Room Darkening Window Blinds

Window blinds are very essential in houses because of their different uses. There is a variety of types, designs and colors of window blinds available in the market. Window blinds are considered as important as other furniture in the house. Blackout window blinds, as the name suggests, are used to block out any light from entering the room during the day or night. These blinds may have pleated, vertical as well as horizontal slats. Let us take a look at the different types of window blinds available.

Types of Blackout Window Blinds

• Vinyl Blinds: Window blinds made of vinyl are found to be commonly used as they are durable and also available in different colors. They look decorative and also help in darkening the room.
• Cellular Blinds: These blinds have cells stitched together which effectively help in room darkening. As they look like a honeycomb, they are also called honeycomb blinds. Cellular blinds with more than 1 layer are also available.
• Roller Blinds: They are made of plastic or fabric and hence are easy to use and clean. They also come in attractive colors. Roller blackout blinds are universally used these days as they are long-lasting.
• Wooden Blinds: Wooden blinds in natural colors of wood look classy and elegant. They will also serve the purpose of darkening the room. Bamboo blinds are also very popularly used in some places.

Apart from these, mini-blackout blinds, made of aluminum, can also be used. You can even have blackout blinds with funky designs and patterns if it suits your tastes.

Advantages of These Blinds

• The main advantage of these window blinds is that they shut out excess sunlight in every room. They are most useful in homes with large windows and can even be installed in bathrooms. Sometimes, they are also installed on doors.
• Room darkening window blinds help you sleep longer as there will be no glaring sunlight through your bedroom window. Blackout blinds also help prevent the glare from your television screen. They can be also used in offices or examination halls.

Buying Tips

• Room darkening blinds are available in most home or furniture stores. Alternatively, you can even shop for them through the internet. As they are available in several colors, it is easier to find the one that suits the decor of your house.
• When shopping for window blinds, make sure that they actually shut out the light. Also, some windows have chains that need to be checked before purchasing.
• These blinds can also be made according to your requirements, but, you will need to look out for manufacturers who provide this service.

Cleaning Tips

• The best method to clean window blinds is to vacuum them and then clean them with a damp cloth. You have to roll the blinds down to separate the slats.
• If this is not enough, you can remove it and put it in the tub. Clean it with water containing detergent and then rinse with clean water.
• If you have an expensive type of blackout blinds, it is better to use only those cleaning products recommended by the manufacturers.

Blackout blinds are more effective than blackout shades as they have slats which can be adjusted according to amount of light required. Also, blackout shades are considered out dated these days. Installing a window blind yourself is not difficult, and if in trouble, one can always take help of a professional. Installing these window blinds will ensure you have privacy to enjoy movies on your home theater or have a good undisturbed afternoon nap, whatever your desire might be!