During your house cleaning, you probably clean windows, floors, and tables. But what about your blinds? If you see dust on the slats, it’s time for a deep clean. We asked experts for the best way to clean vinyl and fabric blinds and remove tough stains.
Materials Needed
- Microfiber cloth, old sock, or feather duster
- A vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment
- Water
- Mild dish soap
- White vinegar
- Spray bottle
- Baking soda
- Old toothbrush
How to Clean Horizontal Blinds
For light cleaning, just dust your blinds regularly to keep them looking like new and prevent dirt buildup. For a deeper clean, follow these steps.
- First, wipe your blinds with a microfiber cloth, a clean old sock, or a feather duster, starting from the top. If they are very dusty, use a vacuum with a brush attachment instead.
- Mix equal parts vinegar and water in a spray bottle, then spray it onto a clean microfiber cloth or an old sock.
- Wipe each slat individually.
- Wipe each slat dry with a microfiber cloth or sock right after cleaning to avoid water spots.
- For wood blinds, apply some furniture polish. Spray it on a microfiber cloth and wipe each slat to protect the wood.
How to Clean Fabric Blinds
Fabric blinds need more effort to clean. You’ll need to take them down instead of cleaning them while they’re hanging. Follow these steps to do it properly.
- Take down your fabric blinds from the window.
- Fill your bathtub with warm water and add a few drops of mild dish soap.
- Place the blinds in the soapy water and let them soak for an hour.
- After an hour, gently scrub any stains with a microfiber cloth or sponge.
- Empty the soapy water from the tub and rinse the blinds thoroughly.
- Hang them up to dry, or lay them flat on a towel. Make sure they are completely dry before putting them back on the window.
This method also works for horizontal vinyl blinds (not wood) if you need a deeper clean than just wiping them.
How to Clean Stains On Your Blinds
If you have a tough stain that regular cleaning can’t remove, spot clean it with baking soda and an old toothbrush.
- Make a paste by mixing a few tablespoons of baking soda with water.
- Apply the paste to the stain.
- Gently scrub the paste onto the stain with an old toothbrush.
- Wipe the slat with a clean microfiber cloth to remove the baking soda paste.
- Quickly dry the slat with a microfiber cloth to avoid water spots.
How Often to Clean Blinds
Try to dust your blinds once a week to prevent buildup, but a deep clean once a month is best. If that’s not possible, aim to clean them at least four times a year, especially during seasonal changes.
If your blinds look dirty, don’t wait—it’s time to clean them. Dust buildup can trigger sneezing or itchy eyes. In kitchens, blinds can collect grease and food splatters, making them feel sticky or greasy.
Tips for Keeping Blinds Clean
Keeping your blinds clean is simple with these tips:
- Dust weekly: Regular dusting prevents dirt buildup and keeps blinds looking fresh.
- Add lemon juice: Mix lemon juice with vinegar and water for extra cleaning power and a fresh scent.
- Clean windows first: Wipe your windows before cleaning the blinds to avoid dust transfer.
- Dry in the sun: If you wash your blinds, let them dry in the sun to help disinfect and remove odors naturally.