How To Clean Mould Off Outdoor Blinds

Outdoor blinds are a great way to add some privacy and shade to your patio, balcony or backyard. But they can also get dirty and mouldy over time, especially if they are exposed to moisture and humidity. Mould can ruin the look of your blinds and also pose a health risk for you and your family. So how do you clean mould off outdoor blinds without damaging them? Here are some tips and tricks to help you out.

The Easy Way to Remove Mould from Outdoor Blinds

The easiest way to remove mould from outdoor blinds is to use a specialist mildew remover that you can buy from any supermarket or hardware store. These products are designed to kill mould spores and prevent them from growing back. Here’s how to use them:

• Spray the fabric or awning with water until it’s soaked.
• Add the mildew remover, scrubbing the stained areas using a cleaning brush.
• Rinse off the cleaner using regular hosing – NOT high pressure hosing.
• Dry awning or fabric in the sun until thoroughly dry.

This method works well for most types of outdoor blinds, but make sure you read the label of the product and follow the instructions carefully. Some mildew removers may not be suitable for certain fabrics or colours, so always do a patch test before applying them to the whole blind.

The DIY Way to Remove Mould from Outdoor Blinds

If you don’t have a mildew remover handy, or you prefer a more natural approach, you can also use some household items to clean mould off outdoor blinds. Here are some options:

• Lemon juice: Lemon juice is acidic and can help break down mould and mildew. You can use neat lemon juice or mix it with some water and salt. Apply it to the affected areas with a cloth or spray bottle and let it sit for a few minutes before rinsing off.
• Vinegar: Vinegar is another acidic substance that can kill mould spores and remove stains. You can use white vinegar or apple cider vinegar diluted with water. Spray it on the blinds and let it sit for an hour before wiping off with a damp cloth.
• Baking soda: Baking soda is alkaline and can neutralize mould and odour. You can make a paste with baking soda and water and apply it to the mouldy spots with a sponge or toothbrush. Leave it on for 15 minutes before scrubbing off with warm water.

These DIY methods may not be as effective as mildew removers, but they are safer and cheaper alternatives. However, they may also cause some fading or discolouration on your blinds, so always do a patch test before using them.

How to Prevent Mould from Growing on Outdoor Blinds

The best way to keep your outdoor blinds clean and mould-free is to prevent mould from growing on them in the first place. Here are some tips to help you do that:

• Keep your blinds dry: Mould thrives in moist environments, so try to avoid leaving your blinds wet or damp for long periods of time. If they get wet from rain or dew, make sure you dry them thoroughly before rolling them up or storing them away.
• Keep your blinds ventilated: Mould also needs air to grow, so make sure your blinds have enough ventilation and air circulation. Don’t roll them up too tightly or cover them with plastic or other materials that can trap moisture and create condensation.
• Keep your blinds clean: Dirt and dust can also provide food for mould spores, so make sure you clean your blinds regularly with a mild detergent and water. You can also use a vacuum cleaner with an upholstery attachment to remove any loose dirt or debris.

FAQs

Q: Can I use bleach to clean mould off outdoor blinds?

A: Bleach can be effective at killing mould spores and removing stains, but it can also damage your blinds if used incorrectly. Bleach can bleach out colours, weaken fabrics and corrode metal parts. If you decide to use bleach, make sure you dilute it with water (one part bleach to four parts water) and wear gloves and eye protection. Also, never mix bleach with ammonia or other cleaners as this can create toxic fumes.

Q: Can I use a pressure washer to clean mould off outdoor blinds?

A: A pressure washer can be tempting to use as it can blast away dirt and grime quickly and easily. However, it can also damage your blinds if used incorrectly. A pressure washer can tear or rip fabrics, bend or break slats and damage the mechanism of your blinds. If you decide to use a pressure washer, make sure you use a low-pressure setting and keep a safe distance from the blinds. Also, avoid spraying directly on the seams, edges or corners of your blinds as this can cause them to fray or come apart.

Q: How often should I clean my outdoor blinds?

A: The frequency of cleaning your outdoor blinds depends on several factors, such as the type of fabric, the colour, the location and the weather conditions. As a general rule, you should clean your outdoor blinds at least once a year, or more often if they are exposed to a lot of dust, pollen, pollution or moisture. You should also inspect your blinds regularly for any signs of mould, mildew or damage and deal with them as soon as possible.

Wrap Up

Outdoor blinds are a great addition to any home, but they can also get mouldy and dirty over time. To keep them looking fresh and beautiful, you need to clean them properly and regularly. You can use a mildew remover, a DIY solution or a combination of both to remove mould from your outdoor blinds. You also need to prevent mould from growing on them by keeping them dry, ventilated and clean. By following these tips, you can enjoy your outdoor blinds for years to come.

Dale

Dale is the colorful mind behind HuetifulHomes.com, where he shows you how to create a home that is as fun and fabulous as you are. He has a passion for color and a knack for DIY, with years of interior design experience he shares his tips and tricks on how to create a home that reflects your personality and style. He believes that color is the key to happiness, and he wants to help you make your home more Huetiful.