Skip to Main Content

Maintaining Different Types of Blinds for Windows

Custom window treatments are an investment that deserves proper care and maintenance. Think about it: Would you shine up wood floors with window cleaner or dry delicate clothes on extra-high heat? Of course not! Which is why it’s vital to learn how to care for different types of blinds for windows and find the best way to dust wood blinds.

Woman wearing yellow gloves cleaning her wood window blinds with a feather duster in a kitchen at Custom Window Decor of Jupiter near Jupiter, FL

At Custom Window Decor of Jupiter, we often share with our clients how to maintain their blinds and keep them in great shape for years, which we’ve included in this helpful guide.

Caring for Different Types of Blinds for Windows

Here are some ways to care for different types of blinds for windows:

Wood Horizontal Blinds

Wooden blinds provide classic beauty and require occasional maintenance. The best way to dust wood blinds is with microfiber cloths or feather dusters. Gently wipe each slat, being careful not to apply excessive pressure. You can use a soft toothbrush for tough-to-reach areas, like the corners.

Add some drops of mild soap to warm water for a deeper clean. Dampen a clean cloth in the solution to wipe down the slats, but don’t soak the wood. Dry the blinds thoroughly to avoid water spots or warping. Most importantly, avoid harsh chemicals, which can strip the finish or discolor the wood.

Genuine wood blinds work best in areas without excessive heat, UV rays, or humidity. Wood absorbs water and can’t store heat, unlike other materials. For those reasons, it’s safer to use different types of blinds for windows in kitchens and bathrooms.

Non-Wood Horizontal Blinds

Non-wood horizontal blinds, made from faux wood or aluminum, are generally more durable and easier to maintain than their wooden counterparts. Regular dusting is still essential, and the best way to dust wood blinds applies here, too: a microfiber cloth or a duster.

You can also clean non-wood blinds with a damp cloth or sponge. A mild soap solution is fine for stubborn stains, as these materials are less vulnerable to moisture damage from moisture. Wipe them down with a soft cloth when finished.

Because non-wood blinds are more resilient than the real thing, they can withstand occasional exposure to stronger cleaning agents. However, always check the manufacturer’s guidelines to avoid any damage.

Fabric Vertical Blinds

Fabric vertical blinds and panels offer softness and texture and require different care than other window treatments. Regularly dust the fabric vanes using a vacuum with a brush attachment without worrying about any scratches.

If needed, you can hand wash fabric vanes after disconnecting them. Fill a bathtub with lukewarm water and a mild detergent, then submerge the vanes. Let them soak for a short time before rinsing thoroughly. Hang the vanes to dry completely before reattaching them to the headrail.

Non-Fabric Vertical Blinds

Non-fabric vertical blinds from vinyl or aluminum are both durable and easy to clean. Regular dusting is essential to keep them fresh. Again, use a microfiber cloth or a duster for this task.

For deeper cleaning, a damp cloth and soft soap or detergent works well. Simply wipe down each vane and dry them afterward to prevent streaking. Non-fabric blinds resist moisture, making them suitable for kitchens and bathrooms where humidity can become an issue.

Shop Premium Wood Blinds and More Near Jupiter, FL

Cleaning and maintaining window treatments extends their lifespans, but our Custom Window Décor of Jupiter team can help if you need a refresh or replacement for any window treatments. Our team of window fashion experts can help you find exactly what you need to match your home’s aesthetics and functions, along with providing you with all the manufacturer's care instructions.

Request a consultation online or call (561) 746-1585 today to get started. Custom Window Décor of Jupiter is located in Jupiter, Florida. We serve clients in our surrounding areas, including North Palm Beach County, Tequesta, Palm Beach Gardens, and North Palm Beach.