It depends on the type of stain and the fabric, and whether complete removal is realistic. This is true of most fabrics across all industries. Generally speaking, simpler blockout fabrics are easier to spot clean than ranges with more intricate weaves or textured finishes
The reputable blind fabric suppliers we use recommend the following:
Remove surface dust or dirt with a duster, wet wipe, or soft lint-free cloth
Wipe gently using warm soapy water, a mild detergent, and a damp cloth
Dry with a clean, lint-free cloth
Never use abrasive products such as Jif, solvents, or industrial or bleach-based cleaners. Do not roll the blackout blind fabric up while it is still damp
In some cases, gently rubbing a clean pencil eraser over a mark can help if it hasn’t come off with a wet wipe or damp cloth
Do you clean and repair blinds?
Not anymore — Blinds Online now focuses on supplying new made-to-measure blinds, shutters, and awnings
If you need blind cleaning or repairs, my go-to is Bruce Jones and the team at Onsite Blind Cleaning & Repairs — they’ve got 20+ years’ experience and cover Auckland (Orewa down to near Hamilton) as well as Central Otago
Call 0508 253 262 (or here's their website) — and mention Ryan at Blinds Online referred you
What blockout blind fabric options do you offer?
We offer a curated range of high-quality blockout roller blind fabrics covering smooth plains, subtle textures, and premium woven finishes. Options range from cost-effective everyday fabrics through to architectural and designer ranges suited to feature rooms
All fabrics are selected for reliable light blocking, durability, and colour stability. We only work with established, reputable fabric suppliers — many of them global brands — who have a long-standing presence in New Zealand and design their fabrics specifically to perform in our harsh UV conditions
We do not use unproven imports or short-run fabrics. Every range we offer has a proven track record, has been tested over time, and is supported locally — ensuring long-term performance rather than short-term savings
You can filter and view all available blockout fabrics here:
https://www.blindsonline.net.nz/fabric-selector/?id=1170
Do darker blockout blind colours fade in the sun?
Quality blockout fabrics are UV-stabilised and designed for long-term colour performance in New Zealand conditions
As with any fabric, darker colours can show fading sooner than lighter tones under extreme sun exposure. However, when reputable fabrics are used, colour change is typically very gradual under normal residential conditions
All blockout fabrics we supply are specified to be safe and suitable for NZ’s harsh UV environment. We only use long-established, proven fabric suppliers — not untested imported ranges. Choosing the right fabric for high-sun windows helps minimise any long-term colour change
Are blockout blinds suitable for bathrooms?
Yes — however some fabric choices are generally better than others
Bathrooms suit easy-wipe, low-texture blockout fabrics best. DAWN and KEW are ideal as they’re simple to clean and cope better with occasional moisture than more intricate fabrics
Avoid heavily textured or complex weaves, as these are harder to keep clean over time in this environment. Good ventilation is key — airflow does more to prevent mould build-up than any fabric choice alone
Do blockout blinds always have a white backing?
Many blockout fabrics have a white backing for neutral exterior appearance and improved light reflection. However, some ranges offer either a same-colour backing or a same-tone backing where a white exterior is not suitable
DAWN is available with a same-colour backing, while KEW and LE REVE offer same-tone backings that closely match the face fabric
Backing choice is often dictated by exterior appearance rules, such as body corporate requirements or street-facing windows. It can also come down to personal preference, particularly where blinds are back-rolled and the white backing will be visible along the top of the roll
What is the best way to spot clean sunscreen blinds?
Spot cleaning sunscreen blinds is much like the approach you'd take when spot cleaning blackout blinds. Which is: Remove any surface dust or dirt with a duster, wet wipe, or soft lint free cloth. Wipe clean with warm soapy water, a mild detergent, and a damp cloth. Then dry with a clean lint free cloth
Never use abrasive products like 'JIF', solvents, bleach based or industrial cleaners. Ensure the sunscreen blind is dry before rolling up. Again it depends what the stain is as to what level of success you will have in completely removing it, or not. As the sunscreen fabric weave strands are more open, things like mould, if left to take hold, can really get in between the strands making it stubborn to remove completely
Sunscreen blind fabrics are generally more rugged, especially when compared to those fancier blackout fabrics, so you could safely employ a little more elbow grease, and even use an old soft bristled toothbrush, for the those strong-willed stains. Testing the results and fabric as you go before unleashing your full cleaning fury. Beyond these approaches you may consider the services of a professional blind cleaner, should one be nearby
How do I get the longest life out of my new blockout blinds?
To get the longest life from your new blockout blinds, operate them smoothly, keep the chain as straight as possible, and avoid pulling the chain across the fabric edge
Make sure the blind is not catching on window handles, latches, or anything else nearby. If the blind feels stiff, starts rolling unevenly, or the fabric begins rubbing against something, stop using it and check what is causing the issue before forcing it
Keep the chain safety device fitted correctly so the chain stays tidy and safer to use. It can also help keep the chain in a better operating position
Do not leave your blockout blinds fully down with the window wide open behind them. Wind and air pressure can push the fabric around, make the blind flap, pull against the brackets or chain mechanism, and potentially damage the blind. If you want airflow, raise the blind first or only leave the window slightly open where the blind is not being pushed around
For cleaning, a light dust every once in a while is usually enough. If needed, use gentle spot cleaning only. Don't soak the fabric, scrub aggressively, or use harsh cleaners, as this can affect the coating and/or appearance of the fabric
A little care with day-to-day operation makes a big difference. Most roller blind issues come from forcing the blind, catching the fabric on an obstruction, or operating the chain at a sharp angle