Blinds and shutters make up some of the most common window dressings we have in our homes. They are relatively inexpensive but they are not impervious to getting dirty on occasion. What can you use to clean them?
Routine cleaning of the blinds and shutters involves wiping them down with a dust cloth and then using a solution of water with white vinegar to remove grime and cut through any oil. Cleaning them regularly helps to reduce how much grime builds up on them.
One of the issues that many people have when it comes to cleaning blinds is the fact that they are unsure of how to do so effectively. In all honesty, it doesn’t have to be difficult to clean blinds, you just need to do it the right way.
As a matter of fact, you will find that cleaning blinds and shutters is one of the easiest chores you will have around the home. Often, the blinds are cleaned from inside of the home with the simplest of methods and the shutters can be cleaned, either deep cleaned or regularly cleaned to keep them looking new.
Throughout this article, we will discuss some of the factors associated with cleaning blinds and shutters. You will find that it is not all that difficult, once you know how to do it.
What Can You Use To Clean Shutters/Blinds?
One important factor for cleaning blinds and shutters is to make sure that you are using the proper cleaning methods. This is going to differ, depending upon the type of blind or shutter you are dealing with.
For example, if you have plastic blinds or shutters, they are usually impervious to damage from most types of cleaning solutions. You can use something simple, such as vinegar or Dawn dishwashing liquid in water or you can try something heavy-duty, including a bleach rinse.
The same can’t be said, however, for other types of blinds that may be made of wood. Although they can be handled and cleaned regularly, you need to read the manufacturer’s instructions to find out exactly how to clean them so you don’t damage them in the process.
Perhaps the most important factor for cleaning your blinds and shutters is to clean them on a regular basis. You may still need to do a deep cleaning on occasion, but dusting them regularly will help to reduce how much deep cleaning is needed.
One other thing to keep in mind is your personal safety. Most people don’t give this too much thought, especially when it comes to routine cleaning around the home.
The thing is, you will probably have to get up on a ladder in order to reach the higher part of the blind or shutter. Make sure that you use a ladder because it can be disastrous if you try to stand on a chair or other object.
We understand that it takes additional time to have a ladder but it is an important part of the process. In addition, you should always check the acceptable weight load of the ladder and never overreach, because that can put you in danger as well.
Other safety factors can include wearing gloves, a facemask, or safety glasses. Some people consider these to be overkill but in some instances, you will find that it can save your life and senses as you pay attention to your health while doing the cleaning.
This article and its contents are owned by Wabi Sabi Group and was first published on 08/07/2022.
How To Clean Greasy Blinds/Shutters
Sometimes, you may find that your blinds and shutters have become greasy. This can make them difficult to clean, but it is still possible to do so when you follow the right method.
The most important factor for cleaning greasy blinds and shutters is to choose the proper cleaning method. This will differ, depending upon the type of grease, how much grease is on the blinds, and even the material that is used to make the blinds. In many cases, using a neutral cleaner, such as vinegar or Dawn dishwashing liquid will get the job done.
The following steps should be applied when cleaning greasy blinds and shutters:
1. Dusting – One of the most important factors for cleaning greasy blinds is to remove as much dust as possible before you start deep cleaning. If you start cleaning the grease before you remove the dust, you are simply going to grind the dust into the surface.
If you can move the blind to an outside area, you can use a hair dryer or some canned air to blast the dust off of the slats. I wouldn’t recommend doing this inside. If you do it inside, you can use a Swiffer cloth because it attracts dust nicely.
2. Brush – The next step in the process is to remove as much dirt that is trapped under the grease as you possibly can. If you are cleaning wooden or hard plastic blinds, you can use a stiff-bristled brush for this purpose. Otherwise, you should use a soft bristle brush to keep from damaging the blinds.
In most cases, you will be able to dry brush the majority of any trapped dust but there may also be times when a little water will do the job. You can even use a cleaning solution during this time to add an extra step to the degreasing.
3. Wash – The final step in the process is to wash the blinds with a mixture of Dawn dishwashing liquid and water. Some people also like using vinegar and water, but the dishwashing liquid will cut through the grease easier.
You need to set aside enough time to clean the blinds thoroughly. Start at the top and work your way down. As you clean the blinds, you can keep a bucket with some plain water to rinse them.
As far as the cloth you are using is concerned, this can be a sponge or a microfiber cloth. Both of them will work nicely and will be soft enough that they will not damage the surface of the blind.
4. Dry – The final step in the process is to allow the blind to dry. If you have the blind outside, you can hang it on a clothesline and let it air dry. If it is inside, put a towel under the blind in case it drips.
After removing the grease from your blinds, you will want to clean them on a regular basis. Cleaning them regularly will save you time and frustration, as they won’t have that build-up again.
How To Clean Dusty Blinds/Shutters
I think all of us have experienced the moment when we walk over to our blinds and shutters and recognize that they have accumulated a lot of dust. Since they are not often included in our weekly cleaning process, there may be times when you need to do an extra dusting.
