The best blinds for Windows: 12 options that go beyond the basics

I have always preferred the clean lines of blinds over drapes or curtains (although admittedly there is always something comforting and attractive about light curtains that move in the spring breeze). After college (way back in the late 1980s and 1990s) windows, almost every apartment I lived in or saw was equipped with aluminum mini-blinds, many of which had a bent slat or two where an overly energetic house cat had tried to climb through them once or twice. Twice.

Those early mini-blinds, while functional, were only available in two colors, white or off-white, and didn’t offer much style. Today, blinds come in all sorts of materials and colors, combining function with fashion and personal expression. They are equipped with technology that allows you to control the amount of light entering your home and maximize your privacy, while being decorative expressions of your own style. If you have a home full of windows that need some new or updated coverings, check out some of our picks for the best blinds below. You might find some inspiration.

How to choose the best window blinds

With so many options available, it can be difficult to know where to start. When shopping for blinds, start by considering the following.

What aesthetics are you looking for?

Blinds are made from all types of materials, including wood, vinyl, faux wood, cellular (paper) or vinyl. Wood blinds tend to look and feel more luxurious and are available in a range of rich colors that add warmth and depth to a room. Vinyl and aluminum options tend to look a bit more utilitarian (often seen in offices), though they can also convey a sleek, modern look if you have minimalist decor. If you want color options besides white or cream, wood or faux wood blinds are probably your best option.

How unique do you want your window shades to be?

If you crave something unique that reflects a specific type of environment, look for blinds that offer many customizable options, such as matching valances, wireless operation, motorization or decorative ribbons. Some blinds even have features that allow you to adjust the slats from above or below, giving you more flexibility and control over light and privacy.

How much light do you want to let in?

Blinds are great for blocking out unwanted light and glare, but they can also create a dark and gloomy atmosphere if you’re not careful. To avoid this, look for blinds that have slats that are easy to tilt and adjust, or that have light filtering or room darkening options. You can also choose blinds that have wider slats (usually 2 inches or more) that let in more light when open.

How easy are they to clean and maintain?

Blinds can accumulate dust and dirt over time, which can affect their appearance and functionality. To keep them looking fresh and clean, you should clean them periodically with a damp cloth or vacuum attachment. Some materials are easier to clean than others; for example, wood blinds may require special cleaners or polishes to prevent warping or cracking, while vinyl or aluminum blinds can be cleaned with mild soap and water. You may also want to consider how often you will need to replace the blinds; some materials are more durable and long-lasting than others.

What is your budget?

The price of blinds can vary greatly depending on the material, size, style and features. Generally speaking, wood blinds are more expensive than faux wood or vinyl blinds, and custom blinds are more expensive than ready-made blinds. You’ll also need to factor in installation costs if you’re not comfortable doing it yourself. However, don’t let price be the only factor in your decision; think about the value and quality of the blinds, as well as how they fit your needs and preferences.

If you are looking for the best blinds for your windows, you may be overwhelmed by the variety of options available. Blinds are a great way to control the amount of light and privacy in your rooms, as well as enhance the style and comfort of your home. But how do you choose the right blinds for different rooms and purposes? In this blog post, we will review some of the best window blinds for bathrooms, living rooms and bedrooms based on their specifications, advantages and disadvantages. We’ll also give you some tips on how to measure and install your blinds and where to find the best deals online.

The best window blinds for bathroom windows: Achim wireless mini-blinds

For small windows such as those often found in bathrooms, Achim cordless mini-blinds offer an excellent choice. They are made of vinyl, so they will not be affected by moisture from an accidental spray of water. They are available in white, alabaster, gray, wood tone (tan) and even black, for those of us who like a retro bathroom motif in black, white and pink.

