Window blinds can be a nice decorating element in a home and provide a degree of privacy simple curtains cannot provide. Unfortunately, they also seem to have the ability to collect dust and are cumbersome and difficult to clean. Many people dread the task of cleaning their blinds. While giving up and buying new blinds is one option, a better one is to learn how to clean them easily and properly.
Before beginning to clean your blinds, be sure to check the manufacturers recommendation for cleaning products and processes. Some blinds are sensitive to abrasive products while others aren’t. This step can save you from wrecking your blinds with the wrong product.
For Plastic Blinds
1. Use a feather duster to remove any built up dust. Adjust the blinds during this process to each of the ‘open’ or ‘closed’ positions to be sure you are catching the dust from every angle. If a feather duster is not available, an upholstery brush attached to a vacuum works well, as does a soft cloth. The feather duster is the best option as it has the ability to get in-between the slates.
2. If the blinds have areas that are soiled – perhaps from dirty hands, you will need to use a dampened towel. Some people find that antibacterial wipes work well for this step. Avoid spraying a cleaner directly on the blinds as this can sometimes lead to spots. Taking the towel, place each slat between the fingers and thumb and gently run your hand back and forth along the length of the blind.
For wood or faux wood
1. Close the blinds fully
2. Spray with appropriate wood cleaner – generally recommended by the manufacturer of the blinds.
3. Wipe gently with a soft cloth
4. Rotate the blinds fully to expose the opposite side and repeat the above the process.
For Fabric Blinds
1. Using a vacuum cleaner with an upholstery brush or other appropriate attachment, gently vacuum each side of the slats.
2. Spot treat any problem spots with mild cleanser and warm water if recommended
3. Rub a dryer sheet along the length of each blind to prevent future dust build up. The dryer sheet will not completely prevent dust, but will help.
For Metal Blinds
The same process used for plastic blinds also works well for metal blinds. One word of caution: metal blinds can be very fragile. Because of this, it is important to take great care when cleaning the slats. Even a little bit of pressure can cause one to bend.
Like anything, a bit of preventative maintenance can save you lots of time and energy. Whenever you clean your house (weekly), gently run a feather duster over your blinds. The point here isn’t to deep clean them, simply to knock the worst of the dust off of them. Many people find they do not need to deep clean their blinds for three to six months by simply keeping up the maintenance on them.
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