Faux wood blinds are beautiful and durable – and also a magnet for dust, grime, and sticky fingerprints. Discover the best way to keep them clean and maintain their quality without the use of harsh chemicals.
Why Should You Clean Faux Wood Blinds?
Here’s why these window hangings deserve a little more of your attention:
- Healthier Home Environment: Dust and allergens love to hide on those blinds, and with every tug or brush past, they float back into the air, potentially irritating sensitive noses (and kids’ little lungs). Keeping blinds clean means cleaner air for you and your family.
- Prevent Mold and Mildew: Blinds, especially in rooms with moisture like bathrooms and kitchens, can become breeding grounds for mold and mildew if not cleaned regularly. A quick wipe-down can prevent this gunk from taking hold on your blinds and keep your home safe and healthy.
- Extend Their Life: Regular cleaning keeps your blinds looking new and helps them last longer. Dust and grime can wear down surfaces over time, making those beautiful faux wood blinds look dingy and old far before their time.
- Boost Home Appeal: Clean blinds simply make your space feel fresher and brighter, enhancing the overall aesthetic of your home.
How to Deep Clean Faux Wood Blinds
What You’ll Need:
- A vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment
- A microfiber cloth
- Mild dish soap
- A bucket of warm water
- White vinegar
- An old toothbrush or small, soft-bristled brush
- Spray bottle
- Baking soda (for tougher stains)
Steps:
1. Dust First.
Close the blinds so they’re flat against the window, and use a vacuum with a brush attachment to remove loose dust and debris. Alternatively, you can use a microfiber cloth to wipe them down from top to bottom. Don’t forget to flip the blinds and repeat on the other side.
2. Mix Your Cleaning Solution.
Fill a bucket with warm water and add a few drops of mild dish soap. For an extra disinfecting boost, add a cup of white vinegar. Vinegar is a natural disinfectant that’s safe for faux wood and great at cleaning and cutting through grime.
3. Wipe Down the Blinds.
Dip your microfiber cloth into the solution, wring it out well (you want it damp, not soaking), and gently wipe each slat of the blinds. For sticky spots or stubborn grime on faux wood, you can use an old toothbrush or a small, soft-bristled brush. Remember to wipe both sides of the blinds and the edges where dust loves to hide.
4. Rinse and Dry.
Once you’ve cleaned all the faux wood slats, rinse your cloth in fresh water and wipe down the blinds again to remove any soap residue. Follow with a dry microfiber cloth to prevent water spots on the faux wood. Keeping them dry will also help prevent mold or mildew on yor blinds.
5. Tackle Stubborn Stains.
If you have some really stubborn stains on wood, sprinkle a little baking soda on a damp cloth and gently scrub the area on your blinds. Baking soda is a natural abrasive that works wonders without scratching the surface.
6. Mold and Mildew Removal.
For any mold or mildew (common in bathrooms or humid areas) on wood, make a paste of baking soda and water. Apply it to the affected area on the blinds, let it sit for about 15 minutes, then gently scrub it away with your toothbrush. Finish by wiping the area with your vinegar solution for added disinfecting power.
Pro Tips for Extra Shine and Easy Maintenance
- Dust Regularly: Make a habit of dry dusting your faux wood blinds weekly to keep the buildup at bay. A quick swipe with a microfiber cloth is all it takes for clean blinds.
- Use a Dryer Sheet: After cleaning faux wood, rub a dryer sheet along the slats. This reduces static and helps repel dust, keeping blinds cleaner for longer.
- Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Faux wood is durable, but harsh chemicals can damage the finish over time. Stick to mild cleaners or natural solutions like vinegar and baking soda.
Maintenance Tips to Keep Your Blinds Looking Great
- Keep Blinds Closed When Not in Use: This reduces dust buildup on faux wood and protects them from sunlight, which can cause fading over time.
- Clean Spills Immediately: If you notice a spill or stain on faux wood blinds, clean it as soon as possible to prevent it from setting.
- Regular Spot Checks: Every few weeks, take a moment to check for any stubborn spots or stains on your blinds and tackle them right away to avoid having to frequently deep clean.
What Not to Do
- Don’t Soak the Blinds: Faux wood blinds are water-resistant, not waterproof. Avoid soaking them in water, as this can damage the material or cause warping.
- Don’t Use Abrasive Scrubbers: Hard brushes or rough scrubbing pads can scratch the surface. Always opt for a soft cloth or brush.
- Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Bleach or ammonia-based cleaners can discolor and damage your blinds. Stick to mild, natural options.
