Cleaning Blinds

TIPical Mary Ellen : Episode TIP-710 -- More Projects »
Click here to view a larger image.

Make sure the slats are closed when cleaning blinds.

TIPical Mary Ellen host Mary Ellen Pinkham gives a homeowner some useful tips for cleaning window blinds.
  • Be sure to close the slats before dusting.

  • Dust blinds weekly with a lamb's wool duster to prevent greasy buildup. Lamb's wool is a magnet for dust.

  • A paintbrush will also work for dusting blinds.

  • To prevent a mess, place a thick layer of towels below the window, or place the blinds in a bathtub when cleaning them.

  • Spray the blinds with an all-purpose cleaner that removes grease, such as a kitchen cleaner. Spray well and let sit for a couple of minutes. Use a soft cloth to wipe off the cleaner, rinsing the cloth often.

  • Flip the blinds over and repeat the process on the other side. Use a brush with soft bristles for those hard-to-clean spots.

  • To rinse, lay another clean towel down on the floor and wipe the blinds down with clean water and towels.

  • To dry, hang the blinds over a ladder. Use a wet vac with the blower end or a hair dryer.