Best & Easiest Ways to Clean Window Blinds

A popular window accessory, window blinds provides a quick and effective way to quickly switch from natural light to privacy. Besides controlling the light entering the room, these blinds have gained popularity owing to the convenience of using them and their appearance as well.

However, like all good things, there’s a catch with blinds as well; cleaning them and getting that dust off can be a task. It doesn’t really matter what material they’re made of; whether it’s aluminium, wood, vinyl or fabric, cleaning blinds can be messy, and time-consuming while being an ordeal.

Deep cleaning of the blinds must be done at least once in six months to ensure they are clean, which increases their durability thus helping you save big bucks in the long run. We have compiled a few easy and effective tips and tricks to clean them that will speed you through this chore.

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Cleaning the Blinds

Blinds can prove to be a dust and dirt magnet and cleaning them depends on the levels of dust and grime it has accumulated. Here are a few tips for window blinds cleaning.

1. If there’s only a little dust deposited on the blinds, simple dust down with a moist cloth would do the trick. This also ensures the dust doesn’t get directly released into the air and proves to be an inexpensive and easy dusting solution.
2. Faux wood blinds which have slightly higher levels of dust and can’t just be wiped with a wet cloth can be cleaned with the help of a vacuum. Make use of a vacuum with a dust brush attachment which can prove to be the easiest way to clean window blinds. Be certain to close the blinds all the way and vacuum across the slats and not up and down.  Ensure the suction is not on a higher setting to avoid warping or bending the slats.  Also, make sure not to brush upwards as the slats tend to get loose or unhooked.
3. To get rid of tougher stains, you can use a combination of cotton balls dabbed in white vinegar. All you need to do is swipe along both sides of the slat to wipe out all dust and grime. If the cotton gets dirty, simply dip it in vinegar and finish off the rest of the slats.
4. In the case of wooden blinds, dip an old sock or soft cloth in some furniture polish and wipe each slat individually carefully avoiding the cords. Avoid using water to clean wood as it could lead to discoloration, spotting or warping of the wood.
5. In the case of fabric or vinyl blinds, you may use a sponge or a microfiber cloth to remove dust. For stubborn stains, you can dip the sponge in soapy water and blot the area in question. Just avoid oversaturating it and make sure to let them dry completely before hoisting them again. You could even make use of a hair dryer to blow off the dust. In the case of extremely soiled fabric blinds, professional cleaning is recommended.
6. Metal or aluminium blinds can be either taken outside or left to be soaked in the tub to be cleaned with the help of some dishwasher soap or any other mild cleaning solution. Once it’s fully soaked, make use of a soft brush or a sponge and scrub on both sides of the slats. Then drain the water and refill the tub to rinse the slats. To avoid spotting or discoloration, make sure all the soap/detergent has been rinsed away. After the blinds are washed and rinsed, hang them out to dry and then hoist them again on the windows.
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Handy Points to Remember :

• Invest in a dusting spray to spray on aluminium or vinyl blinds to discourage dust and dirt from settling on them.
• Whatever cleaning product you use, always make certain that there is no contact with the eyes and minimal contact with the skin as these products contain harsh chemicals.
• Wiping down the slats with a fabric softener after cleaning and drying them can help delay the build-up of dust and grime. Furthermore, it will also leave your blinds with a fresh and pleasant aroma.
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