A roller blind is about as simple as a blind gets: a fabric, a tube and a mechanism. That simplicity is why a little care goes a long way. Most issues come from dust, damp hands, cleaning that is a little too vigorous, or the blind being rolled up slightly crooked day after day.
Check what you have first
Fabrics differ. Some are woven, some are coated, some have a blackout layer behind. The right care depends on the range, so if you have a care label or paperwork, it is best to follow that first. If you're not sure, treat the fabric gently and try any cleaning on a hidden corner first.
A regular routine
Every week or two
Dust the fabric. Lower the blind fully, then use a soft, dry cloth, a feather duster or the soft brush attachment of a vacuum on its lowest setting. Work from top to bottom. Go lightly, because pressure can mark the face of the fabric.
Every month or so
Look at the edges and the bottom bar. Dust collects there and can drift back on to clean fabric. Wipe the bottom bar and the headrail brackets with a barely damp cloth, and dry them.
Twice a year
Check that the fixings are tight, the brackets are firm, and the blind is still level. A small amount of wobble is easier to put right early than late.
Dealing with marks
Fingermarks, splashes and the odd grease spot are the usual culprits. Here is a gentle approach.
- Lower the blind fully and let it hang flat.
- Mix a few drops of mild washing-up liquid in lukewarm water.
- Dampen a soft cloth, wring it out well, and dab the mark gently rather than rubbing.
- Blot with a clean, dry cloth, then leave the blind lowered until it is fully dry.
It helps to keep the blind down until dry. Rolling up damp fabric can leave creases and encourage mould.
What to go gently with
- Soaking. Try to keep the fabric and the tube from getting saturated. Water can leave tide marks and may affect coatings.
- Harsh cleaners. Bleach, solvents, scouring powders and strong sprays can damage fabric or change its colour.
- Hot irons and steam. Heat can distort the fabric and any backing.
- Rubbing hard. It spreads a mark and can polish the fabric in patches.
- Taking the blind off to wash it, unless you know your fabric allows it. Many do not, and the tube and mechanism are not meant to get wet.
Keep it rolling straight
Most roller blinds that drift to one side are not broken. A few habits help:
- Pull the chain or cord smoothly and evenly, rather than yanking it.
- Try not to tug the fabric by hand, as it can pull the roll off line.
- If the blind has started to creep sideways, lower it fully and roll it up slowly, checking that the edges line up.
- It helps not to leave the blind pulled right down to its end stop under strain.
If it still tracks to one side, it may be a fitting issue, such as brackets that are not level. We are always happy to help, so please give us a call.
Keeping the mechanism happy
Chain and spring mechanisms do not need much. No oil or grease is needed, as it can attract dust and stain the fabric. If a chain sticks, check it is not twisted and that the cord guide is intact. For a motorised blind, follow the supplier's instructions and keep the battery or charger in good order. Our guide to motorised blind basics goes through it, and blind controls explained covers the choices.
Cords, chains and safety
Care time is a good moment to check your safety set-up. Keep chains and cords out of reach of children, tied or secured with the safety device supplied, and check that the fixing is still firm. Keep toys, cots and furniture well away from anywhere a child could reach a cord. Our child safety page and child-safe blind choices have the full picture. BS EN 13120 is the UK standard that covers the safety of internal blinds.
Kitchens, bathrooms and sunny windows
Steam and grease get on to fabric faster than ordinary dust, so wiping kitchen and bathroom blinds more often, and ventilating the room, works well. Read blinds for bathrooms for more. Strong sun can fade fabric over time, which cleaning will not reverse, and a regular wipe will not stop it.
When to call us
Contact us if the blind will not stay up, makes grinding noises, is visibly crooked, or has a damaged chain or bracket. Tell us the room, the type of blind and what is happening. You can reach us through the contact page. If you're choosing new roller blinds, see our roller blinds page, and if you would like us to look at a window, book a free measure.
