As the weather warms and becomes less humid, your home’s exterior is suddenly more visible. Dust, stains, and mould that remained hidden during the winter months are now noticeable, especially on roller shutters that often get neglected for extended periods.
Why This Week is Perfect for Cleaning Roller Shutters
Roller shutters—whether made from PVC, aluminium, or wood—face a lot of wear and tear. Winter rain, pollution, pollen, coastal spray, and even desert dust can accumulate on them. What once seemed like minor marks in December now stand out under the bright sunlight.
The dry, mild weather is ideal for cleaning. Surfaces dry quickly, the water won’t freeze on the mechanisms, and leaving the shutters open for a while doesn’t cause drafts that could chill the house.
Cleaning on a dry, calm day also means fewer streaks, less mess on the façade, and faster results.
Delaying this task too long can cause issues: grime not only looks unsightly but can also clog the rails, jam the shutters, increase friction in the motor, and, over time, reduce their lifespan.
A Quick and Easy Cleaning Method
The best part? You don’t need specialized products or hours of work. A simple homemade cleaning mix and the right technique are typically enough.
The Basic Cleaning Mix
Most experts recommend a mild, slightly acidic solution to remove grime without damaging the material. Here’s a simple mix:
- Warm water in a bucket
- A splash of mild washing-up liquid
- A few drops of white vinegar or a spoonful of black soap
That’s it—a soft sponge and this warm, soapy solution should be all you need for a quick clean.
White vinegar helps dissolve mineral deposits and light mould spots, while black soap works wonders on greasy pollution. If there are stubborn stains, a sprinkle of bicarbonate of soda can help, but make sure to rinse it thoroughly afterward.
Step-by-Step Cleaning: From Top Slat to Bottom Rail
Work through the shutters one by one. Trying to clean them all at once usually leads to uneven results and streaks.
- Lower the shutter completely so all slats are visible.
- Dust the surface first using a soft brush or microfiber cloth to remove loose dirt.
- Dip your sponge in the cleaning solution and gently scrub, starting at the top and working your way down.
- For joints between slats and side edges, use a soft-bristled brush or an old toothbrush.
- Rinse with clean water—either with a sponge, spray bottle, or low-pressure garden sprayer.
- Allow the shutters to dry before rolling them back up.
Cleaning each shutter typically takes only a few minutes, as long as they aren’t heavily soiled.
What to Avoid for Proper Shutter Care
It might be tempting to speed up the process with harsh tools, but this is where many shutters get damaged.
- Avoid abrasive sponges or scourers on PVC or lacquered aluminium.
- Never use a high-pressure cleaner on the box or joints.
- Do not use undiluted bleach on coloured shutters.
- Refrain from using metal tools to scrape marks.
Micro-scratches caused by abrasive sponges trap dirt, making shutters appear dirty again much faster, even after a fresh clean.
Sand, Sahara dust, or dried mud act like sandpaper. Always rinse or gently brush these away before scrubbing too hard.
Deep Cleaning the Hidden Parts of Roller Shutters
Cleaning the visible parts is helpful, but problems often start in the less accessible areas.
Don’t Forget the Rails and Box
The side rails and top box collect debris, insect remains, leaves, soot, and moisture. Left unattended, this mixture turns into mud, which can slow everything down.
How to Clean Different Parts of the Shutter System
| Area | What Tends to Build Up | How to Clean It |
|---|---|---|
| Side rails | Dust, sand, small stones | Vacuum, then wipe with a damp cloth |
| Top box (accessible part) | Spider webs, fine dust | Soft brush, then light wipe |
| Slat joints | Mould, black streaks | Toothbrush with soapy water and vinegar |
For the rails, use a vacuum with a thin nozzle to clean each side, then wipe with a lightly moistened cloth. Avoid saturating the rails with water to protect the mechanism.
Manual vs Electric Shutters: What’s the Difference?
Manual shutters (those operated by a strap or crank) can handle a bit more wear, but they still require smooth operation. Electric shutters, however, have a motor hidden in the tube that rolls the slats.
For both types, if a shutter blocks halfway after washing, don’t force it. Check the rails for any obstructions like stones, twigs, or dried mud. Forcing the mechanism against an obstacle can damage the components.
Cleaning PVC, Aluminium, and Wooden Shutters
Different materials react differently to water and cleaning products, so it’s important to adapt your method for each type.
- PVC shutters tolerate soapy water well, but avoid solvent-based cleaners that can dull the surface.
- Aluminium shutters often have a lacquered or painted finish. Use pH-neutral or mildly acidic cleaners, but never abrasive scouring creams.
- Wooden shutters require less water. Use a damp cloth rather than a dripping sponge, and dry them thoroughly. Excess water can seep into cracks, causing the wood to warp over time.
If the paint on wooden shutters is already peeling, a gentle wash can help you assess whether sanding and repainting is needed soon.
How Often Should You Clean Roller Shutters?
How often you clean your shutters depends on your location and their exposure to the elements:
- Busy roadside or city centre: Every 3–4 months.
- Suburban or quiet street: Twice a year, typically in spring and autumn.
- Coastal or industrial areas: More frequent cleaning is needed due to salt and pollution.
A quick visual check after storms or sandstorms is also helpful. Wiping away new deposits immediately is much easier than scrubbing them a year later.
The Benefits Beyond a Clean Appearance
Roller shutters do more than block light—they help with insulation, reduce noise, and improve security. Dirt that builds up in the joints can prevent the shutters from closing properly, which reduces their thermal performance and can let air and light through.
Cleaning the rails also reduces strain on the motor. Many manufacturers link premature motor failure to friction and obstructions, not faulty parts. A quick cleaning every season can save you the cost of replacing a motorised unit.
Regular cleaning also helps reduce dust and mould spores, which can improve indoor air quality, especially in bedrooms where people spend a lot of time.
Making Roller Shutter Maintenance Manageable
Imagine a typical spring Saturday: In one hour, you can clean the shutters in the main rooms, clear the rails, and wipe the boxes. On Sunday, if you feel like it, you can tackle the rest of the house. Breaking the task up over the weekend makes it feel light and manageable.
You can also combine this with other quick jobs, like checking window seals, washing mosquito screens, or inspecting external caulking. This approach helps maintain your home’s exterior while providing a clear view of what might need more attention before winter arrives.
For hard-to-reach shutters, telescopic handles with sponge or microfiber heads allow safe access from the ground. In rental apartments where the shutters are older, stick to mild products and low-pressure rinsing to avoid disputes when you move out.
