Window Cleaning Time

Clean, Green Blinds: Simple Solutions to Naturally Clean Your Faux Wood Blinds

16 April 2015

Lawrence Robinson

Considering a large variety of caulks, cleansers, air fresheners, and paints contain harsh chemicals, your home can quickly become a toxic battlefield. Known as VOCs, or Volatile Organic Compounds, the ingredients inside your favorite products can have a negative effect on your family's health. From headaches and breathing problems to an increase in allergic reactions, the health hazards of VOCs can be dangerous.

Fortunately, removing dirt, dust, and dander from your blinds does not have to be an unhealthy task this spring. Using these natural solutions, you can clean your faux wood blinds without harming the environment or your health.

Suction

Your vacuum attachments are effective and efficient options for suctioning dirt and dust off your blinds. For the best results, pull the string to lengthen your blinds as long as possible. Then, close them.

Using one of your handheld attachments, start at the top and vacuum each slat of faux wood. Once you complete the entire length of blinds, open and close them in the opposite direction to vacuum the back portion.

If possible, use a vacuum with a HEPA filter to protect your indoor air quality. These filters are able to remove 99.97 percent of particles measuring 0.3 micrometers or larger, which is beneficial for homes with allergies.

Duster

Utilizing a duster tool or cloth is also a great way to remove light dirt and dander from your blinds, but it can be a long, overwhelming process.

Run a microfiber cloth or electrostatic dusting tool across each and every slat of your faux wood blinds.  After every few slats, you will need to replace the cloth or shake out your duster. Be sure to open and close the slats to clean the opposite sides, as well.

While surprising to hear, a fabric-softener dryer sheet can also remove dirt, dust, and light residue from the surface of your blinds. Run a dryer sheet across each slat, but use a fresh sheet for each set of blinds.

Baking Soda

Your faux wood blinds are durable options for your home. However,  your white or eggshell blinds may discolor overtime. If you are noticing a yellow or brown residue on your faux wood blinds, consider soaking them in a baking soda solution.

In your bathtub, combine the following:

• 3 gallons of hot water
• 3 cups of baking soda

Remove the blinds from your window. Lengthen the blinds and open the slats before placing in the tub. Allow them to soak 20 minutes before rinsing off with your handheld shower sprayer. For stubborn areas of residue, scrub with a soft-bristled brush.

Remove your blinds from the solution after rinsing completely and lay on a flat surface to dry. Complete the same process for each set.

From accenting your home to increasing privacy and blocking the sun, your blinds are important parts of your home's comfort, style, and function. Using these simple solutions, you can clean your faux wood blinds without toxic chemicals. For assistance, talk to a professional like Ardy's Gallery of Window Coverings.

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