Different Materials for Blinds and Ways to Clean Them

By Maria Castronuevo

With so many different kinds of materials used to make blinds like wood, vinyl, aluminums or other metals, fabric, and pleated fabric, the care and cleaning of blinds vary.

Wood blinds should be vacuumed regularly, and a small soft paintbrush may be used to dust them. Never soak these in water, because the wood may become damaged and warped. Do not wipe with wet cloths either, for the same reason. A dry cloth and dusting product intended for real wood might be used if desired.

Aluminums and other metal blinds can be cleaned with water, usually mixed with a small amount of dish soap. Adding this to a spray or squirt bottle can make it easier to clean the blinds without having to take them down. This method is effective if they are not too dirty, but if it has been months or years since the last cleaning, you may need to remove them. You can also wipe the blinds down with a moistened towel. Just make sure to wipe in the direction of the slats gently so they do not bend or break.

Some stains do not come off easily from white or light colored blinds with soapy water. Therefore, you can use a foamy bathroom cleaner to get a deeper and brighter cleaning for your blinds. Just read the directions on the container before you apply it to your shades.

Be careful when cleaning blinds made of fabric or cloth. You can damage your blinds if you were to use water or any other type of liquid cleaner. When cleaning fabric blinds, just vacuum them using one of your brush attachments and gently brush in the direction of the fabric.

Vinyl and cellulose blinds can be cleaned in much the same way as metal blinds, using a gentle soap and warm water along with a soft towel or cloth. Once again wipe down the blinds gently, otherwise you may bend or damage them.

No matter what materials your blinds are made from, regular cleaning and care is necessary to keep them in the best possible shape. The blinds you buy will last you years, even a lifetime if they are made from quality materials, and you want to keep them looking great that whole time.

The task of cleaning your blinds is simple and there are so many different quick and easy ways. Your window coverings are a reflection on you by the type of material you choose, the color and how they look on a regular basis. From complimenting your dcor to brightening up any room in your home, blinds are a wonderful choice for everyone.