Plantation Shutters: Why They're the Perfect Fit for Coastal Delaware Homes

Plantation Shutters Window Treatments for Coastal Homes: Timeless Style Meets Coastal Durability

Posted by admin on May 4, 2025

Sponsored by Better Blinds – Your Local Window Treatment Experts in Sussex County, DE Visit Better Blinds for premium window treatments near you.

Table of Contents

Introduction
What Are Plantation Shutters?
The Coastal Aesthetic: Why They Belong in Beach Homes
Durability in Humid Climates
Light Control & Privacy in Coastal Living
Energy Efficiency & Insulation Benefits
Fashionable Features That Add Value
Customization Options with Better Blinds
Local Design Trends in Sussex County
Why Plantation Shutters Outperform Other Treatments
Professional Installation with Better Blinds
Five FAQs About Plantation Shutters
Conclusion

1. Introduction

Coastal Delaware homes are known for their breezy charm, ocean views, and laid-back luxury. But these homes also face harsh sun, high humidity, and the need for privacy without sacrificing natural light. Enter: plantation shutters. Timeless, durable, and stylish, they’re an ideal choice for homeowners across Sussex County — especially when professionally installed by the experts at Better Blinds.

Whether you’re building a new beach retreat or renovating a classic Ocean View bungalow, plantation shutters provide functional beauty that perfectly complements the coastal lifestyle. This guide explores why plantation shutters are the perfect fit for homes along Delaware’s stunning shoreline.

2. What Are Plantation Shutters?

Plantation shutters are interior window coverings made of wide louvers (typically 2.5” to 4.5”) set within a solid frame. Originally designed for Southern homes, they’ve since become a favorite in coastal properties due to their clean lines, adjustable slats, and exceptional durability.

Unlike blinds or fabric shades, plantation shutters are often custom-built to fit your windows exactly. Better Blinds offers custom window shutter services in a wide range of materials, colors, and finishes tailored to the Sussex County climate and aesthetic.

3. The Coastal Aesthetic: Why They Belong in Beach Homes

Coastal style calls for crisp, clean lines and breezy functionality — both of which plantation shutters deliver in spades. Their timeless elegance complements popular interior design choices found in Delaware beach towns like Bethany Beach, Lewes, and Fenwick Island.

Shutter finishes in white, off-white, or light oak echo natural tones of sand, sea, and driftwood. They fit beautifully with shiplap walls, weathered furniture, and open, airy layouts.

At Better Blinds’ Selbyville location, design consultants can show how plantation shutters enhance both traditional and modern coastal homes.

4. Durability in Humid Climates

Coastal Delaware’s climate brings salt air, high moisture, and temperature fluctuations — a serious challenge for many window treatments. However, plantation shutters, particularly those made from high-quality composite or vinyl materials, are resistant to warping, fading, and mildew.

Better Blinds offers shutters specifically designed to withstand humid environments. Their moisture-resistant options are ideal for kitchens, bathrooms, and sunrooms where humidity is a daily factor.

Don’t take chances with off-the-shelf options — see their custom installations across Sussex County homes that stand up to Delaware’s climate year-round.

5. Light Control & Privacy in Coastal Living

Living near the coast often means wide, sunlit windows and homes built close together. Plantation shutters allow homeowners to control both sunlight and privacy with a simple tilt of the louvers.

Want to watch the sunrise while maintaining some privacy from beachgoers? Plantation shutters let you adjust the angle of incoming light while shielding your interiors. Better Blinds’ precision-crafted shutters allow for split tilt rods, so upper and lower louvers can be adjusted independently — ideal for beach-facing homes.

Visit their Ocean View showroom to explore these light-control options firsthand.

6. Energy Efficiency & Insulation Benefits

Local Window Treatment Experts in Sussex County, DE Visit Better Blinds for premium window treatments near you.

Another unsung benefit of plantation shutters? They’re excellent insulators. The thick, solid frame acts as a barrier to outside heat, making homes cooler in summer and warmer in winter — critical in homes near the coast where HVAC costs can skyrocket.

