How to Fix Blinds That Won't Open or Close

Last updated: April 19, 2025

Blinds that won't open, close, or tilt properly can be frustrating, but you're not alone in facing this common issue. Whether it’s tangled cords, misaligned slats, or a roller that won’t retract, these problems can disrupt both the functionality and appearance of your blinds. The good news? Many of these challenges are easy to fix with a bit of guidance and a few basic tools.

This guide walks you through step-by-step instructions tailored to different types of blinds—horizontal, vertical, and roller. You'll also find troubleshooting tips and maintenance advice to keep your blinds working smoothly. With the right approach, you'll have them back in action in no time!

Overview Blinds Mechanism

To better understand how to fix your blinds, it's helpful to have a basic understanding of their mechanism. Generally, blinds are made up of several parts including the headrail, control mechanisms, ladder or cloth tape, slats or vanes, and bottom rail. The headrail is the top part that holds all the components together and attaches them to the window frame.

The control mechanisms consist of cords, wands, or chains that allow you to open and close the blinds. The ladder or cloth tape supports the slats or vanes and helps them stay evenly spaced. Finally, the bottom rail holds everything in place and allows for tilting.

What Are the Reasons Blinds Won't Open or Close?

There are various reasons why blinds may fail to open or close properly. Some of the most common causes include tangled cords, jammed mechanisms, misaligned slats, and faulty parts. Here's a closer look at each of these issues.

Tangled cords

Tangled cords are a common problem for blinds with a corded control mechanism. As you use your blinds, the cords can become twisted and tangled, making it difficult to operate them smoothly. If this happens, the first step is to untangle the cords by gently pulling on each one until they are straightened out.

However, if the cords are too tangled or have knots, you may need to remove them from the blind altogether and carefully untangle them before reattaching them. It's essential to be gentle while handling the cords to avoid damaging them further.

Jammed mechanisms

Sometimes, blinds won't open or close because their mechanisms have become jammed due to dust or debris buildup. This is especially common for vertical blinds, as their track can accumulate dust and dirt over time.

To fix this issue, you may need to remove the blinds from their brackets and clean the track thoroughly with a damp cloth or a small brush. Once the mechanism is free of any obstructions, reinstall the blinds and test them out.

Misaligned slats

If your slats are not properly aligned, it can prevent them from opening or closing correctly. This can occur due to rough handling or even strong winds blowing against the blinds.

To realign the slats, gently push down on one side while pulling up on the other until they are straightened out. You can also try using a ruler or a flat object to help guide the slats into place.

Faulty parts

Lastly, sometimes the issue lies within one of the blind's components. For example, if the cords have become frayed or broken, they may need to be replaced. Or if the wand is not rotating properly, it may need to be tightened or replaced.

How to Fix Blinds That Won't Open or Close

Now that you have a better understanding of the common reasons why blinds won't open or close properly, let's take a closer look at how to fix each type of blinds.

Horizontal Blinds

Horizontal blinds typically have a wand or cord mechanism for opening and closing. If your horizontal blinds won't open or close, here is what you can do:

1. Check the cords: Start by making sure that the cords are not tangled or caught on anything. If they are tangled, gently untangle them as mentioned earlier.
2. Inspect the wands: If your blinds use a wand control, check if it is attached securely to the headrail and rotating smoothly. If not, try tightening any screws or replacing the wand altogether.
3. Adjust the tilt mechanism: If your blinds use a cord to adjust the slats' angle, make sure that it is not caught on anything and that all the cords are evenly spaced. You can also try gently pushing the tilt rod towards the headrail to see if it engages properly.
4. Straighten out any bent slats: Sometimes, bent slats can prevent blinds from opening or closing smoothly. Use a ruler or flat object to straighten them out carefully.
5. Lubricate moving parts: Over time, dust and debris can accumulate on the moving parts of your blinds, causing them to get stuck. Use a dry lubricant spray (avoid using oil-based products) to lubricate the mechanisms and help them operate smoothly.

Vertical Blinds

Vertical blinds typically have a wand, chain, or cord mechanism for opening and closing. If your vertical blinds won't open or close, here is what you can do:

1. Check the control mechanism: Make sure that the wand, chain, or cord is not tangled or caught on anything. You may need to untwist any tangled cords gently.
2. Clean the track: As mentioned earlier, dust and debris can build up on the track of vertical blinds, causing them to get stuck. Remove the blinds from their brackets and use a damp cloth or small brush to clean out any obstructions.
3. Inspect the tilter mechanism: The tilter mechanism is responsible for rotating the slats when you adjust the angle of your blinds. If it is not working correctly, try tightening any screws or replacing the tilter altogether.
4. Straighten out any bent slats: Just like with horizontal blinds, bent slats can also prevent vertical blinds from opening or closing smoothly. Use a ruler or flat object to straighten them out carefully.
5. Lubricate moving parts: Similar to horizontal blinds, vertical blinds also have moving parts that can benefit from occasional lubrication. Use a dry lubricant spray on the mechanisms and tracks to help them operate smoothly.

