Quck answer
Over time, white plastic blinds can become yellowed and discolored due to exposure to sunlight. To clean sun-yellowed white plastic blinds, you can follow these steps:
1. Remove the blinds from the window and lay them flat on a clean surface.
2. Mix equal parts of warm water and white vinegar in a bucket or a sink.
3. Dip a sponge or a soft cloth into the vinegar solution and gently scrub the blinds.
4. Pay extra attention to any heavily stained areas and scrub them until the yellowing is reduced.
5. Rinse the blinds with clean water to remove any vinegar residue.
6. Allow the blinds to air dry completely before rehanging them.
By following these steps, you can effectively clean sun-yellowed white plastic blinds and restore their original color.
Maintaining the decorative look of window treatments requires routine care and maintenance. Even with a protective UV coating, the sun’s harmful rays can cause damage to blinds, resulting in yellowing that is mostly permanent. However, with proper care and maintenance, you can slow down the yellowing process.
Reasons for Blinds Turning Yellow
Blinds protect your home from the elements, including the sun’s harmful UV rays that can cause furniture and other interior furnishings to fade or deteriorate. However, over time, exposure to UV rays breaks down any protective coating, leading to yellowing. Indoor pollution, such as smoking, can also cause yellowing gradually until it becomes noticeable.
Importance of Regular Cleaning
Regular cleaning can’t solve the sun problem, but it can prevent blinds from yellowing too much and remove the gunk that naturally builds up on them. Dirty, sun-yellowed blinds can look even more discolored, and dust, grime, and cigarette smoke can cause stains. Giving your blinds a routine washing can remove these stains and prevent them from looking yellow and dingy.
How to Clean Yellow Blinds
Start by dusting the blinds well to remove dust before washing them, and take them down from the window. If plastic or aluminum blinds still have stains after routine cleaning, you can try a bleach bath. Add 2 to 3 cups of bleach to a bathtub of cold water, remove the blinds from your windows, and place them in the bleach bath. Submerge every part of your blinds in the water and soak them for at least 10 minutes. Then, take a sponge to the blind slats to scrub them individually.
When you’re satisfied with the color of your blinds, remove them from the tub. Wipe them dry with a clean towel, taking care not to bend the slats, and hang them back up in their proper places to finish drying in the air. Wooden blinds can be damaged by bleach and detergent, so dust them often and wipe them with a damp sponge instead of washing them with soap.
Better UV Coating on Blinds
Invest in higher-quality blinds with a strong UV-resistant coating to slow down the yellowing process. Although this coating will still break down over time, better blinds often last longer. With regular cleaning, the blinds will stay true to their original color for a longer time.
FAQ
1. How do I clean sun-yellowed white plastic blinds?
To clean sun-yellowed white plastic blinds, start by removing the blinds from the window and laying them flat on a clean surface. Mix a solution of equal parts warm water and mild dish soap. Using a soft cloth or sponge, gently scrub the blinds in a circular motion. Pay extra attention to any yellowed areas. Rinse the blinds thoroughly with clean water and allow them to air dry before rehanging them.
2. Can I use bleach to clean sun-yellowed white plastic blinds?
No, it is not recommended to use bleach on sun-yellowed white plastic blinds. Bleach can damage the plastic and cause it to become brittle or discolored. Stick to using a mild dish soap and warm water solution to clean the blinds. If the yellowing is stubborn and doesn’t come off with regular cleaning, you may need to consider replacing the blinds.
3. Are there any natural remedies to clean sun-yellowed white plastic blinds?
Yes, there are natural remedies that can help clean sun-yellowed white plastic blinds. One option is to mix equal parts white vinegar and warm water. Use a soft cloth or sponge to gently scrub the blinds with this solution. Another option is to create a paste using baking soda and water. Apply the paste to the yellowed areas, let it sit for a few minutes, and then scrub it off with a cloth. Rinse the blinds thoroughly and allow them to air dry.
4. Can I use a pressure washer to clean sun-yellowed white plastic blinds?
No, it is not recommended to use a pressure washer to clean sun-yellowed white plastic blinds. The high pressure can damage the blinds and cause them to warp or break. Stick to using gentle cleaning methods, such as hand washing with a soft cloth or sponge. This will ensure that the blinds are cleaned effectively without causing any damage.
5. How can I prevent white plastic blinds from yellowing in the sun?
To prevent white plastic blinds from yellowing in the sun, there are a few steps you can take. First, consider installing blinds with UV protection. These blinds are designed to resist yellowing and discoloration caused by sun exposure. Additionally, you can apply a clear protective coating to the blinds to help shield them from UV rays. Finally, regularly cleaning the blinds and keeping them dust-free can also help prevent yellowing over time.