Blinds vs curtains

While blinds directly cover the window, curtains are hung in front of windows and drape down to the floor. The main difference between blinds and curtains is their coverage area. Both can be automated. The difference between the two are listed below.

• Blinds have a range of option such as roller blinds and double rollers, venetian blinds, vision blinds, Roman blinds, vertical blinds and panel glides.

• Offer a greater level of view, privacy and light control in the home.

• Blinds are easier to clean.

• Colours and designs: There are multiple choices in colours and designs. Sleek blinds offer a minimalist and modern look.

• Suitability: They are suited for bathrooms and the kitchen.

• Range of options and a wide variety of styles and fabrics.

• Offers a bright and airy space and prevents large amounts of UV light from filtering through the home window. This prevents discolouring and fading of furnishing over time.

• Cleaning is time-consuming and expensive.

• Curtains make the room appear warmer, elegant and add a layer of atmosphere to a house.

• Suitability: Curtains are suited for living rooms, bedrooms, and study rooms.

Yes, they are costlier than any blind. Custom printed blinds can cost around $285, while the cost of one designer piece go up to $580. Varying prices are discussed below.

Curtains

Plain curtains cost around $75 depending on their size, while designer pieces cost upwards of $100. Neutral curtains can cost around $75, while white ones can be bought for around $84. Expected prices for patterned curtains and designer curtains (1000 x 1800 mm) are $92 and $580, respectively. The prices vary depending on the pleats. The cost of a pencil pleat (800mm x 1800mm) curtain is around $185, while a curtain with eyelet pleats (800mm x 1800mm) will cost around $19, and double pinch pleat can be bought for $200. Different costs of different types of curtains are outlined below.

Blinds

Costs change depending on the size. Blackout rollers (white colour) of different sizes can cost around $63 (400mm x 600mm), $68 (600mm x 800mm), or $80 (800mm x 1200mm). Blinds are typically considered less expensive than shutters. Quality generally dictates the price. Honeycomb blinds are expensive due to air pockets for insulation. They cost around $94 (500mm x 800mm), $105 (600mm x 800mm) and AU$150 (800mm x 1200mm).

In addition to fabric blinds, consider the following options.

Venetian blind

These window treatments are really popular. Venetians come in cord and cordless versions. Parents of young children prefer the cordless version at home. Venetian blinds can be easy to maintain and clean if you follow our guide.

Mini blind

They are similar to Venetian window treatments in form and function and have thinner one-inch-thick slats. Mini blinds are generally made of aluminium, making them more affordable than a Venetian.

Vertical blind

These are a series of vertical slats, typically made of aluminium, that hang from a track. They can be either pulled together to the side or be rotated. They are best used a on glass door for controlling privacy and sunlight at home. They are easy to maintain and clean.

Panel track blinds

Panel track blinds are a hybrid of blinds and shades with wide cloth slats. Unlike vertical blinds, the slats can be moved independently, each in either direction and can be split in the middle.

Smart blinds

These intelligent window coverings are automatically powered and can be controlled by mobile apps. They are controlled through voice recognition by syncing with Siri, Amazon Alexa, and or Google Assistant. These products are more expensive than others. Such window treatment is made of wood, faux wood, metal and plastic. Wood blind is preferred but are expensive and demand high maintenance.

Deciding the superiority of blinds over curtains or vice versa is an individual's taste and preference. Each is suited for different rooms in the home, outlined below.

Lounge room and living area

Curtains are suited for lounge and living areas in the home for those who demand a wide style and fabric panels range. They can match any décor. Blinds have a stylish and classic look, where Roman blinds appear modern in a living room. Moreover, wide blinds are best for open lounges and living areas. Motorised blinds are another exciting option.

Kitchen

Blinds are suitable for the kitchen due to easier cleaning if splashed during cooking and are removable easily in an emergency. Venetian blinds require less maintenance and are popular.

Timber Venetian

Adds natural warmth to the kitchen area

Aluminium Venetian

These are compatible with almost every existing décor.

Bedrooms

Curtains are perfect to be used in bedrooms, but blinds are getting popular lately. Shift workers, nurseries, and or people preferring dark home rooms should opt for blackout curtains or a blackout roller blind. For small bedrooms, install timber and or Roman blinds a little below the ceiling to add depth.This will make the room brighter. The windows will appear huge, giving an effect of a taller ceiling. They are elegant and best for kids’ rooms.

No, it is normal to curtains and blinds together. Pairing them brings privacy and helps control sunlight. The combination of blinds and curtains can set the tone of an interior decorating scheme. Often blinds are considered a better pair with curtains than with shutters.

Choose the type of blind first

The common blind styles are roller blinds and Venetian blinds. They make a good pair with drapes. Timber and aluminium are also popular blind materials. For a natural look, timber blinds pair well with curtains that feature warm colours.

Go high and wide

For small windows, combine both of them. They can change the window’s appearance and make the ceiling appear taller.

Make the room feel cosy

Keep the room warm, comfortable and inviting. Layering curtains and blinds makes the space look complete. Combining linen sheer and Roman blinds gives off a in a cosy feel.

Combine curtain and blind rod colours together

Make the hardware compliment the window dressing. Shining rods like gold or bright silver should be avoided.

Take care of print patterns

Too many prints look overpowering, especially in a small space. The best option is using a solid coloured blind with patterned curtains. Mixing colours and patterns for window treatment add flavours to a room and looks very artistic.