gentle, low-contact methods work best, and regular light cleaning prevents dust buildup that can make the task much more difficult over time.
How to Clean Cellular Window Shades
If you want to know how to clean cellular window shades without flattening the structure, the team at Classic Blinds & Shutters Design Center suggests following these simple methods recommended by Hunter Douglas.
Vacuuming for Regular Dusting
The first step in cleaning cellular shades is to vacuum them with a soft-bristle brush attachment. Fully extend the shade, hold the fabric gently taut with one hand, and run the brush lightly over each pleat from top to bottom to remove dust. Keep the vacuum on a low-power, gentle setting. Heavy suction and firm pressure can pull on the honeycomb cells and distort their shape.
Using Compressed Air for Pleats and Corners
Compressed air is a great option for those tight folds a vacuum brush cannot fully reach. Hold the can 6 to 10 inches from the fabric and blow gently across the surface until the dust lifts away.
How Do You Clean Cellular Shades with Stains?
How do you clean cellular shades with a stubborn spot or stain? For Duette® Cellular Shades and most single-cell cellular fabrics, dampen a clean cloth with lukewarm water and a small amount of mild, non-abrasive detergent. Then blot the spot rather than scrubbing at it. Rubbing can crease the pleats or spread the mark across the weave, so blot gently from the outside of the stain toward the center. Let the shade air dry completely while fully extended.
Sonnette® Cellular Roller Shades are the exception. The manufacturer advises against spot cleaning this fabric. For these shades, stick to regular dusting, and contact our team to explore professional cleaning services when light dusting is not enough.
Avoid steam cleaners and strong solvents on any cellular shade. Cellular fabrics aren't recommended for steam cleaning, and solvents can damage the material.
When Professional Cleaning or Replacement Makes Sense
Shades that are very old, heavily soiled, or have flattened pleats that will not spring back often fare better with professional cleaning or replacement than with another round of DIY care. A professional cleaner can remove the shade without stressing the headrail or cords and can judge whether the fabric or cell structure has reached the end of its useful life.
Replacement also opens the door to newer fabric options and colors that may not have been available when the original shades were installed.
Contact Us for Duette® Cellular Shades and Sonnette® Cellular Roller Shades
Our talented team members at Classic Blinds & Shutters Design Center can share more tips on how to clean cellular shades and show you the latest fabrics, options, and operating systems. Contact us for service in the greater Alpharetta, Georgia, area, including Milton, Johns Creek, Buckhead, Sandy Springs, Marietta, Downtown Atlanta, Dunwoody, Suwanee, and Big Canoe, Georgia.