Plantation shutters can help lower energy bills and create more comfortable interiors. Better Blinds offers energy-efficient shutter solutions with tight closures to minimize thermal transfer and solar heat gain.

For full guidance on energy-efficient window treatments, explore Better Blinds’ homeowner resource page.

7. Fashionable Features That Add Value

Plantation shutters don’t just perform well — they also enhance the overall value of your home. Their clean lines and elegant structure appeal to homebuyers looking for premium finishes in coastal real estate.

Some features that make them fashion-forward:

Hidden tilt rods for a streamlined appearance
Custom paint or stain matching
Arched or specialty window frame compatibility
Divider rails for mixed privacy/light control

Better Blinds will help you choose shutter styles that align with current trends and increase resale appeal. Their team stays ahead of design movements in Southern Delaware through their insights in the Better Blinds Blog.

8. Customization Options with Better Blinds

Not all shutters are created equal. Custom-fit plantation shutters from Better Blinds are measured, cut, and installed with precision, ensuring seamless results that enhance the look of your interiors.

Choose from:

Composite shutters for high-moisture areas
Hardwood options for living and dining rooms
Custom louver sizes and control options
Paint-matching for a cohesive interior design

You can even select materials sourced for eco-conscious homes. Better Blinds’ experienced team works closely with each homeowner to design shutters that reflect their unique style and functional needs. Learn more about their story and commitment to excellence.

9. Local Design Trends in Sussex County

In places like Rehoboth Beach, Dewey, and Millsboro, design trends often favor natural textures, nautical influences, and minimalist sophistication. Plantation shutters check all those boxes — they offer a sturdy, unobtrusive design that adapts to any décor.

Homeowners increasingly pair white or driftwood-toned shutters with:

Light linen curtains
Weathered hardwood floors
Wicker or rattan accents
Soft blue and sand-colored palettes

Better Blinds stays tuned into what’s hot and what’s timeless by working with designers across Sussex County. Their local perspective ensures your shutters won’t just look great — they’ll feel authentically coastal.

10. Why Plantation Shutters Outperform Other Treatments

Compared to blinds or fabric shades, plantation shutters win on multiple fronts:

Feature	Plantation Shutters	Fabric Shades	Mini Blinds
Durability	✅ Excellent	❌ Prone to fade	❌ Easily damaged
Light & Privacy Control	✅ Highly adjustable	✅ Limited	✅ Average
Style Appeal	✅ High-end	✅ Moderate	❌ Minimal
Resale Value Boost	✅ Yes	❌ No	❌ No
Easy to Clean	✅ Wipe down	❌ Fabric traps dust	✅ Dust-prone

The Better Blinds team helps homeowners compare options and confidently select the treatment that best suits their lifestyle and budget. Check out reviews from real Sussex County homeowners to see why they’re the top choice in the region.

11. Professional Installation with Better Blinds

Installation makes all the difference. Poorly installed shutters may sag, warp, or fail to insulate properly. That’s why Better Blinds provides full-service installation by trained professionals — ensuring perfect alignment, clean finishes, and long-term performance.

They also offer:

Free in-home consultations
Precise measuring services
Post-installation support

Start your journey by visiting Better Blinds’ services page or booking a consultation through their Selbyville or Ocean View locations.

12. Five FAQs About Plantation Shutters

Q1: Can plantation shutters withstand beachside weather? A: Yes. Composite and vinyl options offered by Better Blinds are specifically made for high-moisture environments and resist warping from salt air.

Q2: Are plantation shutters worth the cost? A: Absolutely. They last for decades, reduce energy costs, and increase home value — especially when customized through Better Blinds’ expert service.

Q3: How do I maintain plantation shutters? A: Simply dust or wipe them with a damp cloth. Better Blinds can advise on cleaning tips for your specific material.

Q4: Do they block out all sunlight? A: They allow for full closure, but also tilt to provide filtered natural light — great for mornings on the coast!

Q5: Can I get a quote before installation? A: Yes, Better Blinds offers complimentary in-home consultations and personalized estimates. Reach out through their Selbyville location or online.

13. Conclusion

Plantation shutters are more than just a window treatment — they’re an upgrade in comfort, efficiency, and design for any coastal Delaware home. From their moisture-resistant materials to their timeless appeal, plantation shutters are an investment that pays off in both style and performance.

