Every spring brings with it spring cleaning, and this year, is no different. While, no one particularly likes spring cleaning, it is one of those chores that needs to be done – particularly if you’d like to admire your view through clean blinds, and while we’re at it, clean windows (see part one). With that said, I dare you to take the time, and really make your blinds shine. Here are some tips to get you started.
Gather Spring Cleaning Blinds Supplies
As with all spring cleaning projects, whether do-it-yourself or professionally contracted, having the right tools and supplies can make a great deal of difference to the final product – or in this case, project. To make spring cleaning blinds effortless, we recommend gathering the following supplies:
- A vacuum cleaner with attachments.
- A couple of clean, microfiber cloths, or socks.
- Furniture polish.
- Warm water.
- A few drops of white vinegar.
- Quality kitchen gloves (unless you want your hands smelling like vinegar).
Cleaning Tips for Various Types of Blinds
Cellular Shades
Working from the top down, not the other way around, run the long-bristle attachment of your vacuum horizontally along cellular (honeycomb) shades to remove dust and dirt. Don’t vacuum vertically – it could damage your blinds. This cleaning technique works for most types of blinds (i.e. pleated, solar, roman, etc.).
Wood Blinds
With the blinds closed, face down, wipe each one with a furniture polish coated microfiber cloth horizontally. Avoid touching the cords. Once dry, open the blinds and close them so that the slats face up, and repeat the process. For blinds in the kitchen or bathroom, you can use plain water, but be careful not to saturate the blinds. Dry.
Faux-Wood Blinds
Faux-wood blinds are extremely popular – and with good reason. They’re cheaper than real wood, resistant to moisture, durable, and best of all, easy to clean. If your blinds are simply dusty, run your vacuum’s long-bristle attachment horizontally along each one, and repeat on both sides (blinds lying flat and face down).
For blinds in the kitchen or bathroom, which may require heavier cleaning, it’s time to break out the good ol’ white vinegar. Simply fill a small bowl with one-part vinegar to one-part water, and then use a clean cloth or sock to wipe each blind with the solution, be careful not to over-saturate. Repeat on both sides.
See, that wasn’t so bad, was it?