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How to Clean Made to Measure Blinds (By Material) – Make Them Last 10+ Years

Authored By Michael Turner

Updated on April 30, 2026

Last Updated: May 2026 | Originally Published: April 2026

To clean made to measure blinds, use a microfiber cloth or vacuum with brush attachment for weekly dusting. For deep cleaning: wipe roller blinds with a damp cloth, vacuum cellular shades only (never wet), wipe faux wood blinds with a damp cloth and dry immediately, and soak vertical blind slats in a bathtub.

Here is what I learned from 2+ years of ownership:

Weekly dusting takes 5 minutes and prevents buildup.
Water destroys cellular shades – vacuum only.
Real wood blinds in bathrooms warped. Faux wood wipes clean easily.
My roller blinds still look new after 2 years with proper care.

Who this guide is for: Owners of made to measure blinds who want them to last 10+ years.

Who this guide is NOT for: People with cheap blinds they plan to replace every 2 years (skip cleaning, just replace).

How to Clean Made to Measure Blinds (By Material) – Make Them Last 10+ Years

Here is a truth most blind companies will not tell you: The wrong cleaning method will destroy your expensive custom blinds.

I learned this the hard way.

I sprayed water on my cellular shades to clean them. The water soaked into the fabric. The honeycomb structure collapsed. The shades never worked the same again. I had to replace them.

That mistake cost me $250.

Different blind materials require completely different cleaning methods. Water that is fine for vinyl blinds will ruin fabric shades. A vacuum that is safe for cellular shades will scratch faux wood.

This guide covers every blind type I have owned and cleaned over the past 2+ years. Follow the method for your specific blinds.

Let us get into it.

Need to install blinds first? See my How to Install Made to Measure Blinds guide.

Quick Reference – Cleaning Method by Blind Type

Blind Type	Weekly Cleaning	Deep Cleaning	What to NEVER Do
Roller blinds	Vacuum or microfiber	Wipe with damp cloth + mild soap	Submerge in water
Cellular shades	Vacuum with brush attachment	Vacuum only – no water	Any water or liquid
Faux wood blinds	Microfiber cloth	Wipe with damp cloth, dry immediately	Excess water, abrasive cleaners
Vertical blinds	Wipe each slat	Remove slats, soak in bathtub	Machine wash
Roman shades	Vacuum with brush attachment	Professional dry cleaning	Any water
Real wood blinds	Microfiber cloth (dry)	Dry cloth only – never wet	Any water or moisture

General Principles for Cleaning All Blinds

Before we get into specific blind types, here are rules that apply to every blind.

The Golden Rules

Rule	Why
Dust weekly	Prevents buildup that becomes hard to remove
Test cleaners first	Try on a small hidden area before full cleaning
Never force	If something is stuck, gentle pressure only
Read manufacturer instructions	Some blinds have specific requirements

Tools You Will Need

Tool	For What
Microfiber cloth (dry)	Dusting all blind types
Microfiber cloth (damp)	Wiping roller and faux wood blinds
Vacuum with brush attachment	Dusting cellular, roman, and roller blinds
Blind cleaner tool (double-sided wand)	Cleaning between slats on venetian/faux wood
Mild dish soap	For damp cleaning (a few drops in warm water)
Spray bottle	For water/vinegar solution (mold prevention)

What to NEVER Use on Any Blind

Product	Why It Is Dangerous
Bleach	Destroys fabric, discolors materials
Abrasive cleaners (Comet, Ajax)	Scratches surfaces
Acetone or nail polish remover	Melts plastic and coatings
Pressure washer	Bends slats, forces water into mechanisms
WD-40	Attracts dust, damages some materials

How to Clean Roller Blinds

Roller blinds are the easiest to clean. I have had mine for 2+ years and they still look new.

My blind type: Blindster Blackout Roller Blinds
Location: Living room (3 windows)
Age: 2+ years

Weekly Cleaning (5 minutes per blind)

Step	Action
1	Extend blind fully
2	Vacuum with brush attachment – both sides
3	Or wipe with dry microfiber cloth

Pro tip: Roll the blind up slightly to clean the exposed fabric at the top. Dust collects there.

