As practical and stylish as top quality blinds can be, they can be difficult to clean. Unless you know how. Made up of many small details that attract dirt and dust, different parts of the blinds require different cleaning methods. The odd clean and touch of maintenance can keep your blinds looking great and prolong their life. Let’s get into the nitty-gritty of how to properly clean and maintain your blinds at home with this simple how-to guide.
Once per week: No matter what materials your blinds are made of; metal, wood, or plastic, weekly vacuuming with a brush attachment will help keep them clean.
Once per month: Dust blinds once a month using the dry method, wiping both sides of each slat from edge to edge with a microfiber cloth or sock.
Once per year: The best way to thoroughly clean your blinds is to use the wet method once a year. Thorough cleaning of curtains usually requires only water to effectively clean the slats. If you need more cleaning power, add a few drops of mild dish soap. You can also add a few teaspoons of glass cleaner to the mixture to help dry the blinds without streaking. Be sure to test any cleaning solution in a hidden place before viewing the results.
Vacuum the Blinds
Using the brush attachment will avoid scratching or denting the slats. For best results, fully close the slats in one direction to vacuum a large area of the blinds while cleaning. Open and close the slats in the opposite direction and also vacuum the entire surface.
Spot Cleaning
After vacuuming, look out for fingerprints and dirt buildup that may require additional attention. Clean small dirty parts with a damp, non-abrasive sponge. To avoid water stains, gently pat dry with a clean microfiber cloth or an old towel. Wash and then air dry with the windows open.
Deep Clean
Fill a tub or large sink with warm water and add a few drops of mild dish soap. Dip the blinds in soapy water. Leave the blinds in the water for about an hour to remove more dirt. Rinse them with clean warm water and take them out of the tub. For wooden blinds, thoroughly wipe down each plank front and back to ensure there are no streaks. If your curtains are metal or plastic, it’s best to take them out of the water, shake them, and hang them up again to air dry. They will air dry quickly, and you can avoid damaging the boards by drying them manually with a towel.
Dirty Thread
Dirt can be a problem on many curtains with areas of white cord and string. If washing doesn’t help, try touching up the white areas with white shoe polish. This is an effective solution for decorative blinds. Whether you have old blinds or want to purchase blinds from a respected retailer, use this guide to properly maintain them and keep your house looking its best.
