It\’s that time of year–or month, or week, depending on how conscientious of a house cleaner you are–to clean the wooden blinds in your house. As beneficial as they are to providing privacy and protection from the sun, they are unsightly if left uncared for. Before you tackle the task, determine which type of blinds you have. If they are faux, or imitation, wood, your cleaning process will be different. For imitation blinds, wipe them down with a dry cloth, a soft brush, or an appropriate attachment from your vacuum cleaner. This will remove the inevitable coating of dust that can\’t be avoided. Next, the faux blinds can be wiped down with a damp cloth or sponge, wet in mild dish detergent or another household cleanser. Make sure you don\’t use anything with an abrasive surface or with chemical solvents or your blinds could be ruined. Be sure to leave the blinds open, otherwise areas might be missed and won\’t have that shine you\’re looking for. Tilt the slats at a 45 degree angle, wipe each one down, tilt them in the other direction at 45 degrees and wipe them down. If your blinds have a texture, mimicking real wood, you may have to put in some more time and effort to clean them over smooth blinds.

If your blinds are truly made of wood, take care. Never use water on wooden blinds. Warping and discoloration of the wood could result, making your blinds unsightly and forcing a replacement. You\’ll want to wipe off your wooden blinds with a dry, soft cloth, feather duster, mitt, or vacuum brush attachment. You could even use winter gloves if that makes it easier for you. As with the faux wooden blinds, don\’t use anything abrasive or chemicals that could destroy the wood. You\’ll want to open them to a 45 degree angle as with the faux blinds, wipe each slat down, and tilt the blinds in the opposite direction, repeating the process. Remember, keeping wooden blinds dry is key. When you are washing windows, always be sure to keep the water or cleanser away from your blinds.

When you\’re cleaning your blinds, always keep your personal safety in mind. Use a sturdy, stable surface if you are required to reach a high level. A step ladder with a handle is a great tool. If you don\’t have a steady surface, be sure to have someone to assist you. A fall will not help you in your cleaning process.

Never forget the hazards involving cords on your blinds. Make sure they are kept secure and out of the reach of young children. There have been many tragedies involving cords from blinds that were too close to a child\’s crib, bed, or simply in reach of a young child. Children have been known to reach for the blinds, try to play with them, and become entangled. There have been many cases of strangulation. Not to mention, dangling cords can be a danger to your pets or you if you pull one down accidentally when a cord was in the way. Make your cleaning process a safe and simple one!

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

Category: Home Management
Keywords: wooden blinds, window blinds, window, interior design, house, home, decorating, DIY