Wooden window blinds need regular dusting and then a more thorough cleaning. If the blinds are Venetian blinds they need to be adjusted to the close position. Using a soft cotton glove will reach those hard to get to places. Make sure it is dry because otherwise it will leave streaks. Starting from the center of the blind pull the glove across to the left. Return to the center and pull the glove across to the right. Open the blind and close it in the other direction and repeat the process.

Cleaning can also be done with the vacuum cleaner. Attach the attachment that is designated for soft dusting. It should be a soft brush so it will not damage the blinds. Hold the blind with one hand to prevent any banging while holding the vacuum end in the other hand. Vacuum the blind from the center out to the right and again from the center out to the left. Repeat if necessary, then close the blind in the other direction and repeat this process. If the blinds are very dusty spraying the glove or sock with a commercial cleaning product made for wood will help to remove the stubborn areas and leave a smooth finish behind it that will help ward off dust.

Standing on a small stool or stepladder will add more leverage to this cleaning process. Use the glove on a weekly basis to keep the dust at bay. Keep all old socks since they are helpful in cleaning the blinds and reaching those hard to get places such as between the slats. Be sure to place an old towel on the floor under the blinds to catch any residual dust.

A good but more expensive alternative is to use a sheepskin duster. The lanolin in the duster holds the dust once gathered, keeping it from settling back on the blinds. Clean the blind header too. It is highly recommended not to use moisture to clean the wooden window blinds. If the moisture gets into the wood discoloration may take place and over time the wood could warp.

Another technique for cleaning wooden blinds is using a feather duster. Use a supple, lint-free washable sleeve for the feather duster which will pick up a more dust and prevent dust specs from fluttering around. The sleeve is very useful for people suffering from allergies. This technique requires that the slats are flat and pointed towards the person cleaning them. Stroke the dust towards you, slowly. After a few strokes, the duster should be taken outside and given a good shake.

There is a lambswool tool available that is composed of four dusting fingers that all simultaneously run between the slats, four at a time. The fingers can be adjusted to different sizes and angles. It will cut dusting time dramatically but is more of an investment. This tool lasts for many years and the lambswool fingers are washable. Cleaning wooden window blinds is not difficult with these options.

Author Bio: Trevor Richards writes on behalf of Better Blinds (www.newblinds.co.uk), UK suppliers of wooden window blinds.

Category: Advice
Keywords: window blinds, wooden blinds, house, home, home improvement, interior design