How to Clean Mildew Off Bamboo Outdoor Blinds

The growing popularity of bamboo outdoor blinds, is due to the fact that they are inexpensive, durable and easy to maintain. These house accessories have aesthetic qualities and are very convenient for the shade they provide. In the case of the outdoor ones, special attention and precaution needs to be taken, since a humid and warm climate can cause mildew to grow.

There are several ways to clean mildew off the bamboo outdoor blinds. Two options are either to wash them with vegetable oil, soap and salt or with bicarbonated soda. The best way to remove mildew is to wash them with either bleach or chlorine, and spray them with an anti-fungal, to act as further prevention. Here are the basic steps to follow.

Step 1 - Dismantle Your Blinds

Carefully dismantle the bamboo blinds from doors and windows, making sure not to damage them. Also, take special attention as to how they are installed in order to put them back up without any hassle.

Step 2 – Prepare Your Soaking Solution

Prepare a solution in your bath of 1 part bleach or chlorine and 2 parts of warm water.

WARNING: At this point, it is best to put on your safety clothing, to avoid unpleasant accidents, injuries or in some cases, allergies.

Make sure to mix the liquids thoroughly, before putting the blinds in.

Step 3 – Immerse Your Blinds

The blinds should be totally immersed in this solution. Additionally, agitate the blinds, so that every part of them are in contact with the solution. Let the blinds soak for a couple of minutes, since this step greatly helps to remove persistent mildew in every nook and crack more effectively.

Step 4 – Clean them Thoroughly

When the desired soaking time has elapsed, lift the blinds out of the water. Taking a clean, damp cloth, wipe the blinds meticulously, in order to remove all visible mildew stains. Some stains can be more persistent then others, therefore you may need to go over certain areas more then once.

Step 5: Wipe them Dry

Once ready and content with the result, use another clean dry cloth to wipe dry your blinds. If you are cleaning your blinds on a warm sunny day, placing your blinds outside for further drying, would be a good idea.

Step 6: Apply Anti-Fungal Spray

As a prevention treatment, you can apply some anti-fungal spray. Make sure to cover all areas of the blind, for better protection against other mildew outbursts. For blinds installed in constant humid environments, repeat the anti-fungal spray treatment at least once a month.

When ready, rehang your bamboo blinds, with your mind at rest that they are clean and mildew free. This relatively easy task has to be done on regular basis, to be sure to keep your bamboo outdoor blinds in optimum conditions. A word of advise is to never roll wet blinds, and not to rush the cleaning process. Following these easy instructions will give you great results and satisfaction for a job well done.