Cleaning your blinds 101: Here's how to get the job done right
As beautiful and practical as blinds may be in the home, they do have one major draw back: they can accumulate a lot of dirt, and very quickly. Regular cleaning helps keep them looking fresh, but can also help keep them functional for longer. Not to mention, it can greatly help keep allergies in check!
What you’ll need
A vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment, a microfibre cloth or sponge, and a cleaning solution depending on the type of blinds you have (we have a great suggestion further down). Which leads us to the next step.
Determine the type of blinds
You might have Venetian, Roman, vertical, roller or a list of other blinds in your home. Each type and each material requires a different approach, so be sure you know exactly what type of blinds you have before getting started.
First round
The first step is to use your vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment, and go in with a dry microfibre cloth afterwards. This can be done on most blinds regardless of material. This method will help lift the majority of the dust and dirt, and stop you from making muddy or streaky marks if you happen to go in with a cloth and cleaning solution afterwards.
Second round
By now, your blinds should be fairly clean. However, if there are stubborn spots, you’ll want to use a cleaning solution. It might be helpful to dilute your solution slightly. For some blinds you might be able to do this while they’re still hanging, but for especially dirty blinds, you might need to soak them.
Extra cleaning
As mentioned, some blinds might need a soak (if the material allows for it of course, for instance, with wood blinds you will want to avoid this step altogether). In a bath, mix some cleaning solution with warm water and give the blinds a short soak. Make sure you dry them down completely before hanging again.
For material blinds
If you have fabric blinds, they make need a bit of extra love, with a soft detergent. Be sure to follow the manufacturers guidelines.
How to make a gentle all-purpose cleaning solution
If you’re looking to use an effective cleaning solution free of harsh chemicals, then we’ve got you covered. Combine a half a cup of distilled white vinegar with 2 cups of water. It’s as simple as that! And because it’s relatively low in concentration, it’s perfect to use on almost every surface.
With these simple steps, you can keep your blinds clean and attractive all year round. Regular maintenance will help preserve their appearance and extend their lifespan. Happy cleaning!