With decades of experience and a stellar local reputation, Better Blinds is your go-to source for premium custom shutters in Sussex County. From Bethany Beach to Rehoboth and everywhere in between, their team delivers personalized service and flawless results that enhance every room.

To begin your plantation shutter journey, visit:

Transform your coastal home with timeless style and dependable quality — the Better Blinds way.

RESOURCES:

Government:

Wikipedia:

FREE IN-HOME DESIGN CONSULTATION

Schedule your free in-home design consultation today!

ABOUT US:

Better Blinds in Ocean View & Millsboro DE:

Better Blinds has locations in Ocean View & Millsboro and is a proud neighbor of all the communities in Sussex County, DE

We have been serving Sussex County residents for years and looking forward to providing their window treatment, blinds, shades and shutters needs for many years to come.

Why Choose “Better Blinds” of Ocean View & Millsboro, DE to ensure a Better Experience for Homeowners?

Offering the highest quality window coverings at an affordable price, along with Free installation and a 100% guarantee, has made us one of the best window treatment installers in Sussex County with many satisfied clients.

Available to you is a complete line of high-quality blinds, roller shades, sheer shades, layered shades, romans, sliding panels, and interior shutters, all installed by certified professionals that will arrive on time and complete the job as promised.

“We sell and install high quality Blinds, Shades, and Plantation Shutters for your residential home. We have been selling and installing custom window treatments for over 10 years. We are locally owned and operated and serve the Ocean view, DE and surrounding areas.”

“We carry world leading brands and offer free in-home consultations. We pride ourselves on being punctual and dependable. Most products are installed within 4 weeks. Give us the opportunity to earn your business. Call or text us to arrange a free in-home consultation!”

Window Treatment Products Include:

Roller Shades | Soluna Cordless Precision Lift
Solar Shades | Soluna Cordless Precision Lift
Perfect Drape
Plantation Shutters | Invisible Tilt
Sliding Panels
Natural Shades
Honeycomb Shades | Cordless TDBU
Cordless Faux Wood Blinds

Locations served:

Frankford
Selbyville
Dagsboro
Fenwick Island
Ocean View
Bethany Beach
South Bethany
Millville
Millsboro
Lewes
Rehoboth Beach
Long Neck
Harbeson
Milton
Georgetown

Better Blinds & Shades offers world leading brands and free in-home consultations. We pride ourselves on being punctual and dependable. Most products are installed within 2 weeks.

Give us the opportunity to earn your business. Call or text us to arrange a free in-home consultation!

Or visit our website for more information & great window treatment ideas

Better Blinds & Shades
Ocean View, DE 19970
(302) 402-6180

Better Blinds & Shades
Millsboro, DE 19966
240-440-1220
https://betterblindsshades.com

Resources:

YT Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCjbx4kVQWyLFngmoOFKk9JA
Reviews: https://g.page/better-blinds-de/review?rc
Ocean View Location Map: https://www.google.com/maps?cid=3543074099480450270
Millsboro Location Map: https://www.google.com/maps/d/u/3/edit?mid=1SarbbV8qDMa_YsyHnJJdMwpfzt-Z7Zbz&usp=sharing
G Site: https://sites.google.com/view/betterblindsshades
GBP: https://better-blinds-shades.business.site

Ocean View Location

Selbyville Location

Cleaning faux wood blinds in a Delaware kitchen

Cleaning Your Window Treatments: A Room-by-Room Guide for Delaware Homes

Posted by admin on April 28, 2025

Sponsored by Better Blinds – Your Local Window Treatment Experts in Sussex County

Table of Contents

Introduction
Why It’s Important to Clean Window Treatments
Room-by-Room Cleaning Guide
- Kitchen
- Bathroom
- Living Room
- Bedroom
- Sunroom
- Home Office
Material-Specific Cleaning Tips
- Faux Wood
- Fabric Shades
- Bamboo & Natural Woven Shades
- Vinyl & Aluminum
- Shutters
The Better Blinds Advantage
FAQs
Conclusion

Introduction

Window treatments are the unsung heroes of home design. Not only do they enhance privacy and light control, but they also add warmth and personality to each room. However, just like carpets and countertops, blinds, shades, and shutters need regular cleaning—especially in Delaware homes where coastal breezes and humidity can lead to dust and grime buildup.

