Blinds are a wonderful way to control the amount of light and heat that enters your home, but they can also suffer from sun damage over time. Sun exposure can cause your blinds to fade, discolor, or even crack, making them look old and unattractive. If you have sun damaged blinds in your home, don’t despair. There are some ways to clean them and restore their beauty. In this post, we’ll show you how to clean sun damaged blinds and prevent further damage in the future.
How to clean sun damaged blinds: To clean sun damaged blinds, you can either vacuum and wipe them down with a damp cloth or wash them in the tub with warm water and bleach. For stubborn stains, you can use dish soap, baking soda, or hydrogen peroxide to treat the affected area.
Vacuuming and Wiping Down Your Blinds
This method is suitable for regular cleaning or for mild sun damage that can be removed by wiping. You’ll need:
- A feather duster
- A clean cloth
- Warm water
- White vinegar
Here’s what to do:
- Pull the blinds down so they are fully extended. You want to access the entire fabric and not just the exposed part.
- Use your feather duster to remove any dust and dirt from the blinds. Start from the top and work your way down, moving from left to right.
- Mix equal parts of warm water and white vinegar in a bowl. This will create a natural cleaning solution that can disinfect and deodorize your blinds.
- Wet your cloth in the vinegar mixture and wring it out so it doesn’t drip. Then, wipe the blinds from top to bottom, using a back and forth motion. If you encounter any stains or discoloration, scrub them gently with the cloth.
- Get another clean cloth and wipe the blinds again with plain water to rinse off any residue. Then, let the blinds air dry or use a towel to pat them dry.
Washing Sun Damaged Blinds in the Tub
This method is suitable for deep cleaning or for severe sun damage that is hard to remove by wiping. You’ll need:
- A feather duster
- A bathtub
- Warm water
- Bleach
- Dish soap
- A sponge or a brush
- A large cloth or towel
Here’s what to do:
- Dust off your blinds as before and then take them down from the window.
- Fill your bathtub with enough warm water to cover the blinds. Then, add two to three cups of bleach to the water. This will create a powerful cleaning solution that can whiten and brighten your blinds.
- Submerge your blinds in the tub and let them soak for at least 10 minutes. Then, use a sponge or a brush to scrub any stubborn spots or stains on the fabric.
- Drain the tub and rinse the blinds with clean water. Make sure there is no bleach left on the fabric.
- Hang the blinds over a shower rod or a clothesline to let them drip dry. You can also use a large cloth or towel to blot out any excess water.
Removing Stains from Sun Damaged Blinds
Sometimes, you may have stains on your sun damaged blinds that are too tough to remove with just water and bleach. In that case, you can try some of these products to treat the stains:
- Dish soap: You can use dish soap as a mild detergent that can break down grease and oil stains. Mix some dish soap with warm water and apply it on the stain with a sponge or a cloth. Rub it gently and then rinse it off with water.
- Baking soda: You can use baking soda as a natural abrasive that can scrub away dirt and grime stains. Sprinkle some baking soda on the stain and add some water to make a paste. Scrub it with a sponge or a brush and then rinse it off with water.
- Hydrogen peroxide: You can use hydrogen peroxide as a natural bleaching agent that can lighten up dark or colored stains. However, be careful not to use it on delicate or colored fabrics as it may damage them. Test it on an inconspicuous spot first before applying it on the stain. Dilute some hydrogen peroxide with water and dab it on the stain with a cotton ball or a q-tip. Let it sit for a few minutes and then rinse it off with water.
FAQs
How do I prevent sun damage on blinds?
You can prevent sun damage on blinds by taking some precautions and maintaining them regularly. Here are some tips to prevent sun damage on blinds:
- Avoid placing your blinds in direct sunlight, as this can fade the color and damage the fabric. Choose a window location that is shaded or use curtains or drapes to block out the sun.
- Apply a UV protective coating on your blinds, as this can help reduce the effects of sun exposure. You can buy a UV spray or a UV film and apply it on your blinds according to the instructions.
- Clean your blinds regularly to remove any dust and dirt that can accumulate over time. Dust and dirt can also cause discoloration and deterioration of your blinds.
Wrap Up
Sun damaged blinds can make your home look dull and uninviting, but you don’t have to live with them. By following these simple steps, you can clean sun damaged blinds and remove stains from them with ease. Remember to use gentle and natural products that won’t harm your blinds or your health. And don’t forget to enjoy your beautiful and clean blinds!
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.
