How to Wash Blinds
Instead of learning how to remove dirt and dust from blinds, many people prefer to outsource this task to professionals. However, how do you clean blinds without getting extra help? In this guide, we will answer this question in detail and provide valuable tips that will allow you to give your window blinds an immaculate look.
What Materials and Equipment You’ll Need to Clean Blinds
Cleaning your blinds can fully transform the atmosphere in your home. Moreover, it allows you to increase their lifespan and avoid costly replacements. While many people avoid performing this task regularly, washing the blinds carefully is necessary to ensure they remain functional. Here are the main things you need to buy before washing window blinds:
- A handheld or canister vacuum with a brush;
- A soft microfiber cloth;
- Non-abrasive sponge;
- Towel;
- Liquid soap or other cleaner.
When people are fully prepared, they feel less apprehensive about cleaning blinds and start doing it more regularly to keep them in pristine condition for years. Choosing the right vac is the first step to take. If you are on a budget and do not want to purchase a handheld model, you can use a standard one with a shoulder strap. It’s better to buy a model with a HEPA filter. It will allow you to remove dust from blinds carefully and keep the room clean.
How to Clean Different Models of Blinds
After purchasing the equipment you need to use to keep your blinds free of dust, consider the type of blinds you have as each of them requires a specific approach. It will help you save a lot of time and use the right materials to maintain them in the right condition.
Roller Blinds
Such models are preferred by those who do not want to spend a lot of money on interior design and are looking for practical solutions. They are especially suitable for kitchens, as it’s extremely easy to roll them out and let some sunlight in. These models do not get damaged incidentally, making them perfect for extended use. Some are made from damp-proof material, which further enhances their functionality.
You can easily wipe the blinds’ surface to keep it free from stains, dust, and grease. Such blinds are more convenient to use than regular curtains. Moreover, they prevent dust from getting inside and let in plenty of sunlight. Before starting to clean them, consider what material they are made of. It will allow you to choose the best-suited cleaning solution. You can wash some blinds completely, while models made of more delicate materials may require a careful approach.
If you have installed blinds not a long time ago and they did not collect a lot of dust, it will suffice to roll them down completely and move the cloth from top to bottom. It’s recommended to dust them at least once a week to ensure that they won’t accumulate dust. This will also simplify the cleaning process, as you won’t need to take the blinds off the wall to clean them.
However, if there are some dark stains and spots that are difficult to remove, it might mean that you don’t clean the blinds often enough. In this case, it won’t suffice to try dusting them off. Read the detailed product description to learn how to clean it thoroughly without damaging the surface.
You may need to purchase the recommended stain removal solution to perform a deep clean. To achieve better results, you can put the blinds in the bath and use some cleaning detergent. Let the blinds soak for several hours to simplify the cleaning process. Then, remove any sign of moisture before attaching them to the wall again.
During the deep clean procedure, pay attention to the winding mechanism. It may require extra attention if it gets stuck. Check whether it requires some lubrication. You can find a product you need at any store nearby.
Venetian Blinds
Even though many people are reluctant to buy this model, such blinds can be cleaned easily provided you use the right approach. The best advice is to clean them regularly to prevent them from collecting a lot of dust. However, as they have many horizontal slats connected by strings, it may be daunting to keep them in fresh condition without thorough cleaning.
This product is quite practical and durable. After dusting the elements with a fluffy brush, clean them carefully with a piece of damp fabric. You can also find a dedicated cleaning solution for this model in many local stores. Utilizing a mild detergent or spray is the best way to remove stains.
After closing the blinds and thoroughly cleaning each part from both sides, remove moisture. Using a vac with a special brush will help you avoid scratches. It’s better to adjust the suction power of a hoover. This way, you won’t damage the product.
The most important thing is to clean the elements from outside and inside. After removing the blind, lay it down and use a mild detergent with a soft brush or sponge to remove the dark spots. You may also wash it in the bath. In this case, put something under it to avoid unnecessary damage. Thorough rinsing facilitates eliminating the most noticeable stains.
