How To Clean Plastic Window Blinds In A Bathtub

(Many of the links in this article redirect to a specific reviewed product. Your purchase of these products through affiliate links helps to generate commission for Storables.com, at no extra cost. Learn more)

Introduction

Window blinds are a popular and practical choice for covering windows in homes and offices. They not only provide privacy but also allow you to control the amount of sunlight that enters a room. Over time, however, these blinds can accumulate dust, dirt, and other debris, making them appear dull and dirty. Regular cleaning is essential to maintain their appearance and prolong their lifespan.

Cleaning plastic window blinds can be a daunting task, especially if they haven’t been cleaned in a while. But with the right supplies and a methodical approach, you can easily restore their shine and make them look as good as new. One effective method for cleaning plastic window blinds is using a bathtub.

In this article, we will guide you through the step-by-step process of cleaning plastic window blinds in a bathtub. By following these instructions, you’ll be able to remove stubborn dirt and grime, leaving your blinds fresh and clean.

Supply List

Before you begin cleaning your plastic window blinds in the bathtub, gather the following supplies:

• Mild dish soap
• Bathtub or large container
• Soft brush or sponge
• Old towels
• Lukewarm water
• Optional: vinegar or baking soda for stubborn stains

Make sure you have all of these supplies readily available as they will make the cleaning process more efficient and effective.

Preparation

Before you start cleaning your plastic window blinds in the bathtub, it’s important to prepare the area and the blinds themselves. Follow these steps to ensure a smooth and successful cleaning process:

1. Close your blinds completely to prevent water from seeping into the mechanism.
2. Remove any decorative accessories or additional attachments from the blinds, such as valances or curtain rods.
3. Inspect the blinds for any damages or broken parts. It’s best to repair or replace any damaged components before cleaning.
4. Clear the bathtub or large container of any items to create a clean and clutter-free workspace.
5. Place old towels on the bottom of the bathtub to provide a soft surface for the blinds to rest on. This will help prevent any scratches or damage to the plastic material.

Once you’ve completed these preparation steps, you’re now ready to clean your plastic window blinds in the bathtub. The following steps will guide you through the cleaning process, ensuring that your blinds are left spotless and refreshed.

Step 1: Remove Blinds

The first step in cleaning plastic window blinds in a bathtub is to remove them from the window. Follow these instructions:

1. Start by fully raising the blinds to their highest position.
2. Locate the brackets that hold the blinds in place. These are usually located at the top of the window frame.
3. Use a screwdriver or a similar tool to remove the screws or clips that secure the blinds to the brackets.
4. Gently pull the blinds away from the brackets, ensuring that you don’t force them or cause any damage.

Once the blinds are removed, place them on a clean and dry surface nearby. This will make it easier to clean them in the bathtub.

It’s worth noting that it’s a good idea to clean one set of blinds at a time to avoid any mix-ups or confusion when reinstalling them later.

With the blinds removed, you’re now ready to move on to the next step in the cleaning process.

Step 2: Fill Bathtub with Warm Water

Once you have removed the blinds from the window, it’s time to prepare the bathtub for the cleaning process.

1. Ensure the bathtub is clean, free from any debris or residue. If necessary, give it a quick rinse before filling with water.
2. Plug the drain of the bathtub to prevent the water from draining.
3. Fill the bathtub with warm water. The water should be warm to the touch but not too hot to handle.
4. Fill the tub with enough water to completely submerge the blinds, allowing them to soak and loosen any dirt or grime.
5. Do not fill the tub to the point where it overflows when the blinds are placed inside. Leave some room for the water to move around as you clean.

By filling the bathtub with warm water, you create a suitable environment for effectively cleaning the blinds. The warm water will help to dissolve dirt and grime, making it easier to remove during the cleaning process.

With the bathtub filled, you’re now ready to proceed to the next step: adding mild dish soap to the water.

Step 3: Add Mild Dish Soap to the Water

In order to effectively clean your plastic window blinds, you’ll need to add mild dish soap to the warm water in the bathtub. Follow these steps:

1. Measure out the appropriate amount of mild dish soap. The amount will depend on the size of your bathtub and the level of dirt on your blinds. As a general guideline, a few tablespoons of dish soap should be sufficient.
2. Add the dish soap to the warm water in the bathtub.
3. Swirl the water gently with your hand or a sponge to ensure that the soap is evenly distributed.

Mild dish soap is an effective and safe cleaning agent for plastic window blinds. It helps to break down grease and grime without causing any damage to the blinds’ material.

Make sure to use a mild dish soap that does not contain any harsh chemicals or abrasive ingredients. This will ensure that your blinds are cleaned effectively while maintaining their integrity.

Now that you have added the dish soap to the water, you’re ready to move on to the next step: submerging the blinds in the bathtub.

To clean plastic window blinds in a bathtub, fill the tub with warm water and a mild detergent. Submerge the blinds and gently scrub with a soft brush. Rinse thoroughly and hang to dry.

Step 4: Submerge Blinds in the Bathtub

Once you have prepared the warm, soapy water in the bathtub, it’s time to submerge the plastic window blinds. Follow these steps:

1. Carefully place the blinds into the bathtub, ensuring that they are fully submerged in the warm water.
2. Slowly move the blinds back and forth in the water to help dislodge any dirt or grime that may be lodged in the slats.
3. Allow the blinds to soak in the water for about 15-20 minutes. This soaking period will help to soften the dirt and make it easier to remove during the cleaning process.

By submerging the blinds in the warm, soapy water, you are allowing the cleaning solution to penetrate the dirt and grime, making it easier to clean the blinds thoroughly.

