Last Updated on October 17, 2023
Faux wood blinds are a popular window treatment for bathrooms due to their durability, but they can start showing signs of yellowing over time. Various factors, such as spills, indoor pollutants, or smoke stains, can cause this. If your wood blinds sport a yellowish tint, you can clean them with simple DIY steps.
Assemble all the necessary cleaning tools and cover your work area with protective materials before starting. Pour bleach into the bathtub and fill it with warm water. Put the blinds in the bleach solution for 10 to 15 minutes, and rinse with water afterward to get clean wood blinds.
Through this article, we will discuss the best methods for cleaning bathroom faux wooden blinds utilizing common household items. So, let’s start.
How to Clean Faux Wood Blinds That Have Yellowed in Your Bathroom: A DIY Guide
You must carefully follow some steps to clean the yellowed faux wood blinds in your bathroom effectively.
- Step 1: Prepare your work area
- Step 2: Add bleach to the bathtub
- Step 3: Remove the blinds
- Step 4: Soak the blinds
- Step 5: Scrub the blinds
- Step 6: Rinse thoroughly and wipe
- Step 7: Reinstall the blinds
Materials You’ll Need:
- A bathtub or a large container
- Rubber gloves
- Goggles (for eye protection)
- Bleach
- Soft microfiber towels or cloth
- Dry towels for wiping
- UV light or access to direct sunlight
Step 1: Prepare Your Work Area
Start by setting up your work area to have enough space to lay the bathroom faux blinds flat and access a bathtub or large container for the bleach bath. Wear your rubber gloves and goggles to protect yourself from any potential harm.
Next, fill the bathtub with cold water. You can use warm water but not hot water, as it can cause damage to the blinds. Also, make sure that there is enough water in the tub to cover the blinds without overflowing.
Step 2: Add Bleach to the Bathtub
Once you have prepared your work area, carefully measure out and add 2 to 3 cups of bleach to the water in the bathtub. Bleach is an effective cleaning agent that can help remove yellow stains from faux wooden blinds.
However, handle bleach with caution. Ensure you have good bathroom ventilation by opening windows or turning on fans.
Step 3: Remove the Blinds
Now, carefully take down the yellowed faux wood blinds from your bathroom windows. After carefully removing the yellowed blinds, lay them flat on a protected surface. Placing towels or a drop cloth underneath will not only catch any drips but also provide an extra cushioning layer.
Step 4: Soak the Blinds
Immerse the yellowed blinds fully into the bleach bath, ensuring they soak for 10 to 15 minutes to break down and remove the stains. The bleach works by breaking down the yellow discoloration caused by dust, sunlight exposure, or aging.
Step 5: Scrub the Blinds
Using a soft microfiber towel or cloth, gently scrub each slat of the blinds to remove any remaining discoloration and grime. Start atop the blinds and work down, reaching every crevice and corner.
Pay extra attention to areas that appear more yellowed or stained. If necessary, you can dampen the cloth with water or a mild cleaning solution for tougher stains. Continue scrubbing until the blinds are clean and free from discoloration.
Step 6: Rinse Thoroughly and Wipe
After scrubbing the blinds, removing any remaining bleach solution is important by rinsing them under running water or using a container filled with clean water. Ensure all the blinds, including the slats and cords, are rinsed properly. Use your hands to squeeze out excess water from the blinds while rinsing gently.
Once you’ve finished rinsing, take clean towels and carefully pat dry each slat, removing any moisture left behind. If you prefer, let the blinds air dry completely before rehanging them.
Step 7: Reinstall the Blinds
Now that the blinds are completely dry and free from yellowing, you can hang them in their original position. Make sure to handle them with care to avoid any damage.
What Triggers Faux Wood Blinds to Turn Yellow?
Faux wood blinds can develop a yellowing appearance for several reasons, such as:
1. Ultraviolet (UV) Exposure
Prolonged exposure to direct UV can cause the color to fade and turn yellow over time. Ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun can break down the materials used in the blinds, leading to discoloration.
2. Indoor Air Quality
Indoor pollutants like smoke and bathroom cleaning fumes can contribute to the yellowing of blinds. Particles and residue from these pollutants can settle on the blinds’ surfaces and gradually cause discoloration.
3. Moisture and Humidity
High humidity levels in bathroom environments can promote mold growth or mildew on faux wooden blinds. This growth can cause yellow or brown stains to develop on the slats.
4. Dust and Grime Accumulation
Dust and dirt can accumulate on the surface of faux wooden blinds. Over time, this accumulation can mix with other substances and lead to a yellow appearance.
5. Age
As faux wood blinds age, their original finish may fade or become less resistant to yellowing. The materials may naturally change color over time.
Can I use a magic eraser to clean bathroom window blinds?
If you’re dealing with plastic bathroom window blinds needing some TLC (we’re looking at you, splattered cooking oils), then a Magic Eraser can be your new best friend. They work wonders at removing dirt, grime, and even tough stains.
Just test a small, inconspicuous area first to avoid any damage. But, if you’re dealing with faux wood blinds, we recommend avoiding Magic Erasers altogether. These erasers have a slightly abrasive texture that can scratch the surface of your blinds, leaving behind unsightly marks.
Revive Your Bathroom Faux Wood Blinds with DIY Cleaning
Cleaning yellowed bathroom faux wooden blinds is a simple DIY task that can be accomplished. Following these steps and using the bleach bath method, you can effectively clean yellowed faux wooden blinds and restore their original color.
Remember to use gentle cleaning agents such as vinegar or mild, soapy water and a soft cloth to preserve the integrity of your blinds. Like breathing new life into a wilted flower, this cleaning process will restore your faux wood blinds’ beauty and brightness in your bathroom, leaving them fresh and rejuvenated.