The easiest way to clean dusty blinds and shutters is to use canned air. As long as the dust is dry, you can blast it with a shot of canned air and clean the blind right down to the surface. It is best if you do this outside so that you don’t scatter dust throughout the home because it will settle on other surfaces.
If you don’t have any canned air available, you can use a hairdryer
Let’s consider the steps necessary for cleaning dusty blinds and shutters. You will be surprised by how easy it is to do:
1. Remove the Blinds – One important step in the process is to remove the blinds and take them outside. Doing so will make the process much easier because you don’t have to worry about scattering dust throughout the home.
2. Dust Removal – The process of dust removal can be done in numerous ways. Here are a few to consider that are beneficial for both blinds and shutters:
Canned Air – As we said, using canned air is an excellent way to blow the dust off of blinds and shutters. If you get close to the surface, you can remove almost all of the dust with a single pass.
Feather Duster – Believe it or not, a feather duster is ideally made for cleaning blinds and shutters. Keep in mind, that there are quality feather dusters and cheap feather dusters, and it will make a difference in how the blinds and shutters book when you are finished.
Sock – Have you ever played with sock puppets? You can use the ‘mouth’ of a sock puppet to dust both the top and the bottom of the blind easily. It’s also excellent for cleaning shutters.
Microfiber – If you want to use something that attracts dust while you are cleaning, you can use a microfiber cloth. The higher quality of the cloth, the better the job.
Tack Cloth – Although this type of cloth is usually reserved for construction dust cleanup, it can also do an excellent job of dusting your blinds and shutters.
After you dust the blinds or shutters, it’s just a matter of putting them back in place. Unless they’ve built up grease or grime, you can just dust them on a routine basis and be happy with the process.
Can You Clean Blinds/Shutters With Vinegar?
Vinegar is a cleaning solution that is preferred by many homeowners. Is it also something that can be used for cleaning blinds and shutters?
You can use white vinegar in water to remove grease and dirt from both blinds and shutters. Simply mix up your solution, wipe with a soft cloth and allow the vinegar to do most of the work for you.
You can also use other types of vinegar, including apple cider vinegar. White vinegar is generally preferred because it is more acidic.
Can You Clean Blinds/Shutters With Dish Soap (Dawn)?
Dawn dishwashing liquid is a powerhouse cleaner but can it be used for blinds and shutters?
Adding a few drops of Dawn dishwashing soap in a bucket of warm water makes a very effective cleaning solution for both blinds and shutters. You can wipe it on using a soft cloth, sponge, or even a sock and allow Dawn to cut through the grease and grime.
Make sure that you dust the blinds before using a wet solution. It will help to make the job easier.
Can You Clean Blinds/Shutters With Bleach?
Bleach is a very powerful cleaner so is it appropriate for cleaning blinds and shutters?
If you are cleaning aluminum or plastic blinds you can dunk them in a bathtub full of water with a few cups of liquid bleach. Leave them in the solution for a few minutes but not too long, because it can wear on the strings.
Generally speaking, you would not use bleach unless the level of grease on the blinds and shutters was extreme. You can accomplish something similar with vinegar or Dawn dishwashing liquid.
Can You Clean Blinds/Shutters With Pressure Washer?
Pressure washers are often used for cleaning purposes because they are quick and effective. Will your blinds and shutters stand up to the pressure?
Shutters are often cleaned with pressure washers because they can easily be cleaned from ground level. You can also clean your blinds with a pressure washer if you take them outside first. Hang them on a clothesline or over a railing and let the pressure do the work for you.
Although you can use a pressure washer for cleaning blinds and shutters, be cautious that you don’t use too much pressure or it could damage them.
Can You Clean Blinds/Shutters With Swiffer/Febreze Dusters?
Swiffer and Febreze dusters are used for cleaning a variety of items around the home. Can you include blinds and shutters in the mix?
Since Swiffers and Febreze dusters are made for collecting and attracting dust, you can use them for cleaning both blinds and shutters. It’s an excellent choice because you can often do in a single pass what might take multiple passes with another type of cleaning product.
Can You Clean Shutters With Armor All?
You can use ArmorAll to clean your shutters and make them look brand-new again. It’s a great way to bring the shine back to your old shutters so that you don’t have to paint them.
Can You Clean Blinds With Steam Cleaner?
If you want to cut down on the cleaning process, can you clean your blinds with a steam cleaner?
You can use a steam cleaner to remove dirt and grease from the blinds in your home. Take them outside, hang them over a railing or your clothesline and let the steam do the work for you.
This should only be done in extreme instances where grease and grime have built up on the surface of the blinds. Using a steam cleaner too often can affect the strings.
This article and its contents are owned by Wabi Sabi Group and was first published on 08/07/2022.
Can You Clean Blinds With Dryer Sheets/Fabric Softener?
Dryer sheets are used for some unusual items around the home. Can they be used for cleaning blinds?
Dryer sheets attract dust so they make an excellent choice for dusting your blinds. To make the process easier, you can fold the sheet and use a pair of tongs to clean both the top and the bottom of the slat at the same time.
