For those looking to start 2025 in a perfectly clean home or just looking to get a head start on spring cleaning, this blog is for you! When it comes to routine housework, window coverings are often forgotten about. But here in Arizona, the dust and heat that they endure means that they need a good cleaning, too! This time on the Budget Blinds of Scottsdale and Fountain Hills blog, we’re going to give you a quick hit rundown of how to clean the various window treatments out there! Simply find your type of window covering, follow our guide, and you’ll be good to go in no time.

Materials Needed

Before you get to work, make sure you have these on hand. The materials needed for each type of treatment will vary, but this list covers all of them.

Vacuum with upholstery attachment
Feather duster
Mild soap
Mild detergent
Soft towel or sponge
Wood spray polish
Bucket

How to Clean Blinds

Blinds can be cleaned a few different ways, depending on which kind you have. A feather duster will go a long way to taking care of the dust on any type of blind. Take one of those to your blinds once a month, and you’ll be in good shape. For the more hardy cleaning, do one of the following.

Wood Blinds

Lower blinds until they are fully extended
Adjust slats to be tilted slightly
Dust each slat
Using a wood spray polish and a soft cloth, wipe each slat clean

Faux Wood, Vinyl, and Aluminum Blinds

Lower blinds until they are fully extended
Adjust slats to be tilted slightly
Dust each slat
Vacuum blinds with the upholstery attachment
Spot clean using mild soap, warm water, and soft cloth as needed
Let blinds dry

How to Clean Shades

First and foremost, avoid using carpet or fabric cleaners on your shades. These products are designed for specific materials and purposes, and window shades are not one of them. With that warning out of the way, let's break it down!

Cellular Shades

Pull the shades down and lightly dust or vacuum with the upholstery attachment
Spot clean the shades by wiping gently using a soft cloth, mild soap, and warm water in the direction parallel to the fabric's pleats
Allow shades to air dry completely before raising them

Roman Shades

Remove the shade from the window before cleaning
Fully open the shade and lay the fabric on a flat surface
Using a soft cloth with mild detergent and warm water, spot clean the shades
Allow shades to air dry completely before raising them

Custom Roman Shades can be more challenging to clean, so don’t hesitate to seek the help of a professional. We work with trusted local professionals and would be happy to provide referrals if needed!

Cleaning Custom Draperies

Custom draperies should always be professionally cleaned. For store-bought treatments, refer to the care label for specific cleaning instructions. Some fabrics are dry clean only, for instance. So, if you have store-bought treatments, read your tags and follow them! If you clean them improperly, the treatments could be stained or their structural integrity ruined. Don’t risk ruining your custom draperies or curtains for a ‘quick’ clean.

If your custom draperies are a bit too far gone f and need replacement, or you want to upgrade your home’s style, you know who to call! Book a consultation with our expert designers today to find the exact right window coverings for you and your home!

Schedule Your Free In-Home Consultation Today!