The right way to clean blinds: aluminum, vinyl, wood, and fabric

Generated by DALL·E

Window blinds shield from the sun, create a sense of comfort, and, unsurprisingly, are dust’s first target. The grime you barely notice builds up faster than it seems, so regular upkeep is essential. Different materials call for different tactics—there’s no true one-size-fits-all. This step-by-step guide helps clean blinds quickly and without risk.

How often to clean blinds

A weekly dust-off is a solid baseline for any system. It’s enough to run a vacuum with a soft brush along the slats. Once a month, wipe each slat on both sides with a microfiber cloth. Deep cleaning is best done every six months or as needed. With careful handling, blinds can serve for decades, even if the warranty covers only a few years.

What to prepare for cleaning

For an effective clean, have on hand:

• a vacuum with a soft brush attachment;
• microfiber cloths;
• dish soap;
• warm water;
• baking soda.

If there’s no microfiber around, an old sock or a cotton glove will work.

How to clean aluminum, vinyl, and wooden blinds

• Lower the blinds.
• Close wooden and faux-wood models completely.
• Slightly tilt aluminum and vinyl slats.
• Work from the top slat down. Remove dust with microfiber or a vacuum on the lowest setting to avoid scratches.
• For horizontal blinds, switch direction—clean from right to left or the other way around.
• Cool air from a hair dryer helps with hard-to-reach areas.

If dry cleaning isn’t enough, lightly go over the surfaces with a damp microfiber cloth. Dry them promptly, especially wood.

Deep-cleaning kitchen blinds

In the kitchen, slats pick up not just dust but grease as well, so they need a slightly different approach.

The sequence is as follows:

• Vacuum thoroughly first.
• Fill a bathtub with warm water, add a few drops of mild dish soap and a cup of baking soda.
• Submerge the blinds for one hour.
• Rinse with clean water.
• Shake off excess water and hang to dry.

If the slats have dulled, sun fading may be the reason. To restore whiteness, briefly—no longer than 10 minutes—submerge them in cold water with liquid bleach, then rinse thoroughly.

Caring for wooden blinds

• Wood does not tolerate excess moisture.
• Wipe each slat only with a dry towel, paying attention to the edges.
• Do not submerge wooden blinds. Wood-cleaning sprays are also not recommended, as they can leave a sticky film that quickly attracts dust.

How to care for fabric blinds

Fabric models are the most delicate. Do not soak them or scrub with abrasive materials.

• Suitable tools include:
• a furniture vacuum attachment;
• a soft microfiber cloth;
• a mild soapy solution.

Step-by-step:

• Lower the blinds.
• Remove dust with a soft brush.
• Check the panels for stains.
• Prepare a warm solution with a small amount of detergent.
• Blot the stain gently—do not rub.
• For stubborn spots, use a mix of water and baking soda.
• Rinse with clean water.
• Leave to dry.

It’s best to treat stains as early as possible—there’s less risk of damage or streaks.