Altra Blind Cleaning
Frequently Asked Questions
Blind Cleaning & Repair FAQs
Your Questions, Answered by Blind Cleaning Experts in Minneapolis
We know blinds come in all shapes, sizes, and materials—each with its own care instructions and quirks. If you've ever wondered how to safely clean your Silhouette®, Luminette®, or Roman shades without causing damage, you're not alone. Whether you're looking for the best way to clean your fabric blinds, maintain wood blinds, or repair your Hunter Douglas or Graber shades, we’re here to help. Below are answers to some of the most common questions we get from homeowners and businesses across Minneapolis, Chanhassen, Edina, Maple Grove, and the surrounding Twin Cities area.
WHAT IS THE BEST WAY TO CLEAN HONEYCOMB BLINDS?
Honeycomb blinds, also known as cellular shades, require gentle cleaning to avoid damaging the delicate fabric. Regular, light dusting maintains a like-new appearance for most shades. You can vacuum gently with brush attachment.
HOW CAN I PREVENT MY HONEYCOMB BLINDS FROM COLLECTING DUST?
To minimize dust buildup, lightly dust or vacuum your blinds once a week using a soft brush attachment. Keeping windows closed during windy days can also help reduce airborne debris. For long-term maintenance, professional blind cleaning every 12 to 18 months ensures they stay fresh and free of allergens. For the best results contact a professional ultrasonic cleaning service
HOW DO I CLEAN MY SILHOUETTE® BLINDS WITHOUT DAMAGING THEM?
For everyday cleaning of your Silhouette window shadings you can:
- Lightly dust your shades.
- For a deeper cleaning try gently vacuuming your shades with a hand held vacuum.
- Use compressed air or try a hair dryer set on a cool setting to blow dust away.
- If spot cleaning is needed, use a soft cloth or sponge moistened with lukewarm water. If necessary, add mild detergent and gently blot the fabric.
WHAT’S THE BEST WAY TO CLEAN LUMINETTE® PRIVACY SHEERS?
Due to their soft fabric vanes, Luminette® sheers require extra care. Avoid scrubbing or using household cleaners. Instead, professional injection/extraction cleaning removes dust, allergens, and buildup without affecting the fabric’s structure.
CAN I CLEAN MY NANTUCKET® SHADES AT HOME?
Light dusting helps maintain Nantucket® shades, but over time, airborne particles and moisture can cause discoloration. A professional ultrasonic cleaning restores their crisp, fresh look.
WHAT’S THE SAFEST WAY TO CLEAN ROMAN SHADES?
Roman shades can trap dust in their folds, making them tricky to clean. Regular vacuuming helps, but a deep cleaning using our injection/extraction process keeps the fabric looking its best.
HOW DO I PREVENT MY FABRIC BLINDS FROM COLLECTING DUST?
Fabric blinds naturally attract dust and allergens. Light vacuuming helps, but for a thorough clean, our professional blind cleaning process removes buildup while keeping the fabric intact.
CAN I CLEAN MY BLINDS IN THE BATHTUB?
Yes but do so at your own peril. As certified blind cleaners we know which blinds or shades can be cleaned with water (wet) and which will need to be dry cleaned. Further there are some cleaners you should not or can not use on blinds as it will cause damage to fabric or glue lines. Altra utilizes two cleaners in the ultrasonic process. The second is non-phosphorous so it can be aggressive on dirt and bio-mass without being damaging the fabric or glue lines.
HOW DO I CLEAN MY METAL BLINDS WITHOUT BENDING THEM?
Wiping down metal blinds can leave streaks, and too much pressure can bend the slats. Ultrasonic cleaning is the best way to remove dirt evenly while preserving their structure.
WHAT’S THE BEST WAY TO CLEAN FABRIC ROLLER SHADES?
Roller shades are low-maintenance, but they still collect dust and stains. Monthly dusting with a feather duster, or vacuum with an upholstery attachment. For spots dab stain with warm soapy water and blot with a dry cloth. Do not rub or pull the fabric
HOW DO I KEEP MY VIGNETTE® MODERN ROMAN SHADES LOOKING NEW?
Regular dusting helps, but over time, even Vignette® shades need a deep clean. We use a specialized process to lift out dirt while protecting the fabric’s texture.
WHAT’S THE BEST WAY TO MAINTAIN VERTICAL BLINDS?
Dusting or wiping with a damp cloth helps keep vertical blinds clean, but professional cleaning every year prevents grime buildup and extends their lifespan.
HOW DO I PREVENT MY WOOD BLINDS FROM WARPING?
Excess moisture can warp wood blinds. Instead of using water-based cleaners, professional blind cleaning safely removes dust and buildup while preserving the wood’s finish.
ARE MINI BLINDS HARDER TO CLEAN THAN STANDARD BLINDS?
Mini blinds attract dust quickly, and their small slats make cleaning tricky. Ultrasonic cleaning reaches every surface, removing grime in a way traditional dusting can’t.
CAN I REPAIR MY PIROUETTE® WINDOW SHADINGS INSTEAD OF REPLACING THEM?
Yes! If your Pirouette® blinds have damaged cords, vanes, or tilt mechanisms, we offer expert blind repair services to restore their function and extend their life.
Schedule a Quote
Still have questions? Whether you need expert blind cleaning or a repair, we’re here to help. Call Altra Blind Cleaning at 952-903-9545 with questions or contact us to schedule an appointment today.