How to Clean Vertical Blinds (Expert Guide) | 247 Blog
TIPS
Posted 22/01/2024
Vertical blinds are a popular window covering option for many homes and offices. They offer a versatile and practical solution for light and privacy control. However, like any window covering, they can accumulate dust and dirt over time, making them look dingy and lacklustre. The good news is: cleaning vertical blinds is not something that needs to be done frequently. With regular upkeep, they can look good for longer. If you’ve noticed a build-up of dust and dirt on your vertical blinds, this easy-to-follow guide will help you restore your blinds to their former glory!
What You'll Need to Clean Your Vertical Blinds
- A soft brush or microfibre cloth
- A vacuum with a soft brush attachment
- Mild, clear detergent
- Warm water
How to Clean Vertical Fabric Blinds
For General Upkeep
Prevent dust build-up by regularly rotating the slats, or giving the blinds a gentle dust with a soft brush or microfibre cloth. Do this whenever you notice your blinds looking a little dusty to keep them looking fresh!
If you haven't done this in a while or your blinds are in a particularly dusty room, you can use a soft fabric attachment on a vacuum cleaner for a deeper dust.


For Removing Stains or Marks
If any accidents happen and your vertical blinds are stained, don't fear! Here's what you can do to make them disappear. First things first, you'll need to check whether your blinds are PVC or not, as the cleaning method differs for PVC and regular fabric vertical blinds.
For PVC Vertical Blinds
Use a damp cloth and a mild, clear detergent if required to wipe down the stained areas. If you feel your blinds need a deeper clean you can wipe down the entire vane. PVC vanes are resistant to moisture and mould, making them a practical option for humid spaces.
For All Other Fabric Vertical Blinds
Use a clean, damp cloth to wipe the stained areas only. Add some mild, clear detergent for stubborn marks. Don't be tempted to wipe the entire vane or soak the blinds as this can cause the fabric to warp or leave watermarks.
If you've chosen to remove your vanes to clean them (which we'll cover later), make sure you hang them back up to dry so they evenly retain their shape.


Vertical Blind Cleaning FAQs
Q: Do I need to take my vertical blinds down to clean them?
In short, no. We wouldn't recommend taking the vanes down from your vertical blinds to clean them, it makes maintenance harder than it needs to be, it isn't necessary, and you don't want to risk damaging your blind. If your blind is in a hard to reach place and taking the vanes down is your only option, do this by carefully removing the weights and chains from the bottom of the vanes, then gently unhook the slats from the headrail. Make sure you don't remove the hanger from the slats. If you do take your vanes down to clean them, remember to hang them back up to dry to prevent warping.
Q: Can I wash vertical blinds in the washing machine?
It’s best to avoid it. Machine washing can shrink fabric or damage the slats. Spot cleaning or gentle wiping is safer.
Q: How do you remove stubborn stains from vertical blinds?
For stubborn stains, start by gently dabbing the affected area with warm water and a drop of mild detergent using a clean microfibre cloth. Avoid scrubbing too hard, as this can fray fabric or damage the coating on PVC slats. For tougher marks, repeat the process using a fresh cloth and clean water. Always spot test any cleaning solution on an inconspicuous area first to ensure it doesn’t cause discolouration.
Q: How often should I clean my vertical blinds?
This really depends on where the blinds are in your home, and how dust-prone that area is. In general, vertical blinds are very low maintenance and won't require a light dusting more than a few times a month to stay looking clean. Just by using the blinds regularly and rotating the slats you will prevent dust from building up. You can also take the time to dust them in your weekly cleaning routine if required! Apart from that, we would only recommend cleaning your blinds with a damp cloth should any stains get onto your blinds.
Q: What's the easiest way to clean vertical blinds?
Use a vacuum with a soft brush attachment weekly to remove dust. For stains, use a damp cloth and mild detergent.
Q: How can I prevent mould from forming on vertical blinds?
Mould tends to appear in damp or poorly ventilated rooms like bathrooms or kitchens. To prevent it, open windows regularly to increase airflow and keep your blinds slightly open to stop moisture from settling. If condensation is a problem, use a dehumidifier. For the easiest care, choose PVC or waterproof vertical blinds, which can be wiped clean and resist mould growth naturally.
Q: What should I avoid when cleaning vertical blinds?
Avoid soaking or submerging fabric blinds in water, as this can cause warping and shrinkage. Steer clear of harsh chemicals or bleach, which can fade colours and weaken materials. Skip abrasive sponges or brushes that could snag the fabric, and don’t use steam cleaners unless your blinds’ care label specifically says it’s safe.

What are the Benefits of Cleaning My Vertical Blinds?
Maintained Appearance
Over time, dust, dirt, and other debris which might accumulate on your vertical blinds can leave them looking unappealing. Regular use and dusting when required will help keep this build-up at a minimum, making your blinds look as good as new.
Healthier Environment
If they're not PVC, dirty blinds can harbour allergens such as dust mites, pet hair, and pollen. Regular upkeep on your vertical blinds can help reduce these allegens, creating a healthier environment for you and your family. Or to reduce the risk of allergens building up on your blinds opt for PVC verticals.
Longer Lifespan
By removing dust and dirt from your blinds, you can help prevent damage to the fabric or other materials, prolonging the lifespan of your vertical blinds. We recommend replacing your vertical blinds every 5-10 years.
Better Functioning
Dust and dirt can also interfere with the smooth operation of your vertical blinds, making them harder to open and close. Regular cleaning can help ensure that your blinds function properly making them easy to use.
We've shared our pearls of wisdom with you, which means it's over to you to start freshening up your vertical blinds! Enjoy!
Discover our full Vertical Blinds Collection available in a range of colours, patterns, and fabrics to suit every room.
