How to Clean & Maintain Outdoor Blinds

Whether you’re near the beach or in the heart of Adelaide, outdoor blinds can collect dust and dirt over time.

Just like any other home improvement, it’s important to maintain them to get the most out of your investment. To help you keep your outdoor blinds in excellent condition, here’s our easy guide to cleaning and maintenance.

Keeping your Outdoor Blinds Clean

We understand that cleaning and maintenance can sometimes feel like a chore, especially when you’d rather be enjoying your weekend. Luckily, keeping your outdoor blinds clean is simple!

We recommend cleaning them once a week, but every few weeks or once a month will still give you great results.

How to Clean Mesh Outdoor Blinds

Cleaning mesh blinds is a breeze if you follow these steps:

1. Remove any debris – Brush off solid chunks of dirt or leaves before you begin.

2. Wipe down with warm soapy water – Use a soft microfibre cloth or a gentle bristle brush to remove stains and dirt.

3. Optional cleaner – If you prefer, you can use a cleaner like ‘Swiftee,’ but warm soapy water will work just as well.

4. Gentle pressure – Avoid pressing too hard; just enough pressure to remove the dirt will suffice.

Each blind should only take a few minutes to clean, depending on how many you have.

How to Clean PVC Outdoor Blinds

PVC blinds require a little extra attention due to their transparent material. Here’s how to keep them looking spotless:

1. Remove any debris – Clear away any solid dirt before wiping.

2. Polish with a soft cloth – A soft, clean cloth should be enough to polish the PVC. If needed, use warm soapy water.

2. Frequent cleaning – Because PVC is clear, any dirt or dust will be more noticeable. Regular cleaning will help maintain their pristine look.

General Maintenance Tips: Do’s and Don’ts

To keep your outdoor blinds in the best shape, here are a few maintenance tips to follow:

Do not use oil-based lubricants – These can damage the spline and trap dust in the tracks.
Handle with care – For manual blinds, never attach the pull stick to the inside latch of the bottom bar; always attach it directly to the bar.
Avoid window cleaners – Do not use window cleaning sprays on PVC blinds, as they can damage the material.
Motorised blinds – Avoid using motorised blinds in strong winds, as the motor may struggle against wind pressure.
No high-pressure hoses – Steer clear of high-pressure hoses, stiff brooms, or harsh cleaning products on both mesh and PVC blinds.
Keep blinds dry – Always avoid rolling up blinds when they’re wet to prevent mould or mildew.
Fully retract in windy weather – During strong winds, always fully retract your blinds to prevent damage.
Operate from the centre – For manual Ziptrak blinds, always operate from the centre to ensure even rolling onto the top tube.
Clean stains immediately – Tackle stains as soon as you see them to avoid tougher, more stubborn marks.
Remove bird droppings or food debris quickly – Don’t let debris like bird droppings or food sit on your blinds for too long, as they can become difficult to clean.

Keep Your Outdoor Blinds Looking Their Best

By following these simple cleaning and maintenance tips, you’ll ensure that your outdoor blinds stay in excellent condition! Regular care keeps them looking fresh while prolonging their lifespan.

Whether you’re enjoying a sunny day or shielding your space from the elements, well-maintained blinds will help you make the most of your outdoor areas.

Interested in upgrading your outdoor living space? View our Outdoor Blinds range, enquire online or call us today to book a free on-site assessment.