7 Ways to Fix Bent Vertical Blinds

Kinks belong in your vintage record collection but not your vertical blinds.

Yet, kinks and broken slats are almost inevitable, especially if you have toddlers and rambunctious pets in the house.

Broken slats need replacement. If you’re lucky, you’ll have spares lying about, or a local supply store will carry slats in the exact dimensions you need.

As for bent slats — they can often be straightened using household items. Gentle heat from a hair dryer and a pair of pliers may do the trick. Always exercise caution to prevent further damage.

1. The Hairdryer Method

• Lay the blinds flat on a clean, heat-resistant surface.
• Use a hairdryer on a low heat setting to warm the bent slats. Keep the hairdryer a few inches away from the blinds.
• Gently bend the slats back into their original shape with your hands while they’re still warm.

2. The Heat Gun Method

• A heat gun provides more focused and intense heat than a hairdryer.
• Hold the heat gun a safe distance from the bent slats and gently apply heat while shaping the slats back into place.

3. The Iron Method

• Lay a cloth or towel on an ironing board.
• Place the bent slats on top of the cloth.
• Cover the slats with another fabric to protect them.
• Press a steam iron on a low heat setting over the fabric. The steam should help soften the slats, making it easier to reshape them with your hands.

4. The Straightedge Method

• Lay the blinds flat on a clean surface.
• Place a straightedge, like a ruler or a piece of wood, next to the bent slats.
• Gently bend the slats back into shape by pressing them against the straightedge.

5. The Warm Bathwater or Steam Method

• Fill a bathtub or a large container with warm (not hot) water.
• Submerge the bent slats in the warm water for a few minutes to soften them.
• Carefully remove the blinds from the water and reshape them by hand.
• Lay the slats flat to dry.

6. Weighted Hanging

• Take the bent blinds and hang them vertically. You can do this by placing a weight, like a stack of books, at the bottom of the blinds.
• Leave the blinds hanging like this for some time, preferably overnight. The constant force of gravity may help to straighten out the slats.

7. The Boiling Water Method

• Boil a pot of water and carefully pour it into a container large enough to accommodate the bent blinds.
• Submerge the bent blinds in the hot water for a short period, typically a minute or less.
• Quickly remove the blinds and straighten them out by hand.
• Use caution to avoid scalding yourself or damaging the blinds.

Blind Repair Kits

Vertical blind repair kits include replacement parts and tools for fixing bent or damaged slats. Also, if the above methods don’t work or the blinds are damaged beyond repair, the manufacturer may have spare slats in the size you need.

Professional Blind Repair Service

If you’re unsure or uncomfortable attempting the repair, ask for help. A professional blind repair service has the expertise and specialized tools to fix or replace damaged slats.

At Aero Shade, we stand behind any window treatments we install, honor their manufacturer warranties, and will do our utmost to resolve any problems you encounter.

Frequently Asked Questions About Vertical Blind Repair

Q: How can I prevent my vertical blinds from bending?

Avoid excessive force when opening or closing them. Ensure that the blinds are properly aligned and don’t come into contact with furniture or other objects that could cause bending.

Q: Can I fix severely bent vertical blinds?

You can try using heat and pressure to straighten them gradually. If the bending is beyond repair, you may have to replace the damaged slats.

Q: What tools do I need to fix bent vertical blinds?

The tools you may need include a hairdryer or heat gun, a straight edge, spare slats (if necessary), a soft brush or cloth for cleaning, and a silicone-based lubricant.

Q: How often should I maintain my vertical blinds?

We recommend cleaning the blinds periodically and lubricating the track every six months to ensure smooth operation.

Q: How do I clean my vertical blinds?

Use a soft brush or cloth to dust the slats. For deeper cleaning, wipe them down with warm soapy water. Dry them thoroughly to prevent water damage.

Q: Can I use a vacuum cleaner to clean my blinds?

You can use a vacuum cleaner with a dust brush attachment. Be gentle to avoid bending or damaging the slats.

Q: What kind of lubricant should I use on the track?

We recommend a silicone-based lubricant. Avoid oil-based lubricants that can attract dirt and dust.

Q: What should I do if my blinds won’t rotate or open?

Check the slats’ alignment, the track’s condition, and the control mechanism’s operation. If these parts are damaged, they may need to be repaired or replaced.