Choosing window coverings requires a lot of consideration. Along with offering privacy and light control, they also enhance your interior decor.
Window blinds and curtains are two of the most common window coverings. But both come with certain advantages and disadvantages. Understanding the difference between them will help you determine which is right for your home.
What to Know About Window Blinds & Curtains?
1. Blinds Are Less Expensive
Blinds cost less because they require less material and time to manufacture and install. If you hire a professional, they can install them in under 20 minutes usually. Plastic blinds are the cheapest while wood and high-quality vinyl blinds are the most expensive.
Curtains are more expensive than blinds. They not only require more material and time to manufacture, they also take more time to be installed, what with all the hardware involved. To cut your costs, go for cotton ones instead of linen or silk ones.
2. Curtains Are Better at Soundproofing and Installation
Although both window blinds and curtains are good at insulation, curtains are better because they don’t have slats to allow even a little heat or chill to escape.
Also, since curtains are made from heavy fabric woven tightly together, they are also better at blocking sound. For added insulation and soundproofing, opt for thermal curtains with acrylic foam tucked between the layers.
3. Blinds Are Better at Light Control
In window blinds, you find two types of slats: vertical and horizontal. That means you have more options for light control. Using the cords, you can either lift up or pull the slats on one side. You can also twist the tilt the wand to rotate the slats to control the light without compromising your privacy. Blinds allow in light even when they are completely closed. So do sheer curtains, but if you have thick curtains, your light will be blocked completely when you close them.
4. Curtains Have More Design Possibilities
You will find a wider range of materials, styles, textures and colours in curtains compared to blinds. You also get various levels of transparency.
Blinds don’t have that many design options and are only sold in solid colours. Their minimalistic look makes them a better choice for modern, minimalistic, coastal, and industrial interiors.
5. Blinds Are Easy to Clean
The hard and slick surface of blinds makes it easier to dust with a microfibre cloth. Close the slats and use a duster to wipe them; then rotate them 180 degrees to clean the other side. For stubborn stains and dirt, use a soft cloth moistened with plain water or with 25% vinegar.
Cleaning curtains is an extensive process. If you want to clean the dust off them, you will have to use a vacuum cleaner. For soiled or stained areas, soak them in a solution of 25% vinegar and 75% water; for mould, use one part bleach and three parts of water. You can’t machine wash all curtains, and the ones you must hand wash are delicate. You will have to unhinge the rod, take the curtains down, put them up after they are cleaned and ironed, and then fix the hardware.
6. Blinds Are More Durable
Well-maintained blinds can last for 15 years or more. Window blinds are made from synthetic materials like aluminum, plastic, or vinyl. That’s why they are resistant to staining and discolouration. Also, compared to curtains, they are more rugged and rigid, hence less prone to daily wear and tear. Fabric can get easily damaged and so you will need to replace your curtains more frequently than blinds.
#Pro Tip: Pair Both Window Coverings for the Best Results: The best option is to install both window blinds and curtains in combination. You can use curtains in low moisture areas like the living room and bedroom to maximize insulation, soundproofing, and design options. You can use blinds in areas like the kitchen, bathroom, and other high moisture areas. They will be easy to maintain and clean as well. For better privacy and light control, use them together.
Window blinds and curtains both come with benefits and drawbacks. For the best results, you have to be aware of which to use where and how to use them together. So, when it comes time to replace your window treatments, carefully consider all their pros and cons to select the best ones for your home.
