Not all blinds are created equal and unless you want to end up with a poor-quality set that is a pain to open and close easily and falls into disrepair quickly, then you should do some research before rushing in and making a purchase.
To make the decision process easier, we’re going to list the various types of blinds available on the market today, including a number of the best material choices and trending styles. Want to learn more about window covering solutions that won’t render you pulling your hair out? Read on and we’ll tell you everything you need to know…
What are the different types of blinds?
There are countless varieties and styles of blinds available on the market today, but there are only a select few that are worth your consideration. Let’s look at some of the different types of blinds:
- Venetian blinds
- Mini blinds
- Vertical blinds
- Panel blinds
- Motorised blinds
- Aluminium blinds
- Rolling blinds
- Outdoor blinds
- Cellular shades
Panel Blinds
Each of the above varieties of blinds has its own unique qualities and functionality. When shopping around we highly recommend keeping an eye out for them. The more time you spend on looking for a high-quality window covering solution, the less time you’ll have to spend on learning how to fix blinds because you rushed in with a poor-quality product.
What are the best blinds to use?
And what are the best blinds to use at home? Here’s a closer look…
- Plastic blinds: PVC or vinyl are among the most popular variety of plastic blinds and with good reason. These are most affordable than their wood and motorised counterparties, while still having the same functional capacity. Certainly, plastic may feel of a lower quality, but you can get your hands on heavy-duty PVC and vinyl that can stand the test of time without skimping on functionality or aesthetic charm.
- Vertical blinds: Vertical blinds are designed with vertical slats as opposed to slats that go from side to side like most traditional blinds. One of the best reasons to invest in vertical blinds is the amount of light control that they offer. Given their flexibility of being able to move from side to side, you can leverage these for a variety of window styles – particularly awkward and oddly shaped windows.
- Panel blinds: Panel blinds are another style that is seriously worth your consideration. These are a type of vertical blind that use fabric panels that hang and are excellent for providing full window coverage. These are especially useful if you need a total ‘blackout’ solution (e.g., you work late nights or enjoy nice lie-in mornings).
- Vertical wood blinds: While vertical wood blinds are certainly on the higher scale of the price range (given that they are crafted from 100% hardwood), for what they lack in affordability they more than make up for in unparalleled style and usability.
- Faux wood blinds: You can meet halfway with faux wood blinds, getting the hardwood appearance without the price tag. Another benefit of these blinds is the fact that they are resistant to water and humidity and are thus less prone to cracking (like hardwood that isn’t properly cared for and maintained).
- High-quality aluminium blinds: Vertical blinds made from aluminium are an awesome, modern option that is both cost-effective and boast a clean style. They are lightweight, rust-resistant, and an all-around winner.
Vertical Blinds
Which type of blinds are trendy?
And which types of blinds are currently on-trend? If you are looking for a window covering solution that is practical, affordable, and trending, you should consider the following options:
- Soundproof blinds: Soundproof blinds are rising in popularity, particularly in homes that are located in high-traffic areas where noise pollution is a problem. While they aren’t completely impervious to sound, you will certainly have a much easier time sleeping at night with a noticeable reduction.
- Insulating / thermal blinds: Thermal blinds are another trending choice right now, particularly given how much the energy crisis has impacted us all. Thermal blinds are especially good at helping you control the temperature in your home or office space, keeping your energy bills down and thus reducing your carbon footprint. They’re great for keeping the sun out in the summer months and the heat in during the winter.
- Smart blinds: If you are currently renovating your home and installing all-manner of smart appliances, smart blinds will be the perfect addition. Imagine being able to simply ask Alexa to open or close the blinds for you while you’re hard at work in your home office.
Conclusion
Let’s have a quick recap of what we’ve learned about blinds in this article:
- There are many different styles of blinds but these are worth looking out for:
- Venetian blinds
- Mini blinds
- Vertical blinds
- Panel blinds
- Motorised blinds / smart blinds
- Aluminium blinds
- Rolling blinds
- Outdoor blinds
- Cellular shades
- The best blinds on the market today are:
- Plastic blinds (PVC / vinyl)
- Vertical blinds (wood and aluminium)
- Panel blinds
- Faux wood blinds
- The trendiest blinds of 2023 are:
- Soundproof blinds
- Thermal blinds
- Smart blinds
Remember, choosing which type of blinds to choose for your property (whether at home or in the office), is a decision that must not be rushed. Blinds can be a fairly large investment, depending on how many windows you have on your property, and getting it wrong can be a costly mistake.
Instead, take the time to do some research into a blinds and curtains company with a reputation for manufacturing and installing superior quality products, and then go from there.
With a little patience and plenty of due diligence, you’ll surely end up with a stunning and functional window covering solution that will stand the test of time.