Blinds vs. Curtains: Which Save Money In The Long Run?
Which window covering is better? Custom blinds or curtains? We come up with this question a lot. Honestly, there are loads of pros and cons to both. It comes down to personal preference.
When it comes to window coverings, they're not just about style—they also affect light, privacy, and temperature inside your home. Curtains are fabric panels, while blinds have slats you can adjust. Each has its pros and cons. We'll set side by side them here in this blog to help you decide what's best for your home.
What makes blinds a better choice than curtains?
Blinds can be set up in two different ways, inside the window frames or outside. They can also work well with curtains, especially for big windows or tricky curtain setups. Sometimes it's best to have both of them together. Although, there are some other things to think about before deciding if that's right for you:
- Window size: Check out the size of your windows when choosing any of them.
- Room layout: Think about how your furniture is arranged and how the blinds and curtains will fit in.
- Your budget: Blinds and curtains both can vary in cost, so consider what you can afford.
- Colours: Make sure the colours of your blinds and curtains match or complement each other and your room.
Advantages of Blinds Over Curtains:
1. Let in more light
Blind's shutter gives you more control over the light entering your room. These can be easily adjusted to let in just the right amount of sunlight also maintaining privacy.
2. Modern and sleek
Blinds give rooms a clean and minimalist look. With numerous designs like Roman, roller, Venetian, and vertical blinds, there's something to suit every style.
3. Affordable alternative
They are cheaper than curtains, mostly roller blinds. You can customise and install quickly, saving you money.
4. Easy to maintain
Easy to clean with a wet cloth, because of their smooth surface. Just wipe them down, and will be good to go. Curtains, on the other hand, may require more effort, especially heavy or delicate ones.
5. Long-lasting Impact
For their special coatings, blinds are durable and resistant to stains and fading. They tend to last longer over curtains, which can fade and wear out over time.
Amplify Your Home's Look with Window Treatments
Windows might not be the first thing you think of when you're up for home decor, but they're pretty important. They are like the eyes of your house, give you a glimpse inside and showcase your style from the outside. And don't stress about the cost – there's usually something that fits your budget.
Here are some easy ideas for dressing up your windows with curtains and blinds in your home.
a). Blinds
Blinds offer practicality and flexibility that curtains sometimes can't match. You can easily adjust blinds to let in the right amount of light or maintain privacy. However, there are times when curtains add a certain style that blinds can't replicate, especially in large living room windows where thick velvet curtains can make a statement.
- One popular place for blinds is the kitchen. Safer than curtains, which could catch fire, and they're easier to clean if they get splashed with grease or food. Plus, in kitchens where sunlight streams in, blinds won't fade like curtains might.
- Bathrooms are another spot where blinds make sense. Wooden blinds are one of the best choices because of their easy-to-clean and properties of moisture-resistant.
b). Curtains
Think about how you use this space. If it's where you entertain guests and unwind, you'll want curtains that complement your style and withstand fading. Consider if you prefer bright curtains to let in more light or darker ones for cosy movie nights. Bold colours can tie the room together nicely.
- Since the dining room is often used for hosting guests, you can get creative with your curtain choice. Unlike the living room, it's not typically used during the day, so you can focus on making a statement that impresses visitors.
- Here, in the bedroom, both style and practicality matter. Your curtains should match your room's colour scheme while also keeping out unwanted light. Opt for heavier or lined curtains to achieve this, especially if you prefer a lighter-coloured curtain.
Sum Up Blinds Vs Curtains: Which is Right for You?
Blinds | Curtains |
Pros Lots of colours and designs to choose from. Different options for slat thickness and size. Can help save energy by keeping heat in or out. Usually cheaper than custom-made curtains. Gives a simple, clean look to your space. Easy to clean and maintain. Sturdier than curtains. Can be used in any room and control how much light comes in. | Pros Many colour and pattern choices with different textures. Options for different thicknesses, like sheer or heavy curtains. Can save energy by reducing drafts. Can be cheaper than custom blinds, depending on the type. Great for creating a specific atmosphere. Blackout curtains are excellent for blocking light. |
Cons: Doesn't block out light completely. Limited options for textures. Not the most energy-efficient option. | Cons: Not as durable as blinds. Custom curtains can be pricey. Not suitable for bathrooms and kitchens. Can get stains or damage that's harder to clean. Might reduce energy savings if covering radiators. Can only be open or closed, with no in-between features. |
In conclusion, using both blinds and curtains together can be a smart choice. You can enjoy the benefits of both window coverings. Consider adding curtains in rooms like living rooms and bedrooms for extra style, insulation, and noise reduction. Blinds work well in places like kitchens and bathrooms where there's moisture because they're easy to clean and control light effectively.
For added privacy and a cosy feel, you can even layer both blinds and curtains in one room. Start with blinds for functionality, then add curtains for a decorative touch.
Check out our latest Window Treatments for a great selection of blinds, or browse our Sun Blinds YYC website page for energy-efficient options.
Also, read our other blog: DIY Makeover: Tips & Tricks From Blind Manufacturer In Calgary