Make sure that you check the dryer sheet frequently and either flip it or discard it as needed.
Can You Clean Blinds With Alcohol?
Rubbing alcohol is often considered to be a good cleaner. Should you consider using it for cleaning your blinds?
You can clean your blinds with straight rubbing alcohol. Put the rubbing alcohol in a spray bottle and lightly mist the blinds before wiping them down. It may take a few passes, but it will do a great job at cutting through the grease and grime.
Can You Clean Blinds With Vacuum/Dyson?
You may have seen people use vacuum cleaners for cleaning high areas of the home. Should you also consider doing so with your blinds?
Any type of vacuum cleaner, including a Dyson, will clean blinds effectively in place. The real key to the process is to use the soft-bristled attachment so that you are both dusting and vacuuming at the same time.
The key to success when using a vacuum for cleaning blinds is to work from the top down. You should also regularly check the attachment and clean it as needed.
Can You Clean Blinds With Tongs?
If you have some tongs in the kitchen can you use them for cleaning blinds?
Tongs make an excellent addition to your cleaning toolbox because they can be used for cleaning blinds effectively. Fold a small rag and use the tongues to clean both the bottom and top of the slat at the same time.
Make sure that you check the cloth regularly and change it as needed.
Can You Clean Blinds With Baking Soda?
More than likely, you have some baking soda in your refrigerator. Should you use it for cleaning your blinds?
For extremely greasy and grimy blinds, you can use a paste made from baking soda and a little white vinegar. The abrasive nature of the baking soda will cut through the grime and clean it effectively. You will have to rinse the blinds after cleaning.
This content is owned by Wabi Sabi Group and was first published on Aug 7, 2022..
Can You Clean Blinds With Magic Eraser?
A Magic Eraser is an excellent tool that can clean blinds effectively. Dampen the Magic Eraser with some water first and then gently scrub the surface to get it as clean as new.
Be cautious when scrubbing because Magic Erasers are lightly abrasive. It can work to your advantage but if you scrub too hard, it can damage the blinds.
Can You Clean Blinds With Ammonia?
Ammonia is a powerful cleaner but is it too powerful for cleaning blinds?
Mix a 50/50 solution of warm water and ammonia for cleaning blinds. Dust the blinds first and then use the cleaning solution to cut through the grease and effectively remove it.
If you are using ammonia, be cautious not to mix it with any other type of cleaning solution.
Can You Clean Blinds With Borax?
Borax is an excellent cleaner that can be used on vinyl, plastic, and even wooden blinds. Mix it with water and then scrub the surface with a soft cloth or sponge.
Can You Clean Blinds With Hydrogen Peroxide?
Hydrogen peroxide will effectively clean blinds and will sterilize them at the same time. The easiest way to use hydrogen peroxide is to put it in a spray bottle and lightly mist the blinds before wiping them down with a soft cloth or sponge.
This article and its contents are owned by Wabi Sabi Group and was first published on 08/07/2022.
Can You Clean Blinds With Mop?
You can use a mop to clean blinds but it is not recommended unless you can take the blinds outside. You can use a dust mop to clean them from the top down or a wet mop for general cleaning. Don’t do this too often or you can damage the blinds.
Can You Clean Blinds With Socks?
Socks make an excellent choice for cleaning blinds because they are easy to control and you can clean both the top and bottom of the slat at the same time. Simply make a sock puppet and put the slide in its mouth before wiping it down.
Can You Clean Blinds With Microfiber?
Microfiber cloths are an excellent choice for cleaning blinds. They attract dust, so you can often remove the dust in a single pass rather than in multiple passes. You can also dampen the microfiber cloth for a more thorough cleaning.
Can You Clean Blinds With Oven Cleaner?
If your blinds are extremely greasy, you can clean them with an oven cleaner. Take them outside and spray the oven cleaner directly on the blinds, allowing some time for it to do its work. You should then rinse the oven cleaner off of the blinds thoroughly.
Can You Clean Blinds With Norwex?
Norwex makes high-quality microfiber cloths that can be used for cleaning blinds effectively. They also have a range of sustainable cleaning products that can be used for different purposes, including cleaning blinds.
Can You Clean Blinds With Oxiclean?
Oxiclean is excellent for cleaning everything around the home because it cleans, deodorizes, and sanitizes. If your blinds are in need of deep cleaning, you can use Oxiclean to get the job done.
Can You Clean Blinds With Simple Green?
A mixture of 50% water and 50% simple green is an excellent way to clean blinds that need some deep cleaning. The all-purpose cleaner will cut through grease and grime and you can simply rinse it away with some clean water.
This article was first published on Aug 7, 2022 by Wabi Sabi Group..
You can use a mild cleaner, such as vinegar or Dawn dishwashing liquid to clean both blinds and shutters. Apply the liquid using a soft cloth or sponge and then wipe it down. You may also need to rinse, depending upon the type of cleaning solution you use.
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WabiSabi Group is the owner of this article and was published on Aug 7, 2022 and last modified on .