When it comes to household cleaning, figuring out how to clean blinds effectively can be a bit of a puzzle. 

With multiple slats and hard-to-reach areas that can accumulate dust and grime, blinds are one of the more challenging items to keep clean in your home. But don’t worry—with the right techniques and tools, you can turn this tedious task into a manageable part of your cleaning routine. 

In this guide, we'll explore a few methods suited for different types of blinds, from the quick and easy to more thorough cleaning strategies. 

Whether you have wood, vinyl, aluminum, or fabric blinds, we've got you covered with practical and efficient cleaning solutions for each.

The Best Way to Clean Blinds

For a comprehensive clean, especially for blinds made of vinyl or aluminum, start with vacuuming using a brush attachment. This step removes surface dust. 

Follow up by wiping the blinds with a suitable cleaning solution, like vinegar or dish soap and water, to tackle tougher grime. This two-step method ensures a thorough clean and leaves your blinds looking refreshed. 

The Quickest and Easiest Way

If you have a busy schedule, regular vacuuming is the quickest and easiest method to keep your blinds clean without having to dedicate extra time or steps. 

Simply turn the blinds up, vacuum from top to bottom, then turn them down and repeat. This method should be done as part of your weekly maintenance routine.

Cleaning Without Removal

Cleaning blinds while they're still hanging is possible if you’re short on time.

Simply use a microfiber cloth or a duster to gently wipe each slat. This method is great for when you need to spruce up your blinds quickly but don’t have time to remove them. 

Using Dawn to Clean Blinds

A diluted solution of Dawn dish soap is excellent for cutting through kitchen grease and tackling dirt on blinds. 

Mix a small amount of Dawn with water for a gentle yet effective cleaning solution. This method is particularly useful for blinds in your kitchen, where grease buildup is common.

Cleaning Material Blinds

Fabric blinds require a gentler approach than some other materials. Start with gentle vacuuming to remove dust. 

For spot cleaning, use a mild detergent, but avoid harsh chemicals and excessive water, which can damage the fabric. For a deeper clean, consider professional dry cleaning or follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

The Sock Wipe Method

The sock wipe method is most effective for vinyl and aluminum blinds and can be used alone or after vacuuming. 

Mix warm water with white vinegar and dish soap. Wear gloves, cover your hand with an old sock, dip it in the solution, and wipe each slat from top to bottom. Depending on how dirty the blinds are, you might want to switch out the sock and cleaning solution a few times. 

Allow the blinds to thoroughly air dry after cleaning. Once dry, wipe blinds with a dryer sheet to eliminate static and prevent dust buildup.

The sock method works best as a twice a month cleaning routine and usually in conjunction with vacuuming. 

The Bathtub Method

Ideal for deep cleaning or very dirty vinyl and aluminum blinds, this method involves removing the blinds and laying them flat in a bathtub filled with warm water, dish soap, and vinegar. 

After soaking, rinse and gently shake off excess water. Hang them to dry either in the shower or back in the window. Remember: never soak wood blinds as this can cause them to warp.

The bathtub method works best as part of a seasonal cleaning routine, or for blinds that are extremely dirty. The water also keeps the dust from the blinds from getting into the air. Bonus: you can easily clean your windows while the blinds are soaking.

Special Care for Wood Blinds

For wood blinds, a dry microfiber cloth is best for weekly cleaning. Avoid using water or liquid cleaners. To prevent dust buildup, follow up your cleaning with a dryer sheet.

Professional Blind Cleaning Services

If cleaning blinds seems overwhelming, opting for professional cleaning services like COIT's Blind and Drapery Cleaning is a great alternative. 

Professional cleaners bring expertise, efficiency, and convenience, ensuring that your blinds are thoroughly cleaned without any hassle on your part. This choice can be particularly beneficial for intricate or delicate blinds that require specialized care.

Learn more about COIT’s Blind and Drapery Cleaning. Looking for more cleaning and home organization tips?  Check out the COIT Blog.