- Types of blinds
- Why you should use blinds
- How to clean and maintain blinds
- What you should consider when choosing blinds
- Blinds can serve you well
Lets see how.
Blinds are simple window and door coverings with horizontal or vertical slats that can be adjusted, according to taste, to allow or disallow light from penetrating.
Types of blinds
There are many kinds of blinds, each of which provides functions which the other does not. Here are some of the major types of blinds.
Roller blinds
With roller blinds, there are many elegant and classic options. You dont have to settle for whats available, but what suits your taste. They come in bright and calm colors, translucent and opaque forms, patterned and plain forms. Though elegant, roller blinds are also functional in the sense that simply by rolling down, they help you block out light and ensure warmth, and by rolling up, you let light into your space. To balance out lighting and coolness, you can roll to an average level – not completely up, and not completely down.
Venetian blinds
Made of horizontal slats, venetian blinds provide high functionality, durability, and aesthetical value. They not only come in wooden forms, but also in faux wooden and metal forms. The wooden option is best for bedrooms, offices, living rooms and other non-moisture prone areas. This is because with moisture, real woods can be subjected to cracks or warps. The faux wooden option is more resistant to moisture and can be used in areas such as kitchens and bathrooms, and the metal option is built with high quality aluminum that can withstand moisture and resist wear and tear. Essentially, venetian blinds are flexible and will offer you absolute control over light, heat, and privacy.
Roman blinds
Roman blinds are made of fabrics and offer variety of alternatives. They come in different colors, materials and patterns. When rolled up, they form horizontal pleats, and when lowered, they straighten completely. Though made of fabric, roman blinds can offer you optimum privacy as they are not see-through.
Day and night blinds
These types of blinds are like roller blinds, and in fact more versatile. Instead of a one panel fabric as with roller blinds, they come in alternate layers of translucent panels which permit light access, and opaque panels which block out light. These alternate panels work together to give a balance of light and privacy, making your space not too exposed and not too dark.
Vertical blinds
Popular across the globe, vertical blinds are a unique choice. Unlike other blinds that have horizontal slats, vertical blinds have vertical slats, but are as functional as other types of blinds, providing you as much control over light, privacy, and air. They are perfect for wide windows and doors, if they have enough room to stack neatly.
Why you should use blinds
The simple reason why you should use blinds is that they have an edge over other forms of window coverings. Not only will blinds offer more flexibility, but they will also make your space look modern, classy, and luxurious without you having to spend so much. With blinds, you have no fear making replacements every now and then due to wear and tear because they are durable and long lasting.
Also, blinds give you total control over your space. You not only get to manage privacy and control light, but you also get to regulate the temperature of your space. Amazing right? Thats the power you have when you choose blinds. However, many people avoid using blinds because they think it is difficult to clean and maintain. To have no worries about that, read on..
How to clean and maintain blinds
How you should clean your blinds and what to clean them with depends on the material they are made of. Here are tips to guide you in cleaning some certain kinds of blinds.
For fabric blinds
All you must do for blinds made with fabric is spot clean. To aid your spot cleaning, you can use a spray cleaner made for fabric, to dissolve stains and make them easier to clean. After spraying, scrub gently with a damp sponge, then press a dry sponge on the wet area to absorb excess water.
You could use a dryer to make it dry faster but avoid leaving it wet as it could trap in dust easily when wet. In cleaning fabric blinds, make sure you don’t use detergents or harsh chemicals to avoid discoloration and fading.
For wooden and metal blinds
To clean wooden or metal blinds efficiently and effectively, dip a soft cloth into a basin of warm water mixed with a few drops of liquid solvent, and run your fingers along the top with your thumb underneath each slat. You could also use chemicals appropriate for metals to aid your cleaning. However, ensure to read the guide on usage to help you know the safety precautions required, and the how much chemical you will need – if it is only a few sprays on a damp cloth, or a full dip.
What you should consider when choosing blinds
To further help you maximize your use of blinds and avoid regrets, here are some things you should consider when choosing blinds for your interior.
Moisture level
For moisture prone areas such as kitchens and bathrooms, opt for blinds that can withstand moisture such as faux wooden or metal blinds.
