Interior Design | The Blinds Spot

Real Wood or Faux Wood Shutters: Which Are Best for Your Home?

June 6, 2023June 7, 2023 / Alicia Chan

Happy family in living room with Craftsman Painted Shutters — *^{Craftsman Painted Shutters in White Space}*

Shutters are perfect for traditional or rustic interior designs, and they can enhance the overall aesthetic appeal of your home. When you invest in shutters, you’ll need to decide if you should purchase real wood or faux wood shutters. Let’s break this down and help you find the best shutters for your home!

Real Wood Shutters

Whether it’s the rich grain patterns or the warm and inviting atmosphere, the natural beauty of real wood shutters adds a touch of sophistication to any room.

Wood shutters offer excellent insulation properties.They can effectively block out sunlight, heat, and cold, helping to maintain a comfortable indoor temperature year-round. However, the main advantage of wood shutters is that you can choose stained, or real wood colors vs the white/off-white painted colors in faux.

However, as with any natural material, wood shutters can be susceptible to warping or fading over time; to increase its longevity, avoid installing them in high-humidity areas like bathrooms or kitchens. Instead of cleaning them with water, wipe the dust off with a dry, soft cloth.

Faux Wood Shutters

These shutters are often constructed with PVC and Polyresin Composite materials, which makes faux wood shutters’ insulation properties superior to wood shutters. This can lead to energy savings because your air conditioning system won’t have to work as hard to keep your home cool or warm.

Another advantage is their durability. They’re resistant to warping, fading, and cracking. Faux wood is also moisture-resistant, making them an ideal choice for areas with high humidity or moisture, such as bathrooms or kitchens.

*^{Classic Faux Wood Shutters in Cotton}*

Faux wood shutters are a more budget-friendly option compared to their real wood counterparts. Plus, they require minimal maintenance and are easy to clean. A simple wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to keep them looking their best.

On the downside, faux wood shutters lack the natural beauty and authenticity of real wood. While they are designed to closely mimic the appearance of wood, some discerning eyes may notice the subtle differences.

It’s Up to You!

In the end, the choice ultimately depends on your personal preference. Take your time, weigh the pros and cons, and choose the option that aligns with your style and budget!

Woman smiling at Classic Faux Wood Shutters in Cotton — *^{Classic Faux Wood Shutters in Cotton}*

Wood shutters would be your best option if you value the authenticity of real wood. On the other hand, if you’re looking for a cost-effective, low-maintenance option, faux wood shutters could be the perfect fit for you.

Call or chat with one of our Design Consultants to learn more about shutters! Call (888) 257-1840. They’re easy to talk to!

Embrace Vintage Charm with the Grandmillennial Trend

May 30, 2023June 7, 2023 / Alicia Chan

*^{Premier Modern Natural Wood Shades in Nikko Pecan (left) and Half Moon Bay (right)}*

Vintage designs have made a comeback in recent years, and they’re going by a new name: Grandmillennial. Yes, you read that correctly.

To break it down, “grand” refers to grand, traditional aesthetic, similar to what you see in your grandmother’s home. Think bold prints, tassels, fringe, embroidery, textures.

Millennials, the 25-40 age group, are the ones taking this and weaving in modern designs. It’s a step away from mid-century modern, but this current style juxtaposes old-fashioned patterns with contemporary pieces. As for the phrase itself, it originated in a 2019 House Beautiful article; it’s synonymous with “Granny Chic.”

We love the personality this style brings into a home! Here’s how you can incorporate Grandmillennial style with your window coverings. (And if you want to get your feet wet first, consider crafting pillows or tablecloths from our fabrics – get them by the yard!)

Play with Patterns

Popular vintage patterns include chintz, baroque florals and glam jungle. You can achieve this with the V&A William Morris Collection or any of our flower designs.

*Select Roman Shades and Select Custom Drapes in Victorian Floral Jade*

If flowers aren’t your style, art deco is another Grandmillennial design to incorporate with its geometric patterns and linework.

*Designer Reserve Roman Shades in Laced Navy (left) and Peruvian Graphite (right)*

*Designer Series Roman Shades in Geometric Fall*

Try Different Textures

Instead of velvet furniture, try out velvet drapery with our Jewel Tone Drapery! The soft texture can contrast with hardwood floors or nearby tables. On the flip side, perhaps your window coverings will bring in the natural warm wood look with woven wood shades. Edge binding is also a way to apply texture to your woven wood shades or roman shades.

