How to clean window blinds - a step-by-step guide and the best cleaning products to get the job done

When blinds become dingy and feel sticky to the touch, it's time to give them a thorough cleaning. For most households, this should be done at least twice a year. The type of cleaner you use will depend on what material was used to manufacture the blinds. Natural wood blinds require a cleaner that is recommended for wood floors. Metal, faux wood, and plastic blinds can be easily cleaned with an all-purpose cleaner.

1. When you're ready to do a thorough cleaning, always begin by dusting first to remove as much grime as possible. Remember to use that sturdy step ladder to reach upper edges.

2. If you have natural wood blinds, Bona Hardwood Floor Cleaner Spray cleans and protects the wood and is simple to use. For metal, vinyl, and plastic blinds, Method All-Purpose Surface Cleaner cuts through the grime. If kitchen blinds have excessive amounts of grease buildup, use Method Heavy Duty Degreaser Spray. All of these cleaners are ideal because they do not require rinsing.

3. You can use the Hiware Window Blind Cleaner or microfiber cloths for wiping down the blind slats during cleaning. You may need several cloths to clean an entire room of window blinds.

4. Always start at the top so that any drips can be caught later as you clean. Spritz the cleaning product onto one of the microfiber cloths. With the blinds closed flat against the window, wipe down each slat with the cleaner-sprayed cloth.

5. Keep moving to a clean area of the cloth as the soil is transferred from the blinds and proceed down the blinds.

6. Rotate the slats so that the other side of the blinds is exposed and repeat the cleaning process.

7. To clean the strings or ladders that hold the slats together, use foaming shaving cream. Spray a bit of shaving cream onto a cloth, grasp the soiled area of the string with the cloth and rub. The shaving cream will remove the soil without leaving any drips and no rinsing is needed.