Cleaning fabric blinds regularly is important to keep them looking fresh and extend their lifespan. Dust, dirt, and grime can build up on fabric blinds over time, making them appear dull and dirty. Follow these tips to properly clean fabric blinds and keep them in great condition.

Assess the Current Condition of the Blinds

Before cleaning, inspect the blinds closely and note any stains, wear and tear, or other issues. This will help determine the best cleaning method to use.

Look for discoloration, fading, or yellowing which may indicate sun damage or aging of the fabric. This can be difficult to remove.
Check for stains like grease, food, dirt, or mud which require spot cleaning.
Examine the edges and bottoms which tend to collect more dust and dirt over time.
Note any fraying, holes, rips, loose threads, or other damage. This may limit cleaning options if the structural integrity is compromised.
Determine if a deeper cleaning is needed or just a light surface dusting based on how dirty they are. Blinds that are cleaned more regularly will need less intensive cleaning.

Vacuum Both Sides of the Blinds

Start by using a handheld vacuum with a brush attachment to remove loose dust and dirt from both sides of the blinds. Don’t use a brush roll attachment as it can snag or pull the fabric.

Vacuum downward in sections from top to bottom and then repeat going upward to get all dust and particles off the slats.
Use your free hand to hold each slat steady as you vacuum so the force doesn’t bend or misalign them.
Vacuum slowly and methodically to get in between each slat. Make sure both the front and back sides are cleaned.
For vinyl or plastic blinds, only vacuum the front facing slats to avoid scraping the back side.
Check cord loops and ladder tapes for dirt buildup and vacuum as needed.

Thorough vacuuming is often enough to freshen up fabric blinds that aren’t too soiled. For deeper cleaning, you’ll need to use water and mild soap.

Wash Lightly Soiled Blinds in the Bathtub

For fabric blinds that require more than just a vacuuming, the bathtub is a good place to gently wash them.

Fill the tub with lukewarm water and add a small amount of mild laundry detergent, dish soap, or baby shampoo – about 1-2 tablespoons per gallon of water. Don’t use harsh cleaners.
Carefully place the blinds in the tub one at a time to soak and loosen dirt. Use your hands to gently swish them around.
Allow them to soak for 15-20 minutes then drain the dirty water and refill with clean water for rinsing.
Rinse well by moving the blinds around to remove all soap residue which can leave spots or stains if left on the fabric.
Drain the tub and press down on the blinds or place a towel over them to soak up excess moisture. Don’t wring, twist, or scrub.
Hang the blinds on towel racks or shower curtain rods to fully air dry before rehanging. Ensure they are completely dry so no mold develops.

This soft washing method is ideal for lightly soiled delicate fabrics. For sturdier fabrics or more heavily soiled blinds, you may need a deeper scrubbing.

Scrub Heavily Soiled Blinds by Hand

Blinds that are quite dirty or stained may require hand scrubbing for deeper cleaning. Make sure the fabric can withstand vigorous scrubbing before using this method.

Fill a bathtub, large sink, or bin with lukewarm water and add a mild detergent. Use about 2-3 tablespoons per gallon of water.
Immerse the entire blind and soak for 15-20 minutes to loosen dirt and stains.
Remove from the water and gently scrub both sides of each slat using a soft cloth or scrub brush. Apply light pressure and use circular motions.
Avoid harshly bending or creasing the slats which can damage the fabric. Scrub vertically along the slats.
For tough stains, spot clean first with a damp cloth and diluted detergent or use a stain remover suitable for the fabric.
Rinse thoroughly after scrubbing to remove all soap then press or pat dry. Don’t wring or twist.
Hang to fully air dry before rehanging. Check that they are completely dry so no mildew forms.

Repeat the scrubbing process for extremely dirty blinds but allow longer soaking time. Avoid using abrasive brushes or cleaners which may damage delicate fabrics.

Clean Dust-Repellent Blinds with Care

Dust-repellent blinds require gentler cleaning to avoid removing the protective coating. Check the manufacturer’s instructions first.

Vacuum lightly using a soft brush attachment. Don’t rub vigorously.
Use a dilute soap solution for washing – 1/4 the amount recommended for normal blinds.
Spot clean stains gently with minimal moisture and avoid heavy scrubbing.
Rinse and dry thoroughly to avoid leaving any soap residue which can ruin the coating.
Reapply dust-repellent treatment after washing if needed, following product directions.

Take extra care not to damage the dust-repellent layer. Harsher cleaning can strip away the coating, reducing the blinds’ effectiveness.

Remove Grease or Oil Stains

Grease and oil stains require a pre-treatment to penetrate and break down the oily residue before washing.

Apply a small amount of diluted dish soap, laundry detergent, or degreasing cleaner to the stain.
Gently rub it in using your fingers or a soft toothbrush. Don’t roughly scrub.
Allow it to soak for 10-15 minutes to start lifting the grease.
Rinse the area with clean water then launder as usual, hand washing is best for precision cleaning.
Repeat as needed for tough grease or oil spots. Harsh scrubbing can damage delicate fabrics.
If a stain persists after washing, try spot cleaning with vinegar or lemon juice prior to washing. The acid helps cut grease.
Avoid using harsh solvents like nail polish remover which may discolor fabrics.

