Plantation shutters have become a favourite for many homes across Leicester, and it’s easy to see why. They’re stylish, practical, and add that polished touch to windows that curtains or roller blinds just can't provide. Whether you’ve chosen a classic wood finish or gone for something more modern, they offer a smart way to manage privacy and light in your home all year round.

But like anything used every day, plantation shutters need proper upkeep to stay looking their best. Dust builds up, marks appear from daily use, and over time, even well-made shutters can begin to look tired if they’re not cared for. A bit of regular maintenance goes a long way. Not only does it help preserve their good looks, but it also keeps them operating smoothly for years.

Why Looking After Your Plantation Shutters Really Matters

Taking care of plantation shutters means they’ll last a lot longer and continue to look just as good as the day they were installed. Regular cleaning helps clear away dust and grime that can dull their finish or even cause scratches on the surface. In busy spaces like kitchens or living rooms, shutters can gather everything from fingerprints to cooking residue and pet hair, which is why a simple clean here and there really adds up.

Keeping your shutters in shape also makes sure they still open and close the way they should. Slats can get stiff or sticky if dirt builds up between them. That’s often when you start hearing creaks or notice they don’t move like they used to. Spotting these signs early and giving them a clean can prevent more serious issues later on.

There’s also something to be said for hygiene. Shutters, just like other surfaces in your home, collect dust and allergens. Giving them a light clean every couple of weeks freshens your living space and contributes to better indoor air quality, especially if anyone in your home deals with allergies.

Here’s why regular shutter care is a smart idea:

- Keeps materials from wearing out before their time

- Makes sure the slats move easily

- Helps preserve stains, colours, or painted finishes

- Reduces dust and allergens in living spaces

- Keeps your windows looking tidy and well-kept

Even just setting aside a small window of time once or twice a month can make a huge difference. It’s especially helpful if you live in a high-traffic home or open your windows often and want to keep outdoor dust from piling up inside.

How To Clean Your Plantation Shutters Step By Step

Whether your shutters are crafted from real wood, faux wood, or vinyl, cleaning them doesn’t have to be a big task. A gentle approach always works best. That way, the structural integrity of the slats as well as any finishes or paints stay intact.

Start each clean with dry dusting. This should always come before using water or sprays because it picks up loose dirt, making the rest of the job easier and more effective.

1. Dry Dusting

- Use a soft microfiber cloth, feather duster, or a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment

- Angle the slats slightly upward and dust from one side to the other

- Flip the slats downward to clean the other side

- Don’t forget the frame, hinges, and corners where dust tends to gather

2. Deeper Clean with Soapy Water

- Fill a bucket with warm water and a small drop of mild washing-up liquid

- Dip in a soft cloth, wring it out well, then gently wipe down each slat

- Clean in sections so dirt doesn’t spread

- Use a separate dry cloth to remove any leftover moisture

3. Spot Cleaning Stains

- Lightly dab diluted detergent on a sponge or soft cloth

- Rub gently to avoid spreading or soaking the area

- Rinse with a damp clean cloth

- Dry the area to avoid leaving water streaks or causing surface damage

Avoid using any harsh products or abrasive sponges. These can damage the paint, chip away the finish, or even scratch the material, especially if your shutters are painted or stained wood. And if you try these steps and still can’t get them clean, that's a good sign it’s time to speak to a professional.

Keeping this basic routine going every fortnight helps your plantation shutters in Leicester looking fresh and bright year-round. Plus, it’s quicker and easier to do small regular cleans rather than tackling months of built-up grime.

Seasonal Maintenance Tips

Caring for shutters throughout the year becomes easier with a few seasonal pointers. Leicester has its fair share of rain and sunshine, and both can leave their mark inside and outside the home.

Indoor shutters need some extra help during the changing seasons. In spring, focus on clearing away pollen as it starts to settle on surfaces more easily. Summer comes with higher indoor temperatures, so make sure there's good airflow to stop shutters from warping, especially if they’re wooden. Come autumn, those brighter days are a great chance to open windows and let fresh air in without letting in too much moisture. Winter naturally comes with more indoor condensation, so it's worth managing that to keep shutters from becoming damp over time.

Outdoor shutters face more direct pressure from the elements. In Leicester, summers can bring strong sun, so it helps to check that finishes haven’t faded or cracked. Autumn is the time to clear leaves or other debris from the areas around the frame. As winter kicks in, rain and frost can lead to water-related damage if you’re not checking regularly. Spring might bring sudden showers, so that's a good chance to do a once-over and check what the shutters have been through while the weather was harsher.

Being aware of how different seasons affect your shutters helps you prevent issues before they start.

When to Consider Professional Cleaning

There comes a point when a quick dust isn’t going to do the job. Whether it’s ongoing stains, grime that doesn't shift, or damage you’re worried about making worse, calling in a professional is a wise choice.

Professionals bring experience, safe products, and the right tools for the job. That means no damage, no streaks, and no guesswork. This comes in especially handy if your shutters are old, delicate, or uniquely designed. If you’ve got shutters made from natural wood, for example, they need to be handled carefully, and a professional will know how to do that.

You might also think about a professional clean after a renovation project or before important gatherings. It also makes sense if you’ve just moved into a home and want everything properly freshened up before getting settled. That peace of mind is often worth it, especially when you want surfaces to look as good as new.

A Smart Way to Keep Them Looking Great



With just a bit of care and attention every month, you can keep your plantation shutters in top shape all year long. Regular maintenance avoids bigger issues down the line and makes every clean-up quick and easy.

From seasonal checks to simple cleaning habits, the time you put into looking after your shutters pays off when they stay looking sharp and work exactly as they should. Whether your home is right in the heart of Leicester or out in the quieter areas, staying on top of shutter care adds to the comfort, charm, and tidiness of any room.

Taking the step to preserve your shutters now means you’ll enjoy their style, practicality, and smooth operation for many years to come.

Keep your shutters in top condition and enjoy their timeless appeal with minimal effort. If you're thinking about refreshing your space with a durable and stylish window solution, explore our range of plantation shutters in Leicester. British Made Shutters is here to help you get the most out of your investment with shutters built to last.