How to Clean Wooden Blinds Quickly Like a Pro

Wooden blinds are a step above standard white aluminum or mini blinds, and they add character and function to any space. However, the regular cleaning that wooden blinds need can seem tricky and time-consuming.

But it’s really not—with the right tools and materials, you’ll learn how to clean wooden blinds easily and quickly. Here’s everything you need to know.

Before You Begin

You’ll need a duster, dust mitt, or vacuum with a brush attachment to clean your wooden blinds. You’ll also need dish soap, warm water, a few clean cloths, a large bowl, and a microfiber cloth.

Take a few minutes to make sure your wooden blinds are actually wooden, too. Fake wood is more susceptible to water damage during cleaning than hardwood, so this cleaning process could do more harm than good to faux wood.

Your wooden blinds are likely not-so-wooden if the wood grain is the same on each blind and if the edges of the blind slat look identical to the surface of the blind slat.

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How to Clean Wooden Blinds

1. Lower Blinds

   First, clear away any items in or around your windows, like windowsill decor or curtains. Make sure there’s nothing below your windows that can’t handle a little accidental soap or dust either—if there is, move it out of the way.

   Once your windows are cleared, fully lower your wooden blinds and open them so that the slats can all be accessed.

2. Dust Or Vacuum

   If you’re using a duster (a dusting mitt will work especially well here), run it along each wooden blind, working from top to bottom. Make sure to switch dusting pads or attachments as needed if your blinds are very dusty.

   If you’re using a vacuum to clean your wooden blinds, use the brush attachment to suck up any dust on the slats. Work from top to bottom.

3. Create Your Cleaning Solution

   Combine a half-teaspoon of dish soap with warm water in a large bowl. Dip a clean cloth inside the cleaning solution and gently move it back and forth across each wooden blind. Once again, work from top to bottom.

   Tip

   If your wooden blinds are greasy, you’ll need some extra cleaning power. Use two teaspoons of dish soap rather than a half teaspoon. However, while extra detergent will better cut through any grease, it will also leave behind soapy residue. Follow your soapy cloth with a cloth dipped in clean water to “rinse” each blind.

4. Dry the Blinds

   After each wooden blind slat has been dusted and scrubbed, use a clean microfiber cloth to dry your blinds. Left-behind moisture can warp and damage wood, so don’t skip this step!

   Run a microfiber cloth across each blind slat to wipe up any leftover cleaning solution. Don’t return the blinds to the closed position or pull them up until the slats are fully dry.

How Often to Clean

You’ll need to clean your wooden blinds anywhere from monthly to seasonally, depending on a few factors. Your blinds will need more frequent cleaning if you have pets—their shedding will make most surfaces dustier, including your blinds.

You will also have to clean your blinds more often if you frequently keep your windows open, as the dust and dirt from outside will make their way onto your blinds.