How to Clean Blinds so They Go From Sad to Spotless
Once spring hits, it's time to put on the rubber gloves, grab a rag and a mop, and get down to business. With sunnier days approaching, it's important to figure out a lot of deep cleaning methods, like how to clean your walls. You can take care of things you've put off, from researching how to clean your dryer vent to figuring out (finally!) how to clean window screens.
Speaking of windows, chances are, your blinds could use a little TLC. Whether you opt for wooden slatted blinds, woven solar shades, paper-like honeycomb shades, or fabric Roman shades, keeping them dust- and grime-free is essential to make sure they look great and removing allergens that can get stuck in the nooks and crannies. Ideally blinds should be cleaned every week, but do the best you can (every few months seems more likely!). All you need is a few household tools, a free afternoon, and a little elbow grease.
Important note: Before diving in, check the manufacturer’s suggested cleaning instructions. Some materials can’t get wet and doing so would void any manufacturer's warranty.
What to Use to Clean Blinds
The supplies you need for the job depends a lot on how long it's been since you last cleaned your blinds. The good news is that no matter if it's been a month or two years since you last took on the task, the supplies are all easily procured at the grocery or hardware store. Here is a quick list—but continue reading before running to the store. You might not need everything!
Vacuum with a brush attachment
Feather duster or Microfiber cloth
Furniture polish
Warm water
White vinegar
Dishwashing soap
Sponge
How to Clean Dusty Blinds
If your blinds are dusty, you will only need a vacuum (with the brush attachment) or a feather duster or Microfiber cloth to clean them. In this scenario, there is no need to remove the blinds to clean them. For wooden slatted or mini blinds, simply close the blinds and vacuum or wipe the dust away. For any other material, vacuum the front and back of the shades to whisk away dust. Be sure to suck up any dust that falls to the floor.
How to Clean Soiled Blinds
Over time, dust, grime, and grease can accumulate on blinds making a deeper clean necessary. For plastic or metal blinds, make a 50/50 mixture of warm water and white vinegar with a few drops of dish soap mixed in. Wet a sponge in the solution, wring it out well, and wipe down each slat. Dry with a soft cloth or let air dry. Don’t put water on wood blinds. Use a clean soft rag dotted with furniture polish to clean wood blinds.
For microfiber or cloth blinds, start by opening them fully. After vacuuming, gently wipe them with a mild soap and warm water solution. Keep the blinds open until they have dried completely.
How to Clean Heavily Soiled Blinds
If it’s been years since you last tackled this project, those blinds are probably going to need a little extra TLC. Again, be sure to read the manufacturer’s instructions before diving in.
This method should only be used on metal, plastic, or mini blinds. Start by filling up the bathtub with about 4-inches of warm water. Mix in a little dish soap, a little white wine vinegar, and a little baking soda. Remove the blinds from the window and lower them into the water until they are fully covered. Soak for about 1 hour, then use a sponge to scrub away any dirt and grime. Drain the tub and rinse the blinds with fresh water. Lift the blinds and let the water drip off. Dry completely with a soft cloth and re-hang blinds.
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