*Premier Modern Natural Wood Shades in Nikko Pecan*

*Lifestyle Roman Shades in White Canvas with Greek Key Navy/White Edge Binding*

Is the Grandmillennial trend for you? Call or chat with one of our Design Consultants to learn more! Call (888) 257-1840. They’re easy to talk to!

Elevate Smaller Spaces with Panel Tracks

May 22, 2023June 7, 2023 / Alicia Chan

Contemporary living room and dining room separated by Architect Blackout Panel Tracks — *^{Architect Blackout Panel Track in Light Drizzle}*

Panel tracks not only provide window coverage; they also give you the opportunity to creatively divide up a space! Inspired by Japanese shoji screens, panel tracks provide a contemporary look and an ingenious solution to design issues.

Create stylish sliding closet or pantry doors, or develop smaller sections in open rooms. You can also use them as a separator between living rooms and dining rooms for when you want extra privacy.

Pink bedroom and desk separated by Designer Elements Blackout Panel Tracks — *^{Designer Elements Blackout Panel Track in Sand Storm}*

Simply install the inside mount track system on your ceiling and hang your panels. When you order, you’ll have the option to stack them to the right, left or “free flow.” When you’re done using them as a divider, move the panels to stack neatly behind one another.

Call or chat with one of our Design Consultants for more info! Call (888) 257-1840. They’re easy to talk to!

Check Out Our Top Five Products

May 19, 2023June 7, 2023 / Alicia Chan

What’s trending right now at SelectBlinds? We gathered the top product from our five top categories to make your shopping experience even easier!

Classic Roman Shades

Classic Roman shades are a simple yet stylish way to adorn your windows. Its polyester fabric creates a warm, casual atmosphere to any room while its texture adds depth and dimension. Choose a soft fold for the traditional roman shade look, or the pleated fold for a more modern look when pulled down.

Customer Review

I love the material of the blind and the simplicity of the design. It really is a great and simple way to update your space. We are slowly working on updating every room and look forward to using SelectBlinds from now on!

– Camilla

Pictured: Classic Roman Shades in Shoreline

Cordless Blackout Cellular Shades

Get a better night’s sleep with these budget-friendly blackout shades that block up to 99% of incoming light. The energy-efficient, 3/4″ single-cell pleats also help you save on heating and cooling costs and even act as a buffer to outside noise. Did we mention it was rated the Best Blackout Shade by Wirecutter?

Customer Review

Easy ordering, super quick order, excellent quality, excellent service! Great price! Seriously, I don’t often leave reviews, but these guys are awesome!

– The Hartmans

Pictured: Cordless Blackout Cellular Shades in Noir

2” Selectwave Cordless Faux Wood Blinds

Give your windows a sleek, lighter look with these faux wood blinds! The sleek, 2″ wave-shaped slats let more of the outside in when open while sealing tight for maximum room darkening when closed. The color-coordinated headrail blends right in with the S-shaped blades, so no valance is needed.

Customer Review

Really love these faux wood blinds. Easy to install and operate. The ordering process was easy, shipping was fast, packaging was great!

– KN

Pictured: 2″ Selectwave Cordless Faux Wood Blinds in White

Classic Cordless Woven Wood Shades

Take your windows to the next level with these trend-setting favorites! Clutter-free, stylish, and affordable, its natural materials breathe a whole new life into your space. With its varied colors and patterns, it easily blends in with any style.

Customer Review

We are so in love with these shades. The quality and look of them is everything I was wanting. Very pleased! Would purchase again.

– Carlie

Pictured: Classic Cordless Woven Wood Shades in Hilleria

Classic Vinyl Blackout Roller Shades

Available in popular neutrals and solid tones, this pleasing, pleather blackout roller shade works with a variety of interior styles and decors. These roller shades are made of flame retardant vinyl fiberglass and are then laminated with another layer of vinyl for extra strength and durability.

Customer Review

They are easy to install, they are easy to use, they look neat and attractive, and they really darken the room. I’m going to order more!

– Tara

Pictured: Classic Vinyl Blackout Roller Shades in Black

Call or chat with one of our Design Consultants for more info on our five favorite products! Call (888) 257-1840. They’re easy to talk to!