Deep Cleaning (Every 3-4 months)

Step	Action
1	Fill spray bottle with warm water + 2 drops mild dish soap
2	Extend blind fully
3	Lightly spray a microfiber cloth (do NOT spray the blind directly)
4	Wipe fabric from top to bottom
5	Dry with clean microfiber cloth
6	Roll up and down to distribute moisture evenly

What to NEVER do:

❌ Submerge in water
❌ Spray water directly on the blind (can damage rolling mechanism)
❌ Use bleach or harsh cleaners
❌ Roll up while wet (mold risk)

My experience: After 2+ years, my roller blinds still look new. Weekly dusting and quarterly wipe-downs have been enough.

How to Clean Cellular Shades

Cellular shades (honeycomb shades) are the most delicate. Never use water on them.

My mistake: I sprayed water on my cellular shades. The water soaked into the honeycomb cells. The structure collapsed. The shades would not raise or lower smoothly. I had to replace them ($250 mistake).

My blind type: Blindster Double Cell Blackout Cellular Shades
Location: Master bedroom
Age: 18 months (since I replaced the ruined ones)

Weekly Cleaning (5 minutes per blind)

Step	Action
1	Extend shade fully
2	Vacuum with brush attachment – both sides
3	Use low suction setting if available
4	Vacuum from top to bottom

Pro tip: Use the upholstery tool on your vacuum. The wide head covers more area.

Deep Cleaning (Every 6 months)

Step	Action
1	Extend shade fully
2	Vacuum thoroughly with brush attachment
3	For stubborn dust, use a lint roller
4	Compressed air can blow dust out of cells (use low pressure)

Removing Stains (Spot Cleaning Only)

Step	Action
1	Dampen a cloth with water ONLY (no soap)
2	Blot – do not rub
3	Pat dry immediately with dry cloth

What to NEVER do:

❌ Any water or liquid (collapses the honeycomb cells)
❌ Rub stains (pushes them deeper into fabric)
❌ Submerge in bathtub
❌ Use bleach or any cleaner

My experience: Since switching to dry cleaning only, my cellular shades have lasted 18 months with no issues. They still raise and lower smoothly.

How to Clean Faux Wood Blinds

Faux wood blinds are durable and moisture-resistant. They are the easiest to clean after roller blinds.

My blind type: Levolor Cordless Faux Wood Blinds (2″ slats, white)
Location: Bathroom
Age: 2+ years (still look new)

Weekly Cleaning (3 minutes per blind)

Step	Action
1	Close slats completely (flat position)
2	Wipe with dry microfiber cloth – side to side
3	Or use blind cleaner tool (double-sided wand)

Pro tip: Close slats one direction, dust. Then close opposite direction, dust again. This cleans both sides of each slat.

Deep Cleaning (Every 3-4 months)

Step	Action
1	Close slats completely
2	Mix warm water + 2 drops mild dish soap
3	Dampen microfiber cloth (not wet)
4	Wipe each slat from top to bottom
5	Immediately dry with clean dry cloth
6	Open slats and repeat for other side

Removing Mold or Mildew (Bathrooms Only)

Step	Action
1	Mix 1 part white vinegar with 3 parts water
2	Dampen cloth (not wet)
3	Wipe affected areas
4	Dry immediately

What to NEVER do:

❌ Soak the blinds (water can damage the cordless mechanism)
❌ Use abrasive scrubbers (scratch the surface)
❌ Leave wet (water spots, potential mold)
❌ Put in dishwasher

My experience: After 2+ years in a bathroom with daily showers, my faux wood blinds have no mold, no warping, no discoloration. Wiping them down every 3-4 months has been sufficient.

Considering real wood instead? See why I rejected real wood in my Made to Measure Blinds Buying Guide.

How to Clean Vertical Blinds

Vertical blinds are common on sliding glass doors. Individual slats make cleaning easier – you can remove and soak them.

My blind type: Blinds.com Vertical Blinds (PVC slats, 3.5″)
Location: Sliding glass door
Age: 2+ years (2 slats replaced after dog ran through them)

Weekly Cleaning (5 minutes per door)

Step	Action
1	Rotate slats closed (flat position)
2	Wipe each slat with dry microfiber cloth
3	Or vacuum with brush attachment

Deep Cleaning – Bathtub Soak (Every 6 months)

Step	Action
1	Remove slats from headrail (slide up and out)
2	Fill bathtub with warm water + mild dish soap
3	Soak slats for 10-15 minutes
4	Wipe each slat with soft sponge
5	Rinse with clean water (shower works)
6	Hang slats to dry completely (24 hours)
7	Reinstall slats into headrail

What to NEVER do:

❌ Machine wash (slats will tangle and break)
❌ Put in dishwasher
❌ Soak the headrail (contains mechanism – wipe only)
❌ Use bleach or abrasive cleaners

My experience: I have soaked my vertical blind slats twice in 2 years. They come out looking like new. The process takes about an hour total (mostly waiting for drying).

