Here’s the difference between blinds, sheers, and shades that you must know

Here’s the difference between blinds, sheers, and shades that you must know
01 Sep 2020
Making a choice between different kinds of window treatments is often a topic of personal preference. While bare windows do look good for taking in the view, but there’s not much of a reason otherwise. Most of us want the choice of covering our windows when needed – for light control, privacy, energy-saving, and style. Thus, it’s safe to be acquainted with the functional differences between sheers, shades, and blinds of all available selections so that you can figure the best look for your overall interior design. And perhaps, they are commonly-preferred for a reason. 

Let’s dive into some of the chief differences so you can get precisely what you want for your home!

The difference between blinds, sheers, and shades

For starters, it’s important to recognize that there are many types of window treatments to choose from, namely; sheers, blinds, and shades. When it comes to sheers, they come in a wide variety of lengths, colors, widths, and patterns. They are made with lighter weight fabrics and thus, prove to be perfect for spaces where you need some natural light and yet want to filter some sunlight. On the other hand, blinds are typically hard window coverings and are composed of slats that run down when pulled across. These slats stay tightly closed for privacy reasons and light control, but they can even be tilted or adjusted in different angles to cover the window. What makes blinds highly sought-after is the fact that it’s made of wood, metal, woven grass, or bamboo. Shades fall under the soft window treatment category, which is made of materials that role seamlessly, thereby covering a large swath of a window. Shades also offer a smooth finish to your windows.   
Here’s an in-depth look at these three types of window treatments. 

Blinds

Blinds come in a broad range of shapes and styles, and what best distinguishes them are their vertical and horizontal slats. While blinds can be made from bamboo, wood, aluminum, vinyl, and more. A lot of times, blinds are compared to shutters due to their louvers. However, do take note that shutters are dissimilar; a simple way to differentiate between the two is that shutters are permanently fixed, precisely fitted window coverings that are attached directly to the window frame. 

Blinds are attached to the head of your window and hang down freely to cover the windowpane. Generally, they open vertically and are controlled by cord pulls. Blinds can be opened as much, or as little, as you wish, making them an adaptable choice for accomplishing privacy and admittance of light.



Sheers

Simply put, sheers are an elegant and lighter version of curtains that can be found over your windows, soften your home's lighting, and adds an instantaneous mixture of style to your interior decor in a variety of fabrics like chiffon, polyester, linen, lace, chenille, and cotton. Sheers blend easily with any existing décor and improve the aesthetic appeal of a room. While they seem the best in off-white or white shades, they come in a lot of other solid overtones and different textures and patterns.



Shades

If you are looking for simple, functional options, shades are an inexpensive choice that looks stylish and can cover the windows well. For those with no budget restrictions, designer shades can play the role of appealing better since they come in a range of structures, shapes, and fabrics. These shades can accentuate the existing décor. 

Bottom-up or top-down shades have become more fashionable in modern times. Top-down shades allow you to lower the shade’s top and let either a little or a lot of light in at once. Furthermore, these functionalities enable you to maintain your aspired level of secrecy with no extra hassle.



Shades are accessible in a few distinct styles, various materials, and an almost endless range of colors and patterns, there's a shade to suit each room brightening subject from casual to formal, rustic to contemporary.

When it comes to opting for any of these window coverings, there is no right or wrong solution. What matters is your choice, taste, budget, style of your room, and size of the windows!