I use a swiffer duster on mine, the yellow one on with the extension handle....It really does a good job with the dust. I do hand wash my blinds about twice a year. I just take like a mop bucket with warm water and Dawn Dishwashing liquid and use a wash cloth. It gets them really nice and clean with no residue and I have never had cords get stained from washing. It's not like you use it sopping wet... just wring the rag out and after a few slats swish it in the water, wring it out and continue...I just noticed today I need to do the same thing as you....