Cellular shades, also known as honeycomb shades, are designed with fabrics that make routine care relatively simple. Regular dusting can help prevent buildup, while gentle vacuuming and careful spot cleaning can address dirt as needed. The right cleaning method depends on the fabric and type of stain, so always check the care instructions for your specific shade before using water or a cleaning product.
Follow these tips to keep your cellular shades looking their best without damaging their pleated fabric or honeycomb construction.
How to Clean Cellular Shades
Honeycomb shades are crafted from advanced, anti-static, and dust-resistant fabrics designed to repel dirt and dust, keeping them cleaner for longer durations. For effective maintenance, consider the following cleaning options:
1. Dust Cellular Shades Regularly
For routine maintenance, gently dust the shade with a feather duster, clean microfiber cloth or other soft duster. Work across the fabric carefully without crushing or distorting the pleats.
Regular light dusting is often all that’s needed to prevent visible buildup and keep cellular and honeycomb shades looking fresh.
2. Vacuum Cellular Shades with Low Suction
For a more thorough cleaning, use a handheld vacuum or the upholstery attachment on your vacuum with low suction. Gently move across the fabric rather than pressing the attachment firmly against the shade.
Low suction helps remove dust and debris while protecting the fabric cells and maintaining the shade’s crisp pleated appearance.
3. Spot Clean Stains Carefully
If your cellular shades develop a small spot or stain, first check the care instructions for the specific fabric. When spot cleaning is permitted, use a clean, soft cloth or sponge lightly dampened with lukewarm water and a mild detergent.
Gently blot the affected area rather than rubbing or scrubbing the fabric. Test any cleaning method on an inconspicuous area first, and avoid saturating the shade. Allow the fabric to dry completely before raising it.
Can You Wash Cellular Shades?
Cellular shades generally should not be placed in a washing machine or submerged in water. Their pleated construction, adhesives, internal components and specialty fabrics can be damaged by excessive moisture.
If routine dusting, vacuuming and approved spot cleaning aren’t enough, consult the manufacturer’s care instructions or a professional window treatment cleaner before attempting a deeper cleaning method.
Can Cellular Shades Be Ultrasonically Cleaned?
Professional ultrasonic cleaning may be appropriate for some cellular shade fabrics, but it is not suitable for every shade. Fabric type, construction, operating components and room-darkening materials can affect whether ultrasonic cleaning is recommended.
Before having cellular shades ultrasonically cleaned, verify that the method is approved for your specific Hunter Douglas fabric and product. If ultrasonic cleaning is permitted, follow the manufacturer’s instructions regarding detergent, immersion and drying.
Never immerse the headrail or operating components unless the manufacturer’s care instructions specifically allow it.
How Do You Clean Dust Inside Cellular Shades?
Because honeycomb shades contain hollow fabric cells, dust or small debris can occasionally find its way inside. Avoid inserting objects into the cells, which could puncture or distort the fabric.
Depending on the shade and manufacturer’s instructions, gentle airflow may help remove loose debris from inside the cells. If something is lodged inside the shade or cannot be removed easily, ask a window treatment professional for assistance rather than risking damage to the fabric.
How Often Should You Clean Cellular Shades?
There’s no single cleaning schedule for every home. Shades in frequently used rooms, kitchens, homes with pets or windows that are opened regularly may collect dust more quickly.
Light dusting as part of your regular household cleaning routine can help prevent buildup. Deeper cleaning should generally be performed only when needed and with a method appropriate for the particular fabric.
Keep Your Honeycomb Shades Looking Their Best
Cellular shades don’t require complicated maintenance. Gentle, regular care is usually the best approach: remove surface dust before it accumulates, vacuum with low suction when necessary and treat spots according to the manufacturer’s fabric-care instructions.
If you’re considering new shades, explore our Hunter Douglas honeycomb and cellular shades, including Duette® and Applause® collections, or contact A Shade Above for help choosing the right window treatments for your home.