Specifications:

Available sizes: 22 to 72 inches wide x 24, 42, 48, 48, 64 or 72 inches long

Material: vinyl

Customizable: No

Price: Depends on size; $15.00 – $36.00

Advantages:

– Inexpensive

– Light filtering

– Wireless for security and convenience

Cons:

– Comes in limited color options

– Some people may not block enough light

Best blinds for living room windows: designer wood blinds Custom Home Collection

When it comes to curtains, wood blinds are one of the most luxurious options you can get. These fully customizable 2-inch wood blinds can be ordered in over 100 different colors and stains, making them uniquely yours. There are tons of options available, such as motorized rounded corner slats, decorative fabric ribbons and valances, routerless (meaning no holes for light to leak through) and cordless slats. We especially like the bamboo script and spring leaf fabric ribbon options.

Specifications:

Sizes available: 9 – 12 inches wide x 12 – 120 inches long

Material: Wood

Customizable: Yes

Price: Depends on size; $74.50 for 24″ x 36″.

Advantages:

– So many options

– High quality

– Elegant and natural look

Cons:

– Expensive

– Heavy and difficult to lift

– May warp or fade in direct sunlight.

The best window blinds for bedroom windows: Bali Blackout Cellular Shades

If you want to create a cozy and dark atmosphere for your bedroom, Bali Blackout cellular shades are the perfect choice. These curtains are made of honeycomb cells that trap air and insulate windows, keeping the room cool in summer and warm in winter. They also block out 99% of light and noise, ensuring a peaceful and restful sleep. You can choose from a variety of colors, sizes and styles, such as cordless, top-down/bottom-up or motorized.

Specifications:

Available sizes: 8.5 to 96 in. wide x 12 to 120 in. long

Material: Moisture resistant PVC

Customizable: Yes

Price: Depends on size; $53.89 for 36″ x 48″.

Advantages:

– Moisture resistant

– Many color options

– Safety guarantee

Cons:

– The white color may yellow over time.

– It may not be flush with the window frame.

How to measure and install your blinds

Before ordering your blinds online, you must measure your windows accurately to ensure a proper fit. You can use a metal tape measure and follow these steps:

Decide whether you want to mount the shades inside or outside the window frame. The inside mount gives a cleaner appearance, while the outside mount covers more window and wall.

2. For interior mounting, measure the width of the window at the top, middle and bottom. Use the smaller measurement as the width.

3. For exterior mounting, measure the width of the window, including the frame or trim. Add at least 1.5 inches to each side for overlap.

4. For interior mounting, measure the height of the window left, center and right. Use the longest measurement as the height.

5. For exterior mounting, measure the height of the window, including the frame or trim. Add at least 2 inches at the top and bottom for overlap.

Once you receive your shutters, you can install them yourself or hire a professional. You will need some basic tools such as a drill, screwdriver, level and pencil. You can follow these steps:

1. Check the contents of the package and make sure you have all parts and hardware.

2. Attach the brackets to the window frame or wall using the screws provided. Make sure they are level and aligned.

3. Insert the top rail of the louvers into the brackets and snap them into place.

4. Attach the valance or decorative ribbon if applicable.

5. Lower and raise the louvers to test operation and adjust the cable length if necessary.

Where to find the best deals online

If you’re ready to buy blinds online, you may be wondering where to find the best deals and discounts. Here are some of the websites we recommend:

– Blinds.com: is one of the largest and most popular online retailers of blinds and shades. They offer free samples, free shipping and a 100% satisfaction guarantee. You can also get expert advice from their design consultants and installation videos.

– Blindsgalore: this is another great option for custom blinds and shades. They offer free samples, free shipping and a 60-day satisfaction guarantee. You can also find exclusive designer collections and eco-friendly products.

– Home Depot: If you prefer a more familiar brand, you can check out Home Depot’s online selection of blinds and shades. They offer free samples, free delivery on orders over $45 and a 90-day return policy. You can also get professional installation services and financing options.

We hope this blog post has helped you find the best blinds for your windows. Whether you are looking for blinds for bathroom, living room or bedroom, you can find them online at affordable prices and easy installation. Happy shopping!