Elevate Your Space with Accessories

May 17, 2023June 7, 2023 / Alicia Chan

Scandinavian living room with a couch featuring pillow covers made from Bohemian Red fabric — *^{Pillow covers made from Bohemian Red fabric}*

Refreshing your home doesn’t mean you have to buy new furniture, art decor, or even window coverings. Little touches can take a space from meh to marvelous!

Replace Your Curtain Rod

Small changes from the shape of the end piece to the metal finish can make your window coverings feel new. SelectBlinds curtain rods are available in 4 finishes, and they are available in 4 or 5 preset sizes ranging from 28”-240.” Plus, they will ship in 3 days after you order them!

*^{Pictured left: Hammered Metal Adjustable Curtain Rods in Bronze; Pictured right: Modern Adjustable Curtain Rods in Antique Brass}*

*^{Pictured left: Flat Cap Adjustable Curtain Rods in Black; Pictured right: Geometric Adjustable Curtain Rods in Satin Nickel}*

Get Creative with Fabric

Did you know that SelectBlinds sells fabric by the yard? You can DIY accent pillows, wall coverings, or tablecloths with the same fabric as select roman shades and drapery. Perfectly match them for a cohesive look, or contrast styles and patterns.

*^{From left to right: Naples White, Modena Gold, Naples Black, Murica Rust, Kano Rust, Palma Sun}*

With a variety of colors, patterns, lace and sheen, we have you covered for any DIY project. For each yard (54″ x 36″) you order, you will receive 1 yard of uncut fabric just in case you need it. Order samples today to see what works!

Call or chat with one of our Design Consultants for more details! Call (888) 257-1840. They’re easy to talk to!

Faux Wood vs Real Wood Blinds: Which Option is Best for Your Home?

May 16, 2023June 7, 2023 / Alicia Chan

How do you decide between faux wood blinds and real wood blinds? Both have their pros and cons, so it’s important to know what you’re looking for. Consider what room they’ll be in, how wide the window is, etc.

Faux Wood Blinds

Faux wood blinds imitate natural wood so well that your guests won’t know the difference. These blinds come in a wide range of colors, so they can complement your current interior design.

The vinyl material is extremely durable, which makes them compatible with almost any room. Faux wood is a good option for your bathroom or kitchen because of its moisture resistance. These blinds are also resistant (not unbreakable) to warping, fading, and cracking in high and low temperatures.

You can feel secure putting them in the living room or sun room too. These blinds are scratch resistant and able to hold their own against young children and pets.

Thanks to the vinyl material, these blinds are an easy clean. Dust them off, and then wipe them down with warm water and a mild cleaner!

Real Wood Blinds

Nothing says elegant like natural real wood blinds adorning your windows. They add texture, depth and dimension to your rooms!

Modern living room with windows featuring 2 1/2" Architect Wood Blinds in Madera Solitude — *^{2 1/2″ Architect Wood Blinds in Madera Solitude}*

The majority of our wood blinds are made from hardwood, and some are made from basswood, like the 2″ Select Basswood Wood Blinds. They can be mounted outside or inside the frame, making them perfect for large or wide windows.

Wooden blinds should be used in rooms that aren’t exposed to high moisture to help retain its longevity. Even when cleaning them, avoid water and use a feather duster or dust cloth instead to wipe away imperfections.

Wood blinds, like all window coverings, are also a great insulator against the heat and cold. The slats also have a protective UV coating to prevent fading.

The Results

Ultimately, the best blinds for your home is entirely up to what you want!

Want to talk more about which blinds work best for your home? Call or chat with one of our Design Consultants! Call (888) 257-1840. They’re easy to talk to!

Best Blinds for Moms: How Shades Can Support You With Your Little Ones

May 10, 2023June 7, 2023 / Alicia Chan

Shoutout to all the moms out there – and we mean, all the moms. Whether you’re a mom to children, pets, or even plants, thank you for taking care of them! Now it’s time for us to take care of you. Check out our recommended shades that can support you with the little ones and decrease your stress levels.

For Moms

A mom’s best friend is a blackout cellular shade. It’s energy efficient, insulates against the heat and cold, and reduces noise. The inside of the cells are lined with mylar, so it blocks up to 99 percent of incoming light. What better shade can you think of for a nursery?

*^{Select Blackout Shades in Blue Ocean}*

Not only will blackout window treatments help your little ones sleep, but they’ll help you sleep better too! Install them in your bedroom for a good night’s sleep.