While the blinds are soaking, take this opportunity to clean any other parts or accessories that can be submerged in the water, such as the cords or clips, if needed.

With the blinds fully submerged, you’re now ready to move on to the next step: scrubbing the blinds with a soft brush or sponge.

Step 5: Scrub Blinds with a Soft Brush or Sponge

Now that your plastic window blinds have soaked in the warm, soapy water, it’s time to give them a gentle scrub using a soft brush or sponge. Follow these steps:

1. Take a soft brush or sponge and, starting from the top, gently scrub each slat of the blinds.
2. Focus on any areas that appear to have more dirt or stains, applying a bit more pressure if needed.
3. Work your way down the blinds, ensuring that all sides of each slat are thoroughly cleaned.
4. Pay special attention to the corners and edges, as these areas tend to accumulate more dirt.
5. If you encounter stubborn stains or dirt, you can apply a small amount of vinegar or baking soda to the brush or sponge to help lift the grime.

When scrubbing the blinds, be gentle to avoid damaging the plastic material. Using a soft brush or sponge will help prevent any scratches or marks on the slats.

Remember to rinse the brush or sponge periodically to remove any accumulated dirt, ensuring that you’re using clean tools to clean the blinds.

With the blinds scrubbed and clean, you’re now ready to move on to the next step: rinsing them thoroughly.

Step 6: Rinse Blinds Thoroughly

Once you have finished scrubbing the plastic window blinds with a soft brush or sponge, it’s time to rinse them thoroughly to remove any leftover soap residue and dirt. Follow these steps:

1. Using a handheld showerhead or a bucket of clean water, rinse the blinds thoroughly to remove the soapy water.
2. Start from the top of the blinds and work your way down, ensuring that you rinse each slat and remove any remaining soap residue.
3. Check the blinds carefully to make sure no dirt or soap residue is left behind. If necessary, repeat the rinsing process to ensure a thorough clean.

Rinsing the blinds is an important step to ensure that all soap residue and dirt are completely removed. Leaving any residue behind can result in a dull appearance or even attract more dirt in the future.

It’s crucial to rinse the blinds with clean water to avoid leaving behind any hard water stains or residue. Using a handheld showerhead or a bucket of clean water will allow you to have better control over the rinsing process.

With the blinds thoroughly rinsed, you’re now ready to move on to the next step: drying them completely.

Step 7: Dry Blinds Completely

After rinsing the plastic window blinds, it’s important to ensure that they are dried completely before reinstalling them. Follow these steps:

1. Shake off any excess water from the blinds while holding them over the bathtub to prevent drips or spills.
2. Place the blinds on a clean and dry surface, such as a towel or drying rack.
3. Use another clean towel to pat the blinds dry, absorbing any remaining moisture.
4. If the blinds are not completely dry, you can use a hairdryer on a low heat setting to speed up the drying process. Remember to keep the hairdryer at a safe distance to avoid any damage to the blinds.

It’s crucial to ensure that the blinds are completely dry before reinstalling them. This will prevent any moisture or water damage and help maintain their appearance.

Allow the blinds to air dry naturally if possible, as this can help prevent any lint or fibers from sticking to the damp surface.

Once the blinds are completely dry, you’re now ready to move on to the final step: reinstalling them in the window.

Step 8: Reinstall Blinds

Now that you have successfully cleaned and dried your plastic window blinds, it’s time to reinstall them back in the window. Follow these steps:

1. Hold the blinds up to the window and align them with the brackets.
2. Insert the top rail of the blinds into the brackets, making sure they are securely in place.
3. Use a screwdriver or the appropriate tool to reattach any screws or clips that hold the blinds in place.
4. Check that the blinds are installed correctly and are functioning properly by moving them up and down a few times.
5. If necessary, adjust the blinds to your desired height or angle for proper light control.

When reinstalling the blinds, take your time to ensure that they are aligned properly and securely in the brackets. This will prevent any accidental falls or misalignment.

Double-check that all screws or clips are tightly secured to keep the blinds firmly in place.

Once the blinds have been reinstalled, take a step back and admire your clean and refreshed window blinds.

Congratulations! You have successfully completed the process of cleaning your plastic window blinds in a bathtub.

Remember to periodically clean your blinds to maintain their appearance and prolong their lifespan. Regular dusting and occasional deep cleaning will help keep them looking their best.

Now sit back, relax, and enjoy the renewed beauty of your clean window blinds!

Conclusion

Cleaning plastic window blinds in a bathtub is an effective method to restore their shine and remove stubborn dirt and grime. By following the step-by-step process outlined in this article, you can easily achieve fresh and clean blinds.

Remember to gather all the necessary supplies before starting the cleaning process, including mild dish soap, a soft brush or sponge, and old towels. Preparation is key, so make sure to remove the blinds from the window and create a clean workspace.

Fill the bathtub with warm water and add mild dish soap to create a soapy solution. Submerge the blinds in the water and let them soak for a while to loosen dirt and grime. Use a soft brush or sponge to scrub the blinds gently, paying attention to any stubborn stains.

Rinse the blinds thoroughly with clean water to remove any soap residue, and ensure they are dried completely before reinstalling them in the window. Make sure the blinds are aligned properly in the brackets and securely attached.

Regularly cleaning your plastic window blinds will not only enhance their appearance but also prolong their lifespan. It’s a simple yet effective way to maintain a fresh and clean environment in your home or office.

Now that you have the knowledge and techniques to clean your plastic window blinds in a bathtub, don’t hesitate to tackle this task. Enjoy the satisfaction of revitalizing your blinds and creating a clean and inviting space.