Vertical blinds are great for privacy and light control, but let’s be honest, they’re a nightmare to clean. Dust clings to them, stains appear out of nowhere, and when you finally decide to wash them, they seem impossible to take down. If you’re frustrated with grimy blinds but don’t want to damage them, this guide is for you.

Why Do Vertical Blinds Get So Dirty So Fast?

You’re not alone if you’re wondering why your vertical blinds look filthy all the time. Dust, pet hair, and everyday household grime settle on them quickly. If you have kitchen blinds, cooking grease makes things worse. In humid areas, mould and mildew can also become a problem, making your blinds a health hazard.

How Can I Clean Vertical Blinds Without Taking Them Down?

Taking down blinds is a hassle, so let’s talk about how to clean them in place.

• Dust them first. A microfiber cloth or a vacuum with a brush attachment works best.
• For stains, use warm, soapy water. Wipe gently with a soft cloth to avoid damaging the material.
• Rotate the slats while cleaning to ensure both sides are spotless.
• Avoid soaking fabric blinds. Too much water can weaken the adhesive backing and cause warping.

If you clean them regularly, this method keeps your blinds looking fresh without a complete disassembly.

How Do I Deep Clean Vertical Blinds?

You need a more intense approach if it’s been months (or years) since your last clean. Here’s how to wash your blinds properly:

Method 1: Washing Vertical Blinds in the Bathtub

1. Remove the slats from the rail.
2. Fill the tub with warm, soapy water.
3. Let them soak for 10–15 minutes. Please don’t overdo it; prolonged soaking can weaken the material.
4. Scrub gently with a soft sponge or cloth.
5. Rinse well and let them air dry before reattaching.

Method 2: Handwashing Without Removing the Blinds

If you can’t or don’t want to take them down:

1. Mix a mild detergent with warm water.
2. Use a damp cloth or sponge to wipe down each slat.
3. Rinse with a clean, wet cloth to remove soap residue.
4. Let air dry completely.

How Do I Remove Vertical Blinds for Cleaning?

Many people struggle with taking their blinds down. If you’ve ever felt like you’re about to break something, here’s the correct way:

• How do I remove vertical blinds? Push each slat up, then tilt slightly to unclip.
• How do you take down vertical blinds? If the entire unit needs removal, unscrew the brackets from the top.
• How do you unclip vertical blinds? Apply gentle pressure, forcing it to crack the clips.

Reinstalling is just as tricky, so remember how they were attached before taking them apart.

How to Clean Fabric Vertical Blinds and Venetian Blinds

Fabric blinds trap dust and absorb stains, making them harder to clean.

• Vacuum them first using a brush attachment.
• For stains, use a gentle upholstery cleaner. Test on a small area first.
• Avoid excessive water; fabric can shrink or get water spots.

Never soak wooden Venetian blinds. Use a damp cloth with a mild wood cleaner instead.

How to Fix Mould, Grease, and Stubborn Stains

Mould on Blinds? Here’s What to Do:

• Mix equal parts white vinegar and water.
• Scrub with a soft cloth or sponge.
• Let air dry thoroughly to prevent regrowth.

Grease Stains on Kitchen Blinds? Try This:

• Use dish soap and warm water to break down grease.
• If that doesn’t work, apply a small amount of baking soda, then wipe clean.

How to Prevent Vertical Blinds from Getting Dirty

• Dust weekly to prevent buildup.
• Spot clean stains immediately to stop them from setting.
• Rotate the slats regularly to avoid uneven dirt accumulation.
• Keep windows closed during high-wind days to reduce dust exposure.

FAQs About Cleaning Vertical Blinds

How often should I clean my vertical blinds?

Dust weekly and do a deep clean every 3–6 months, depending on your home environment.

Can I put fabric blinds in the washing machine?

No. The fabric may lose shape, shrink, or detach from its backing.

What’s the best way to clean blinds without removing them?

Vacuuming and wiping with a damp cloth works well for maintenance cleaning.

How do I remove mould from blinds?

Use a white vinegar and water solution, scrub gently, and, if possible, let them dry in direct sunlight.

Can I use bleach to clean blinds?

Not recommended. Bleach can weaken the fabric and discolour plastic or vinyl blinds.

Final Thoughts

Cleaning vertical blinds isn’t fun, but it doesn’t have to be a nightmare. The key is regular maintenance. With the right approach, you can keep your blinds looking great and avoid the frustration of deep-cleaning years of built-up grime. If you’ve been putting it off, now’s the time to tackle it!