Color
For blinds to give your space an appealing look, you should go for colors that complement the look of your interior. Consider your color scheme when choosing blinds for your interior.
Lighting
The good thing about most types of blinds is that you can either raise completely to allow optimum level of light into your home, or lower completely to block off light. However, some blinds such as the venetian blinds offer more flexibility when it comes to lighting. You have more control other than raising, lowering, or leaving the blinds at mid-point. By simply opening slats, you get a degree of light that you can tweak to suit your lighting needs at any moment.
Temperature
All kinds of blinds give you control over temperature in different ways. While air penetrates through fabric blinds even when shut, air is blocked out completely with metal or wooden blinds when shut. However, you have more control with wooden and metal blinds because the slats are adjustable, unlike fabric blinds which only have raising and lowering options.
Blinds can serve you well
Having read through this piece so far, you wouldn’t be wrong to see blinds as servants that could help you meet your lighting, fresh air, and aesthetical needs. If you belittled blinds before as mere pieces of window coverings, now you know better. Do not feel too bad, however, if you have not gotten blinds for your homes or offices yet. It’s not too late. Make it happen with us today!
Expert tips on inner blinds by Wallpaper Mart.1. How do I clean inner blindsCleaning inner window blinds can be a bit tricky, but heres a simple step-by-step guide to help you get the job done:Gather your supplies: You will need a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment, a microfiber cloth or sponge, a bucket of warm water, mild detergent or vinegar, and a pair of gloves (optional).Close the blinds: Ensure that the blinds are in the closed position to make cleaning easier.Dusting: Use the brush attachment on your vacuum cleaner to gently remove loose dust and debris from the blinds. Start from the top and work your way down, making sure to vacuum both sides of the blinds.Spot cleaning: If there are any visible stains or stubborn dirt, dip a microfiber cloth or sponge in a mixture of warm water and mild detergent or vinegar. Squeeze out excess liquid and gently wipe the affected areas. Be careful not to oversaturate the blinds, as it may cause damage.Rinse: Dip a clean cloth or sponge in plain warm water and gently wipe the blinds to remove any soapy residue.Drying: Once youve finished cleaning, allow the blinds to air dry completely before opening them again. This will prevent any moisture from causing damage or warping.Additional tips:If your blinds are heavily soiled, you may consider removing them from the window and cleaning them in a bathtub or large sink. For fabric blinds, check the manufacturers instructions for any specific cleaning recommendations. Wear gloves if you have sensitive skin or if youre using strong cleaning agents. Remember, regular maintenance and light dusting can help minimize the need for deep cleaning.2. Can I use inner blinds and curtains together?Absolutely! Using inner blinds and curtains together can offer several benefits, both practical and aesthetic:Light Control: Blinds are great for adjusting the amount of light entering the room, allowing you to easily regulate the brightness and privacy. Adding curtains on top of the blinds gives you an extra layer of light control. You can close the blinds partially to let in a desired amount of light and then use the curtains to further filter or block the light as needed.Insulation and Energy Efficiency: Combining blinds and curtains helps improve insulation by trapping air between the two layers, which can contribute to maintaining a more comfortable temperature inside your home. This added insulation can help reduce heat loss during winters and heat gain during summers, potentially leading to energy savings.Soundproofing: The combination of blinds and curtains can help dampen outside noise, making your living space quieter and more peaceful.Privacy: Using both blinds and curtains provides enhanced privacy. You can close the blinds for privacy during the day, and then draw the curtains in the evening for additional privacy and to create a cozy atmosphere.Decorative Options: Blinds and curtains offer a wide range of design possibilities. By choosing complementary colors, patterns, or textures, you can create a layered and visually appealing window treatment that enhances the overall decor of your room.Remember to consider the size and style of your windows, as well as the type of blinds and curtains you plan to use, to ensure they work well together and provide the desired functionality and aesthetic appeal.3. Are inner blinds suitable for all window sizes?Inner window blinds are generally suitable for a wide range of window sizes, but there may be limitations depending on the specific type of blinds and the size of the window. Here are a few considerations:Width and Height: Measure the width and height of your window accurately to determine if standard-sized blinds will fit. Most blinds are available in a variety of widths and lengths, allowing