And don’t worry mom – if cellular shades aren’t your style, you can always see there’s an option to upgrade to a room darkening or blackout liner for your current window covering. The liner restricts light from going through the shades’ fabric.

Plus, all our products come with a Cordless Lift option, which is the safest choice for homes with young children and pets.

For Plant Moms

As a plant mom, you know all about the importance of light control. Too little or too much can harm your plant baby, which is why you need a window covering with automation.

Living room with several plants facing the windows. Traditional Light Filtering Dual Shade from SelectBlinds are on the windows. — *^{Traditional Light Filtering Dual Shade in Gray}*

Automation is an add-on when you upgrade to a Motorized Lift, so you can pair it with Alexa, Google, & Apple products. Set the time when you want the shades to rise and lower based on how much your plants need. If you can’t remember if you lowered the shades, you can check your smartphone and adjust them.

For Dog (or Cat) Moms

We love fur-babies as much as the next dog mom, but dogs and cats can be a handful. We’ve seen a fair share of blinds and curtains destroyed from pets peeking through blinds or zooming through the house. Unfortunately, no one has invented an indestructible, pet-proof window covering yet. So here’s what we suggest doing in the meantime.

Goldendoodle in a bright, neutral-colored living room. Windows have Designer Ultimate Woven Wood Shades from SelectBlinds — *^{Designer Ultimate Woven Wood Shades in Fiji Honey. Photo courtesy of My Vintage Porch}*

First off, safety! If you didn’t read it earlier, we’ll say it again: window coverings with the Cordless Lift option is the safest choice for homes with pets and kids. There is little to no risk of them accidentally getting tangled in dangling cords.

Let’s say now that your window coverings did take a beating. Our 5-Year Unlimited Warranty covers any damage you can think of, including bored pets. Depending on the product, you could get a warranty replacement in 10 days.

There you have it!

These window treatments and features can relieve some stress as you go through the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Treat yourself with shades you’ll love and that will help you out!

Call or chat with one of our Design Consultants to learn more! Call (888) 257-1840. They’re easy to talk to!

The Ultimate Guide to Cellular Shades (And Why You’ll Love Them)

May 10, 2023May 10, 2023 / Alicia Chan

*^{Cordless Blackout Top Down Bottom Up Shades in Classic White}*

Cellular shades are the most popular customer choice here at SelectBlinds. The purpose of this high-level guide is to break down the basics of cellulars and answer any questions you have about them. We’ll help you understand the different terms and features so that you’ll feel more confident throughout your journey. And if you have more questions, you can always call our Design Consultants!

What Even Are Cellular Shades?

Cellular shades are constructed by several soft-spun lace fabric “cells” that resemble a honeycomb. (Some people also call them honeycomb shades.) They act similarly to an accordion in that they expand or compress when you raise or lower them. The cell construction traps air and heat and provides insulation, which makes them the most energy-efficient window covering. In addition to their functionality, cellular shades come in a variety of colors, and they can be framed with curtains or drapes to create dimension.

Types of Cellular Shades

Single Cell vs. Double Cell

SelectBlinds cellular shades come in single- or double-cell constructions. Double cells simply means there is twice the amount of cells. It traps more air and adds another layer of insulation.

Light Filtering vs. Blackout

Both light-filtering and blackout shades block harmful UV rays. Light-filtering shades softly filters in light and creates a soft glow in the room. For blackout shades, the inside of the of the cells are lined with mylar, and it blocks up to 99 percent of incoming light.

Customer Review

“It was a cinch! Measurements were perfect, and they look so classy. We slept so much better in the dark, and to our pleasant surprise, it kept the rooms warmer!”
– Donna from Colorado

Pictured: Cordless Blackout Cellular Shades in Pebble

Top Down Bottom Up

Top Down Bottom Up cellular shades maintain your privacy while allowing incoming light. They utilize a mounted top rail along with a second floating rail that can be operated independently. To adjust them, you pull the tab down to lower the top of the shade and up to raise the bottom of the shade.

Trishades

Eliminate the need for multiple coverings with this two-in-one custom window treatment. Trishades can both filter light or black it out entirely, depending on how you adjust the sections. Simply pull down the light-filtering handle to let light in, or pull up on the handle for the blackout feature.

