The ultimate window blinds buying guide

Blinds offer control over the amount of natural light entering a room. Whether you want to create a bright, airy space or block out sunlight for better sleep, blinds provide the flexibility to adjust lighting according to both your needs and your preference.

Many blinds contribute to energy efficiency by providing insulation, even by simply being an additional layer at a window. They help regulate indoor temperatures, reducing the need for excessive heating or cooling, which can result in energy savings. Some blinds have inherent thermal properties due to either their structure, or the materials used.

Compared to some other window treatments, blinds are generally easy to clean and maintain. Regular dusting or wiping down is usually sufficient to keep them looking fresh, but it's always best to follow the manufacturers instructions.

Window size and type

Consider the size and type of windows in each room. Some blinds may be better suited for larger windows, while others work well for smaller or uniquely shaped windows, such as bay windows. While most blinds can be made to measure, not all can be fitted to shaped windows.

Room functionality

Consider the function of each room when selecting blinds. For example, bedrooms may benefit from blackout fabrics for better sleep, while living rooms may benefit from light-filtering options for a bright and welcoming atmosphere. Bathrooms and kitchens need special considerations too – bathroom blinds may need to withstand a lot of steam or water splashes while kitchen blinds may need operating with messy hands or if near sinks and appliances be affected by heat or water.

Aesthetic preferences

Consider your overall interior design style and colour scheme. Choose blinds that complement the aesthetic of your home and enhance its visual appeal by day and night.

Customisation

With so much choice in terms of colour, fabric types, such as sheer and blackout, or stains and finishes for wooden blinds, plain or pattern the options for customisation make blinds an incredibly versatile option.

Elegant aesthetics: Roman blinds add a touch of tradition and elegance to any room. Their soft, cascading folds create a classic and timeless look.

Versatility in fabric choices: Roman blinds are available in a wide range of fabrics, from sheer to blackout blinds, allowing you to control both light and privacy.

Ease of operation: With options for manual or motorised operation, Roman blinds offer convenience and ease of use.

Natural aesthetics: Wooden blinds bring the warmth and beauty of natural wood into your home, adding a touch of organic elegance.

Durable: With their elegant appearance, wood venetian blinds are very durable, making them a practical choice for various settings. Faux wood blinds are a more practical option for kitchens and bathrooms.

Adjustable louvres: The adjustable horizontal slats allow precise control over how much light enters the room, and they can be tilted to achieve the desired angle, in addition to being raised and lowered partially or fully.

It's worth discussing which blinds are available as made to measure electric blinds at this stage. Currently Duette®, Roman and Roller blinds are all available as electric blinds for side windows, with Duette® and Pleated also available as conservatory roof blinds and also roof lantern blinds. They're an ideal choice if you're a lover of technology, as you can use an app to control them, or if you like Alexa and Google Home these blinds can be integrated with a compatible device via a smart hub. For hard to reach blinds, or multiple blinds in a room electric blinds are a great choice.