How to clean Roller blinds

Author Yvonne KealProduct Management SpecialistWritten 30/10/2020Updated 05/01/2026

atlas marine roller blinds paired with niamh mist roller blinds in living room

Find out the best way to clean your fabric Roller blind

Roller blinds are a really practical choice for high usage areas like kitchens or bathrooms, especially if you choose a wipe-clean performance fabric, which is specially designed for these spaces.

With the right care and maintenance you can keep your Roller blind looking as good as the day it was fitted. Let's talk you through it.

Our handy cleaning guide covers:

- How to clean Roller blinds regularly with a vacuum to avoid dust build up

- How to use a damp, clean cloth to tackle stains quickly

- How to remove tough stains using a specialist fabric stain remover

- How to clean the mechanical components of your Roller blind

Watch our step-by-step guide

Our handy guide gives you plenty of advice, from choosing the right cleaning attachment to using the right technique. You can follow these simple steps to clean a sheer Roller blind too.

Cleaning with a vacuum

You can easily incorporate cleaning your Roller blind into your usual vacuuming routine. Start by rolling it down to the closed position then use your vacuum's upholstery brush attachment to gently remove dust and dirt. The small, flathead brush with its row of short bristles is great for cleaning fabric surfaces like blinds as well as mattresses, and sofas.

Damp wipe

For a deeper clean, take a clean, damp (not wet) cloth and wipe your blind in a downward motion from top to bottom.

Use around a tablespoon of soap and about a litre of water, mixing together until the water turns sudsy. Submerge a dishtowel, e-cloth or sponge in the water and wring it out before wiping the blind. We don’t recommend using harsh chemicals or bleach as these can discolour your blind fabric.

Remember to leave the blind down to fully air dry before pulling it back up. This will help to prevent mould build up.

How to remove stubborn stains

Roller blinds are a sleek and practical choice for any room, but they’re not immune to life’s little accidents. From kitchen splashes to ink marks and even the occasional mould spot, stains can quickly spoil their clean look. The good news? With the right techniques, most stains can be removed without damaging the fabric or mechanism. Below, we’ll explore common stains and the best ways to tackle them, just remember that it’s always best to test any cleaning method on a hidden area first to ensure it doesn’t damage the fabric.

Grease and Oil Stains

Why it happens: Cooking splashes or oily hands.

Solution:

Blot excess oil with a dry paper towel.
Mix warm water with a few drops of mild dish soap.
Dip a clean cloth into the solution and gently dab the stain, avoid soaking the fabric.
Rinse with a damp cloth and let air dry.

Tip: For stubborn grease, sprinkle a little baking soda on the stain before cleaning to absorb oil.

Ink Marks

Why it happens: Pens or markers accidentally touching the blind.

Solution:

Apply a small amount of rubbing alcohol to a cotton pad.
Gently blot the ink - do not rub, as this can spread the stain.
Wipe with a damp cloth afterward.

Tip: Use a white cotton pad or cloth instead of coloured one to avoid dye transfer onto the blind.

Water Stains

Why it happens: Condensation or accidental splashes.

Solution:

Mix equal parts white vinegar and water.
Lightly dampen a cloth with the solution and wipe the stain.
Dry with a clean towel to prevent new water marks.

Tip: Avoid over-wetting the blind to prevent warping.

A person with blonde hair, wearing a striped sweater, sprays cleaner onto a cloth. They are indoors, standing in front of a window with a wavy patterned curtain.

Mould or Mildew

Why it happens: High humidity or damp environments.

Solution:

Vacuum the blind to remove loose spores.
Mix one part vinegar with three parts water.
Wipe the affected area thoroughly and let it dry in sunlight if possible.

Tip: Keep blinds open occasionally to improve airflow and prevent recurrence.

Food and Drink Spills

Why it happens: Accidental splashes from meals or drinks.

Solution:

Blot immediately with a dry cloth.
Use a mild soap and warm water solution to clean.
Rinse and dry completely.

Tip: For sugary stains, ensure all residue is removed to avoid attracting pests.

Cleaning the mechanism

The mechanical components of your Roller blind, like the sidewinding mechanism need a little TLC too.

A silicone spray will help keep the operating chain squeaky clean and remove any resistance or stiffness. Remember to follow the manufacturer instructions and be careful not to spray onto the fabric to avoid discolouration.

If your Roller blind is operated with a plastic chain or cord, you can keep it clean using warm soapy water. However, if they are steel or brass, avoid using water as it can cause the material to rust or decay. Instead, simply use a soft dry cloth.

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