How to Clean Vertical Blinds Fast: The Ultimate Guide
Vertical blinds are a favourite pick in rooms with large windows, especially in spaces that get a lot of light. If you want to make a room look taller and more spacious, a vertical blind could be your preferred choice. Unlike horizontal blinds, they also allow a lot of flexibility when you want to change the amount of light coming into a space.
Unfortunately, these handy window coverings rarely come with cleaning instructions and can be easily be overlooked during your regular room clean.
Whether they are made of fabric, vinyl, or faux wood, your vertical blinds require maintenance to uphold their appearance and functionality. Let us guide you through the basics of cleaning vertical blinds and treat you to a few cleaning secrets!
By following the step-by-step guide outlined in this article, you can ensure the longevity and aesthetic appeal of your blinds. From basic care instructions to targeted stain removal, the strategies presented here are designed to streamline your cleaning process.
How to Clean Your Vertical Blinds in 6 Easy Steps!
To clean your fabric or vinyl vertical blinds, follow our easy 6 step guide:
1) Inspect the blinds before you begin cleaning
Check for any damaged vertical blind slats, rails, or other parts that may need replacement. Catch little problems before they turn into big ones.
2) Decide if you will clean them on or off the rail
Long or fragile vertical blinds might be too difficult for you to take down for cleaning. If this is the case, use a chair or ladder to clean areas beyond your reach.
3) Remember to clean the headrail
You can do this after removing the blinds from the railing or before you start cleaning them.
4) Remove the dust from blinds
You can use a feather duster, clean cloth, soft brush, or a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment; whatever works best for you! This is an easy way to prepare your vertical blinds for cleaning. If you are using a handheld vacuum, start on the lowest setting.
5) Spot-clean your blinds using a soft cloth and warm, soapy water
If you’ve noticed dust lines or particular problem areas forming, then you can quickly clean those up by spot-cleaning with your favourite microfibre cloth or non-abrasive sponge. Pick a mild dish soap and avoid using excessively hot water, as this could damage the material.
6) Leave your blinds to dry
If you have taken your blinds off of their rail to clean them, then leave them to air dry on a flat surface. Once they have dried, hang them back up! It’s that easy.
What Are Vertical Blinds?
Vertical blinds are a popular window treatment choice for many households due to their functionality, stylish design, and versatility. These blinds consist of vertical slats that hang down from a headrail, allowing for easy adjustment to control light and privacy.
They come in various materials (including fabric vertical blinds, vinyl blinds, faux wood, etc.), offering a range of looks and functions.
Knowing how to keep your blinds clean is essential to preserve their appearance and functionality. Whether you are cleaning vertical blind slats individually or deep cleaning the entire set, proper care ensures longevity. Regular dusting and occasional spot-cleaning can help keep vertical blinds looking fresh and new.
Can Dirty Vertical Blinds Affect Your Health?
Yes, absolutely. Neglecting the cleanliness of vertical blinds not only affects your health but also diminishes the aesthetic appeal of your space.
Dirty vertical blinds can harbour dust, allergens, and mould which can potentially impact your health. Dust buildup on vertical blinds can trigger allergies and respiratory issues, particularly in individuals sensitive to dust particles. Allergens aside, who wants to stir up clouds of dust every time they move their blinds?
Mould growth on neglected blinds can lead to more severe health problems, including respiratory infections. In a high-traffic area like a living room, the presence of mould can affect all members of a household.
To prevent these health risks, proper upkeep of your vertical blind parts and vanes is crucial. Otherwise, you may have to resort to replacing damaged sections to maintain a healthy indoor environment.
5 Tips To Avoid Common Vertical Blind Cleaning Mistakes
When cleaning your vertical blinds, there are a few common cleaning mistakes that you will want to avoid. The last thing you want to do is cause damage to your blinds and be forced to replace them instead. So, here are some quick cleaning tips:
1) Avoid using harsh cleaning products
It is important to stick to gentle products like soap and warm water when cleaning fabric or vinyl blinds.
2) Refrain from using abrasive cleaning tools or brushes
Use soft brushes or cloths to avoid scratching or ruining the material.
3) Avoid soaking fabric blinds
This can lead to damage or stretching. Instead, opt for spot-cleaning when necessary.
4) Take extra care if removing blinds from the headrail
Be cautious when handling the blinds to prevent accidentally breaking any panels or clips.
5) Don’t forget to clean the railing up top!
Remember to dust right up top, or your hard work could go to waste.
By following these simple tips and being mindful of common cleaning mistakes, you can keep your vertical blinds in excellent condition.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you deal with mould?
At the first sign of mould, most people immediately reach for bottles of bleach or their most powerful stain removers. However, keep in mind that bleach-based solutions are harsh substances and can cause irritation.
Instead, consider using a DIY solution of white vinegar or lemon juice with warm water. Use a 1:1 ratio and combine equal parts vinegar or lemon juice with warm water. Simply spray down your vertical blinds, leave the solution to work its magic for a little while, and then wipe down your blinds with a damp cloth and lukewarm water until they are completely clean.
However, if the spread of the mould is extensive, we recommend contacting a professional cleaner. If your window blinds can be saved, a professional cleaner will do their best to restore them. If the damage is too severe and poses a risk to your health, then they can help you dispose of the affected blinds safely.
Can blinds go in the washing machine or tumble dryer?
Do you have plastic or wooden blinds? They will not be machine washable. Even if you want to clean fabric blinds, you should keep the fabric type in mind before putting them through your washing machine. Check the cleaning directions or do a little research, just to be sure. Once you have confirmed it is safe to use the washing machine on your blinds, select a mild laundry detergent and delicate cycle to prevent unnecessary strain on the material.
Let the fabric air dry. Using a tumble dryer has the potential to cause damage, even on the lowest cycle or a cool setting.
Which is faster: DIY cleaning or a professional service?
Our cleaning tips can make the do-it-yourself approach easy and fast. But when it comes to cleaning vertical blinds, it’s difficult to beat the efficiency of a professional service.
DIY Cleaning
- Suitable for routine maintenance tasks
- Cost-effective for regular upkeep.
- Requires time and effort for thorough cleaning
Professional Cleaning
- Offers quick and efficient service
- Ideal for deep cleaning and stubborn stains
- Saves time
- Provides professional results
For minor blind maintenance and cleaning, a DIY approach can be more cost-efficient. However, if you have limited time or the blinds require extensive cleaning, opting for a professional service will be quicker and more effective.
Consider the specific needs of your vertical blinds to determine whether a DIY cleaning or professional service is the faster option.
Looking for a Cleaning Expert?
Maintaining the cleanliness of window coverings is essential for a visually appealing living space. By following the step-by-step cleaning techniques outlined in this guide, you can efficiently clean fabric, vinyl, and other vertical blinds.
If you choose to clean them yourself, then remember to use the appropriate tools and avoid common cleaning mistakes. Otherwise, go ahead and hire a professional from The Local Guys to take care of your vertical blinds and enhance the ambience of your home!