Blinds are a modern and aesthetically pleasing form of window treatment that won't go away anytime soon. They come in multiple forms, sizes, and shapes. Whether you want to add some shade and warm ambiance to your interior or simultaneously bring privacy and stylistic pizzazz, blinds are the way to go. However, if you are a first-time buyer, you must know everything about the best blinds to make an informed purchase decision.
How Do Blinds Differ From Shades?
Many people find it confusing to distinguish between blinds and shades, and sometimes people tend to use the two terms interchangeably; however, both have distinct mechanisms. Blinds have a hard exterior with vertical or horizontal slats made of many different materials, whereas shades are mostly made of flexible fabric pieces.
Why Should You Buy the Best Blinds?
Blinds offer better privacy and light control compared to shades. You can fully open the slats to let warm sunshine invade the room or you can partially rotate the slats for a more subtle sun-lit ambiance. Plus, blinds are easy to clean and maintain. All you have to do is wipe the slats with a damp cloth or dust away the particles with a vacuum attachment.
Blinds made with hardy materials, such as metal, plastic, and aluminum, also have a one-up over shades because they offer more durability against common wear and tear.
Types of Blinds
Blinds are the best alternative to mediocre curtains and drapes. Additionally, they come in many shapes, sizes, textures, and materials. Here are a few popular types of blinds you can add to your interiors.
Vertical blinds
Vertical blinds are available in different materials, from metal aluminum to vinyl & high strength fibers. Exceptionally durable and practical, these are perfect for high ceiling windows and expansive glass doors. They can also be a relatively affordable option.
Wood blinds
When you want to add richness and depth to your interior, wood blinds are the best course of action. The varying polished shades of brown and rich woodgrain tones add a classic and expensive outlook to any space. If you want durable wooden blinds, basswood material is a great option to consider.
Mini blinds
This type is mostly made of aluminum material that offers perfect coverage and privacy at an affordable price. If you have minimal window depth, this window treatment will be easy to install and maintain. Plus, they likely won't break the bank.
Different Types of Operating Mechanisms for Blinds
One of the most interesting elements to decide upon is finalizing the rolling mechanism. Nowadays, there are many types of operating mechanisms that you can choose from, and each has its perks and downfalls.
Manual cord lift
This type of blind lifting and sliding mechanism is the most common and cost-effective option. Pull the long cords, and the blinds will either move up or to the side to reveal the window. While it is an affordable option, the manual cord mechanism isn’t too long-lasting or safe for homes with kids and pets.
Cordless lift
A cordless lift system is an effortless and reliable operating method to raise and lower your blind without involving messy cords. With a cordless operating mechanism, you can lift the blinds to the top of the windowpane completely or partially with just a gentle push or pull on the bottom rail.
Top-down & bottom-up operating system
The top-down and bottom-up operating mechanism is perfect for those who want sunlight access without sacrificing the privacy of their room. This mechanism provides style and privacy in a single solution. You can opt for both standard cord or cordless options. This type of lifting mechanism gathers blinds in the middle of the window.
Automatic/motorized operation
If you do not like the hassle of pulling cords up and down, then you can install an automatic lift and slide system in your home. With just the flick of a button, the blinds will roll down— or to the side, depending on the slat placement. An automated option offers perfect convenience and ease of use.
Tips To Consider When Buying the Best Blinds
Choosing blinds to decorate your home requires some planning and understanding of your home's interior. In this section, you will find the perfect tip for buying blinds without any regrets.
Get the measurements right
Measure your windows with sharp accuracy, otherwise, all the efforts will go to waste. The rule of thumb is to get blinds that are bigger than your window dimension for proper covering and ensure minimal light creeping in from the sides.
Determine the main function of the blinds
Do you want the blinds to add privacy to your space? Or do you want warm light creeping through your room? What about insulation? There are more questions that you should ask yourself before investing in new blinds. Once you have determined what function they would serve, you will be ready to pick the perfect option. For instance, if you want to install blinds in a child’s room, opting for a coated blind will offer proper light blockage. However, sheer blinds in an atrium and living area will add subtle warmth and the illusion of open space.
Window positioning is essential
Blinds are a great way to maintain the temperature and light exposure in your house. However, the direction and orientation of your window are crucial factors to consider when placing them. If your windows receive extreme heat during the day, a dark blind would be an ideal solution to keep the room cool. On the other hand, a west-side window and harsh weather call for insulated and thermal covering blinds. All in all, window placement needs are largely dependent on your house location and surrounding environment.
Best Blinds FAQs
Q. Can I wash vertical blinds?
A. Washing blinds is not a great idea because it may cause rusting and rotting to the rails and slats if the material is metal or wood. A better option would be to wipe off the surface and gaps with a damp sponge or hire professional cleaners if the grime accumulates on your blinds. You can even simply dust the blinds with a duster or vacuum attachment.
Q. What do I do if my vertical blinds stop tilting?
A. Check the headrails and inspect if the slats have moved away from the tilting mechanism. Gently tug the rod over the tilting hinge and it would start rotating again. Sometimes the slats also become tangled or knotted with the connecting strings, affecting the tilting motion.
Q. Are cordless blinds durable?
A. Yes, cordless blinds are extremely durable and also kids friendly. They are easy to move and down with just a gentle push and do not require the hassle of dealing with the tangly, long cords.