you to find options that match your window dimensions. However, extremely large or unusually shaped windows may require custom-made blinds.Type of Blinds: Different types of blinds have different size limitations. For example, horizontal blinds like Venetian or mini blinds are commonly available in various sizes and can fit standard-sized windows easily. Vertical blinds are often used for larger windows or sliding glass doors. Its important to check the specifications of the blinds youre considering to ensure they can accommodate your window size.Mounting Options: Consider whether you want to mount the blinds inside the window frame (inside mount) or on the wall above the window (outside mount). Inside mounts require sufficient depth within the window frame to accommodate the blinds. If your window has limited depth or unique features, an outside mount may be more suitable.Customization: If you have non-standard-sized or irregularly shaped windows, you may need to consider custom-made blinds. Many manufacturers offer customization options, allowing you to get blinds tailored to your specific window measurements.In summary, while inner window blinds can generally be suitable for various window sizes, its important to accurately measure your windows, consider the type of blinds, and explore customization options if necessary to ensure a proper fit and functionality.4. Do inner blinds help with insulation?Yes, inner window blinds can help with insulation to some extent. While they may not provide the same level of insulation as thicker curtains or double-pane windows, they can still contribute to reducing heat transfer and maintaining a more comfortable indoor temperature. Heres how inner blinds can assist with insulation:Heat Regulation: Blinds act as a barrier between the window glass and the interior space. When closed, they create a layer of still air between the window and the room. This trapped air can help prevent the transfer of heat from outside during hot weather or from inside during colder temperatures.Sunlight Control: Blinds allow you to control the amount of sunlight entering your space. By adjusting the angle of the slats or fully closing the blinds, you can block direct sunlight and prevent solar heat gain. This can be particularly beneficial during summer months when excessive heat can enter through the windows.Draft Prevention: When blinds are closed, they can help minimize drafts by reducing air movement near the window area. This is especially true for blinds with tighter-fitting slats or those installed with proper weather stripping.Its important to note that the level of insulation provided by blinds can vary depending on factors such as the material, thickness, and installation method. Additionally, other elements such as window frames, glass quality, and overall building insulation also influence the effectiveness of insulation.To maximize the insulation benefits of inner window blinds, consider choosing blinds made from insulating materials like cellular or honeycomb blinds, or pairing the blinds with additional window treatments like curtains or window film to enhance the insulation properties.5. Which are the major disadvantages of inner blinds?While inner window blinds offer several advantages, there are a few potential disadvantages to consider:Limited Insulation: While blinds can provide some level of insulation, they are generally less effective at insulating compared to thicker window treatments like curtains or double-pane windows. If insulation is a significant concern for your space, you may need to supplement blinds with additional insulation methods.Limited Light Control: While blinds allow you to adjust the amount of light entering the room, they may not provide as much control as curtains or blackout shades. Light can still filter through the slats, and some blinds may have gaps between them, allowing light to enter even when closed.Maintenance and Cleaning: Blinds, particularly those with slats, can accumulate dust and debris over time. Cleaning them can be a bit time-consuming, especially if you have multiple blinds throughout your home. Dusting and cleaning each individual slat requires more effort compared to other window treatments like curtains.Limited Decorative Options: While there is a range of styles and materials available for blinds, they may not offer the same decorative flexibility as curtains. Curtains can add texture, pattern, and color to a room, while blinds tend to have a more streamlined and minimalist appearance. However, this can also be a matter of personal preference and the overall aesthetic you want to achieve.Potential Wear and Tear: Over time, blinds can experience wear and tear due to constant opening, closing, and adjusting. The mechanisms for raising and lowering blinds or tilting the slats may wear out, and the slats themselves can become damaged or bent. Choosing blinds made from durable materials and maintaining them properly can help mitigate these issues.Its important to weigh these potential disadvantages against the advantages and consider your specific needs, preferences, and the characteristics of your space when deciding whether inner window blinds are the right choice for you. |