How to Clean Roman Shades

Roman shades are fabric shades that fold when raised. They are the most delicate and hardest to clean.

Material types: Linen, cotton, polyester, velvet, or blends.

Weekly Cleaning (5 minutes per shade)

Step	Action
1	Lower shade completely
2	Vacuum with brush attachment – both sides
3	Use upholstery tool for gentle suction

Spot Cleaning (Stains Only)

Step	Action
1	Blot stain immediately with dry cloth
2	For stubborn stains, use upholstery cleaner according to manufacturer
3	Test on hidden area first

Deep Cleaning

Fabric Type	Recommended Method
Polyester	Professional dry cleaning
Cotton	Professional dry cleaning
Linen	Professional dry cleaning
Velvet	Professional dry cleaning

What to NEVER do:

❌ Any water or liquid (causes shrinkage, water stains, mold)
❌ Machine wash
❌ Rub stains (pushes them deeper)
❌ Submerge

My experience: I do not own roman shades for this reason. They are beautiful but high-maintenance. If you love the look, budget for professional cleaning every 1-2 years.

How to Clean Real Wood Blinds (If You Ignored My Advice)

Warning: I do not recommend real wood blinds for most homes. Mine warped in 8 months in my bathroom.

But if you already have them or insist on buying them, here is how to clean them without causing damage.

Weekly Cleaning (3 minutes per blind)

Step	Action
1	Close slats completely
2	Wipe with dry microfiber cloth only
3	Never use any liquid

Deep Cleaning

Step	Action
1	Dry cloth only
2	For stuck-on grime, use specialized wood cleaner (test first)

What to NEVER do:

❌ Any water or moisture (causes warping)
❌ Furniture polish (attracts dust, leaves residue)
❌ Abrasive cleaners

My advice again: Buy faux wood instead. Same look. Wipes clean with damp cloth. Will not warp.

How to Remove Mold from Bathroom Blinds

Bathroom blinds are prone to mold due to humidity. Here is how to handle it.

For Vinyl, PVC, or Faux Wood Blinds

Step	Action
1	Mix 1 part white vinegar with 3 parts water
2	Dampen cloth (not wet)
3	Wipe affected areas
4	Dry thoroughly
5	Improve bathroom ventilation (run fan during showers)

For Fabric or Cellular Blinds with Mold

Step	Action
1	Remove blinds carefully
2	Take to professional cleaner
3	Replace if mold is extensive (health risk)

Prevention is better than cure:

Run bathroom fan during and 30 minutes after showers
Keep blinds partially open when not in use
Wipe down blinds monthly with dry cloth
Consider faux wood for bathrooms (most mold-resistant)

My experience: My faux wood bathroom blinds have never developed mold. I wipe them down every 3 months. The bathroom fan runs during every shower.

How Often to Clean Each Blind Type

Blind Type	Weekly	Deep Clean	Professional
Roller blinds	✅ Dust	Every 3-4 months	Never needed
Cellular shades	✅ Vacuum	Every 6 months	Never needed
Faux wood blinds	✅ Dust	Every 3-4 months	Never needed
Vertical blinds	✅ Dust	Every 6 months (soak slats)	Never needed
Roman shades	✅ Vacuum	No DIY deep clean	Every 1-2 years
Real wood blinds	✅ Dust	Dry cloth only	Never needed

Signs Your Blinds Need Cleaning

Sign	What It Means	Action Needed
Visible dust on slats	Weekly cleaning missed	Dust immediately
Grayish film on fabric	Dust buildup	Deep clean
Stains or spots	Something spilled	Spot clean or professional
Musty smell	Mold or mildew	Vinegar solution or professional
Blinds won’t raise/lower smoothly	Dust in mechanism	Vacuum mechanism area
Discoloration	Sun damage or dirt	Deep clean (may not reverse)

Tools That Make Cleaning Easier

Blind Cleaner Tool (Double-Sided Wand)

What it does	Cleans both sides of slats simultaneously
Best for	Faux wood, venetian, and vertical blinds
Cost	$10 -$ 10−20
Where to buy	Amazon, Home Depot, Lowe’s

Microfiber Cloths

What it does	Picks up dust without scratching
Best for	All blind types
Cost	$5 -$ 5−10 for a pack

Vacuum Brush Attachment

What it does	Gentle dust removal
Best for	Cellular shades, roman shades, roller blinds
Cost	Often included with vacuum

Frequently Asked Questions About Cleaning Blinds

Q: How often should I clean my made to measure blinds?

