The best way to keep your window blinds looking pristine is by proper care. While general rules apply to move types, there are some specific methods you can use for maintaining vertical blinds. Where once, these window dressings were reserved for office spaces, they are now finding their way into homes of all sizes. So we’ve pulled together this guide to help you keep your vertical blinds perfect for many years to come.
Why maintaining vertical blinds is so important
As with any investment you make in your home, proper care and maintenance are vital.
Extends lifespan
Built-up dirt, grime and other contaminants cause the components in blinds to become stuck. When additional force is then used to try and get them to work, this causes damage. If window blinds are properly maintained on a regular basis, the dirt is unlikely to build up to this level. Therefore, the chance of breaks reduces and your window blinds will stand the test of time for longer.
Maintain the look
Chances are, you chose your vertical blinds for their style and practicality. And, you’ll want this to stand true for many years to come. Cleaning your blinds in the right way will ensure dyes don’t fade, patterns stay strong and the coverings look great at all times.
Reduces replacement costs
If we don’t care for window blinds properly, breaks and damage are more likely to happen. And with this comes the cost of replacing them. Wear and tear will eventually play a part. But with appropriate care, these costs will be far and few between.
More movable components
Unlike roller blinds, vertical window blinds have loads of components. Each individual slat, the connecting chain, rotating mechanism… all of these features present a unique opportunity for something to break if not properly cared for.
How to clean vertical blinds
General cleaning
We recommend incorporating your vertical blinds into the weekly routine cleaning schedule. This ensures that daily build-up is removed easily and isn’t allowed to cake up. To do this, use a duster or the soft furnishings attachment for your vacuum. Be cautious of the fabric – delicate fabrics such as sheer or voile options need to be treated with care to reduce the risk of rips and tears. Here, we recommend using a microfibre cloth.
Deep clean
Your vertical blinds should be deep cleaned at least a few times a year. This gives you the opportunity to remove tough stains and grime while offering the chance to thoroughly clean the mechanism and components.
To deep clean your vertical blinds, follow the steps below:
Remove vertical blinds from fitting
The best way to access all angles of your blinds is to remove them from the window. Most designs, including the ones we have here at Shop4Blinds can be unscrewed quickly and raised off the frame mechanism with ease. To prevent knots and damage, lay your blinds on a hard flat surface once removed – either on a table or on the floor.
Use a water and soap mix
Harsh fabric chemicals can cause damage to more delicate materials. For this reason, we recommend cleaning the vertical slats with a soapy mix and water that is hot but not scalding. Use a clean microfiber cloth or non-coloured sponge. Be careful of applying too much pressure to the surface of the fabric – this can damage the fibres. Use gentle sweeping motions from top to bottom.
For spot cleaning, avoid rubbing in circles. Continue with straight, gently sweeping motions over the area. Most stains will lift easily after some work. You should avoid soaking your vertical blind slats in water. This can cause them to shrink or lose their protective covering – particularly relevant for fire retardant and anti-fungal options.
Allow them to dry
Lay the vertical blind slats out flat and allow them to dry naturally. If they’re wet, letting them dry hanging up could cause the fabric to stretch. Equally, tumble dryers will cause the fibres to shrink and other unnecessary damage. Let them dry entirely before rehanging them.
Check the headrail
The headrail allows your blinds to work smoothly and is, therefore, one of the most important components of your vertical blinds. Before rehanging your slats, check it thoroughly. Use a duster and spot clean areas where built-up grime is evident. A microfibre cloth is a good way of getting into smaller gaps and removing grime that could prevent your blinds from rotating, opening or closing properly.
Rehang your blinds
Once your vertical blinds are entirely clean, hang them back up. This is normally a straightforward activity. But, if you have any problems, the installation instructions you received when the blinds were first delivered will help.
How long will my vertical blinds last?
With proper care, your vertical window blinds should last for 5 years at the very minimum. The options available here at Shop4Blinds are manufactured from the highest quality and durable materials. This allows them to stand up to the rigours of everyday use, no matter how busy your home, business or property is. If you clean, maintain and use replacement vertical slats when sections become damaged, your blinds could last for decades.
Vertical window blinds continue to rise in popularity and we predict this will go on for many more years. Browse our range of vertical blinds available on the Shop4Blinds website here today. Or, get in contact with the team here who will be happy to advise on the best maintenance techniques to get the most out of your windows dresses.