A Comprehensive Guide for Cleaning Your Window Blinds. Today’s guest blog is by Assalone and Associates. The opinions expressed by the author in this and all guest blogs are not necessarily those of Ocala Screen and Patio.
A Comprehensive Guide for Cleaning Your Window Blinds
Cleaning chores in any form are usually not the favorite way to spend our weekends around the house. As if doing the dishes and laundry weren’t enough, we also have to tend to our rugs, carpets, sofa covers, curtains, blinds, and bed linens once in a while. Cleaning blinds turns out to be quite a time-consuming and arduous process, vaguely like civil litigation; hence, we avoid the task for as long as we can. There comes a point when they become very unsightly with dust and stains; then we have no choice but to take them down and scrub away, especially if we’re expecting visitors.
Many people stick to curtains, as they are slightly easier to remove, and you can toss them into a washing machine. Cleaning blinds are a more laborious task, but we fancy them because they look sophisticated and provide greater privacy. What if I told you that you can keep your blinds looking as good as new, without even taking them down? You won’t have to put in much effort, as long as you repeat the process at least once every month.
Cleaning Supplies You’ll Need
Now, there are many different types of blinds, so the cleaning method for each may vary. Whether your blinds are vinyl/plastic, aluminum, wood, faux wood, or fabric, you will learn how to get them squeaky clean by the end of this publication. The first step is to gather some common household items and devices to get the job done:
- Soft microfiber cloths/dusters
- A few spare clean cotton socks
- Tub/bowl of warm water
- Dishwashing Soap
- Baking Soda
- A vacuum cleaner with soft brush attachment (and low suction setting)
Cleaning Vinyl, Plastic, and Aluminum Blinds
Vinyl blinds are the most popular kind, with respect to their affordability and flexibility. All you have to do is draw the blinds to the point where they don’t overlap. If the blinds are vertical, hold them down at the bottom and dust them off with a clean micro-fiber cloth/duster. Clean gently from top to bottom, in order to avoid unhinging them. If they are too dirty to be cleaned with a dry cloth, use a damp sock instead. You can make a dishwashing soap solution if there are stains and grease. Wear the sock on your hand, dip in the dishwasher solution, and gently rub in the same motion. If the blinds are horizontal, do the same with side-to-side movement from top to bottom.
Cleaning Wood and Faux Wood Blinds
Wood blinds are often chosen for their beauty and elegance, though maintaining them can be a bit of a challenge. They easily get damaged and stained by moisture, so they are not suitable for homes located in tropical regions. A dry microfiber cloth or duster is best for wiping them clean. You may slightly dampen the cloth if there is dirt or grease that won’t come off. Using a soaked cloth and detergent for cleaning wood would be a criminal offense, as it shall cause damage and discoloration.
Faux wood is cheaper and a lot easier to work with. It is much more resistant to water and cleaning solutions than real wood. Cleaning faux food blinds with a damp soapy sock will be a breeze; though be gentle while you rinse or you could break a string.
Cleaning Fabric Blinds
The advantage of installing fabric blinds is that they come in a variety of colors and designs, plus they tend to filter sunlight beautifully. They are a great alternative to bulky drapes and add style to your real estate. The optimum way to keep your fabric blinds dust-free is by using a vacuum cleaner. Use a soft brush attachment and set the device on low power suction, so the blinds won’t come off. Vacuum from top to bottom on the front and back while the blinds are fully drawn. If there is stubborn dirt or grease, spot clean with baking soda or a mild fabric cleaner.