A Guide To Cleaning Wooden Blinds
By Ana Zuravliova
Wooden blinds add elegance and warmth to any room. However, to maintain their beauty and functionality, it’s crucial to keep them clean. Cleaning wooden blinds may seem like a daunting task, but with the right approach, it couldn’t be simpler. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to effectively cleaning wooden blinds, and how to ensure they look as good as new for the long haul. We’ve also included tips for cleaning faux wood blinds, embossed finishes, ladder tapes, shutters and even electric wooden blinds to give you a complete care guide.
Table of contents
Removing greasy marks from wooden blinds
Cleaning electric (motorised) wooden blinds
Key tips for maintaining wooden blinds
Materials you’ll need:
- A damp sponge or cloth
- Vacuum cleaner with a soft brush attachment
- Dry towel, cloth or kitchen roll
- Optional: specialist blind-cleaning accessories such as slat cleaners or ostrich feather dusters for easier maintenance.
Removing greasy marks from wooden blinds
Any sticky patches or grease should be rubbed gently with a clean, damp cloth. You could also use a little washing up liquid if required.
Baby wipes also work well to remove these types of marks. It’s very important to go back with a dry cloth to absorb any residue and, if possible, leave your windows open to help any residual water evaporate.
Important: Too much moisture can warp or crack wood. Avoid harsh chemicals or liquids that could damage varnish or finishes.
Any stains, varnishes and finishes on the wooden slats may also fade and peel if the wrong products are used. With that in mind, you should try to avoid liquid or chemical products when cleaning your wooden blinds.
Tip for embossed or textured slats:
If your blinds feature embossed textures or woodgrain patterns, take extra care when wiping. Dust and grease can settle into grooves, so gently work along the embossing using a microfibre cloth wrapped around your finger.
How to clean wooden blinds
Cleaning your wooden blinds does not have to be difficult, but it is important to keep them looking smart and fresh. The integral horizontal arrangement of wooden blinds mean they require regular cleaning to remove any settled dust. Don’t worry though, they’re easier to clean than you might expect, these easy steps will help!
Dusting wooden blinds
Begin by dusting your wooden blinds to remove loose dirt and dust. First, close the slats and proceed to use a microfiber cloth, a duster, or even a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment. Gently run the cloth or soft vacuum brush along the slats, starting from the top and working your way down. This step will prevent the dust from turning into muddy mush when you clean with water.
For best effects look at our slat cleaner and ostrich feather duster accessories!
Extra Tips:
- For ladder tapes, use a low-suction vacuum or soft cloth to avoid fraying.
- Dust along the tapes where they meet slats for a polished look.
Real Wood vs Faux Wood Blinds
Cleaning wooden blinds depends a lot on the type of material. Real wood and faux wood blinds may look similar, but they react differently to moisture and sunlight.
- Real Wood Blinds: These are naturally elegant and lightweight, but they’re sensitive to water and humidity. Clean using only a damp cloth and avoid placing them in kitchens or bathrooms where humidity is high. Too much moisture can make the slats warp or crack.
- Faux Wood Blinds: Made from PVC or composite materials, these are fully moisture-resistant. That makes them ideal for kitchens, bathrooms and utility rooms. You can use a bit more water when cleaning without worrying about warping or cracking.
Tip: Faux wood blinds are low-maintenance and perfect for homes with kids, pets, or high humidity.
Cleaning Electric (Motorised) Wooden Blinds
Motorised wooden blinds clean much like regular wooden blinds, but there are a few extra precautions:
- Always switch off the motor before cleaning to prevent accidental movement.
- Dust lightly around the motor housing, avoiding moisture near the components.
- Regular dusting keeps the mechanism smooth and prevents dust buildup from affecting operation.
Cleaning Shutter Blinds
- Wooden or faux wood shutters can be cleaned using similar methods: regular dusting and a slightly damp cloth for marks.
- Faux wood shutters are particularly durable and resistant to moisture, making them suitable for kitchens and bathrooms.
- Real wood shutters need gentler cleaning to avoid swelling, warping or fading.
Key Tips for Maintaining Wooden Blinds
- Regular Dusting: To reduce the frequency of deep cleaning, dust your wooden blinds regularly with a microfiber cloth or a duster.
- Avoid Excessive Water: Always be cautious about the amount of water you use. Wood can warp or crack if exposed to excessive moisture.
- Direct Sunlight: Protect your wooden blinds from direct sunlight as prolonged exposure can cause fading and damage to the finish.
- Repairs: If you notice any cracks, chips, or broken slats, make repairs promptly to prevent further damage.
- For embossed or textured slats, clean along the direction of the grain for best results.
- Motorised blinds should be dusted regularly to avoid debris entering moving parts.
And if you have Venetian blinds, you’ll want to check out our dedicated guide for those, too! Whether you’re dealing with dust buildup, sticky fingerprints, or just want to keep them looking their best, our step-by-step guide will show you the easiest and safest way to get them sparkling. Read our Venetian blinds cleaning guide.
Why do blinds warp and how do I prevent it?
Blinds warp when exposed to excess moisture, humidity, or direct sunlight, which makes wood expand or contract. Prevent warping by dusting instead of soaking, avoiding prolonged sun exposure, and maintaining consistent indoor humidity.
Will moisture warp wooden blinds?
Yes. Real wood absorbs water, which can bend or crack slats. Use faux wood or coated blinds in humid areas, and always wipe gently and dry immediately.
For any further information, enjoy reading our handy buyers’ guide for wooden blinds!
Cleaning wooden blinds doesn’t have to be a chore when you follow these simple steps. With regular maintenance and gentle cleaning, your wooden blinds will continue to enhance the aesthetics of your space for years to come. Remember, proper care not only keeps your blinds looking their best but also extends their lifespan. So, go ahead, give your wooden blinds the attention they deserve, and enjoy the beauty and warmth they bring to your home.
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