Metal blinds that have a finish created by a clear or colored film applied over the aluminum slat should not be cleaned the same way as common painted surface blinds.  In fact, most manufacturers don’t recommend ultrasonic cleaning for these blinds - for several reasons.

Ultrasonic cleaning does a fantastic job at lifting anything loose off a surface, including compromised or easily peeled films.  Specialty faux paint finishes are also susceptible to cavitation erosion from ultrasonics.

If you clean ultrasonically with a machine that has adjustable power or sweep settings, then turning the sweep up and the power down very low may provide a workable (low) energy range for a brief cleaning dip.  If you don’t have this ability and need to do the anchor tape and pull cords, or need to use the sonics for rinsing, then keep the blind moving and keep it quick!  However, the safest way to clean these blinds, especially if they are really dirty, is to use a scrub wall and brush them down using a soft brush, after rinsing the worst of the dirt off.  Use warm to cool water, not hot - as the laminated surface film may be softened with heat.  Use  a mild blind cleaning soap, not a strong detergent, degreaser, or anything with abrasives in it.  It’s cheaper to expend a little bit more extra “elbow grease,” than to have to pay to replace the blind. 

The blinds pictured here {illustration} are examples of brass Levelor Riveras that were filthy.  After cleaning, they still looked like there was a line of dirt along the edge of the vane.  However, upon closer examination, one would discover this wasn't residual dirt.  It was pre-existing damage from a prior cleaning, where someone had obviously tried to wipe them by hand, and left scratches in the laminate finish.  In the light, the scratch pattern looked like a dusty line.  When wet it looks perfectly fine.

Another thing to be aware of when dealing with these types of blinds is their environment.  We’ve seen these types of blinds in several kitchen or restaurant locations with damage to the finish caused by grease, or harsh cleaners used by someone attempting to remove the grease.  Again, a mild soft approach to cleaning is the only way to work through the dirt without taking off the finish.  While a paint stripper will wipe off the damaged coating, the resulting blind will oxidize and possibly discolor (if it isn’t already a different color), and who wants to try salvaging blinds by wiping them down slat by slat?

Avoiding problems in the first place is easier if you do a careful inspection of the blinds and their finish, before quoting the job or cleaning.  If the coating is compromised, be sure the owner signs off on liability as your cleaning won’t fix it.  If the film is tacky, be aware of the dangers which lurk should the blind be closed so the slats can stick together!  The blind in this {illustration} picture has a damaged finish, while someone scrubbing it too hard or ultrasonic damage are possibilities, it was probably just a case of a greasy blind sticking together, and the resulting damage.  Documenting pre-existing damage with the client is important as is a discussion of their expectations.  If you aren’t going to be able to obtain a good result, don’t adopt someone else’s problem.

In closing, we would suggest that when cleaning any of these types of blinds that you run through the whole process and let one dry, to insure your cleaning procedure and the outcome are acceptable.  Adapt your procedures to the needs of the specific job and if you are conscientious in your work, these types of blinds clean up nicely.  They do, however, require careful handling and altering your approach or methods, as appropriate.

  Another issue with some of the newer styles of metallic or decorative finishes is the application of multiple layers of colors.  Parts of the applied surface or texture could be removed by heavy sonic action or some strong degreasers - or rubbing.  So when you are inspecting really grimy blinds, don’t forget to spot check what may or may not be underneath the grime.  If it isn't a smooth finish, you don't want to create one!