Roller Shades

Roller shades use a spring mechanism to roll the fabric up and down. If your roller shades won't open or close properly, here is what you can do:

1. Check the tension of the spring: Sometimes, the spring in your roller shade can become too loose or too tight, causing it not to work correctly. To adjust the tension, follow these steps:

• Pull down on the shade until it is fully extended.
• Remove the shade from its brackets.
• On one end of the tube, there should be a metal pin that holds the spring in place. Use pliers to remove this pin.
• Slowly unwind or wind up the spring depending on whether you want to increase or decrease the tension.
• Once you have adjusted the tension, replace the metal pin and reattach the shade to its brackets.

1. Replace the fabric: If your roller shades use a fabric that has become damaged or too loose, you may need to replace it entirely. Refer to the manufacturer's instructions for guidance on how to do this properly.

Cellular Shades

Cellular shades also use cords or a wand mechanism for opening and closing. Here is what you can do if they won't open or close correctly:

1. Check the cords: Make sure that all cords are evenly spaced and not tangled in any way.
2. Inspect the wands: If your cellular shades use a wand control, check if it is attached securely to the headrail and rotating smoothly. If not, try tightening any screws or replacing the wand altogether.
3. Adjust the lift mechanism: The lift mechanism is responsible for raising and lowering cellular shades. If it is not working correctly, you may need to replace it entirely.
4. Clean the fabric: Over time, dust and debris can build upon the fabric of cellular shades, causing them to get stuck when opening or closing. Use a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment or a damp cloth to gently clean the fabric.
5. Lubricate moving parts: Similar to other types of blinds, cellular shades also have moving parts that can benefit from occasional lubrication. Use a dry lubricant spray on the mechanisms and tracks to help them operate smoothly.

Maintenance Advice to Prevent Future Issues

Once you have fixed your blinds and they are working correctly, it is essential to maintain them properly to prevent future issues. Here are some maintenance tips:

• Regularly dust and clean your blinds to prevent the buildup of dust and debris.
• Avoid using harsh chemicals or cleaning products on your blinds as they can damage the mechanisms or fabric.
• Gently handle your blinds when opening and closing them to avoid putting unnecessary strain on the control mechanisms.
• Inspect and tighten any screws or hardware regularly to ensure everything is secure.
• If you notice any signs of wear and tear, such as frayed cords or bent slats, replace them promptly before they cause further issues.

By following these maintenance tips, you can prolong the lifespan of your blinds and prevent future problems from occurring.

Is it possible to switch from a wand tilter to a cord tilter?

In most cases, it is possible to switch from a wand tilter to a cord tilter. However, this will require replacing the tilter mechanism and possibly making adjustments to the existing blind. It is best to consult with a professional or refer to the manufacturer's instructions before attempting this switch. Additionally, some blinds may not be compatible with both types of tilt mechanisms, so it is essential to ensure compatibility before making any changes.

FAQs

Why won’t my cordless blinds open or close properly?

Cordless blinds can have trouble opening or closing if the lock mechanism is jammed or the blind slats are misaligned. Placing the blinds on a flat surface and gently adjusting the slats can help fix minor issues without causing further damage.

How can I fix stuck blinds on faux wood or venetian blinds?

Stuck blinds, whether faux wood blinds or venetian blinds, often result from a jammed cord lock mechanism. You can try gently pulling the lift cord while inspecting the cord lock to ensure it’s not obstructed or damaged. A flathead screwdriver can help realign the lock components.

What should I do about a broken slat or misaligned blind slats?

If a slat is broken, you may need replacement slats to restore the blinds. For misaligned slats, place the blinds on a flat surface and carefully adjust each blind slat into the correct position. This ensures a smooth operation when opening or closing.

Can I repair the cord lock mechanism on my own blinds?

Yes, a cord lock mechanism can often be repaired if it’s not heavily damaged. Use a flathead screwdriver to inspect and adjust the cord lock. If the lock mechanism is beyond repair, consider consulting a professional or replacing the affected components to restore functionality.

Conclusion

In conclusion, blinds can encounter several issues that may prevent them from opening or closing correctly.

By following the troubleshooting tips outlined in this guide, you can identify and fix these issues yourself without having to call a professional. Remember to maintain your blinds regularly to prevent future problems and ensure they continue working smoothly for years to come.

So, it is always recommended to give appropriate maintenance and timely repairs as needed and replacing the wand altogether if necessary.