How to Clean Fabric Blinds?

If you’re like most people, cleaning your fabric blinds probably isn’t very high on your list of fun weekend activities. But keeping them clean is essential – not just for aesthetics, but also for your health. Fabric blinds are prone to trapping dust, dirt, pollen, and other allergens. Over time, this buildup can contribute to respiratory issues and make your home seem dingy. So, how to clean fabric blinds?

The good news is that cleaning fabric blinds doesn’t have to be a huge chore. With the proper techniques and tools, you can get them looking like new again in no time. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from understanding the different types of fabric blinds to tips for cleaning vinyl, wood, plastic, and other materials.

Why It’s Important to Clean Fabric Blinds

Before we dive into the nitty gritty details, let’s review why it’s so crucial to wash your blinds periodically:

Improves indoor air quality – Dust and dirt accumulate, and blinds are regulated through your home when the blinds are opened and closed or when air blows past them. This can worsen allergies and asthma.

Extends the life – Built-up grime wears down fabric fibers more quickly. Regular cleaning keeps blinds looking better for longer.

Enhances aesthetics – Fabric blinds can take on a dull, dirty appearance over time. A good cleaning restores vibrancy and makes your windows look cleaner.

Removes mold/mildew – Moisture and humidity encourage mold growth on fabric. Cleaning inhibits this.

Freshens smell – Odors from cooking, pets, smoke, and simply closing the windows get trapped in the fabric. Cleaning removes these unpleasant smells.

Makes future cleaning easier – Less grime to tackle each time makes cleaning faster.

What is the easiest way to clean dirty blinds

Supplies You’ll Need

Cleaning blinds requires just a few basic supplies, most of which you likely already have at home:

Vacuum with brush attachment – This is the easiest way to remove loose dust and debris before washing. Make sure the brush is clean to avoid just spreading dirt around.
Microfiber cloths – Great for wiping down blinds. They grab and cling to dust quickly. Dampen one with water or cleaner.
Soft-bristle brush – For agitating stained or soiled spots. Look for a brush with extensions that can reach into blind slats.
Mild soap and water – Simple soap and water often do the trick for wood, vinyl, aluminum, or plastic blinds. Avoid harsh cleaners.
Disinfecting wipes or spray – Help remove mold and bacteria. Look for ones designed for fabric.
Stain remover – For tough grease, food, and dirt spots. Test on a small hidden area first to ensure it’s color-safe.
Old toothbrush – Reaches into small slats and crevices. Works well with soap and water or cleaner.
Sponge or soft cloth – Alternative to microfiber for applying cleanser and wiping away dirt.
Orchard ladder or step stool – To reach all areas of blinds safely when cleaning in place.

The Best Way to Clean Different Blind Materials

Not all fabric blinds are created equal when it comes to cleaning needs. The materials used can require slightly different techniques. Here’s an overview of popular fabrics and how to clean them:

Vinyl or PVC Blinds

Vinyl is one of the most common, inexpensive blind materials. It’s easy to wipe down but also prone to static that attracts dust.

Cleaning method: Mix a mild detergent with warm water in a bucket or spray bottle. Dampen a microfiber cloth in the solution and wipe down each slat, scrubbing gently to lift dirt. Rinse with a new cloth dampened in clean water. Finish by wiping with disinfectant. Allow to fully dry before raising blinds.

Wood Blinds

Wood blinds add a classic, natural look but require more care than vinyl. Moisture can damage the wood itself or warp slats if not cleaned properly.

Cleaning method: Wipe down with a barely damp microfiber cloth and mild detergent mixed with warm water. Don’t soak the wood. For stuck-on dirt, use a soft brush with short plastic bristles. Wood also benefits from periodic polishing with a wood cleaner to condition it.

Aluminum Blinds

Aluminum blinds are lightweight, rust-resistant, and easy to clean. However, the metal conducts heat and cold, making rooms hotter/colder.

Cleaning method: Mix a couple of drops of dish soap with warm water. Dampen a soft cloth and wipe down each slat. Avoid immersing blinds in water. For stubborn spots, use a toothbrush dipped in solution to scrub gently.

Bamboo Blinds

Bamboo is a renewable grass material gaining popularity for window blinds. It needs a delicate touch when cleaning.

Cleaning method: Wipe down with a microfiber cloth slightly dampened with warm, soapy water. Use sparingly – bamboo warps with too much moisture. Dip the toothbrush in the solution rather than the bamboo for soiled spots.

Faux Wood Blinds

Faux wood consists of vinyl, plastic, or composite materials that resemble natural wood. They’re lower maintenance than real wood.

Cleaning method: Mix mild detergent with warm water and use a microfiber cloth to wipe down each slat. Use a soft-bristle brush with plastic bristles and the soapy mixture for stuck-on gunk. Avoid saturating the blinds.

Fabric Blinds

Fabric blinds include natural fibers like cotton, linen, jute and synthetic fabrics like polyester, acrylic, microfiber, and olefin. Check tags for material specifics.

Cleaning method: Vacuum first with a brush attachment. Then, dampen a clean cloth or sponge in warm water with gentle detergent – laundry soap works. Test for colorfastness in an inconspicuous spot first. For stains, use a stain remover made for that fabric type. Air dry fully.

Faux Silk Blinds

Faux silk consists of synthetic polyester fibers woven to mimic luxurious silk. They resist wrinkles and fading better than natural silk.

