|
|
When cleaning window blinds the first thing is to determine how much dust has collected on the blinds. If there is only a small amount of dust, a mere dusting with a moist cloth or a light cleaning with your vacuum cleaner is necessary.
This method is very advantageous because the dust doesn’t get released into the air. Below are some helpful tips and suggestions regarding different cleaning methods for certain types of materials. |
Aluminum Blinds, Vinyl or Mini Blinds: Ordinary cleaning tools can be used when cleaning aluminum, vinyl or PVC blinds. The best and cheapest way to clean these types of blinds is some white vinegar, warm water and a cotton glove or an old sock. You can place the glove or sock on your hand and dip the fingers in a container holding vinegar. Squeeze out excess vinegar and water. Now you may run your fingers along both sides of the first slat to wipe out all dust. After finishing a few slats, you may remove the dust or slime from the sock, dip it in vinegar/water again, and go over the remaining slats.
The recommended method is to tilt the slats up first, then down. If a more thorough cleaning is needed, you can take them down, soak in a tub with detergent then use a washcloth to get rid of grime.
Fabric Window Blinds or Shades: The best way to clean fabric blinds is to take them down and find a space in your backyard to hang them, if you have a clothesline that would be even better. Be sure to follow the fabric’s specification for cleaning. A mild detergent, warm water, and some type of cleaning brush is recommended. Brush with the solution then you can rinse with your garden hose. Another highly recommended way is the use of the reliable washing machine. Take the shades off their hooks and remove the chains and plates or any other removable material that can be damaged during the washing. Fill washtub with cold water, use detergent according to the fabric’s specifications. Bear in mind to use the delicate cycle as fraying or tangling may occur. If they are extremely dirty, you can take them to a drycleaner who specializes in window treatments.
Wood Window Blinds: To keep dirt from accumulating on your wooden blinds, light vacuuming now and then could do the trick. To keep them looking fresh, wipe them with a damp rag. Never wash your wood blinds as this might cause discoloration and other damages. Don’t use any detergents or strong cleaning agents with wood window blinds.
Faux Window Blinds: Cleaning faux blinds is easier compared to real wood blinds. You can vacuum them or use a mild cleaning agent. Because the material is made of some type of synthetic material you can use a stronger cleaning agent.
Cellular Shades: The best way to clean these types of shades is with a vacuum cleaner. Lightly move the vacuum over the shades making sure you don’t push the honeycomb shades together causing creases or wrinkles. Never use a strong detergent to clean cellular shades.
More Useful Cleaning Tips
- When washing wood blinds, do not over saturate the wood. Wipe off excess water immediately to avoid warping or discoloring.
- It is good to vacuum window blinds often with some type of brush attachment, always go horizontal across the slats and never go up and down with vacuum attachment.
- Whatever using a detergent or cleaning agent it is a good idea to wear gloves and eye protection.
- After cleaning your window blinds use a fabric softener sheet, this will postpone the dust build-up. It will also give a fresh and pleasant smell to the blinds.
|
