Blinds, like windowsills, light switch plates, and ceiling fan blades, often go unnoticed until a layer of dust and debris becomes visible.
However, with a strategic approach, cleaning your blinds can be a quick and easy task, regardless of whether they’re made of plastic, aluminum, or wood.
When to Clean Your Blinds
Regular maintenance is key to preventing a heavy buildup of dust. To keep your blinds clean and manageable, aim to dust them every one to two weeks.
Incorporate blind cleaning into your routine when dusting other areas of your home.
Always dust your blinds before vacuuming or sweeping to ensure that the dust is completely removed from your living space.
Important Considerations Before Cleaning Blinds
Using a specialized tool like the Hiware Blind Duster can be helpful, especially if you clean your blinds regularly. While it’s not essential, this tool allows you to clean multiple blades at once, saving you time.
Materials You Will Need
For Routine Cleaning:
– Microfiber cloth
– Vacuum cleaner with an upholstery attachment
For Deep Cleaning:
– Screwdriver (optional, for removing blinds)
– Dish soap
– Microfiber cloth
For Stain Removal:
– Microfiber cloth
– White vinegar
– Clean sock
Step-by-Step Instructions for Cleaning Blinds with a Microfiber Cloth
The method you choose depends on how dirty your blinds are. If they are only lightly dusty, a simple wipe-down with a microfiber cloth may be enough.
1. Close the blinds and wipe
Close the blinds fully and gently wipe them down using a microfiber cloth.
Move the cloth from the top to the bottom of the blind (for horizontal blinds, wipe side to side).
For better support, hold the bottom of the blind with your other hand to keep it steady.
2. Open the blinds and wipe again
Adjust the blinds to open them, then run the microfiber cloth over each blade.
Once done, close the blinds the opposite way and repeat the process.
3. Vacuum to remove debris
Use your vacuum’s upholstery attachment to vacuum any dust and debris that has accumulated.
How to Deep Clean Blinds
For heavily soiled or sticky plastic blinds, it’s best to remove them from the window for a more thorough cleaning. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
1. Prepare a Cleaning Solution
After dusting the blinds with a microfiber cloth to remove loose dirt, prepare a cleaning solution by mixing equal parts white vinegar and water.
2. Clean the Blinds Using a Sock
Take a clean sock, place it over your hand, and dip it into the vinegar-water solution. Wring out the sock to ensure it’s damp but not dripping.
Using your hand as a cleaning tool, tightly run your fingers along each blind slat to wipe away grime.
3. Dry the Blinds
Allow the blinds to remain open until they dry completely. Depending on the time of year, it may be wise to keep windows closed during this process.
In spring and summer, pollen can blow in and quickly dirty the blinds again.
This method works especially well when cleaning by hand with a microfiber cloth or a purple rag for extra precision.
How to Effectively Remove Stains From Blinds
When cleaning blinds, avoid using water to tackle dust, as it can create a bigger mess. Instead, dry dust with a microfiber cloth that traps dust.
However, if your blinds have dirt or stains, a cleaning solution is necessary. Follow these steps to remove stains:
1. Prepare a Soapy Water Solution:
After dusting the blinds, fill a bathtub with hot water and add a few drops of grease-fighting dish soap.
2. Remove Blinds From the Window:
Open the brackets holding the blinds in place and use a screwdriver to lift them out. Submerge the blinds in the soapy water.
3. Wipe Each Blade:
Use a sponge to clean each blind slat individually, paying special attention to the edges where dust collects.
4. Rinse Thoroughly:
Drain the soapy water and rinse the blinds with clean water to remove any remaining residue.
5. Dry and Reinstall:
Let the blinds air dry or dry them with a microfiber cloth before placing them back in the window.
Tips for Keeping Blinds Clean Longer
To prevent frequent cleanings, dust your blinds every few days, particularly during pollen season.
Keeping your home clean by vacuuming and dusting furniture regularly will also reduce dust on blinds.
Avoid using air fresheners or sprays near your blinds, as sticky residue can accumulate over time.
Common Questions
Can I clean blinds with dryer sheets?
Yes, but be cautious. Dryer sheets can attract dust, but they might leave a residue. If you try this method, use an old dryer sheet that has already been through a cycle.
Can I use vinegar on wooden blinds?
Vinegar is safe for faux wood blinds, but avoid using it on real wood. For wooden blinds, use a wood cleaner and a damp (not wet) microfiber cloth to clean.
When should I replace my blinds?
Blinds typically last up to 10 years, depending on quality. Replace them if slats are warped, broken, or if cords become frayed or discolored.
