how replacement windows can benefit your home

Winter is finally coming to an end. Spring will be here before you know it. If you're in the process of switching into cleaning mode, there's probably one chore that you're really dreading – the cleaning of the blinds. Your window blinds collect plenty of dirt, dust, and oils. Unfortunately, because of those slats, they can be a real pain to get clean. This is particularly true if you don't have some short cuts in your cleaning arsenal. Now that it's time to start with the spring cleaning, here are four simple methods for getting your blinds sparkling clean.

Give Them the Brush-Off

If your blinds just have a light layer of dust, you can make quick work of the clean-up by using a small paintbrush. Beginning at the top of your blinds, use a small paintbrush to dust each of the slats. By beginning at the top, you're making it easier to collect the residual dust once you get to the bottom slat. Once you've dusted off each of the slats, run your vacuum along the floor beneath your blinds. This will allow you to collect any dust that collected during the cleanup.

Blow Them Off

If you have blinds, you know how tough it can be to clean the upper edge shelf – the space where all the blinds attach. You could use a vacuum, but they can be heavy and difficult to maneuver at heights. The best way to keep that area clean is with your blow dryer. Stand up on a chair to get a good view, and then blow the dust away with your blow dryer. You can use your vacuum to clear any dust that lands on your floor.

Sock It to Them

If your blinds have more than just a thin layer of dust, you'll need to bring out the socks – yes, socks. Fill a spray bottle with warm water and add ¼ cup each of lemon juice and vinegar. Place a sock on one hand and spray it with your cleaning solution. Run your hand along each slat. The sock will remove that layer of dirt that's keeping your blinds from looking their best.

Take Them for a Dip

If the blinds in your home are coated with dirt and oils, you'll need to bring in the big guns. Fill your tub with warm water. Add 1 cup each of vinegar and lemon juice, and a few drops of grease-cutting dish detergent. Carefully place your blinds in the tub and allow them to soak for about 15 minutes. Rinse them with clear water and allow them to air dry before rehanging them. If your blinds are too big to fit in the tub, you can move the cleaning to the backyard. Lay a plastic tarp in the yard. Fill a bucket with your cleaning solution – using the same method as described for the tub cleaning. Place your blinds on the tarp and use a fresh broom to carefully clean your blinds. Rinse well with your garden hose and allow your blinds to air dry.

Spring is almost here. Use the helpful tips provided here to take the work out of cleaning your blinds.