Written by Stuart G., Founder and Director at Direct Order Blinds, manufacturing made-to-measure blinds in Boston, Lincolnshire since 2005.

Vertical Blinds cover some of the biggest windows in the house, which means they pick up more dust too. The good news is that most cleaning can be done with the slats still hanging in place. Here's how. This sits alongside our full blind cleaning guide if you're looking after more than one blind type in the house.

Spot-Cleaning While Hanging

For marks or general grime, dampen a cloth with warm water and a small drop of mild detergent, wring it out well, and wipe each slat individually from top to bottom. Work on one panel at a time and let each slat dry before moving to the next, so you're not brushing against wet fabric or PVC.

Quick Dust Pick-Up

A lint roller is one of the most underrated tools for vertical blinds. Run it down each slat to lift dust and pet hair quickly, especially between deeper cleans.

Can Vertical Blind Slats Go in the Washing Machine?

Sometimes, but only under the right conditions. If your slats are fabric and specifically labelled as machine washable, they can usually go through on a gentle, cool cycle. PVC slats should never go in the washing machine. Always check the manufacturer's guidance before washing any slat, and remove weights or chain links first if they're detachable.

Tackling Stubborn Stains and Mould

For stains that don't lift with a standard damp cloth, a slightly stronger mix of warm water and washing-up liquid, applied and left for a minute or two before wiping, usually does the job. Mould is more often a sign of trapped moisture than a cleaning problem. If it keeps coming back, check for condensation around the window and improve ventilation in the room, since repeated mould can eventually mean the fabric needs replacing.

Drying Tips to Avoid Warping or Creasing

Never tumble dry vertical blind slats. Heat causes fabric to shrink unevenly and PVC to warp permanently. Drip-dry slats instead, ideally rehung on the track so gravity keeps them straight as they dry.

How to Re-Hang Slats After Washing

Once fully dry, clip each slat back onto its carrier in the same order you removed it, checking the weighted bottom edge sits straight. If you removed the full slat for a machine wash, re-attach any chain links or weights before rehanging.

Fabric vs PVC: A Different Approach for Each

• Fabric slats tolerate a gentle wash (if labelled washable) and handle spot-cleaning well, but need careful drying to avoid creasing.

• PVC slats are more water-resistant and easier to wipe clean, but should never go through a washing machine or tumble dryer. 

If you're considering a fresh set, our Vertical Blinds range covers both fabric and PVC options, suited to large windows and patio doors. If you're not sure Vertical Blinds are the right type for your window at all, our types of blinds guide and Allusion Blinds page are worth a look as alternatives for large glazed doors.

FAQs

Can I wash vertical blind slats in the washing machine?

Only if they're fabric and labelled machine washable, on a gentle cool cycle. PVC slats should never be machine washed.

Do I need to take vertical blinds down to clean them?

No, spot-cleaning and dusting can both be done with the slats hanging in place.

Why does mould keep coming back on my vertical blinds?

It's usually a sign of trapped moisture or condensation in the room rather than a cleaning issue. Improve ventilation, and replace the fabric if mould persists.

Can I tumble dry vertical blind slats?

No. Heat warps PVC and shrinks fabric unevenly. Drip-dry instead.

Thinking about replacing tired slats altogether?

Order up to 10 free fabric samples and see the fabric and colour in your own light before you buy.