Plantation shutters are an incredibly popular window covering that has stood the test of time, but how do you know if they’re right for you? The Andrew Norris & Associates team answers 4 of the most frequently asked questions about plantation shutters.

What Are Plantation Shutters?

Plantation shutters are a classic window treatment that has been popular in the United States for over 100 years. They feature adjustable louvers similar to the slats of blinds but mount to the window frame and swing outwards rather than lifting vertically. Plantation shutters are available in several materials to fit any interior design.

Are Plantation Shutters Out of Style?

The versatility and classic charm of plantation shutters have kept them in fashionable favor. You can find plantation shutters in every aesthetic, from modern to traditional, and everything in between. Shutters are like a classic little black dress or a custom-tailored suit; no matter what goes around them, they’ll always look great.

How Should You Clean Plantation Shutters?

Their material determines the way you clean plantation shutters. Wood shutters are more delicate than vinyl or composite styles and have different cleaning requirements.

Wood Plantation Shutters: Since wood shutters cannot tolerate wet cleaning methods, it’s essential not to let dust and grime build up on them. Use your vacuum’s soft brush attachment or a dry cloth to remove dirt weekly. Stubborn fingerprints or sticky spots, which you can wipe with a barely damp cloth, followed immediately by a clean, dry one. You can preserve the wood’s natural luster by using a small amount of wood oil or polish once a month.
Vinyl or Composite Plantation Shutters: Synthetic material is more durable and can handle more robust cleaning methods. You can wipe your shutters with a cloth during your regular cleaning routine or give them a deep cleaning with a mixture of warm water and mild detergent, like dish soap. We suggest using a paper towel to dry the louvers, as fabric towels can leave lint behind.

How Do You Pair Plantation Shutters with Curtains?

Curtains add elegance and drama to a space and are available in hundreds of fabrics, colors, and patterns. You can use opaque material to make a room darker for great sleep or lightweight fabrics, like cotton, for an airy, casual aesthetic. The color of your curtains can match your shutters for subtle sophistication or be a contrasting color to add visual interest to a room.

When hanging curtains, it’s essential to extend the rod several inches past the sides of the window frame so they don’t obstruct your view when you draw them open. You should hang the rod just below the ceiling to make it look taller and give the room a more spacious feel.

Buy Window Treatments Near Richmond, Virginia

Let the experienced experts at Andrew Norris & Associates help you elevate the appearance of your windows with plantation shutters. We are locally owned and operated and pride ourselves in our reputation for superior products and unparalleled service. Our virtual gallery is an excellent place to gather inspiration for your interior design.

Andrew Norris & Associates serves Richmond, VA, and the surrounding areas. Contact us today to book an in-home design consultation.