If you’re one of those shoppers who use blinds and shades interchangeably, it’s time to up your knowledge and know that they both are different window coverings. Learn how to choose between windows and shades that suit your style and purpose.
What is the difference between blinds and shades?
Blinds, are hard window coverings usually metal, plastic or wood and come in both vertical and horizontal slats option. Shades, are window coverings made of fabric. While they both cover your windows, these window treatments differ greatly in price, style, features and purpose.
How to choose between blinds and shades?
For choosing the best that suits your style and purpose, there are some questions, you need to ask yourself.
Privacy and Light Control
Blinds and shades fulfill the above need differently. Shades, are made from fabric so you can either open or close them. However, if you go for light filtering shades, you can allow natural light to come in while keeping the window covered. Blinds, have got slats – vertical or horizontal which can be tilted to adjust the light coming in.
Ease of Cleaning
Shades, can accumulate dirt and dust and even allergens. To clean them, you require a brush to remove the dust and then gently rub the area with warm water. Blinds, can be wiped top to bottom with a brush or soft cloth. Vertical blinds are easy to clean as they do not attract much dust due to no flat surface. However, for any serious stain or spot cleaning, seek professional help.
If you have window treatment in high traffic area like kids room or high moisture areas like kitchen, bathroom, laundry room, blinds, are a better choice.
Durability
Blinds are made of hard materials like plastic, wood or aluminum so they are resistant to moisture, mold and mildew growth and even the normal wear and tear and so better than Shades.
Style
Classic white window blinds are a popular choice, you can’t go wrong with them. However, with so many options available today, some may find it boring. If you are decorating your living room, you can choose from blinds and Shades. They both give elegant look to the space. You can opt from stained real wood blinds or roman shades in luxurious fabric.
For making your windows the focal point for your room, you could choose from roman shade or roller shade in colorful big prints.
Better Insulation
If you are looking to prevent energy loss from your homes or bringing down your energy bills, cellular shades, are a great choice. Blinds don’t offer much in maintaining the right temperatures. Cellular Shades, due to their unique construction have air pockets that trap the air and offer excellent insulation.
Child and Pet Safety
If you have pets and kids at home, you can choose cordless window coverings. They have motorized lift systems that you can control from anywhere or even through your phone. Look for manufacturers or brands that offer window coverings with cordless options. Cellular shades and roller shades can be a good choice.
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