How to Clean Your Miniblinds

Most people have at least one set of mini-blinds in their home to help keep the hot sun out. Since these window coverings are usually in front of open windows or above heating and air ducts they can become very dirty. Cleaning your mini-blinds can be done quickly and the more often you do it the less time it will take.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Ladder or step stool
• Bathtub with enough hot water to cover the blinds
• Detergent such as laundry or dish
• Small sponge
• Small scrub brush
• Towels

1. Remove the blinds from the window by sliding the retaining pieces out of the brackets. You will usually need a step stool or a ladder to reach the retaining pieces.

2. Fill your bath with hot water and enough detergent to make some bubbles. Remember that you want enough water to cover the blinds by at least an inch or two.

3. Open the blinds so that the individual sections are completely flat and you can see through them. This will allow you to be able to get between each row.

4. Extend the blinds to their full length. Even though you may not need the full length to cover the window it's best to get as much dirt out as possible.

5. Place the entire mini-blind in the bath full of water and allow it to soak until the water becomes luke-warn. Just this soaking will remove some of the dirt and make it easier to remove excess dirt.

6. Clean each section of the mini-blind using the scrub brush and the sponge. Be sure to clean both the top and bottom of each section

7. Drain the water from the bath and use a shower attachment to remove any excess dirt and soap from the blind. If you do not have a shower attachment try to shake off as much water before removing the blind from the bath.

8. Lay several towel out on the floor and allow the blind to dry for several hours before rehanging it on your window.

Tips & Warnings

• When cleaning the blind try to avoid getting the string knotted and wrapped around the individual sections.
• When allowing the blind to dry on the towels make sure that each section is turned the proper way and that sections are not stuck together.
• If the blinds are not overly dirty you can spray with a cleaner and wipe. This is a great part of your weekly cleaning ritual. However, this method should be used for blinds that do not get cleaned frequently and as part of your yearly spring cleaning ritual.
• Always be careful when using a ladder or a step stool. If you aren't comfortable standing on either of these ask a friend or family member to help you.