Every homeowner has wondered how to wash vertical fabric blinds at home while preserving their appearance. Despite manufacturers’ efforts to develop modern and effective solutions to protect their products from dust and dirt, various stains can easily appear on them in the home.
Usually, the fabric used for blinds is treated with special substances. These treatments have a wide range of effects: they protect the fabric from fading due to sunlight and have dust-repellent properties. Fabric blinds require much less care than regular curtains. However, it’s important to remember that washing them without following the manufacturer’s recommendations can have the opposite effect, and it may be impossible to restore the blinds afterward.
How to wash vertical fabric blinds
The most common side effects of washing are changes in the color of the slats (the fabric strips of vertical blinds) after washing with aggressive detergents, the appearance of fabric fibers when rubbed, deformation of the product due to improper drying, and damage to components (weights, chains, etc.).
For the first year or two, vertical blinds generally don’t need to be exposed to water at all. If dust bothers you, light cleaning with a vacuum or a regular brush will suffice. Only when stains appear is it time to take more effective measures. Washing vertical fabric blinds at home is easy, but it will require some of your time and effort.
So, here’s how:
- Detach the lower chain of the blinds and carefully remove the weights from each slat. These weights are essential components of vertical fabric blinds, allowing them to maintain their shape. It’s important to return the weights to their original places after washing. If necessary, they can be purchased in stores. Before washing the fabric blinds, all weights must be removed from the slats.
- Remove all slats from the top runners. This is similar to the process of taking curtains off hooks.
- Each slat should be rolled into a coil, and if possible, wrapped in gauze or placed in a laundry bag. This will help the blinds retain their shape.
- Submerge each coil in a warm detergent solution for 30–60 minutes, depending on the degree of dirt. Caution: Do not rub the slats, as this will deform the fabric and cause fraying. If you’re using a stain remover, make sure it’s chlorine-free. Blinds should only be washed with gentle detergents.
- Rinse the slats with clean water, for example, by using a shower, and allow the excess moisture to drain.
- While still damp, hang all the slats back in place, insert the weights, reattach the chain, and wait for them to dry completely. The blinds will return to their proper shape under their own weight, preventing unsightly creases in the fabric.
How to wash vertical fabric blinds based on fabric type
Although the washing process is generally universal, there are specific considerations for each type of fabric.
For example, fabrics with a high cotton and linen content may shrink. Therefore, avoid long soaking and the use of hot water when washing these materials.
Colored fabric blinds may fade or change color, so choose a detergent suitable for colored fabrics.
In special cases, such as when the blinds are very expensive and you’re not confident in the washing process, it’s best to contact professionals who specialize in blind cleaning. Dry cleaners or cleaning companies use professional cleaning products for fabric vertical blinds, but keep in mind that these services can be quite costly.
Can You wash vertical fabric blinds in a washing machine?
Sometimes, the thought of hand-washing is unappealing, and the bold idea of washing the blinds in a machine on a gentle cycle, like “Hand Wash,” may come to mind. We must warn you that such boldness may lead to disappointment. No washing machine in the world can handle your blinds as delicately as necessary. If you decide to try, be prepared for consequences like fraying along the length of the slats and fabric deformation. Therefore, we strongly recommend not tempting fate and instead following our care guidelines for your blinds!
By following these tips on washing vertical fabric blinds at home, you’ll maintain their good condition for a long time.
