How to Clean Venetian Blinds | Easy Cleaning Guide for Every Type of Venetian

Fitting seamlessly into both modern and traditional aesthetics, Venetian blinds are the perfect addition to any home. Plus, they allow you to control the amount of natural light you let in, as well as adding some additional privacy. In short, this window dressing is both practical and pretty.

Whether you’ve installed stunning faux wood Venetian blinds in your kitchen or added a neutral number to your living space, keeping your blinds looking their best is simple. We’ve put together a few simple tips so you can help your window dressing stand the test of time. Keeping them clean doesn’t have to be difficult. With the right tools and a simple routine, your Venetian blinds can look like new for years to come.

How to Clean Venetian Blinds (Step-by-Step)
 

1. Dusting

Close your blinds and use a feather duster or microfibre cloth to remove surface dust. Work from top to bottom, gently brushing across the slats. Feather dusters are ideal for slotting through the slats and getting right to the back of each panel. Plus, you only need to brush lightly for them to pick up any specks of dust, so you won’t run the risk of scratching or damaging them. Don’t forget to brush down any cobwebs and clean around the surrounding woodwork too.

2. Wipe with a Damp Cloth

For more stubborn dirt or fingerprints, use a slightly damp cloth and gently wipe along each slat. Avoid soaking — too much water can cause damage, especially for wooden blinds.If you have real wood blinds, stay away from using water or a damp cloth as this could cause your blinds to warp. Stick to a dry duster.

3. Vacuuming

A quick way to smarten up your Venetian blinds is to attach the soft brush to the hose of your vacuum cleaner. Glide over the slats and the fittings, lifting dust and dirt from the harder-to-reach places. Try not to press too hard when you’re cleaning to avoid scratching them. Remember to run the vacuum over the window sill afterwards to collect any dust which has fallen from your blinds. 

4. Finishing Touches

For faux wood or aluminium blinds, apply a small amount of furniture polish to a cloth and lightly buff the slats to restore shine and repel dust. Avoid using polish on real wood blinds.

5. (Bonus top-tip) Using a Sock Trick

Trust us – old socks can be a godsend for cleaning Venetian blinds. Slip a sock over your hand and use it wipe down both the top and bottom side of your slats. It may take slightly longer than running over them with a vacuum cleaner, but it’s a gentle way to remove dust – so you won’t need to worry about damaging the surface of your blinds by being too heavy-handed.

How to Clean Different Types of Venetian Blinds

Wooden Venetian Blinds

Wooden blinds need extra care to avoid warping. Stick to a dry or slightly damp cloth and never use excessive water. Use a gentle wood cleaner or very small amount of polish occasionally to maintain shine and protect the surface.

Faux Wood Venetian Blinds

Faux wood Venetians are ideal for busy homes or humid rooms. They can handle light moisture, so wipe them with warm, soapy water to remove marks or kitchen grease. Rinse the cloth regularly and dry with a soft towel to prevent streaks.

Aluminium Venetian Blinds

Aluminium Venetians are lightweight and easy to clean. Use a damp cloth or mild detergent to wipe down slats and fittings. For extra shine, polish with a dry cloth afterward. They’re particularly good for kitchens and bathrooms as they resist moisture.

Tackling Kitchen Grease

In kitchens, Venetian blinds can attract a layer of sticky residue from cooking. Mix warm water with a small drop of washing-up liquid and use a soft cloth to gently wipe away the grease. Make sure to dry the slats completely to prevent streaks. For heavy build-up, repeat the process using clean water each time to avoid spreading grease around.

Removing Stubborn Stains

For stubborn marks, dampen a cloth with lukewarm water and mild detergent, then gently dab the affected area. Avoid rubbing too hard — it can scratch aluminium or strip wooden finishes. Always test any cleaner on an inconspicuous area first.

What to Avoid When Cleaning Venetian Blinds

• Avoid soaking blinds in water, especially wooden ones.
   
• Don’t use harsh chemicals or bleach – these can damage finishes.
   
• Skip abrasive sponges that could scratch slats.
   
• Avoid steam cleaning, as it can warp or discolour the material.

FAQs About Cleaning Venetian Blinds

How often should you clean Venetian blinds?

Lightly dust weekly and do a deep clean monthly to prevent dirt build-up.

Can you clean Venetian blinds without taking them down?

Yes — all of the above methods can be done while they’re hanging.

What’s the easiest way to clean Venetian blinds?

Use a vacuum with a soft brush or a microfibre cloth weekly to keep them looking fresh.

How do you get rid of grease on kitchen Venetians?

Use warm, soapy water and a soft cloth. Dry thoroughly after cleaning.

Find Easy-to-Clean Venetian Blinds at 247 Blinds

At 247 Blinds, our faux wood, real wood and aluminium Venetian blinds are all designed to look beautiful while being easy to maintain — ideal for busy homes and kitchens. Every blind comes with a 5-year guarantee, so you can enjoy style and simplicity that lasts.

Explore our full Venetian blinds collection today and discover styles that are effortless to clean and built to last. We also have our no-drill Venetians for those who don't want the faff!