If your blinds and drapes have reached the "don't want to touch" stage, turn them over to a professional (check the Yellow Pages under "Drapery Cleaners" and "Window Treatments").

If they're only moderately dirty, begin by dusting the valance and frame, then vacuum top to bottom, using the upholstery attachment for drapes, the brush attachment for blinds (close them first).

If the blinds are more dirty than dusty, try the Mini Blind Vac Attachment by Ideaworks ($8, www.jobar.com), with blinds in the open position. Or, with the blinds shut, wipe with a damp microfiber mitt. Casabella 48-inch washable lamb's-wool duster, $10, www.casabella.com, 800-841-4140.

Telescoping ostrich-feather duster, $30, at Restoration Hardware, www.restorationhardware.com, 888-243-9720. Heller Mister Quack Spray Bottle, $5.50, Burpee Gardens, 800-888-1447.