Cleaning awnings
properly, gently, streak-free.

Clean awnings last longer and look better.

Awnings are exposed to wind, pollen, dust, rain and exhaust fumes all year round. Without regular cleaning, dirt and green deposits become embedded in the fabric and the mechanism – this accelerates wear and tear and causes colours to fade. Whether you have fabric awnings, slatted awnings or façade awnings: with the right cleaning, you can extend their lifespan by years. On this page, we’ll show you how to clean your awnings yourself – and when it’s better to leave the cleaning to the Griesser Awning Service. Swiss service since 1882.

What builds up on your blinds.

These four types of dirt are the most common – each affects the fabric or mechanism in a different way.

Pollen & Dust

Fine pollen settles into the fabric and acts like sandpaper. Regular brushing prevents it from becoming embedded.

Green deposits & algae

Greenish deposits form on the north-facing side and under trees. They trap moisture in the fabric and encourage mould stains.

Bird droppings & tree sap

Corrosive deposits that attack the fabric and leave stains. The sooner they are removed, the better.

Soot & Fine Particles

In busy areas, a grey haze settles on the fabric. It quickly makes light-coloured blinds look grey.

Cleaning awnings – explained in the video.

In the video, we show you step by step how to clean your awnings gently. You can watch it – but you don’t have to: here are the five steps to follow.

Brush off dry. Gently remove loose dirt with a soft brush. If the dirt is gritty, dampen the area first.
Clean gently. Wash from top to bottom using lukewarm water and a little pH-neutral soap.
Do not scrub. Gently soak stains rather than rubbing them, using a soft brush or sponge.
Rinse thoroughly. Rinse off any soap residue thoroughly with clean water, otherwise streaks will remain.
Retract when dry. Allow the blind to dry completely whilst extended before retracting it.

5 rules
for streak-free blinds.

Cleaning your awnings yourself. Here’s how to do it properly. It’s best to clean awnings on a dry, overcast day. Follow these five rules to keep your awning clean and streak-free – and make it last for years longer.

Do not use a high-pressure washer and never clean in direct sunlight: the high pressure breaks down the waterproofing, and the soap dries too quickly, leaving streaks.

Brush dry
Gently remove loose dirt with a soft brush. If the dirt is grainy or sandy, dampen it first – otherwise you’ll rub it into the fabric.

Gently clean
Wash from top to bottom using lukewarm water and a small amount of pH-neutral soap – do not use abrasive cleaners or solvents.

Do not scrub
Gently soak stains rather than rubbing them; use a soft brush or sponge.

Rinse thoroughly with clean water
Rinse off any soap residue thoroughly with clean water, otherwise streaks will remain.

Drying whilst extended
Allow the awning to dry completely whilst extended before retracting it – this prevents mould stains.

Would you rather have it done for you? Your Griesser Awning Service.

Cleaning and inspection in one
Even blinds in hard-to-reach places
For all brands

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Answers to your questions

Everything you need to know about cleaning your awnings

How often should I clean my awnings?

Once a year is sufficient for most awnings – ideally in the spring, before the season begins. In areas subject to heavy wear and tear (under trees, along main roads, on the side exposed to the weather), we recommend cleaning them twice a year. It is best to remove coarse dirt and bird droppings straight away.

What’s the best way to clean awnings?

Use lukewarm water, a mild, pH-neutral soap and a soft brush or sponge. Avoid abrasive cleaners, solvents and chlorine – these damage the fabric and the water-repellent treatment. For stubborn green deposits, a special awning/blinds cleaning product is recommended.

Can I clean awnings with a high-pressure washer?

No. High pressure damages the dirt- and water-repellent finish, forces water into the seams and mechanical parts, and can tear the fabric out of its guide. Clean using only a soft brush and gentle pressure.

How do I remove green deposits and mould stains from the fabric of my blinds?

Soak green mould with soapy water and brush it out carefully, then rinse thoroughly with clean water. Mould stains often cannot be completely removed because the fungus attacks the fibres – the only solution here is prevention: always put the fabric away when it is dry. If the infestation is severe, it is worth replacing the curtain.

Can I have my awnings cleaned?

Yes. The Griesser Awning Service professionally cleans your awnings, checks the mechanism and motor, and maintains the moving parts – for Griesser products as well as awnings from other manufacturers. This is particularly useful for awnings on the façade that are difficult to reach.

Does the awning fabric need to be left extended to dry?

Yes, definitely. Do not retract the blind until it is completely dry. Fabric that is retracted whilst still damp can develop mildew stains and unpleasant odours, and may warp.

How do I clean vertical blinds and external blinds?

Wipe the aluminium slats individually with a soft, damp cloth. Clean the guide rails with a damp cloth and then lightly lubricate the moving parts with silicone spray – never use oil or grease, as these attract dust.

When is the best time to clean awnings?

It’s best to do this in spring, before the season starts, on a dry, cloudy day. In bright sunshine, the soap dries too quickly and leaves marks. It’s worth giving it a final clean before winter, then storing the fabric away in a dry place.