Whether you’re going for a classic, coastal, or shabby chic vibe, plantation shutters fit right in!
These window treatments have wide, horizontal slats called “louvres” that can be tilted up or down to any angle.
Aside from offering great light control and privacy, plantation shutters can keep your space cooler in summer and warmer in winter.
But like anything in your home, they need a bit of TLC. Luckily, plantation shutters are easy to clean (unless you’ve got too many of them)!
For regular dusting, a feather duster or a microfibre cloth is all you need.
For a deeper clean, use a damp cloth on aluminium, faux wood, and vinyl shutters. This is safe for wooden ones, too — just avoid using too much water.
In this blog, we’ll explain how to clean plantation shutters, from routine upkeep to deep cleaning!
What You Need | Regular Cleaning | Deep Cleaning | How to Remove Yellowing | Maintenance Tips
Before Cleaning Your Plantation Shutters
Before you start, consider what your plantation shutters are made of.
Cleaning methods vary depending on the material, so follow any care instructions from the manufacturer.
If you don’t have the manual, try checking the retailer’s website for any handy info.
As a rule of thumb (especially if you’re not sure what material you’re working with), plantation shutters require gentle cleaning.
When in doubt, always spot test the cleaning product on a hidden area to make sure it’s safe to use.
Avoid harsh chemicals — no ammonia or chlorine bleach! These can warp or discolour the slats on your plantation shutters.
Lastly, do not use anything abrasive, like rough sponges and steel wool. These can ruin the finish of the slats or louvres.
What You Need to Clean Plantation Shutters
You don’t need any fancy tools — some of the best things to clean plantation shutters with are right in your home!
To get started, grab these materials:
- Water
- Dish soap
- Feather duster
- Microfibre cloth
- Vacuum cleaner with a soft brush attachment
If your shutters are really grimy or if you have allergies, don’t forget to wear gloves and a mask for protection.
Regular Cleaning Steps for Plantation Shutters
Aim to clean your plantation shutters regularly. Dusting or wiping once or twice a month is ideal to prevent dirt buildup.
Follow these steps for routine cleaning:
Step 1: Open the shutter panel, then slightly tilt the louvres.
Step 2: Use a feather duster or a dry microfibre cloth to remove all loose dirt from both sides of each louvre. Start from the top and work your way down.
(A vacuum with a brush attachment can work too, though it might be tricky to reach between the louvres.)
Step 3: Wipe down the windowsill and the plantation shutter frame.
Step 4: Spot-clean any stains using a soft cloth dampened with water and a little dish soap.
Step 5: Rinse off any soapy residue with a clean, damp cloth. Then, leave the shutters open for a few minutes to let them air dry completely.
If this sounds like a chore (especially if you have lots of shutters), consider hiring a professional house cleaner instead!
Deep Cleaning Your Plantation Shutters
A good, deep clean at least once a year can keep your plantation shutters looking fresh.
However, you may need to do it more often if your shutters are in a humid area, like the bathroom or kitchen.
And if you’ve been skipping your regular cleaning (no judgment — it happens!), they might start looking worse for wear.
For a more thorough cleaning, it’s best to take the shutters down.
But if you’d rather leave them up or you’re not sure how to unmount them, it’s possible to clean them in place.
Step 1 (optional): Take the shutters down
Check the manufacturer’s guide for any specific instructions on how to unmount your plantation shutters.
Some models can be lifted out easily. For other types, you may need a screwdriver to remove the hinges.
Once unmounted, place the shutter on a flat surface lined with a towel.
Step 2: Consider the material
Different materials react differently to moisture, so it’s important to know what your plantation shutters are made of.
Aluminium, faux wood, and vinyl (PVC) shutters are generally more water-resistant. It’s safe to clean these with a damp cloth.
On the other hand, wooden and timber plantation shutters are sensitive to moisture. For these types, use as little water as possible to avoid damage!
Step 3: Dust and wipe down thoroughly
First, get rid of all loose dirt from your plantation shutters. You can use a feather duster or a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment for this.
Grab an old toothbrush to remove dust from hard-to-reach corners.
Next, mix a little dish soap and warm water in a basin.
Dip a soft cloth into the soapy water, and wring it out well. Use this to wipe the surfaces, including all the louvres and the frame.
If you’re cleaning wooden shutters, make sure the cloth is only slightly damp and not soaking wet!
Finally, mop up any leftover soap with a cloth dampened with plain water.
Step 4: Tackle stubborn stains
For real wood shutters, stick to a wood-safe oil soap when removing stubborn stains. Make sure to follow the product instructions.
For other types of plantation shutters, try these methods:
INK: Dab the ink stain using a cloth dampened with rubbing alcohol. Do this until the stain lifts.
MOULD: To clean mould off plantation shutters, spray the affected area with a solution of equal parts white vinegar and water. Let it sit for at least 1 hour.
GREASY STAINS: Mix baking soda with a little water to make a thick paste, then rub it onto the stain. Wait for 20 minutes to let the paste work.
GENERAL STAINS (like sticky dust): Spray the stain with a mixture of dish soap and warm water. Let it sit for 15–20 minutes, then gently scrub the area with a soft, damp cloth.
After lifting the stains, use another damp cloth to remove any residue from the cleaning solution.
Step 5: Dry and polish
Once the stains are gone, wipe your plantation shutters with a dry cloth to avoid water spots and streaks.
As an optional step, you can add a bit of shine using a polish that’s safe for the material.
- Wood shutters: Wood furniture polish
- Aluminium shutters: Non-abrasive metal polish
Meanwhile, faux wood and plastic plantation shutters (like vinyl or PVC) don’t usually need a special polish.
Always check the product label to make sure it’s compatible with your shutters, and follow the directions to avoid damage.
Step 6: Don’t forget the windowsill
Before reinstalling the plantation shutters, clean the windowsill and the frame. Gently wipe everything with a slightly damp cloth.
Let everything air dry before putting your plantation shutters back in place!
How Do You Remove Yellowing From Plantation Shutters?
White plantation shutters look classy and neat, but they can turn yellow over time.
This is often caused by the sun’s UV rays, which can ruin the protective coating on the shutters and discolour the finish.
Nicotine from cigarette smoke can also be a culprit!
Unfortunately, yellowing in plantation shutters is usually irreversible.
Your best option is to speak to a professional. They may suggest repainting the plantation shutters to restore their original look.
More Tips to Keep Your Plantation Shutters Spotless
Staying consistent with cleaning isn’t always easy, but it’s the key to keeping your window covers spotless!
Dust your plantation shutters regularly, and spot-clean stains as soon as you notice them.
If your shutters are in a humid area (like a bathroom or kitchen), keep an eye out for signs of mould, and tackle them right away.
Lastly, don’t forget to clean your windows and walls regularly. This helps minimise the amount of dust that can land on your shutters.
Aside from making your home spick-and-span, these steps can also make your space a lot more comfy!
