Q What’s the best way to clean a roller blind?

A If it’s just dusty, use a soft brush, or vacuum with the upholstery tool. If it’s grubby, use a proprietary cleaner such as Copes Blind Bright, around £9.90 for 500ml (0800 0740078). It’s good on most fabric types, but test on a discreet area and leave for 24 hours to make sure. Either clean in situ or, for a more thorough job, take down and unwind. Lay it on the floor on towels, spray it and gently wipe with a soft clean cloth. Allow to dry thoroughly. If the fabric feels limp after cleaning, spray with Copes Stifstuf, around £15 for 500ml (stockists as above) – again, test first. Leave to dry, then rehang.

If the blind is really mucky and the drop is longer than the window, you could do a refurb job (but only if it’s plain or has a non-directional pattern). Take it down, unpin from the roller and remove the batten. Cut away the stained area and tack the new end to the roller. Make a new slot for the batten and rehang.

Q We’ve just moved house and now have a septic tank. What would you recommend to keep it in good working order?

A As long as the tank has been installed correctly, it’ll be fine on its own, without any bacterial additives. Follow these tips to keep your tank healthy.

1. Generally speaking, you can use most household cleaners in moderation, provided they are used in accordance with the makers’ instructions and stipulated concentrations, but don’t use excessive amounts of detergent or bleach – it’ll upset the natural balance of the system and cause it to smell.

2. Never pour neat disinfectant or bleach down the sink or outside drains – they will kill the friendly bacteria that make the tank work. Always dilute well and use sparingly.

3. Don’t pour fats down the drain. Wash dishes in a dishwasher whenever possible (fat is converted into soap in a dishwasher).

4. Nappies, sanitary items and condoms should not be disposed of into the system.

5. Don’t use the toilet or kitchen sink as a rubbish bin – never dispose of chemicals, pesticides, paints and the like into the tank.

6. Have it inspected and emptied when necessary. How often depends on its size and frequency of use, but, as a guide, call in the experts once or twice a year.

Aggie MacKenzie co-presents How Clean Is Your House? Send your questions for publication to aggie.mackenzie@thetimes.co.uk

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