Why You’ll Love Them

Energy efficient – The “cell” construction traps air and provides insulation from the heat and cold. In addition to insulation, the soft fabric diffuses light and reduces heat from entering the room, saving you money on electricity.
Noise reduction – Their layers block out not only light, but also outside noise. Put them in rooms by busy streets to block out extra commotion.
Light Control – Blackout cellulars can block up to 99% of incoming light.
Cordless or Motorization Lifts – Like all our blinds, you can choose if you’d like a Continuous Cord Loop Lift or one of our Cordless Lift options. Motorization is another feature that customers love. Choose from a remote control, motorized wand, or home automation system.

^{Premier Light Filtering Cellulars in Thunderstorm}

How to Choose the Right Cellular Shades for Your Home

When choosing the shade, factor in the climate where you live, where in the home the shade is going, and the size of your window.

If you’re somewhere temperamental, a double-cell shade will keep your home warm in the winter and cool in the summer. If you live somewhere warm, a single-cell shade may provide enough insulation for you.

SelectBlinds cellular shades come in a variety of pleat sizes, from ⅜” to 2” wide. Typically, double-cell construction means smaller pleats, and single-cell means larger pleats. Smaller pleats will look more natural in shorter window frames; while the wider pleats are more proportional for larger sized windows.

Wider pleats are also lighter per square foot, which makes them ideal for large sliding doors and wider windows. This principle also applies when using them for skylight blinds and arches and window arches.

Because of their fabric material, cellular shades can absorb moisture and even odors. They’re not ideal for rooms exposed to condensation, such as kitchens or bathrooms. They are great though for rooms by busy streets because they reduce sound, and blackout cellulars help support a better night’s sleep.

Customer Review

I have installed dozens and dozens of shades during my lifetime, both personally and professionally. This blind was the easiest install I have ever done. It took longer to remove the old shade and hardware than it did to install the new unit.
– Bob from North Dakota

Pictured: Cordless Light Filtering Top Down Bottom Up Shades in Stone Wall

What’s Next?

Our process is 100% do-it-yourself! We’re a DIY company, but that doesn’t mean we won’t be there for you every step of the way when you need us. Along with our Design Consultants, we also have instructional guides and/or videos on how to measure, install and even clean your shades!

Call or chat with one of our Design Consultants to learn more about cellulars! Call (888) 257-1840. They’re easy to talk to!

Done with Tools: Install Shades in Minutes with Easy No-Tools Headrails

May 9, 2023May 9, 2023 / Alicia Chan

SelectBlinds Black And White Room Darkening Roller Shades in White Vector hang in a minimalist bedroom — ^{Black And White Room Darkening Roller Shades in White Vector}

If you’re looking to spice up your home with new window treatments but don’t want to deal with the hassle of installation, SelectBlinds’ No-Tools Headrail products are the way to go! They’re quick, easy, and hassle-free.

These window coverings require no drilling or mounting. In fact, it’s as simple as 1, 2, 3!

Position the headrail in the window frame
Press up on the lever to lock in place
Attach the product and done!

SelectBlinds offers a wide range of no-tools products in different styles, materials, and colors. Your home will look great with minimal effort on your part.

Check out our most popular shades!

Classic Roman Shades in Ocean Mist

Tranquil Cordless Light Filtering Cellulars in Basic Beige

Premier Room Darkening Dual Shade in Makosa

Call or chat with our Design Consultants to talk through which No-Tools Headrail product is best for your home. Call (888) 257-1840. They’re easy to talk to!

Why Should You Choose SelectBlinds?

May 1, 2023May 1, 2023 / Alicia Chan

Love is blinds…and shades and curtains. Really, we love all things window treatments. Everyday, we work toward being the best version of ourselves – an online blinds retailer bringing the best possible product and experience.

We make it easy with free samples, free shipping and free assistance from our professional Design Consultants. At the end of the day, we want to empower YOU to create a space you’re proud of. We’ll do everything we can to leave you satisfied, from our huge selection to helpful resources.

Enough about us, we want to know what is important to you!

Is it increasing your privacy? Getting better sleep? Whatever it is, we have a blind for it! We’re a DIY company, but that doesn’t mean we won’t be there for you every step of the way when you need us.

So let’s connect! You’ll love us because we’re easy.

Watch our **Love is Blinds commercial**!

Call or chat with one of our Design Consultants to talk through which style is your perfect match. Call (888) 257-1840. They’re easy to talk to!

Faux Wood Blinds

Real Wood Blinds

Take Your

Take Your Windows Shopping