Top 7 Mistakes to Avoid When You Order Blinds for Your Home

Top 7 Mistakes to Avoid When You Order Blinds for Your Home

When you order blinds for your home, it’s easy to make mistakes that can lead to frustration and unnecessary expenses—here are the top 7 pitfalls to avoid to ensure your blinds are a perfect fit.

1. Not Measuring Windows Correctly

One of the most common and costly mistakes homeowners make when they order blinds is not measuring their windows accurately. This step is absolutely critical to ensure your blinds fit perfectly and operate correctly. Failing to measure accurately can result in blinds that are too small, leaving gaps that compromise privacy and light control, or blinds that are too large, leading to installation issues. Either way, incorrect measurements can be both frustrating and expensive, as you may need to reorder blinds that fit correctly. 

• • Using the Wrong Tools: Many people use flexible tape measures or even rulers to measure their windows, which can lead to inaccurate measurements. Always use a metal tape measure for precision.

• • Measuring in Multiple Places: Windows are not always perfectly square. Measure the width and height of your windows in three places—top, middle, and bottom. Use the smallest measurement to ensure a snug fit.

• • Considering Inside vs. Outside Mounts: Decide whether you want an inside mount (blinds fit within the window frame) or an outside mount (blinds cover the window frame). Each option requires different measurements, so it’s important to be clear about your preference from the start.

2. Ignoring the Room’s Functional Needs

Each room in your home serves a different purpose, and your blinds should reflect that. Ignoring the functional needs of the room is another common mistake when you order blinds. Understanding the specific needs of each room will guide you in selecting blinds that not only look good but also serve their intended purpose effectively. When you order blinds, always think about how they will function in the context of the room’s requirements.

• • Privacy Requirements: In bedrooms and bathrooms, privacy is paramount. Blinds that offer complete coverage, such as blackout blinds or Roman shades, are ideal. For living rooms and kitchens, where you might want to enjoy natural light while maintaining some privacy, light-filtering blinds or Venetian blinds could be the best choice.

• • Light Control: Different rooms require different levels of light control. For example, in a home office, you may want blinds that reduce glare on your computer screen while still allowing in natural light. In a nursery, blackout blinds might be necessary to create a dark environment conducive to sleep.

• • Room-Specific Considerations: Kitchens and bathrooms are often exposed to high humidity, which can warp or damage certain materials. In these spaces, moisture-resistant blinds made from materials like faux wood or aluminum are better suited.

3. Overlooking Material and Quality

When you order blinds, the material and quality are vital aspects to consider. Blinds come in a variety of materials, each offering different benefits and drawbacks. Choosing the wrong material can result in blinds that do not perform well or do not last as long as you’d like.

• • Wooden Blinds: Wooden blinds add warmth and elegance to a room. They are durable and offer excellent light control. However, they may not be suitable for areas with high humidity, such as bathrooms or kitchens, as they can warp over time.

• • Faux Wood Blinds: Faux wood blinds offer the same aesthetic appeal as real wood but are more resistant to moisture, making them ideal for bathrooms and kitchens. They are also generally more affordable than real wood.

• • Aluminum Blinds: Aluminum blinds are lightweight, durable, and easy to maintain. They are a great option for rooms where you need a sleek, modern look. However, they can dent easily, so they may not be the best choice for high-traffic areas.

• • Fabric Blinds: Fabric blinds, such as Roman shades or cellular shades, offer a soft look and are available in a wide range of colors and patterns. They provide excellent insulation and can help reduce energy costs. However, they can be more difficult to clean than other types of blinds.

4. Neglecting the Home’s Overall Style

Blinds should not only be functional but also complement your home’s overall style. Neglecting the aesthetic aspect when you order blinds is a mistake that can detract from the visual appeal of your space.

