Cleaning Mini Blinds And Window Shutters

Mini Blinds and Window Shutters are wonderful ways of adding a touch of color, class and providing functionality to your window coverings. It is surprising therefore that many believe drapes and curtains to be better choices thinking that it is easier to just bring them down and wash them. The truth is even mini blinds and shutters are fairly easy to clean and they stay bright and crisp even after years of use, unlike drapes, which tend to fade or get wrinkled.

However, it is very important that you do a careful job while cleaning blinds and shutters so that they are cleaned effectively and not damaged the slightest bit in the process. We give below some tips that may help you clean your mini blinds and window shutters effectively.

Cleaning Mini Blinds

Mini Blinds are a lot more attractive than the classic full length Venetian Blinds but also tend to attract more dust, dirt, pollen and grease. To wash mini blinds effectively, first remove them from the window and take them in to the bathroom. If the weather is fine you could do this outdoors.

Now stretch the blind completely and place it in the bathtub. Ensure that the slats are slightly open so that they get soaked properly. Start filling up the tub with warm water so that the blinds are completely covered and put in plenty of detergent. Now let the blinds soak for at least five to ten minutes. If your blinds are really dirty, you could try using a mixture of ammonia or borax and water. If they feel greasier, then add a degreaser to the solution. Then, using some wet cloth, clean each individual slat to remove the dirt and grime. Rinse the blinds well using the shower (a shower attachment is very useful) and then put them on some towels to dry. If you are washing them outdoors, you can just hose them off and hang them out to dry in your backyard.

Cleaning Window Shutters

Wooden Shutters often need the most attention since they need careful cleaning. Do not use just about any cloth but a soft cotton cloth or better still, glove for dusting. A good furniture polish can be used but make sure you do not spray it directly onto the shutters. Instead, just spray it onto the cloth or glove and then wipe the shutters.  Fabric softener sheets are another option. Wiping each louver with a sheet will not only remove the dust but also prevent them from attracting dust. Most vacuum cleaners now come with small attachments that can be used to clean the louvers and go into the nooks and crannies.

If you feel that your shutters are looking a little faded, you may need to re-varnish them. In which case, first look for the manufacturer’s instructions on how to go about it. If there are no specific instructions, then spare some time to do a careful job or consult a professional.