Wipe down mini blinds monthly by turning the slats downward facing you. Spray a lightweight terry towel with an all purpose cleaner. Start at the top and wipe over the surface. Reverse the slats then pull the blinds out and walk behind them. Repeat from the back. It only takes three or four minutes per blind so do a room every time you dust to keep ahead of the buildup.

 

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If miniblinds have reached the point of no return, grab a hammer and two good sized nails. Measure the blinds and hammer the nails into the back of your home or other inconspicuous area one foot less than the width of the blinds, and hang the blinds there. Turn the slats downwards. With a spray can of foaming tub and tile cleaner begin at the bottom spraying your way to the top. When the foam drips from the top, wipe with a wet sponge. Reverse the slats, flip the blinds over and repeat from the back. Dry and rehang.

Wood and Fabric Surfaces

Wood blinds are cleaned in the same manner except use one-fourth cup of white vinegar per quart of water. These blinds require regular maintenance to prevent buildup that deteriorates the sealant. Once the sealant deteriorates, the blinds loose their luster.

 

Fabric pleated shades do not tolerate cleaning chemicals or even water. Either will leave unsightly stains. If you vacuum your pleated shades be sure to wipe the bristles of the brush frequently. The dry sponges that are now available in many stores quickly pick up dust and dirt the vacuum overlooks. Wipe over the shades with the dry sponge. Wash dry sponges in sudsy water when soiled.

 

Problems come when bugs crawl across fabric shades leaving their droppings behind them. For these or any stains on the shades dampen a cotton swab with water. Then dip the swab into a small amount of liquid dish soap. Lightly dab on the stain then wait 30 minutes. Gently blot with a light dampened cloth.

 

A lint roller made for clothing, easily rolls over vertical blinds picking up dust and cobwebs along the way.

 

©2004 by Mary Findley.

 

 

About Mary Findley

Mary is a veteran cleaning expert with over 12 years experience. She has developed a full line of cleaning tools. Visit www.goclean.com or call (800) 345-3934 for more information.