• • Matching Colors and Patterns: When you order blinds, consider the color scheme of your room. Do you want the blinds to blend in or stand out? Neutral colors like white, beige, or gray are versatile and can match almost any décor. If you’re feeling bold, you might choose blinds in a contrasting color or a pattern that adds visual interest.

• • Considering the Room’s Theme: If your home has a specific design theme, such as modern, traditional, or rustic, your blinds should reflect that. For a modern home, sleek and simple blinds in materials like aluminum or faux wood might be the best fit. In a more traditional setting, wooden or fabric blinds with rich textures and patterns could enhance the overall design.

• • Considering the Room Size: Blinds can also affect the perceived size of a room. Vertical blinds can make a room appear taller, while horizontal blinds can make it seem wider. Consider the layout and size of your room when choosing the style of blinds.

5. Forgetting About Safety and Accessibility

Safety and accessibility are often overlooked when people order blinds. This is especially important in homes with children or pets, where certain types of blinds can pose a safety hazard. By prioritizing safety and accessibility when you order blinds, you can ensure that your home is not only stylish but also safe and functional for all members of your household.

• • Cord Safety: Blinds with cords can be dangerous for children and pets, as they can cause accidental strangulation. To mitigate this risk, consider cordless blinds or blinds with a built-in safety mechanism, such as a breakaway cord.

• • Child and Pet-Friendly Blinds: In homes with young children or pets, it’s essential to choose blinds that are durable and safe. Cordless blinds are the best option, as they eliminate the risk of entanglement. Additionally, consider blinds that are easy to clean and resistant to damage, such as faux wood or aluminum blinds.

• • Ease of Operation: Accessibility is another key consideration, especially for elderly family members or those with limited mobility. Motorized blinds, which can be operated with a remote control or even a smartphone, offer convenience and ease of use. They are particularly beneficial for large windows or hard-to-reach areas.

6. Disregarding Energy Efficiency

In today’s environmentally conscious world, energy efficiency should be a priority when you order blinds. Blinds can significantly impact your home’s energy consumption by regulating the amount of heat and light that enters your space. During heating seasons, tightly installed cellular shades can reduce heat loss through windows by 40% or more, leading to approximately 10% savings on heating energy. Choosing energy-efficient blinds is not only good for the environment but also for your wallet. When you order blinds, consider how they can contribute to a more energy-efficient home.

• • Insulating Properties: Some blinds, such as cellular shades, are designed with insulating properties that help to keep your home warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer. This can lead to significant savings on your energy bills over time.

• • Reflective Coatings: Blinds with reflective coatings can help to reduce heat gain in the summer, keeping your home cooler and reducing the need for air conditioning. In the winter, these blinds can help to retain heat, making your home more energy-efficient.

• • Maximizing Natural Light: By choosing the right blinds, you can maximize natural light in your home, reducing the need for artificial lighting. Light-filtering blinds or sheer shades are great options for this purpose, as they allow natural light to enter while still providing privacy.

7. Failing to Consider Maintenance and Cleaning

Finally, many people fail to consider the maintenance and cleaning requirements when they order blinds. Different materials and styles of blinds require varying levels of upkeep, and choosing blinds that are difficult to maintain can lead to frustration and additional costs.

• • Easy-to-Clean Materials: Some blinds are easier to clean than others. For example, aluminum and faux wood blinds can be wiped down with a damp cloth, while fabric blinds may require more intensive cleaning. If you have a busy lifestyle, choose blinds that are low-maintenance and easy to clean.
  • Dust Accumulation: Blinds can be a magnet for dust, especially in rooms with high traffic or where windows are frequently opened. Consider how often you’re willing to clean your blinds when choosing the material and style. For example, vertical blinds tend to accumulate less dust than horizontal blinds, making them easier to maintain.
  • Stain Resistance: In kitchens and bathrooms, where blinds are more likely to be exposed to moisture and stains, it’s important to choose materials that are resistant to water and easy to clean. Faux wood and aluminum blinds are both good options for these areas.
    
    
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