Window blinds make for ideal coverings. They’re perfect for letting natural light in while maintaining your privacy. These window treatments, however, also gather dust and grime.
So, have you waited too long to clean your blinds because you’re thinking it would be tedious to clean between the slats or take the whole thing down?
Although cleaning between the slats is one way to rid the blinds of dirt, it’s not the only way to do it. Whether you’ve ordered made-to-measure blinds in Dubai or bought them off-the-rack in your local store, wiping and dusting these window treatments regularly is a good start to keeping them clean.
If you’re considering a property to buy in UAE, maintaining the blinds in your home or investment property will ensure they remain functional and visually appealing for years to come.
Other than neglecting to clean your window treatments, here are other common mistakes to avoid.
You’re winging it
Some people might find cleaning meditative, even enjoyable. But if you’re part of the population that would rather be doing something else than cleaning, it’s safe to say you don’t do dusting or spot cleaning for your blinds. So you’re probably just running a rag through the slats when you remember to do it.
Instead of winging it, why not turn this activity into something to anticipate? You can mark it on your calendar or set an alarm on your smartphone. Ask Alexa, Siri, or whichever AI assistant you’re using to remind you when to clean the window blinds.
Then, organize your cleaning kit. Any chore is always going to be more enjoyable when you’re using the right tools. What will you need?
- Microfiber cloth
- Microfiber mini blind duster
- Vacuum cleaner with brush attachment
Keep your cleaning tools in a caddy, so they’re organized and easy to grab when Alexa or Siri tells you it’s time to do the window coverings.
You’re not moving the blinds while cleaning.
Maintenance-wise, window blinds are more preferable than curtains. If you’ve bought a heavy fabric curtain in Dubai to enhance the elegance in a specific room, you’ll probably clean it better in the laundry. With blinds, you might just be wiping them down.
You might also be cleaning your blinds as they are; if they’re closed or open. But a better way to ensure a complete clean up is to initially close the slats and pull the blinds down to cover the entire length of the window.
Take your microfiber cloth and wipe down the slats, working your way from top to bottom. Top to bottom cleaning allows the dirt to fall on areas you haven’t wiped yet.
Turn the tilt wand to dust the other side of the slats. Then use the vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment to clear any fallen dust.
Using harsh chemicals to get rid of grime.
Harsh chemicals smell like they can clean efficiently, but they leave damage in their wake. Wood, vinyl, or aluminum, the material of your window blinds may be susceptible to chemical damage, leading to fading colors, stripping away of finishes, or degradation over time.
Mild cleaning products are ideal; natural, home-made ones are even better. Alternatively, follow the manufacturer’s instructions with cleaning products.
As long as you’re cleaning window blinds regularly, mild soap or a mixture of vinegar and water will do the trick.
You forget to clean the surrounding area.
Your to-do list covers cleaning the blinds for the day. You follow that list to the letter, so it’s understandable that you might forget to check if any debris might be left behind.
Dust and dirt may stick to the windowsill, the walls, and the floor. The debris ends up circulating, finding their way back to your window blinds.
You’re using the same cleaning method for all your window blinds.
Your home may have more than one type of material for blinds. For example, your home office might have the classic vertical blinds whereas your living room has wood blinds. To use the same cleaning method for both could damage one or the other.
You can’t use an overly damp cloth for wood blinds because excess moisture can allow mold to grow or warp the material. With wood, you might also want to use some furniture polish to repel dust (repel dust and you won’t have to clean the blinds as much).
To be certain about the cleaning method, follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Doing so also prevents you from voiding the warranty on the product.
Extending the Lifespan of Your Binds
Window blinds typically last five to 10 years, with the very best ones functioning beyond those years. Generally, made-to-measure blinds last longer since they’re not mass-produced and the craftsmanship guarantees longevity. High-quality, ready-made blinds also last long.
Other than choosing good quality products, what can extend the lifespan of this window treatment?
- Regular cleaning helps your window blinds last longer. When kept in pristine condition, clean blinds will save you money from the cost of replacements.
- Protect your blinds from sun damage. Exposure to UV light can warp the material, fade the color, and deteriorate it over time. An economical form of sun protection would be to add another layer of window treatment, like a curtain. This not only prevents sun damage, but the layered treatment also creates visual interest for your window.
- Handle it properly and use it. The mechanism of your blinds will be ruined if they’re opened and closed aggressively. Don’t pull heavily or force the slats to open or close because doing so could damage the blinds. When it comes to proper usage, try not to leave the blinds closed for too long. The slats may stick over time.
- Check for damage and repair immediately. Broken cords or slats not only look unsightly on your window, but they also worsen over time. You’ll end up replacing the blinds sooner than necessary.
Window blinds require less maintenance than most window treatments. But they still need some care and attention to ensure their functionality and maintain their look. With spot cleaning and regular dusting, you can avoid having to do heavy window treatment cleaning over the weekend.
FAQs
Blinds should be dusted weekly and deep cleaned every 1–3 months, depending on dust levels in your home.
Use a microfiber cloth or a mini blind duster and wipe from top to bottom with the slats fully extended.
Close the slats first to clean one side, then rotate them to clean the other side thoroughly.
No, harsh chemicals can damage finishes and materials; mild soap or a vinegar-water solution is safer.
Avoid excess moisture on wood blinds, as it can cause warping or mold growth—use a lightly damp cloth only.
Yes, using a vacuum with a brush attachment helps remove fallen dust and prevents it from resettling.
No, different materials like wood, vinyl, and aluminum require specific cleaning approaches.
Dust can settle from nearby surfaces like windowsills and floors if they aren’t cleaned at the same time.
Regular cleaning, gentle handling, and protection from UV exposure will extend their lifespan.
If the slats are warped, cords are broken, or the mechanism no longer works properly, it may be time for replacement.
