How to clean vertical blinds

Vertical blinds are designed to bring soft structure and flexibility to a space, making them particularly well suited to larger windows and sliding doors. With the right care, Luxaflex® vertical blinds will continue to hang beautifully and perform as intended. 

Because vertical blinds are available in a range of materials, the best cleaning method depends on the type of vane you have. This guide explains how to clean vertical blinds safely at home, when to take extra care, and when professional cleaning may be the best option. 

Regular light cleaning helps prevent dust and airborne particles from settling into the fabric or surface of the vanes. Start by fully closing the blinds so the vanes lie flat. 

For routine care, use a feather duster, a soft brush or a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment on a low suction setting. Always clean from top to bottom, supporting the vanes as you go to avoid twisting or pulling them out of alignment. 

This simple routine reduces the need for more intensive cleaning later on. 

Luxaflex® fabric vertical blinds are treated with a protective layer that gives the vanes their stiffness and durability. Because of this, cleaning advice depends on the specific fabric type. If you’re unsure which fabric you have, your Luxaflex® dealer will be able to advise. 

Fabric vanes should never be washed in a washing machine or immersed in water. Instead, prepare lukewarm suds up to 30 degrees using a non synthetic detergent. Using a soft brush or sponge, gently clean the vanes while they remain hanging in the rail. 

Take care not to scrub too hard or for too long, as this can damage the protective coating on the fabric. 

Panel fabrics should be treated with the same care as standard fabric vanes. Clean only the fabric surface using a soft brush or sponge and lukewarm suds. Avoid cleaning the wooden or aluminium components and never remove the panels from the rail during cleaning. 

As with all fabric vanes, excessive pressure can damage the surface layer, so a gentle approach is always best. 

Aluminium vertical blinds are easy to maintain and well suited to dry or lightly damp cleaning. Dust regularly using a duster or soft cloth. For heavier dirt, a lightly damp cloth can be used, taking care not to apply too much pressure. 

Avoid abrasive materials and ensure the vanes are fully dry before rotating them again to prevent marking or surface damage. 

PVC vertical blinds can be cleaned in much the same way as aluminium vanes. Use a duster for everyday cleaning and a damp cloth for more stubborn marks. As with other materials, scrubbing too hard can damage the protective layer, so gentle cleaning is key. 

If your vertical blinds are heavily soiled or installed in high traffic areas such as kitchens or commercial style spaces, professional cleaning may be worth considering. Specialist cleaning companies can clean vertical blinds using ultrasonic cleaning techniques, which remove dirt effectively while remaining gentle on the materials. 

This can be a good option when home cleaning is no longer sufficient. 

To protect your blinds and maintain their appearance, avoid washing fabric vanes in a machine, soaking them in water, using harsh chemicals or scrubbing aggressively. Steam cleaners should also be avoided, as heat and moisture can damage both fabric and surface finishes. 

Following the correct approach to cleaning vertical blinds helps protect both the fabric and the mechanism. 

Luxaflex® vertical blinds are designed with care and attention to detail, offering a considered balance of function and style. With regular, gentle cleaning, they’ll continue to enhance your home with soft lines and effortless movement. 

If you’d like tailored advice on how to clean vertical blinds or are considering updating your window coverings, your local Luxaflex® dealer is always happy to help. 

Find your local Luxaflex® showroom and speak to an expert in person 

These recommendations have been prepared with care. Luxaflex® cannot accept responsibility for the results of cleaning carried out at home.