How to Clean Window Blinds and Shades
Whether your blinds and shades require a simple dusting to get rid of surface dust, or require a deep clean to tackle heavy dirt and grime, here’s how to clean your window blinds and shades easily to make them look like new.
How to Clean Loose Surface Dust off Blinds and Shades
The horizontal slats of window blinds and the vanes on the fabric act like dust traps, constantly catching debris and pollutants from the air. Over time, this can make your window blinds and shades look dull. For most blinds and shades, the general steps for dealing with loose surface dust remain the same. Here’s what to do to clean loose dust from blinds and shades.
Instructions for Window Blinds
- Start by wiping window blinds with a soft, dry microfiber cloth. Run the cloth along the slats of the blinds, from edge to edge.
- For a more thorough cleaning, use a damp microfiber cloth to wipe the slats. Make sure the cloth is damp, not soaking wet.
- If needed, use a diluted solution of mild soap and water, making sure not to soak the blinds with it.
- After wiping them clean, dry the blinds immediately with a dry, microfiber cloth. This will prevent any water spots or moisture buildup.
- For blinds made of real wood, use extra caution with water as it can warp or damage wood. Use a barely-damp cloth. It’s preferable to use a vacuum with a brush attachment and set it to a low suction setting to get rid of the dust from wood blinds. You may use wood cleaners if needed, but follow the instructions given on the back of the bottle.
- These instructions are applicable to blinds made of fabric like cotton and reed. Avoid soaking the fabric, which can damage the material.
Instructions for Window Shades
- Gently dust shades with a soft, dry microfiber cloth.
- Use a vacuum cleaner with an upholstery attachment and set it to the lowest suction setting. Work gently to avoid snagging the fabric.
- Avoid using any cleaning solutions or excessive moisture on your shades. When using cleaning solutions, check the care label for specific instructions.
How to Clean Heavy Dirt off Blinds and Shades
Instructions for Window Blinds
- If you feel the blinds are overly dirty or that there are spots you can’t reach, it’s better to remove blinds and then clean them.
- Examine your blinds to understand how to take them down. Usually, you’ll need to push blinds towards the window and then rotate them downwards until you’re able to release them from the bracket. If this doesn’t happen easily, use a flathead screwdriver to insert it between the bracket and the blinds to pry them open.
- Pour 1 cup of vinegar into the water of your bathtub and add a small amount of dish soap. An alternative solution is to add ½ cup of vinegar and baking soda to the water.
- Lay blinds flat in your bathtub and allow them to soak for at least an hour.
- Rinse blinds with clean water and allow them to dry completely.
Instructions for Window Shades
- Unlike blinds, window shades require a much gentler approach due to their material. Deep cleaning with water or harsh chemicals can damage the material. Check the care label before cleaning your window's shades.
- The manufacturer's instructions will provide the appropriate cleaning methods for your specific shade material. A general rule of thumb is to stick to using mild soap and water for vinyl or PVC. However, avoid contact with water for shades made of wood.
- For dirt, grime, or stains, you may use a cleaning solution designed for upholstery fabric.
- Follow the product instructions and gently blot the stain with a damp cloth using the cleaning solution.
- If you have to rinse the cleaned area, use a clean, damp cloth and allow the shade to air dry completely.
What to Keep in Mind
The best way to care for and clean your blinds and shades is to follow any cleaning instructions that come with your blinds or shades. Deep cleaning with water or solutions might not be suitable for all materials. Instead, use cleaners specially designed for the material and follow the instructions. Avoid using any cleaner that is abrasive to the material of the blinds. Many cleaners will require you to apply a small amount to blot the spots instead of rubbing the cleaner in. To be sure, always test how your cleaning solution reacts on an inconspicuous area on your window blinds and shades before committing to a full clean.
How Often Should You Clean Your Window Blinds or Shades?
Blinds and shades require cleaning regularly. Ideally, you’ll want to clean your window’s blinds or shades as often as you clean the other parts of your home, including the floors, bathrooms, and other surfaces. Because they can collect dust and dander quickly, it’s important not to overlook your home's window treatments.