Blinds expert reveals easiest way to clean them depending on the style – a ‘robust’ design takes no time at all
BLIND types vary in how much care they require to remain in pristine condition, says an expert.
She shared her cleaning hacks for the styles most popular with homeowners.
Leah Aspinall is Head of Design at Blinds 2go, a UK-based specialist in made-to-measure blinds.
Speaking to The U.S. Sun, she revealed her expert tips for maintaining the shutters.
ROMAN BLINDS
Aspinall said all types of blinds should be cleaned at least every three months to remain in “optimal” condition.
However, depending on their style and fabric the method may differ.
She recommended looking at the specific advice given for the blinds and guidance on any stain removal product.
“The easiest way to clean most Roman Blinds at home is by using the upholstery attachment on a vacuum cleaner to gently dust it down then giving it a quick spray of fabric refresher for a fresh finish,” she said.
“For small marks, wiping the blind down with a damp cloth is the best option, it’s quick, simple, and won’t leave watermarks on the fabric.”
She revealed dry cleaning is the best option for a more thorough cleaning.
“Roman Blinds are straightforward to remove for cleaning,” she said.
“The fabric is connected to the headrail using Velcro strips so it can easily be separated to clean.”
ROLLER BLINDS
Aspinall said roller blinds are “easy” to maintain, making them a “smart choice” for modern homes.
“Whether they’re polyester or PVC, dusting with a dry cloth regularly will help to keep them in excellent condition,” she said.
“For other marks, biodegradable baby wipes will remove them effectively and won’t damage the fabric.
“A damp cloth will also work well.”
VERTICAL BLINDS
Aspinall said blackout vertical blinds require regular dusting to last for long.
“It’s best to use a feather duster or a quick vacuum for this,” she said.
“For smaller Vertical Blinds, it’s simple to remove the slats for cleaning on a large flat surface with a wet wipe.
“Gently wipe over both sides without pressing down too hard and clean them down with a dry towel before rehanging them.”
WOODEN BLINDS
Aspinall said wooden blinds can be kept fresh using a feather duster or dry cloth.
“Simply tilt the slats so they’re closed and give them a light dust before tilting the slats the opposite way and repeating the process,” she said.
“For a glossier finish, use furniture polish and a lint-free cloth.
Cleaning faux wood blinds takes no time at all.
Leah Aspinall
“Set the slats to the open position, spray with polish, and then wrap the cloth around a stiff object that fits between the slats.
“This way someone would easily be able to polish the underside of the slat above and the topside of the slat below at the same time.”
A dry cloth or feather duster is also the best tool for dusting faux wood blinds.
“For the more stubborn stains, use warm water and a cloth with a small amount of detergent and give them a good wipe-over,” she said.
“The robust design means they’re waterproof and durable, so cleaning faux wood blinds takes no time at all and a quick dust and wipe down can make all the difference.”
VENETIAN BLINDS
Aspinall said there are multiple ways to keep Venetian blinds in the best shape.
“For a light clean, gently vacuum or use a feather duster along the slats when closed, repeating the process when tilted the opposite way,” she said.
“An alternative to this is to use a vacuum cleaner with a suitable attachment to make it look as good as new.”
She revealed pleated blinds are also low maintenance.
“Close them and with a brush attachment on a vacuum, gently go over the blinds for a quick and easy clean without risking any damage to the pleats,” she said.
“If the blinds have stubborn marks, use warm water and a soft cloth to wipe them down.
“It’s best to use a damp cloth for the smart honeycomb design to retain its shape.
“If the blind is damp after this process, simply raise the blind fully to the top of the window and leave it there for a few hours to help it form the perfect pleats once lowered back into position.”