Gina Heslop
Cleaning blinds can seem like a daunting task, especially if you want to avoid taking them down from the wall.
However, with a few simple tools and techniques, you can easily keep your blinds clean without the hassle of removing them. The most effective way to clean blinds while they are still hanging depends on the material of your blinds and how much cleaning they need.
What You’ll Need:
- Microfiber cloths, duster, or dusting gloves
- Vacuum cleaner with attachments
- Warm water
- Dishwashing liquid
Cleaning Your Blinds with a Microfiber Cloth or Duster:
Start by opening the blinds. If you’re cleaning horizontal blinds, begin at the top slat and work your way down, using a microfiber cloth or a duster. Wipe the slats from left to right to prevent dust from falling on slats you’ve already cleaned. For vertical blinds, wrap the cloth or glove around both sides of the slat and wipe from top to bottom. This method is great for dusting off surface dirt, and you can use a mixture of warm water and dish soap to clean sticky spots on metal, vinyl, or faux wood blinds. Just make sure to use minimal water on real wood blinds to avoid damage.
Cleaning with a Vacuum:
Vacuuming is another effective way to clean blinds. Start by attaching a soft dusting brush to your vacuum and lowering the suction to avoid damaging the slats. For horizontal blinds, vacuum each slat from left to right, and for vertical blinds, move from top to bottom. Go over the blinds again in the opposite direction to ensure all dust is removed. You can also reverse the slats to clean both sides thoroughly.
Deeper Cleaning in a Bathtub:
For a deeper clean, especially for metal, vinyl, or faux wood blinds, you can soak them in a bathtub. Line the tub with towels to prevent scratching, then fill it with warm water and dish soap. Submerge the blinds (keeping the top rail out of the water) and soak for about 20 minutes. Use a cloth to scrub off any dirt, rinse with clean water, and dry the blinds completely before rehanging them. This method is not recommended for real wood or fabric blinds, as water can damage these materials.
Blind Cleaning Dos & Don’ts:
- Do dust or vacuum the blinds before using any water.
- Do rehang blinds only when they are completely dry.
- Don’t use water on wood or cellular shades.
- Don’t use new dryer sheets for cleaning, as they may leave a residue.
When to Replace Your Blinds:
Blinds can last up to 10 years, but it might be time to replace them if the slats are bent, broken, or warped. If they’re difficult to open or close, or the cords are fraying, that’s another sign they may need replacing. Additionally, if the blinds are discolored or no longer fit your window’s style, it could be worth investing in new ones.
With these tips, cleaning your blinds doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By regularly dusting or vacuuming, you can keep your blinds looking fresh and avoid having to take them down for a deep clean.
