When it comes to awnings, curtains and blinds, we like to think we know what we’re talking about here at Cambridge Curtains.
After all, we do have over 20 years of experience fitting, designing and overcoming problems within the industry.
From blackout blinds to bespoke curtains, we have a deep knowledge of so many things that we’d love to share with you. So with that in mind, here are six simple steps to clean an awning.
Step one
First, you’ll want to think about how often you’ll need to do this cleaning, and what time of year is best to get it done.
It’s most wise to clean your awning at least twice a year. And as you’ll expect to get the most use out of it in the summer months, it makes a lot of sense to clean it around that time of year. You can do it once in spring or at the start of summer, and then again as you head towards the autumn months.
Step two
The next step is to brush off any debris on top of the awning. This may be dead leaves or even spider webs, but it can be easily done with a broom or something similar. You may also need to have a sturdy ladder set up in order to allow you to properly reach and clean the entire awning.
Step three
Next, you’ll want to make sure to use warm water but nothing too hot. When adding soap, try to avoid detergent as that can be too harsh on awning material. Instead, it’s best to use awning shampoo or if you don’t have that try to find some mild laundry soap. Just make sure you avoid any harsh chemicals or bleach as these will quite possibly damage and discolour the awning.
Step four
If you want, you can then wet the awning with a hose or even a spray. If not, you can go to the next stage. Soak a soft-bristled brush in your soapy water and then use it to gently work off any dirt. If you come across a stubborn mark, try not to scrub at the fabric with too much force. Instead, take your time and let the soap and water do most of the work. This should prevent you from accidentally causing the fabric or frame any damage.
Step five
The next step may be the easiest but it does require the most patience. It’s best for your awning to just let it dry naturally, which may take some time. This is why you’ll certainly want to clean your awning on a nice dry day when the sun is out and shining. It’s especially important to let it fully dry if you intend to roll your awning up and store it after it has been cleaned. Any remaining dampness can lead to mould, rotting and other unwanted issues.
Step six
One final step, if you want to take absolute care of your awning, is to use a specially formulated waterproofing spray on your awning once it is dry. This will help the fabric repel water and prevent any rotting or mildew build up.
As you can tell, cleaning your awning is hardly rocket science, but it does require a certain amount of diligence. But so long as you keep on top of things, and follow these simple steps roughly twice a year, your awning should stay in good condition.
To find out more about the awnings we offer at Cambridge Blinds, check out our website. You can also speak to our team of experts by contacting us.