Blinds are commercially made window coverings that can have either vertical or horizontal slats, have an accordion or honeycomb construction, or are woven from natural or synthetic reeds. In one style, slats are sandwiched between two sheer fabric layers that diffuse light when the slats are open; in yet another style, slats are laminated vertically to a single fabric layer for a curtain effect. The mechanisms for opening and closing blinds range from simple cords and easy-to-operate continuous chains to remote-controlled electronic devices.

Repairing Blinds
Given the variety of styles and manufacturers, your best guide to making a repair is to study a similar blind. For example, by comparing it to another blind, you can see how to retie a loose venetian blind cord that holds a slat. Shorten a venetian blind by following the manufacturer's directions.

• Controls: There is such a variety of pulley mechanisms for blinds that it may be safer to rely on a professional to repair a nonfunctioning one, especially if electronics are involved. Your warranty may cover the problem; contact the store where you bought the blind.
• Dirty tapes: To touch up small smudges or spots on white venetian blind tapes, lower the blind completely and apply a small amount of liquid white shoe polish - just enough to touch up the spot (right). Allow the polish to dry before raising the blind.
• Unbalanced blinds: Occasionally a blind becomes skewed, causing it to lower or raise at an angle. To correct this, lower or raise the blind completely and then raise or lower it into position again. Repeat if needed.

Washing Blinds
Subject to dust and often rain, blinds need thorough cleaning once a year.

• Aluminum and vinyl blinds of a manageable size can be taken down and washed in the bathtub. Mix a mild detergent with water, and scrub blinds with a sponge. Once clean, rinse them with water. Let them dry thoroughly, partially drawn up and flat in the tub, before reinstalling. You can speed up the drying time with a hair dryer. If you prefer, you can do the whole job outdoors on a plastic drop cloth, turning the blinds as needed. Rinse with a hose and hang on a clothesline to dry.
• Wood blinds will warp if they are exposed to too much water. They can, however, be washed while hanging in place at the window. Dampen a blind duster, a pair of absorbent gloves, or a lint-free rag with a mild detergent or an oil-based soap solution and carefully wash each side of each slat. Rinse using the same tool soaked in clear water. For each of these steps you will need to rinse out the tool often. Finish by drying the slats with a dry, lint-free cloth.
• Accordion and honeycomb blinds made of non-woven fabrics are easy to wash using the same method described for aluminum and vinyl blinds. Allow them to air-dry.
• Laminated blinds should first be vacuumed with a dusting attachment. For deeper cleaning, try an upholstery cleaner. Test the cleaner on an inconspicuous part of the blind first.