How To Clean Mini Blinds

Mini blinds are an inexpensive and attractive addition to any home.

In recent years, home improvement and department stores have started selling a large variety of mini blinds because of how "user friendly" they are- that is, easy to install and they get the job done when it comes to blocking out light and keeping your privacy.

There is no quick fix to remove the dirt and dust that has been allowed to accumulated over the years. The good news is that you don't need to use a special (or expensive) service to clean your mini blinds properly. It takes time, but it is relatively easy if you use the proper cleaning techniques. Besides, it is well worth it if you have allergies or just want your home looking and smelling clean and fresh.

The bottom line is that you need to know the most effective ways to get your mini blinds looking brand new, all while not damaging them. That is why I have listed some tricks of the trade below that will save you time and make the job as simple and effective as possible. Happy cleaning!

Cleaning Plastic, Metal, Aluminum, Vinyl, PVC and Faux Wood Mini Blinds:

Mini blinds that are not made from wood can include, but are not limited to: metal, aluminum, vinyl, pvc and faux wood. These materials are easy to clean and don't require a specialized process.

To make the cleaning process easier in the future, make sure to dust blinds thoroughly before and after cleaning.

Tip: Collect used fabric softener sheets in a small box next to your dryer and use these to wipe off the dust. This will create an anti-static reaction on the blinds so dust will not settle or stick.

Method 1: Complete Cleaning

Taking the blinds completely down and cleaning them in the bathtub is the most thorough way to clean them. Water sodden blinds are heavy, so take care to let water drain from them as much as possible before moving them carefully. If you have been dusting your mini blinds regularly cleaning will be much easier.

1. Roll the blinds completely up in order to secure slats prior to removing them.
2. Take the blinds down.
3. Place the rolled up assembly in a bathtub and fill with enough warm water to fully cover the blinds.
4. Add a capful of dish soap. (You can use any kind of soap, but dish soap works really well on greasy buildup).
5. Add a gallon of plain white vinegar (also cuts grease).
6. Move the mini blinds around the tub a bit to agitate the caked on dust and dirt.
7. Drain the tub.
8. Rinse the blinds with warm water or by using a handheld shower attachment.
9. Shake the mini blinds gently to remove as much water as possible. Leave them in the tub drain further if the blinds are still heavy with water.
10. Hang blinds back up, and release them to full their extension.
11. Run your hands over them to neaten and straighten their appearance.
12. Wipe slats down with a clean dry towel.
13. Allow to dry completely at least 24 hours before rolling the blinds back up.

Method 2: Quick Cleaning

If you don't want to take the blinds down to do the bathtub method above, you can use the following method. This will not be as thorough as taking the blinds down and cleaning them in the bathtub, but it is much less labor intensive.

1. Take a bucket and fill it with warm water and add a capful of dish soap.
2. Draw the blinds and turn all slats downward.
3. Start at the top, and working from left to right and wipe each slat down with the soapy water. I do one slat at a time because if you do more it will "skip over" the top of the next slat.
4. Turn the slats in the opposite position and repeat
5. Follow behind with a clean, cotton cloth to remove any left behind dirt and liquid as it will leave to spotting.
6. Wipe each slat completely dry.

Cleaning Wood Mini Blinds:

If you have real wood mini blinds in your home, you have to handle these a bit differently.

You shouldn't use a lot of water or other liquid to wood mini blinds. This can cause the wood to warp and will ultimately ruin them.

Start by using a high quality furniture polish as directed, or you can make a homemade furniture polish.

Homemade Furniture Polish Recipe:

• 1 cup mineral oil
• 1/4 cup plain white vinegar
• 1/4 cup water

In a spray bottle mix your cleaning solution. You can use baby oil in place of plain mineral oil...it will add that baby fresh scent. Do not use vegetable oil or olive oil as these oils will oxidize and get rancid (and stink!).

It's as easy as that!

Cleaning In Place:

1. Draw blinds and make slats point downward.
2. Use a cotton or terry cloth or a specially made cleaning "glove".
3. Spray the cloth or glove with the polish. Do not spray the wood directly.
4. Make sure not to get this spray on wood floors...it will make it slick.
5. Thoroughly wipe each slat reapplying the spray as needed.
6. Move blind slats to upward position and repeat.

Cleaning Fabric Mini Blinds:

Fabric miniblinds are the most difficult blinds to clean.  You should not apply any water to them, especially if they are silk.  Check with the manufacturer for specific cleaning instructions by fabric type. When in doubt, contact a professional.

Removing Dust:

1. Start at the top with a brush attachment and work your way down.
2. Use the crevice tool to get into tight spots.

Removing Spots:

1. Use household strength 3% hydrogen peroxide and pour some into a container.
2. Do a "test" in an inconspicuous place. Make sure that the hydrogen peroxide does not discolor your fabric.
3. Using clean white cloth, dip a small section into the solution and squeeze out excess.
4. Dab the stain starting at the outer edge working your way inward.
5. You may have to repeat several time for the stain to totally disappear.
6. No need to rinse out the hydrogen peroxide because it turns to water when exposed to sunlight.

Now you have some excellent, money saving alternatives to taking your blinds to the professionals, while still achieving professional results.

Be sure to dust and clean your mini blinds regularly so that they are always looking their best!

Image Courtesy of Bach Tran, CC BY-SA Flickr.