With the right pre-treatment and gentle scrubbing, greasy stains on fabric blinds should come out successfully.

Remove Mold and Mildew

If moisture gets trapped in blinds, mold and mildew can develop. Take care of it right away to prevent permanent damage.

Mix 1 cup bleach into 1 gallon of water. Use full strength for heavier mold. Vinegar or tea tree oil also help kill mold.
Dip a sponge into the solution and gently scrub affected areas of the blinds. Don’t saturate the fabric.
Rinse with clear water, press dry with a towel and hang to fully air dry before rehanging. Dryness discourages further mold growth.
For minor mildew spots, try spot cleaning with undiluted bleach followed by rinsing.
Wear gloves and work in a well-ventilated area when using bleach. Never mix bleach with vinegar, ammonia or other cleaners.

Removing the affected blinds immediately and treating the mold prevents it from spreading. For severe mold or recurring problems, the blinds may need replacing.

Freshen Blinds With Fabric Refresher Spray

For a quick freshening between deeper cleanings, use an unscented fabric refresher spray.

Vacuum the blinds first to remove loose dirt and dust.
Apply a light mist of fabric refresher to both sides of the slats from top to bottom. Don’t saturate the fabric.
Gently wipe with a clean cloth to remove any residue.
A light citrus or linen scented spray can help impart a clean scent. Avoid heavy floral or fruity fragrances.
Let the blinds fully air dry before rehanging to prevent streaks or stains.

Spot test first in an inconspicuous area as some products may discolor fabrics. Freshening sprays help reduce dust and perk up the look of blinds between washes.

Clean Wood Blinds Separately

Wood blinds should be cleaned separately from fabric blinds to prevent damage.

Dust frequently with a microfiber duster or soft brush attachment on the vacuum.
Wipe down occasionally with a wood cleaner and soft lint-free cloth. Use minimal moisture.
For deeper cleaning, remove and immerse in a tub with warm water and mild detergent. Rinse and dry well.
Avoid soaking or scrubbing the wood slats which can cause swelling and warping.

Take care not to wet wood blinds excessively. Clean them separately from fabric blinds for best results.

Common Cleaning Mistakes to Avoid

When cleaning fabric blinds, take care to avoid these common mistakes:

Don’t scrub roughly or wring the blinds when wet – this can damage delicate fabrics. Handle with care.
Avoid using steamers which can shrink fabrics and damage blinds permanently.
Don’t apply cleaning solution directly to blinds. Always pre-mix detergent in water first before immersing.
Don’t mix chemical cleaners together – toxic fumes can result. Rinse completely between solutions.
Don’t rehang blinds before they are completely dry. This encourages mold growth.
Don’t let blinds drag on the floor when wet – dirty water can stain them. Keep them supported.
Don’t place in direct sunlight to dry – this can fade colored fabrics. Dry indoors or in shade.
Don’t use bleach, alcohol or harsh chemicals on silk, wool, or delicate fabrics. Always check care labels first.

Being mindful when handling wet blinds will help prevent damage during cleaning. Always test cleaning products in an inconspicuous spot first.

How to Rehang Cleaned Blinds

Once blinds are fully dry after cleaning, they are ready to be rehung on the windows.

Check that the window and window frame are totally dry before reinstalling blinds. Use a towel or fan to remove moisture if needed.
Refer to the installation guide or original hardware for proper placement. Most use simple brackets at top and bottom.
Hold the blind up to the window and attach one side using provided screws, rings or clips.
Pull the opposite side taut across the window and attach the other side securely. The blind should be flat and wrinkle-free.
For blinds with cord loops, drape cords over cleats or tiebacks. Ensure cords do not create hazards, especially with children or pets.
Operate the blinds fully to ensure they slide smoothly. Adjust brackets or tension as needed.
Vacuum once more over the surface when rehung to pick up any remaining dust or lint.

Reinstalling crisp, clean blinds can give your whole room a fresh, new feel! Follow proper cleaning procedures to keep blinds looking their best.

Storing Fabric Blinds When Not in Use

If storing blinds for a period of time, a few simple steps will keep them protected.

Clean the blinds thoroughly before storing so no dust or dirt remains. Allow to fully dry.
Carefully place in a plastic bin or garment bag with soft lining to prevent creasing or tearing.
Roll up blinds loosely rather than folding. Avoid sharp creases which can crack the slats.
Store flat and evenly supported to prevent sagging and misshaping. Don’t hang or pile.
Keep in a cool, dry place away from windows and moisture. Avoid attics or basements prone to extremes.
Check on the blinds periodically if storing long term. Refold or air out if needed.

Proper storage will keep fabric blinds looking their best until ready to use again. Handle with care and they’ll last multiple seasons. Keep slats properly aligned when rolling or stacking.

