Curtains or blinds?
From ease and cost of cleaning, to versatility and light control, experts tell Abi Jackson where to start with weighing up the options
HOW you dress your windows can have a big impact on the overall look of a room, but picking colours and materials is just the tip of the iceberg. Often, one of the biggest decisions will be choosing between curtains or blinds (although sometimes a combination of the two is best), but even this isn’t just a question of aesthetics, as it’s important to consider functional practicalities and maintenance too.
After all, we don’t just dress windows to make a style statement – it’s also about privacy, controlling the flow of light into a room, and keeping heat in and draughts out. So, where do you start?
1. What ‘look’ are you after? “For many people, choosing between styling windows with either blinds or curtains is a tricky decision. Curtains often provide a more traditional, elegant style in the home, while blinds tend to look more chic and contemporary,” says Adele ShottonPugh, resident interior designer at home furnishings retailer, Terry’s Fabrics (terrysfabrics.co.uk). “If you’re trying to keep the costs down while decorating, blinds often come at a much lower price, especially for larger windows, but the right blind will still add the perfect finishing touch to your room.
“If you’re looking to add an element of luxury and warmth, curtains may be the best option. However, if you prefer simplicity and contemporary style, you might want to consider investing in blinds. You could also think about combining blinds and curtains to completely block out any unwanted light, and make a stunning style statement in your window.”
For some, the soft, flowing finish of curtains will always seal the deal. Curtains also offer the option of creating a ‘layered’ effect, with a sheer net or voile curtain providing privacy and a heavier curtain on top to frame the window and complete the look. In a classical setting, a heavy curtain that cascades and gathers at the floor can add depth and impact – as well as helping trap heat and block out sound and light.
That said, the options for blinds are now vast, with designs to suit all needs and tastes. “While blinds come in lots of different types – from rollers and Romans to verticals and venetians – there is also a huge choice of colours and fabrics to choose from as well. Even venetian and vertical blinds have patterned options,” says Mike Stephen, director of Apollo Blinds (apolloblinds.co.uk), who also allows customers to select their own fabric, send it to them, and then have the blinds made up.
2. Will they be easy to clean? Generally speaking, blinds will be easier – and cheaper – to clean than curtains, depending on the type of fabric used (there may be some curtain fabrics you can wash at home).
“While most curtain fabrics will need to be professionally dry-cleaned, the majority of blinds can be cleaned at home (with the exception of Roman blind fabrics, that need to be drycleaned),” says interiors expert Lorna McAleer from Style Studio (stylestudio. co.uk).
“You can dust most blinds regularly with a soft cloth on both sides to get rid of any dust build up.
“For venetian blinds, a feather duster is convenient to get in between those awkward slats.
“For blinds that require a more thorough clean to remove stains, roller, vertical and pleated blinds can usually be sponge-cleaned.
“Just check the fabric properties with your retailer to be sure your blind is suitable for this method.”