This detailed guide walks you through how to clean window treatments in every room of your home and offers practical advice tailored to different materials. With expert recommendations from Better Blinds, Sussex County’s trusted name in custom window coverings, we’ll show you how to keep your blinds looking like new.

Why It’s Important to Clean Window Treatments

Improves Air Quality: Dust, pet dander, and pollen settle into window coverings over time.
Prevents Mold & Mildew: Especially in humid rooms like kitchens and bathrooms.
Prolongs Lifespan: Regular care protects your investment.
Boosts Curb Appeal: Clean blinds give your windows a fresh, polished appearance.

If you’re considering upgrading to low-maintenance, high-style window treatments, Better Blinds offers durable, easy-to-clean options perfectly suited for Delaware’s unique climate.

Room-by-Room Cleaning Guide

Kitchen

Common Issues: Grease, smoke, food splatter, dust.

Best Treatments: Faux wood blinds, roller shades, aluminum mini blinds.

Cleaning Tips:

Use a degreasing spray on faux wood or vinyl blinds.
Warm water with mild dish soap is ideal for spot cleaning roller shades.
Dust weekly to prevent build-up; monthly deep cleans are ideal.
Avoid fabric shades near cooking areas.

Pro Tip: Consider faux wood blinds from Better Blinds in Selbyville for a stylish and grease-resistant solution.

Bathroom

Common Issues: Humidity, mildew, hard water stains.

Best Treatments: Vinyl blinds, faux wood blinds, waterproof shutters.

Cleaning Tips:

Wipe down blinds weekly with a microfiber cloth and vinegar-water solution.
Spray mildew-prone areas with a mix of water and hydrogen peroxide.
Keep bathroom fans on to reduce moisture levels.

Design Tip: Better Blinds’ Ocean View location recommends shutters for coastal homes due to their moisture-resistant design and timeless aesthetic.

Living Room

Common Issues: Dust, pet hair, fading from sunlight.

Best Treatments: Roman shades, drapery panels, wooden blinds, layered treatments.

Cleaning Tips:

Vacuum fabric treatments with a brush attachment.
Dust wooden blinds with a treated cloth or duster.
Rotate or flip blinds monthly to reduce sun fading.

Check out the stunning transformations in Better Blinds’ gallery to see how living room treatments can elevate your space.

Dusting fabric shades in a Sussex County living room

Common Issues: Dust, allergens, fabric wrinkles.

Best Treatments: Blackout roller shades, cellular shades, roman shades, curtains.

Cleaning Tips:

Use handheld steamers to remove wrinkles and refresh fabric.
Fabric blinds can be gently vacuumed or spot-cleaned.
For curtains, check tags—many are machine washable.

Wellness Tip: Clean blinds promote better air quality and sleep. Explore eco-friendly and hypoallergenic options via Better Blinds’ resource page.

Sunroom

Common Issues: Pollen, UV exposure, temperature extremes.

Best Treatments: Solar shades, bamboo blinds, UV-resistant materials.

Cleaning Tips:

Dust frequently in pollen-heavy months.
Use UV-protectant sprays on wood or bamboo.
Clean shades gently with a soft cloth and mild soap.

Eco-Friendly Pick: Better Blinds offers sustainable bamboo and natural woven shades perfect for sunrooms and garden views.

Home Office

Common Issues: Dust, screen glare, dry air.

Best Treatments: Cellular shades, roller shades, vertical blinds.

Cleaning Tips:

Dust blinds weekly to protect electronics from buildup.
Choose antiglare treatments to reduce eye strain.
Use dry microfiber cloths to avoid streaks.

Upgrade your work-from-home environment with tailored solutions from Better Blinds’ local experts.

Material-Specific Cleaning Tips

Faux Wood Blinds

Method: Wipe with a damp cloth or vacuum with a soft brush.
Deep Clean: Remove and soak in warm soapy water if heavily soiled.
Best For: Kitchens, bathrooms, and high-humidity areas.