Cleaning method: Wipe down with warm water mixed with a tiny amount of mild detergent. Use a clean microfiber cloth, changing sides as it gets dirty. For stains, apply a small amount of stain remover meant for silks directly on the spot. Rinse immediately with a damp cloth.

Best Practices For Cleaning Blinds

Now that you know how to clean different blind materials, keep these best practices in mind for getting them spotless:

Start by vacuuming both sides with a brush attachment. This removes much surface dust and dirt, making washing more accessible and practical.
Mix cleaning solutions in one bucket, so you’re not constantly contaminating the rinse water. Replace wash and rinse water frequently to lift away more grime.
Dampen cloths in the water rather than soaking the blinds themselves. Excess moisture can damage many fabrics.
Work in sections for easier management. Do one window at a time or work from top to bottom in phases. Allow sufficient drying time between sections.
Use extension tools like telescopic dusters or long-handled brushes for high, hard-to-reach spots. Or take the blinds down if needed.
For stuck-on dirt, let soapy solutions sit for a few minutes to penetrate before scrubbing. This prevents pushing grime further into the fabric.
Rotate clothes frequently. Re-fold to expose clean sides often during the wiping process.
When using spray cleaners, spray the cloth itself rather than the blinds. This provides a more controlled application.
After washing, rinse blinds with a hose on a gentle setting or wipe with clean, damp cloths. This removes soap residue that can attract dirt faster.
Lift blinds and angle to encourage faster drying after cleaning vertically hung blinds. Dry horizontally hung ones entirely before raising them.

Alternative Cleaning Methods

If cleaning fabric blinds in place doesn’t seem feasible or simply isn’t getting them as clean as you’d like, consider these other options:

Take Them Down and Immerse

Removing blinds for a deep clean provides greater control and access for scrubbing. Lay blinds flat in the tub and follow the material-specific directions above. This works best for vinyl, aluminum, or plastic materials.

Immerse wood, bamboo, or real silk blinds briefly and avoid soaking them to prevent water damage.

Place in the Shower

Like the tub method, hanging blinds in the shower provide easy access and drainage. Adjust the shower head to a gentle spray and temperature. Hand scrub with a brush using a mild cleaner.

This technique works best for vinyl, plastic, or aluminum/metal blinds. Keep wood blinds out of direct spray.

Toss in the Washing Machine

If manufacturer instructions allow it, smaller vinyl or fabric blind slats can be placed in a lingerie bag and washed on a gentle cycle with cool water. Avoid hot water that could warp metals or plastics. Line dry thoroughly afterward.

Hire a Professional

For specialty blinds, expensive materials, or simply when time is limited, calling a professional blind cleaning service may be worth the cost. They have commercial equipment for meticulous blind cleaning with minimal disruption or damage.

Many companies also provide blind repairs, treatments to repel dust or upgrades. Ask about any special services when scheduling.

5 Tips For Keeping Blinds Cleaner Longer

Regular deep cleanings are essential for maintaining fresh, dirt-free blinds. But you can also implement some simple habits to keep them cleaner day-to-day:

Dust often – Quickly run a microfiber duster or handheld vacuum with brush attachment over blinds every few weeks. This removes dry dust and pet hair before it settles in.
Use ceiling fans – Run ceiling fans at low speed at home to keep air circulating. This prevents dust buildup on blinds.
Limit sun exposure – Close blinds in rooms with a lot of sunlight, primarily southern or western exposure. UV rays fade fabrics over time.
Give new blinds an anti-static treatment – Many companies offer treatments to vinyl or plastic blinds that prevent static electricity that attracts dust. Ask about options when purchasing. Reapply periodically.
Vacuum drapes and curtains first – Since drapes trap dust and dirt, always vacuum them before blinds to avoid spreading particles that will collect on the slats.

FAQs

How often should I clean blinds?

Outdoor blinds: Every 2-3 months
Blinds in kitchens, bathrooms, and other high-humidity rooms: Every 2-3 months
Blinds in lesser-used rooms: Twice a year
Blinds in rooms where you spend a lot of time: Every 4-6 months

Should blinds be cleaned open or closed?

Closed is best for dry dusting, but they can be washed either way. Keep tilted open while drying to allow air circulation and prevent mold growth.

Can I use bleach or harsh chemicals to disinfect blinds?

Avoid harsh cleaners like bleach, ammonia, or abrasive powders, which can damage fabrics. Opt for disinfectant wipes or sprays specifically designed for fabrics.

How do I dust hard-to-reach blinds?

Use a telescoping duster or attach a microfiber cloth to an extendable pole. Or carefully climb a stepladder to reach it. Never stand on chairs or other unstable surfaces.

What is the fastest way to clean blinds?

Vacuum first, then wipe down with pre-moistened disinfectant wipes, switching to new wipes frequently. This provides a quick, deep clean, safely disinfecting the blinds in one step.

Conclusion

Cleaning blinds may feel tedious but think of it as spring cleaning for your windows. A few times per year, dedicate an hour or two to wash away all the accumulated dust, dirt, grime, and odors.

Focus on one room at a time. Play lively music to make the task feel less dull. Enlist the help of housemates so no one person has to tackle the whole chore alone.

When done, admire how fresh, vibrant, and streak-free your blinds look. The improved aesthetics and air quality are well worth the effort. And maintaining that cleanliness is faster with regular quick dusting.

With the proper techniques, cleaning supplies, and a little helpful motivation, you can keep those fabric blinds looking their absolute best for years. Bring on the light!