How to Clean Honeycomb Shades

Keep Your Honeycomb Shades Spotless with These Cleaning Tips

Honeycomb shades are a beautiful and functional addition to any home. Their unique cellular design offers energy efficiency, light control, and a sleek appearance. However, to keep them looking fresh and performing at their best, it’s essential to know how to clean honeycomb shades properly.

In this guide, you’ll learn simple and effective cleaning methods that are safe for your shades and easy to follow.

Why Cleaning Honeycomb Shades Matters

Before diving into the how-to, let’s talk about why it’s important. Honeycomb shades can trap dust, allergens, and even insects inside their cells over time. Regular cleaning:

  • Maintains their appearance
  • Improves indoor air quality
  • Prevents buildup of dirt and debris
  • Extends the life of the shades

Knowing how to clean honeycomb shades helps you preserve their functionality and beauty for years to come.

How to Clean Honeycomb Shades: The Basics

Let’s start with everyday maintenance. This routine helps prevent heavy buildup and keeps your shades looking like new.

Dusting Honeycomb Shades

Use a feather duster or microfiber cloth to gently sweep the surface.

  • Work from top to bottom
  • Avoid pushing dust into the cells
  • Use soft strokes to prevent fabric damage

Dust once a week, especially if your windows are often open.

Vacuuming with a Brush Attachment

For a deeper clean, vacuum your honeycomb shades.

  • Use the brush attachment only
  • Set the vacuum to low suction
  • Glide gently along the fabric
  • Focus on both sides of the shade

This method is safe and effective for weekly or bi-weekly cleanups.

Spot Cleaning Honeycomb Shades

Sometimes, a little more than dusting is needed—especially if there are stains or smudges.

Step-by-Step Spot Cleaning

  1. Prepare a mild solution: Mix a small amount of gentle dish soap with lukewarm water.
  2. Dampen a cloth: Never soak it; excess moisture can damage the fabric.
  3. Blot the area: Press gently on the stain—avoid rubbing.
  4. Dry with a clean towel: Blot the area until it’s dry.

Important: Always test your solution on an inconspicuous area first.

How to Clean Honeycomb Shades Inside the Cells

This is where it gets tricky—dust and insects can collect inside the little pockets. Here’s how to clean honeycomb shades from the inside out.

Use a Hairdryer on Cool Setting

  • Set the dryer to cool
  • Blow through each cell gently
  • Start at the top and move downward
  • Avoid high heat to protect the glue and fabric

This method dislodges trapped debris without damaging the material.

Compressed Air Canisters

You can also use compressed air (like those used for cleaning keyboards).

  • Hold the nozzle at an angle
  • Spray short bursts into the open ends of the cells
  • Do not spray too close or too long in one spot

This works well for high or narrow shades where vacuums won’t reach.

When to Use a Professional Cleaning Service

Some honeycomb shades are made with delicate fabrics or specialty coatings that shouldn’t be exposed to water or soap. In those cases:

  • Contact the manufacturer for recommendations
  • Look for certified shade cleaning services in your area
  • Ask about ultrasonic or low-moisture methods

Sometimes, the safest way to clean your honeycomb shades is to leave it to the pros.

Tips for Cleaning Motorized or Cordless Shades

If you have cordless honeycomb shades or motorized models, here’s what to keep in mind:

  • Unplug the motor before cleaning
  • Avoid touching any mechanical components
  • Use only dry cleaning methods like dusting or vacuuming
  • Never spray water directly near the controls

Understanding how to clean honeycomb shades with added features helps you avoid costly damage.

 

Do’s and Don’ts of Cleaning Honeycomb Shades

Let’s recap some key points with a simple do/don’t checklist.

Do:

  • Dust or vacuum regularly
  • Spot clean with gentle products
  • Use compressed air or cool blowers
  • Consult the manufacturer for specific care

Don’t:

  • Soak the shades
  • Use bleach or harsh chemicals
  • Scrub aggressively
  • Use heat sources (e.g., hairdryers on hot)

How Often Should You Clean Honeycomb Shades?

You don’t need to clean them daily—but regular care goes a long way.

Area Cleaning Frequency
Living rooms & bedrooms Light dusting weekly, vacuum monthly
Kitchens Vacuum bi-weekly, spot clean as needed
Bathrooms Weekly wipe-down (humidity causes buildup)
Pet areas More frequent cleaning recommended

Following a schedule keeps dirt from building up and helps your shades last longer.

how to clean honeycomb shades

Keep Your Shades Beautiful

Learning how to clean honeycomb shades is one of the easiest ways to protect your investment. With just a few minutes of care each week, you can keep your shades looking new and performing well for years.

Whether you’re spot cleaning, dusting, or clearing debris from the cells, these simple techniques work for every room and shade style. And if you’re ever unsure—don’t hesitate to reach out for advice or professional help.

Still have questions? Contact us—we’re here to help you keep your windows fresh and flawless.