Quick answer Clean blinds without damage by closing the slats, dusting from top to bottom with a dry microfibre cloth, flipping and repeating, then spot cleaning marks with a lightly damp cloth and mild detergent. Dry at once to prevent warping or streaks. Avoid water on wood and do not scrub honeycomb cells. Replace blinds instead of cleaning if slats are warped, cracked, mouldy or stained beyond recovery, or if mechanisms fail.
How to Clean Blinds in South Africa without Damaging the Finish
Blinds can look tired long before they are truly worn out. Many homeowners think they must replace blinds when a careful clean is the smarter first step. With more than 15 years serving South African homes, our team shows you how to clean blinds without damaging the finish, extend their life, and know when it is time to replace.
How to clean blinds in South Africa without damaging the finish step by step
How to Clean Blinds in South Africa without Damaging the Finish: Quick Steps
- Close the slats and dust from top to bottom with a dry microfibre cloth.
- Flip the slats and repeat so both sides are clean.
- Spot clean marks with a lightly damp cloth and mild detergent. Wring the cloth well.
- Dry at once with a clean towel. Do not leave moisture on slats to prevent warping.
Table of Contents
Step 1: Dusting your blinds
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Step 2: Deep cleaning
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Step 3: Drying and finishing
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Cleaning Tools you actually need
- Microfibre cloths to dust and wipe down without scratches.
- Vacuum with soft brush for honeycomb blinds and corners.
- Mild detergent in warm water for non wood surfaces.
- Soft detailing brush for cords and headrail corners.
Material specific cleaning advice
Wooden blinds: how to clean without warping
Keep water away. Dust weekly with a dry microfibre cloth. For sticky marks, use a barely damp cloth then dry at once. Avoid solvents and polish. If slats are warped or stained, consider shutters or new blinds as the better choice.
Faux wood and Plaswood blinds
These tolerate light moisture. Wipe with a cloth dampened in mild detergent, then dry to avoid water spots. Do not soak. For grease in kitchens, repeat gentle wipes rather than scrubbing. Explore more options here: Blinds.
Aluminium Venetian Blinds
Durable and easy to maintain. Wipe with a lightly damp cloth, then dry. Tilt slats to clean both sides. Avoid abrasive pads. See our product page: Aluminium Venetian Blinds.
Vinyl Blinds: How to clean without streaks
Wipe with mild detergent solution, then dry thoroughly. If slats are brittle or discoloured from age or sun, cleaning cannot restore the finish. Consider roller blinds or vertical blinds as replacements.
Honeycomb Blinds: how to clean without water
Use a vacuum with a soft brush on low suction. Avoid liquid water to protect the cellular structure. For stubborn marks or older fabrics, review options here: Duette Honeycomb Blinds.
Advanced Care: cords, headrail and mechanisms
Dust builds where people rarely look. Wipe cords with a slightly damp cloth, then dry. Clean the headrail with a dry cloth. If movement is stiff, do not spray oils. Book a service check and we will assess safely.
Do I need to take blinds down?
No for most cleaning. For deep cleans or window washing, unclip carefully. Support the weight evenly and reclip securely. If unsure, let us help.
When to replace instead of clean?
Cleaning helps when dirt is the issue. Replacement is better when you see warped wood, cracked slats, mould that returns, frayed cords, or nicotine stains that will not shift. If you are in the buy to clean mindset, start with a careful clean. If blinds still look tired, shop our range or transform your home with new blinds. You can also view all categories here: Blinds | Shutters | Awnings.
Helpful resources
- Cleanipedia South Africa: household cleaning basics
- National Department of Health: mould and damp guidance
Frequently asked questions
What is the easiest way to clean blinds at home
Dust both sides with a dry microfibre cloth first. Spot clean marks with mild detergent on a damp cloth. Dry at once.
How do I clean blinds without taking them down
Close, dust, flip, dust again, then spot clean and dry. For honeycomb blinds, use a vacuum with a soft brush.
Can I use vinegar on blinds
Avoid vinegar on wood. On aluminium and vinyl blinds, a very diluted vinegar solution can help with grease. Always wipe afterwards with a damp cloth and dry.
How often should I clean blinds
Light dust weekly. Deep clean each season or after exposure to coastal salt, cooking grease or building dust.
Should I replace rather than clean
Replace blinds if slats are warped, cracked, mouldy or stained beyond recovery, or if mechanisms fail. Cleaning cannot repair structural damage. Ask us for advice.
