Different Materials for Blinds and Ways to Clean Them
There are many different materials used for blinds, and the care and cleaning the need will depend on the exact materials included. The materials may include wood, vinyl, aluminums or other metals, fabric, and pleated fabric. Each will require specific care and cleaning according to the individual blinds.
A regular vacuum or using a small soft paintbrush to dust them is recommended for wood blinds. Do not soak the wood blinds in water because they will become damaged and warped. In addition, a wet cloth is not advisable either. Using a dry cloth with a dusting product, made for cleaning wood furniture, will ensure your wood blinds are not damaged.
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.
If your shades are white or a light color, a bathroom cleaner that lightens stains may be used, if the stains will not come off with simple dish soap and water. A foam solution will work very well, but do not leave the cleaner on longer than specified on the container.
Fabric or cloth blinds cannot be cleaned with any type of liquid cleaner including soapy water. This will damage them beyond repair. In order to clean these types of blinds, just vacuum them regularly using a brush attachment. Vacuum the blinds in the same direction that the fabric lays and be very gentle.
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.
As you can see, regular cleaning is required to keep your blinds looking like new, no matter what type of material they are made from. If you want to keep your blinds for a long time, purchase high quality materials that are durable and easy to clean.
Regular cleanings will do this for you, and there are ways to make these cleanings quick and simple. Your window coverings can say a lot about you, from the materials included to the colors, and great looking blinds will brighten up your house and compliment your dcor.