Fabric blinds are a cozy and elegant way to dress up your windows, but they can also get damp and moldy over time. If you have mildew on your fabric blinds, you might be worried about ruining them or spreading the spores to other parts of your home. But don’t panic, you can remove mildew from fabric blinds with some natural and gentle methods. Here’s how to do it step by step.
Removing mildew from fabric blinds involves applying a solution that kills the spores and removes the stains, and then rinsing and drying the blinds thoroughly.
Step 1: Remove the blinds from the window
- The first thing you need to do is remove the blinds from the window and take them outside or to a well-ventilated area.
- You need to detach the blinds from the brackets and unroll them fully.
- You also need to protect yourself with gloves, a mask, and goggles when handling the mildew-infected blinds.
- You can use a garbage bag or a large plastic sheet to wrap the blinds and prevent the spores from spreading.
Step 2: Choose the solution
- The next thing you need to do is choose the solution that will kill the mildew spores and remove the stains from your fabric blinds.
- You can use one of these natural and gentle solutions that are safe for most fabrics:
- Vinegar: Mix one part of white vinegar with four parts of water in a spray bottle or a bucket.
- Borax: Dissolve one cup of borax in one gallon of warm water in a bucket or a tub.
- Lemon juice: Mix one part of lemon juice with three parts of water in a spray bottle or a bucket.
- Citric acid: Mix one tablespoon of citric acid with two cups of hot water in a spray bottle or a bucket.
Step 3: Apply the solution
- The third thing you need to do is apply the solution to the mildew-infected areas of your fabric blinds.
- You can use one of these methods depending on the type of solution and the size of your blinds:
- Spray: Use a spray bottle to spray the solution generously on both sides of the blinds, making sure to cover all the mildew spots. Let it sit for at least 15 minutes or up to an hour.
- Soak: Use a bucket or a tub to soak the blinds in the solution, making sure they are fully submerged. Let them soak for at least 15 minutes or up to an hour.
- Scrub: Use a sponge, a cloth, or a soft-bristled brush to scrub the solution into the fabric, focusing on the mildew spots. Rinse with clean water.
Step 4: Rinse and dry the blinds
- The last thing you need to do is rinse and dry the blinds thoroughly after removing all the mildew.
- You need to rinse them well with clean water to remove any traces of the solution or mildew.
- You can use a hose, a shower head, or a faucet to rinse them thoroughly.
- Then you need to let them dry completely before reattaching them to the window.
- You can hang them on a clothesline, a rack, or some hangers to air dry them in direct sunlight.
FAQs
Q: How do I prevent mildew from growing on my fabric blinds? A: The best way to prevent mildew from growing on your fabric blinds is to keep them clean and dry. You can dust them regularly with a soft cloth or a vacuum cleaner attachment. You can also wipe them with a damp cloth if they get dirty. Avoid hanging them in humid or damp areas, such as bathrooms or kitchens. If they get wet, make sure to dry them as soon as possible.
Q: How do I know if my fabric blinds have mildew? A: Mildew is a type of fungus that grows on damp fabrics. It usually appears as black, brown, green, or white spots or patches on the surface of the fabric. It may also have a musty or sour smell. Mildew can cause allergic reactions, respiratory problems, and damage to fabrics if left untreated.
Wrap Up
Fabric blinds are a beautiful way to decorate your windows with style and comfort. But they can also get damp and moldy over time. You don’t have to throw them away if they have mildew on them. You can remove mildew from fabric blinds with some natural and gentle methods. To remove mildew from fabric blinds, you just need to remove them from the window, choose the solution, apply it, and rinse and dry them thoroughly. Then you can enjoy your clean and fresh fabric blinds again.