Fabric Shades (Roman, Cellular, Roller)

Method: Vacuum with brush attachment.
Spot Treatment: Use mild soap and cold water.
Caution: Don’t oversaturate or scrub.

Bamboo & Natural Woven Shades

Method: Dust gently with a dry microfiber cloth.
Avoid: Excess water—it can warp the material.
Pro Tip: Use a handheld vacuum on the lowest setting.

Vinyl & Aluminum Blinds

Method: Wipe with soapy water or vinegar solution.
Deep Clean: Soak in the tub for a full refresh.
Quick Fix: Use dryer sheets to repel dust.

Shutters (Wood & Composite)

Method: Dust with a feather duster or soft cloth.
Wood Shutters: Avoid water—use wood cleaner.
Composite Shutters: Water-safe and ideal for deep cleans.

Need help identifying your material? Better Blinds’ experts can walk you through proper care methods during your consultation.

The Better Blinds Advantage

Choosing the right window treatments is half the battle—maintaining them is the other half. That’s where Better Blinds comes in.

Why homeowners across Sussex County, DE trust Better Blinds:

High-Quality, Easy-to-Clean Materials: Custom window treatments made for real life.
Expert Installation: Ensures proper fit and minimal upkeep.
Room-by-Room Solutions: Tailored recommendations for every space.
Local Service: Visit our Selbyville or Ocean View showrooms.

Explore real customer success stories in the reviews section—you’ll see why Better Blinds is the go-to for durable, stylish, and low-maintenance window treatments.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How often should I clean my blinds or shades?

Most window treatments benefit from weekly dusting and a monthly deep clean, though kitchen and bathroom blinds may need more frequent attention.

2. Can a machine wash my fabric shades?

Check the manufacturer’s tag—some are machine washable, but many require spot cleaning or dry cleaning. When in doubt, consult Better Blinds’ cleaning experts.

3. What’s the best way to clean dusty bamboo blinds?

Use a microfiber cloth or handheld vacuum on the lowest setting. Never use water, as it can warp the material.

4. Which blinds are best for humid rooms like bathrooms?

Faux wood and vinyl blinds resist moisture and are easy to clean—ideal for bathrooms. Explore options at Better Blinds’ Ocean View showroom.

5. How do I get rid of grease on kitchen blinds?

Spray with a degreasing cleaner or a mix of vinegar and water, then wipe with a microfiber cloth. For best results, install grease-resistant options like those available at Better Blinds.

Conclusion

Window treatments are more than just a decorative touch—they’re functional assets in every room of your home. Keeping them clean is crucial to maintaining air quality, beauty, and longevity.

Whether you’re dealing with grease-covered blinds in the kitchen or sun-faded shades in the sunroom, regular cleaning keeps your home fresh and your treatments looking their best.

Need help upgrading or refreshing your window coverings? Trust the experts at Better Blinds. Visit their Selbyville or Ocean View locations, explore their blog for more tips, or browse their past projects for inspiration.

Government:

Delaware Division of Public Health – Indoor Air Quality: https://dhss.delaware.gov/dph/hsp/iaq.html
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency – Indoor Air Quality: https://www.epa.gov/indoor-air-quality-iaq
Delaware Energy Efficiency Advisory Council: https://dnrec.alpha.delaware.gov/energy-climate/energy-efficiency-advisory-council/

Wikipedia:

Window Covering: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Window_covering
Housekeeping: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Housekeeping
Indoor Air Quality: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Indoor_air_quality

FREE IN-HOME DESIGN CONSULTATION

Schedule your free in-home design consultation today!

ABOUT US:

Better Blinds in Ocean View & Millsboro DE:

Better Blinds has locations in Ocean View & Millsboro and is a proud neighbor of all the communities in Sussex County, DE

We have been serving Sussex County residents for years and looking forward to providing their window treatment, blinds, shades and shutters needs for many years to come.

Why Choose “Better Blinds” of Ocean View & Millsboro, DE to ensure a Better Experience for Homeowners?