A: Dust weekly. Deep clean every 3-6 months depending on the room. Kitchens and bathrooms need more frequent cleaning (every 3 months). Bedrooms and living rooms can go 6 months between deep cleans.

Q: Can I put my blinds in the washing machine?

A: No. Never. Machine washing will destroy the mechanisms, bend slats, and ruin fabric. Vertical blind slats can be soaked in a bathtub, but never machine washed.

Q: Can I use a pressure washer on outdoor blinds?

A: No. High pressure will bend slats and force water into mechanisms. Use a garden hose with gentle spray and a soft cloth.

Q: How do I clean between slats without removing the blinds?

A: Use a blind cleaner tool (double-sided wand) or wrap a microfiber cloth around kitchen tongs. Close slats one direction, clean, then close opposite direction and clean again.

Q: My white blinds look yellow. How do I fix that?

A: Yellowing is usually caused by sun damage or nicotine. For vinyl/faux wood, try mild soap and water. For fabric, professional cleaning may help. Prevention is best – UV-protective films on windows can reduce yellowing.

Q: How do I clean the cords on corded blinds?

A: Wipe cords with a damp cloth. For stubborn dirt, mix mild soap with water, dampen cloth, wipe, then dry. Do not soak cords.

Q: Can I use furniture polish on wood blinds?

A: No. Furniture polish leaves residue that attracts dust. Use a dry microfiber cloth only.

Q: How do I clean blinds in a rental without causing damage?

A: Dust weekly with dry cloth. For deeper cleaning, follow the methods above for your blind type. Do not use any liquids on fabric blinds. If unsure, ask your landlord for the manufacturer’s cleaning instructions.

Q: My blinds have a musty smell. What do I do?

A: Musty smell usually means mold or mildew. For faux wood or vinyl, wipe with vinegar solution (1 part vinegar, 3 parts water). For fabric or cellular shades, professional cleaning is safest. Improve room ventilation to prevent recurrence.

Q: How do I prevent dust buildup on blinds?

A: Dust weekly. Use a vacuum with brush attachment. In high-dust rooms, consider an air purifier. Some fabrics (polyester) attract less dust than others (cotton, linen).

Maintenance Schedule Template

Copy this schedule to track your blind cleaning.

Room	Blind Type	Last Dusted	Last Deep Clean	Next Deep Clean
Living room	Roller	___	___	___
Master bedroom	Cellular	___	___	___
Bathroom	Faux wood	___	___	___
Sliding door	Vertical	___	___	___
Nursery	Blackout roller	___	___	___

Your Action Plan

Step 1: Identify your blind type (roller, cellular, faux wood, vertical, roman).

Step 2: Gather the right tools (microfiber cloth, vacuum with brush attachment).

Step 3: Dust weekly – set a recurring calendar reminder.

Step 4: Deep clean every 3-6 months following the method for your blind type.

Step 5: For mold or stains, address immediately before they set.

Need to install blinds first? See my How to Install Made to Measure Blinds guide.

[Shop Blind Cleaning Tools on Amazon →]

[Buy Microfiber Cloths at Home Depot →]

[Get a Blind Cleaner Tool →]

Authored By Michael Turner

Authored By Michael Turner A master carpenter, home improvement specialist, and technical consultant! Michael Turner is a U.S.-based craftsman with over 30 years of hands-on experience in residential construction, custom woodwork, and interior upgrades. Known for his expertise in blinds and shades installation, smart window treatments, and precision carpentry, he bridges traditional craftsmanship with modern home technology. Michael has worked with leading home improvement firms, contributed to DIY renovation communities, and frequently shares practical insights on efficient installations, material selection, and energy-efficient home solutions.

Disclosure

This article contains affiliate links. If you purchase through these links, I may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. All recommendations are based on independent testing.