If you’re a fan of warm, aesthetically-pleasing interior design, wooden blinds are a great choice. Their rustic appearance complements their utility and robust design. And what’s better than having a set of wooden Venetian blinds at home?

However, despite their undeniable visual and practical appeal, wooden blinds can require a little more maintenance than aluminium or PVC. That shouldn’t be a problem, provided that you know what you’re doing in case you have them at home.

Regular Dusting

The first step in keeping your wooden blinds in good condition is to dust them on a daily basis. Dust is a major cause of damage to blinds, so it’s important that you remove it as soon as possible. This will prevent the buildup of grime and dirt, which can cause damage to the wood.

By closing your blinds before dusting, you can clean the entire upper surface of each slat. Meanwhile, if you’re worried about the effects of brushing on the finish, use a vacuum to remove the dust. You can do this on a weekly basis, or whenever your blinds seem particularly dirty. If you have pets, however, you will probably need to dust more often than that.

Safe Cleaning

The main disadvantage of wood is that it can be damaged by water and chemicals. That’s why it’s important to use a gentle cleaning product when you dust your blinds. Never spray any liquid directly onto the wood. Instead, spray it onto a cloth first and then wipe your blinds clean.

Using soap and water is also not a great idea, as repeated soaking will cause the wood to swell and crack. If you have a particularly dirty blind, you may need to scrub with a soft brush or sponge. However, make sure that your cleaning products are designed for use on wood before using them.

Condition Your Blinds

Like other wooden surfaces, the slats in Venetian and other blinds can respond well to a bit of conditioning. A little bit of oil or conditioner will help to keep your blinds looking great. Use a spray-on oil or conditioner and apply it in a fine mist to the surface of your blinds. If that’s not available, add a little amount on a dry cloth and rub lightly.

Conditioning achieves two goals. First, it makes the wood look great. It offers a glossy look that accentuates the natural colour of the wood. Secondly, it offers protection from water and UV damage while also keeping termites at bay. Thus, it helps extend the finish and durability of your blinds.

Wood Isn’t Suited For All Rooms

Wooden blinds are a great choice for bedrooms and living rooms. But that’s because these areas of the house are relatively dry which, as we mentioned, is a must for wood. They don’t belong in bathrooms or kitchens, especially since the windows are so close to the sink in the latter.

Plus, given the risk of UV damage, wooden blinds are not a great outdoor choice either. So, if you’re looking for blinds that will stand up to the elements, steel or aluminium is your best bet. However, if your heart is set on a particular look, faux wood Venetian blinds are worth a try.

In Closing

So there you have it. Four simple tips for keeping your wooden Venetian blinds clean and looking stylish. Whether you’re about to install them or have had them for years, these pointers will be helpful either way.

Of course, not everyone might be impressed with the seemingly high-maintenance nature of wooden blinds. However, the upkeep that comes with these blinds is a small price given their stylish, unmatched looks.

The best way to keep these blinds performing their best is regular maintenance. If you haven’t done so already, consider adding these simple tips to your cleaning routine today.