To clean mould off outdoor blinds, wipe them down with warm water and a mild soap using a soft cloth, rinse, and dry — avoiding harsh solvents, bleach and abrasive scrubbers that damage PVC and fabric. For PVC, a gentle soapy wipe handles most mould; for fabric blinds, a soft brush and mild cleaner work best. The key is doing it gently and regularly, especially through Melbourne’s damp months.
Key Takeaway:
Mild soap, warm water and a soft cloth — that’s it for most mould on PVC blinds. Skip bleach, solvents and stiff brushes, which cause cloudiness, cracking and fabric damage. Regular gentle cleaning beats occasional heavy scrubbing.
Why outdoor blinds get mould in Melbourne
Melbourne’s damp, humid stretches — especially autumn and winter — create the perfect conditions for mould and mildew to settle on outdoor blinds, particularly in shaded, poorly ventilated corners. It’s cosmetic in the early stages and easy to remove, but left too long it can stain. A quick, regular wipe is far easier than a big clean-up later.
How to clean mould off PVC blinds (step by step)
- Mix a bucket of warm water with a small amount of mild soap or dishwashing liquid
- Wipe the blind gently with a soft, non-abrasive cloth or sponge — both sides
- For spots, let the soapy water sit a minute, then wipe again gently
- Rinse with clean water to remove all residue
- Dry with a soft cloth or let it air-dry fully before rolling up
That’s all most PVC needs. Rolling a damp blind away is what invites mould back, so always let it dry first. Our clear PVC blinds are made from marine-grade material that stands up well to regular gentle cleaning.
How to clean fabric and shade-weave blinds
Fabric and shade-weave blinds need a slightly different touch: use a soft brush to lift surface mould first, then a mild cleaner and soft cloth. Test any cleaner on a hidden corner first, work gently to avoid pushing mould deeper into the weave, and let the blind dry completely before rolling up.
Products to avoid
- Bleach — can discolour fabric and degrade PVC and stitching over time
- Solvents and harsh chemicals — cause PVC to cloud, yellow or crack
- Abrasive scrubbers and stiff brushes — scratch clear PVC permanently
- High-pressure washers — can force water into seams and damage the blind
Mould keeps coming back?
If your blinds are ageing or mould won’t shift, we can help — talk to us about cleaning advice or a replacement quote, free and no-obligation.
How to stop mould coming back
- Always let blinds dry fully before rolling them up
- Roll blinds down and air them on dry, breezy days
- Give them a quick soapy wipe every few weeks through damp seasons
- Improve airflow in shaded corners where damp lingers
- Keep nearby gutters and surfaces clear so water doesn’t pool
When to call a professional
If mould has stained deep into fabric, the PVC has gone cloudy or brittle, or stitching is failing, cleaning won’t fully restore the blind — it’s likely near end of life. After 8–15+ years that’s normal. If you’re at that point, we can custom-make a replacement at our Somerville factory; see our outdoor blind range and the types of outdoor blinds guide to start.
Frequently asked questions
How do you clean mould off PVC outdoor blinds?
Wipe them gently with warm water and a little mild soap using a soft cloth, on both sides. Rinse with clean water and dry fully before rolling up. Avoid bleach, solvents and abrasive scrubbers, which damage PVC.
Can you use bleach on outdoor blinds?
No — bleach can discolour fabric, degrade stitching and damage PVC over time. Stick to mild soap and warm water, which removes most mould safely without harming the blind.
How do you get mould out of fabric outdoor blinds?
Brush off surface mould with a soft brush, then clean gently with a mild cleaner and a soft cloth, testing on a hidden area first. Let the blind dry completely before rolling it up to stop the mould returning.
Why do my outdoor blinds keep getting mouldy?
Usually because they’re rolled up while still damp, or sit in a shaded, poorly ventilated spot. Always dry blinds before rolling them, air them on dry days, and improve airflow in damp corners.
Can mouldy outdoor blinds be saved?
Most can — early mould wipes off easily. But if the PVC has clouded or cracked, or mould has stained deep into fabric and stitching is failing, the blind is likely near end of life and worth replacing.
Time for a fresh set of blinds?
If your blinds are past their best, book a free measure & quote for custom replacements — Melbourne-made at our Somerville factory with a 5-year guarantee.