How To Clean The Inside Of Roller Shutters

If you’ve ever cleaned your home’s fly screens, you’ll know that they are typically just as dirty on the inside as they are on the outside. 

When it comes to your roller shutters, it is much the same and while you may be diligent in cleaning the exterior of your shutters, the inside deserves some regular TLC too. 

If you’re wondering how to go about this or why it is so important to give both sides of your shutters equal attention, this guide is for you.

So let’s get right to it. 

Why Cleaning Your Roller Shutters Is So Important 

While it is tempting to think that a little rain here and there or a quick hose down is enough to keep your shutters clean, the truth is they really can benefit from some extra attention from time to time. 

Cleaning your shutters, inside and out can contribute to:

Enhanced Longevity

An investment in your home, you’ll no doubt be keen to get as many years of use out of your shutters as possible. 

By cleaning away any build-up of dust, dirt, debris, cobwebs and other grime you are reducing the risk of corrosion and wear. Through regular cleaning, you support optimal durability and longevity. 

Optimal Performance 

The smooth operation of your shutters and continued functionality is also something that can be impaired by a buildup of dirt and debris. 

When clogged with dirt and debris, your roller blinds are unable to operate properly and may snag or become noisy. These risks can be minimised through regular cleaning. 

Maintained Aesthetic Appeal 

Just as we give attention to cleaning our windows and keeping our gardens tidy to keep our homes looking their best, cleaning roller shutters should also be on the regular maintenance list. 

Ensuring they are clean and well cared for ensures your home’s street appeal is maintained and that the potential for stains and discolouration is minimised. 

Better Energy Efficiency 

If the exclusion of summer heat or winter cold and the retention of a comfortable temperature within your home is something you value, keeping your roller shutters clean can help. 

Reduced energy consumption and greater energy efficiency are something your shutters can contribute to but work best when clean. Clean shutters can form the tightest possible seal, unimpeded by dirt and debris, ensuring no drafts and optimal insulation. 

Prevention Of Damage

Rust and corrosion as well as warping of the aluminium slats and tracks can all occur if the shutters are not kept properly clean. 

Even the smallest twig getting jammed in the wrong spot can lead to costly repairs or the need for a replacement shutter. Keeping an eye on your shutters through a good clean once every 12 months or more ensures you can spot damage early or prevent it from occurring. 

How To Clean The Inside Of Your Roller Shutters

While we have spoken before about how to clean the outside of your roller shutters, cleaning the inside is just as important. 

Below is a step-by-step guide for how to do this. 

Step 1. Gather Supplies

To clean the inside of your roller shutters you will need: 

• A soft cloth 
• Sponge
• Gentle washing up detergent
• Small bucket
• Warm (not hot) water
• A soft-bristled brush, preferably on a longer handle
• Access to fresh water for rinsing, such as a garden hose

For safety reasons, when cleaning electric shutters it is a wise idea to turn off the electricity at this stage too. 

Step 2. Determine Your Starting Point

As accessing the rear of the shutter can be tricky, you will need to do this in two stages. You can either begin with the bottom of the shutter, cleaning it while half lowered from outside your home or start by cleaning the top from inside with the shutter fully lowered. 

We recommend starting inside as the water and mess will run down to the bottom of the shutter where you can then clean it off later. 

Step 3. Cleaning

Begin by removing any obvious debris such as leaves, twigs or cobwebs from the shutter and the surrounding brickwork or window ledge. Be sure to watch out for spiders or other insects while doing this. 

Then, using a soft-bristled brush or sponge, gently rub the shutter down with the soapy, warm water. Using a brush or sponge affixed to a longer handle can make this process easier and help to reach all areas of the shutter surface. 

Remember not to apply too much pressure while cleaning from the inside as this can cause damage to the shutter or shutter tracks.  

Step 4. Rinsing 

Once the inside of the shutter is fully cleaned, it is time to rinse away the residual soap and grime. A garden hose is perfect for this – just make sure you have closed your windows first! 

You may need to fully lower the shutter to rinse it from the outside; we suggest not closing the slats tightly as this will allow some water to pass through to the other side. 

Step 5. Drying

Using a soft cloth, wipe down the rear side of the roller blind as best you can and then leave it down to dry for as long as possible. Wet shutters should not be retracted into the shutter box as this can introduce water into the motor.

Titan Shutters – Your Local Shutter Experts 

If you are having difficulties with your shutters due to a buildup of dirt and grime or have discovered damage during cleaning, we can help. 

At Titan Shutters, our team of experts have decades of combined experience and the skill and knowledge necessary to get your shutters back to their best. 

Offering professional advice regarding maintenance and repairs, we ensure your shutters are capable of operating without issue for many years to come. 

To learn more about keeping your shutters clean or to speak with one of our team members about repairs or replacements, please call 1300 020 001 today.