If you have a garden, you can hang the blinds outside to ensure that there won’t be any sign of mold in the future. Alternatively, you may use a hairdryer or hand the blind over the shower rail.
Vertical Blinds
This model looks stylish and elegant, which explains its popularity. It won’t take you much effort to maintain it in perfect condition. The blinds do not gather much dust, so you can clean them surprisingly quickly. When dealing with large dark spots, use a special stain remover.
In some situations, you may need to take the blind off the headrail and wash it in your bath. After drying it, you can hang it back. Avoid overheating them with a hairdryer, as you might incidentally melt the glue and damage the blinds.
When cleaning the blinds, it’s recommended not to scrub them too much. In most cases, it’s safer to clean the blinds by hand. Remember that only some categories of blinds can be washed in a washing machine, so don’t use this solution unless it’s explicitly stated that this cleaning method is permitted.
Before placing the blinds in the washing machine, it’s essential to remove dust first. Then, roll them up and put them in a special bag or pillowcase to avoid damaging them during washing. Use delicate settings and mild detergent to ensure the coating is not affected. Never use a tumble dryer, as it may cause noticeable distortion.
If you notice some mold on your blinds, it’s crucial to remove it immediately, as it has a disastrous effect on a person’s health. To ensure that it won’t grow back after you remove it, use a mold spray. You may also clean blinds from mold using diluted white vinegar, tea tree oil, and lemon juice.
Maintenance Tips: How to Avoid Washing Blinds Too Often
The best way to avoid buying new shutters is to keep the ones you have in pristine condition. Whether they are made of wood, metal, or plastic, choosing the right strategy to clean them is paramount. Most people schedule a deep clean every two months, as it allows them to remove dirt and grease, prevent dust from accumulating, and lubricate the elements that stop functioning properly. However, if the blinds are in the cooking space or if you air your apartment often, it’s essential to thoroughly wash them at least once a month.
After considering how to wash blinds of different kinds, let’s explore specific recommendations that will help you achieve better results:
- Always close and flatten your blinds before cleaning them. This will allow you to create a perfectly flat surface and make it easier for you to remove dust.
- Move the hoover from the top to the bottom part of the blinds and remove dust with efficient strokes. Open and close the blinds in the opposite direction to ensure that both sides are perfectly clean.
- Focus on the edges. While many people do not prioritize this area fearing it might cause some damage, it’s important to clean it carefully.
- Use the spot cleaning method: After opening the blinds, check whether there are any noticeable finger marks or dust buildup that might be difficult to remove. If you find such areas, take a non-abrasive sponge and a cleaning product and wash the marks away.
- Soak plastic or aluminum blinds in the bathtub: Let the blinds soak for a few hours to make them easier to clean. Using a mild dish soap and water, you can remove more dust and dirt. Rinsing the blinds is necessary to ensure their surface is not sticky.
- Use the air drying method only when the weather is warm: It won’t take long to air dry your blinds if you shake them out before hanging them. Be careful to avoid bending the blinds.
It’s also possible to wash blinds without taking them off. This method is suitable for cleaning blinds made of specific materials that can be damaged easily. Use a damp sock with mild dish soap and clean the blinds. Then, use another sock to clean them. However, you should be careful; if you fail to remove every trace of soap, the blinds may become sticky and collect even more dust. Cleaning the cords, ropes, and other elements also requires a careful approach. In most cases, using some soap and a damp cloth will suffice to remove the traces of grease and dirt.
Final Thoughts
By using these tips for cleaning window blinds, everyone can ensure the product remains functional for years. Dusting the blinds off once a week and washing them every couple of months guarantees that they will look fresh. The usage of dedicated products ensures that the blinds won’t get sticky, causing dust build-ups. Regular maintenance is the surest way to avoid expensive replacements. Follow the steps described in this tutorial and choose the best way to wash blinds depending on your model. Keeping your stylish blinds clean will help you give a nice and welcoming feel to your interior.
Tatyana Ryzhova