When to Consider Replacing Fabric Blinds

With regular cleaning and care, high quality fabric blinds can last many years. However, there are some signs it may be time to replace blinds entirely:

Fabric has become excessively worn, frayed, or developed holes.
Discoloration or fading cannot be remedied with cleaning.
Slats are bent, cracked, or broken and cannot be repaired.
Blinds no longer raise and lower evenly and smoothly.
Cord loops are broken or frayed creating safety hazards.
Fabric has shrunk or warped excessively making them unusable.
Sun damage or mold/mildew stains cannot be removed.
Manufacturer no longer makes the same blinds for easy replacement.
You desire an updated style or different type of window treatment.

Assess the condition after thorough cleaning. If blinds are still suitable for continued use, keep protecting the fabric and hardware. Know when it’s time to replace blinds that are too damaged or worn.

Conclusion

Regular cleaning is essential for keeping fabric blinds looking fresh and extending their lifespan. Use a gentle touch when handling delicate fabrics. Vacuum frequently and wash occasionally using only mild detergent. Allow blinds to fully air dry before rehanging. Treat stains promptly and be careful to avoid common cleaning mistakes. With some periodic maintenance and care, quality fabric blinds can grace your windows for years to come. Keeping them clean will help maintain an attractive space.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cleaning Fabric Blinds

Proper cleaning is important for fabric blinds. Here are some common questions about the best techniques:

Should fabric blinds be vacuumed or dry cleaned?

Vacuuming is recommended over dry cleaning for most fabric blinds. The brush attachment on a handheld vacuum will effectively remove dust and surface dirt without the harsh chemicals used in dry cleaning. Reserve dry cleaning for silk, wool, or specialty blinds that must be professionally cleaned.

How often should I clean fabric blinds?

Lightly vacuum fabric blinds every 2-3 months. For high traffic areas or very dusty environments, vacuum monthly. Do a thorough top to bottom hand wash every 6-12 months depending on how soiled the blinds become. Also wash immediately if stained or soiled to prevent set in marks.

What is the best way to clean dusty blinds?

Vacuuming is the best first step to clean dust from fabric blinds. Use a handheld vacuum with a soft brush attachment and slowly go up and down each slat to remove embedded dust and dirt from both sides. Vacuum cords and ladder tapes also.

How do you clean fabric blind slats?

To clean slats, fill a bathtub with lukewarm water and add a small amount of mild laundry detergent. Soak the blinds for 15-20 minutes then drain the dirty water. Rinse well by gently moving the blinds in clean water. Press with towels then hang until fully dry before rehanging.

What is the easiest way to clean fabric blinds?

The easiest method is to regularly vacuum fabric blinds with a soft brush attachment every few months. This maintains blinds well between occasional washing. To freshen up blinds, you can also use an unscented fabric refresher spray and gently wipe down the slats.

What household products clean fabric blinds?

A mild laundry detergent or dish soap work well for hand washing fabric blinds. Use about 1-2 tablespoons per gallon of lukewarm water. Avoid harsh cleaners. For spot removal, try a diluted detergent, vinegar, or lemon juice on stains before washing.

How do you deep clean fabric blinds?

To deep clean heavily soiled blinds, fill a tub with warm water and mild detergent. Soak the entire blind for 15 minutes then scrub both sides of each slat with a soft cloth. Rinse thoroughly and press dry with towels. Hang and allow to fully air dry before rehanging. Repeat if necessary for extremely dirty blinds.

How to Properly Clean Fabric Blinds

Keeping fabric window blinds clean is an important part of home maintenance. Here are some top tips for properly cleaning fabric blinds of all types to maintain their appearance and function.

Gather Necessary Cleaning Supplies

Having the right cleaning supplies on hand will make the job much easier. Here are some must-have items:

Handheld vacuum with brush attachment – for dust and dirt removal
Soft cleaning cloths and scrub brushes – for washing slats
Mild liquid detergent – look for one labeled suitable for delicate fabrics
Rubber gloves – for protecting hands from cleaning solutions
Spray bottle or bucket – for rinsing with water
Old towels – for drying and absorbing moisture

Avoid harsh chemicals or cleaners not intended for delicate fabrics. Check blinds for any specialty washing requirements beforehand.

Prepare Workspace for Cleaning

Make sure you have ample space to clean the blinds properly.

Clear an area in the bathtub or use a large sink, plastic bins or buckets big enough to lay slats flat.
For smaller blinds, set up a table or counter space with towels.
Fill sink or bin with cool water and add mild detergent – about 1-2 tablespoons per gallon of water.

Having an organized workspace set up ahead of time will make the process smooth and efficient.

Vacuum Both Sides of Blinds

Vacuum first before washing for optimal results.

Use handheld vacuum on low suction with brush attachment to remove surface dust and debris.
Vacuum top to bottom on one side, then flip and do the other side.
Carefully open slats fully and vacuum in between, lifting gently as you go.
Don’t bend or press too hard. Let the brush do the work.

Thorough vacuuming clears away loose dirt so washing can focus on deeper stains and buildup.

Soak Blinds in Detergent Solution

Soaking helps loosen stubborn dirt and stains before scrubbing.

Immerse entire blinds in the water and detergent solution.