Top 5 Mistakes to Avoid When Choosing Window Treatments

Choosing the right window treatments for your home can feel overwhelming. With so many options available—from blinds and shades to curtains and drapes—it’s easy to make mistakes that can affect both the functionality and aesthetic of your space. To help you make the best choice, here are the top 5 mistakes to avoid when selecting window treatments.

Sheer Shades

1. Forgetting to Consider the Room’s Function

One of the most common mistakes people make when choosing window treatments is not considering the function of the room. Different rooms in your home require different types of window coverings depending on their purpose.

For example:

• Living rooms might need light-filtering or sheer treatments to create a bright, airy space.

• Bedrooms typically require blackout shades or heavy drapes for privacy and better sleep.

• Bathrooms need moisture-resistant materials like faux wood blinds or vinyl shades to handle humidity.

Before making a decision, ask yourself how each room is used and what your main priorities are: privacy, light control, insulation, or decoration. Selecting the right treatment will ensure the window coverings not only look great but also serve their intended purpose.

2. Not Measuring Your Windows Correctly

Proper measurements are essential for a polished, professional look. One of the biggest mistakes homeowners make is not measuring their windows accurately before purchasing treatments. Ill-fitting window coverings can result in awkward gaps, or worse, a bulky appearance that looks unkempt.

Here’s a quick tip: Always measure the width and height of your window at multiple points (top, middle, and bottom) to ensure accuracy. This is especially important if your window is out of square. If you’re unsure, consider hiring a professional to take the measurements or ask your supplier for guidance.

3. Overlooking Light Control and Privacy Needs

While you might focus on aesthetics, it's important not to overlook the practical side of your window treatments—particularly when it comes to light control and privacy. If your window treatments don’t adequately block or filter light, they can end up leaving your space too bright or, conversely, too dark.

• If privacy is a concern, especially for ground-floor rooms or urban homes, consider options like top-down/bottom-up shades or layered treatments.

• If light control is important, think about using duo shades or blackout curtains that can block sunlight when needed while still letting in natural light at other times.

Choosing window treatments that balance these two factors will create a comfortable living environment without sacrificing style.

4. Choosing Style Over Functionality

It’s tempting to pick window treatments based solely on how they look, but functionality should always come first. For example, heavy drapes might look beautiful in a dining room, but they may not be practical in a high-traffic area like a kitchen where they could get dirty easily. Similarly, faux wood blinds may be ideal for bathrooms but might not offer the aesthetic you want for your living room.

Make sure the style of the window treatment complements the room’s function and lifestyle needs. If you need easy cleaning, opt for shades that can be wiped down easily. If you're looking for insulation, heavier fabrics like velvet or thermal-lined drapes are a good choice.

5. Ignoring Energy Efficiency

Many people don't realize the impact window treatments can have on a home’s energy efficiency. In fact, the right window treatments can reduce your energy bills by helping to maintain your home’s temperature—keeping heat in during the winter and blocking heat out during the summer.

Consider thermal or insulating shades for energy efficiency. These treatments are designed to reduce heat transfer, which can make a significant difference in maintaining a comfortable indoor environment. Additionally, solar shades can block UV rays and reduce glare without sacrificing natural light.

Investing in energy-efficient window coverings not only helps reduce your carbon footprint but also saves you money in the long run.

Conclusion

Choosing the right window treatments can completely transform a room, but it’s important to avoid these common mistakes to ensure you make the best decision for both style and function. Always consider the room’s purpose, measure your windows accurately, and prioritize practicality alongside aesthetics. By doing so, you’ll not only enhance your home’s decor but also create a more comfortable and efficient living space.

At Open Blind Solutions, we offer a wide range of custom window treatments tailored to your needs. Let us help you find the perfect solution for your home. Contact us today to get started!