Choosing the right window treatments can be tricky, and there are five common mistakes that many homeowners unknowingly make: forgetting to consider the space, not thinking about your pets, overlooking child safety, getting caught up in looks over function, and not measuring carefully. These might seem like small details, but they can make a big difference in how your window treatments look and work in your home.
Mistake #1: Not Considering Space Limitations
One of the biggest mistakes people make when choosing window treatments is not thinking about the size of the room. In smaller spaces, it’s really important to pick window coverings that make the room feel open and inviting, rather than cramped and cluttered. If you choose heavy drapes in a small room, for example, they can dominate the space, block out natural light, and make everything feel a bit too cozy—maybe even claustrophobic.
Tips to Avoid This Mistake:
- Go for lighter fabrics: Sheer or lightweight curtains can do wonders in making a room feel airy and bright. They let more natural light in, which helps to open up the space and make it feel larger.
- Think about shades or blinds: These are great alternatives because they take up less room than bulky drapes. Roller shades, Roman shades, or slim-profile blinds add a touch of style without overwhelming your space.
- Stick with neutral colors: Lighter, neutral shades like whites, beiges, or soft grays can really make a difference. They reflect light and give the illusion of a bigger, more open room.
For more ideas on space-conscious window treatments, check out our guide on the best curtains for apartments.
Mistake #2: Overlooking Pet-Friendly Options
Another common mistake is not thinking about how your pets might interact with your window treatments. Pets can be tough on window coverings, and if you pick the wrong materials, you might find yourself dealing with scratches, tears, or worse. Whether it’s your cat using the curtains as a climbing post or your dog tugging at the drapes out of boredom, choosing the wrong kind of window treatments can end up costing you more in repairs or replacements—and leave your home looking a bit worse for wear.
Tips to Avoid This Mistake:
- Pick durable materials: Go for sturdy fabrics like canvas or twill that can handle a bit of roughhousing. These materials are less likely to show scratches and can withstand the occasional tug from a curious pet.
- Think about cordless blinds: Cordless blinds are a great option because they reduce the risk of your pets getting tangled up, and they’re easier to clean. Plus, they look sleek and modern, so they’ll fit nicely with your decor.
- Skip the floor-length drapes: Shorter curtains or shades are less tempting for pets to mess with. Floor-length drapes are especially vulnerable to being chewed on or torn, so it’s better to choose window treatments that stop just above the floor or are mounted higher up.
To find durable and stylish solutions, take a look at our recommendations for dog-proof window blinds.
Mistake #3: Ignoring Child Safety Concerns
Safety is a top priority, especially if you have young children at home. Unfortunately, many people overlook child safety when choosing window treatments, which can lead to dangerous situations, particularly with corded blinds. In fact, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission has identified window cords as one of the top five hidden hazards in American homes. That’s why it’s so important to pick window treatments that not only look good but also keep your kids safe.
Tips to Avoid This Mistake:
- Look for cordless options: Cordless blinds and shades are a much safer choice because they eliminate the risk of strangulation. They’re easy to use—you can raise or lower them without worrying about any cords—and they also offer a sleek, modern look that gives you peace of mind.
- Think about motorized blinds: These blinds can be operated remotely, which means they’re completely cord-free. They’re especially handy for hard-to-reach windows or skylights and can be programmed to open and close at specific times, adding an extra layer of convenience.
- Install safety devices: If you already have corded blinds, you can make them safer by using cord cleats or wind-ups to keep the cords out of reach of your children. These devices are easy to install and can go a long way in preventing accidents.
Mistake #4: Focusing Only On Aesthetics
It’s easy to get caught up in the way window treatments look and forget about how they’ll actually function in your home. While style is definitely important, it shouldn’t be the only thing you consider when picking out window treatments. The right choice should not only look great but also work well in your space. For example, velvet drapes might look gorgeous, but if they’re in a sunny room, they could fade quickly and lose their appeal.
Questions to Ask Yourself:
- How much light control do I need?: Think about whether you need blackout shades for bedrooms, where you might want total darkness, or if lighter options would work better in living areas. Light control is crucial in places like home theaters or bedrooms where blocking out light completely can make a big difference.
- What level of privacy is necessary?: Consider how much privacy you need in each room. For example, sheer curtains might be lovely, but they may not offer enough privacy for a bathroom or a bedroom that faces the street.
- Will these treatments improve energy efficiency?: Some window treatments can help insulate your home, which can reduce energy costs. Cellular shades, for example, are designed to trap air within their cells, providing extra insulation that helps keep your home warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer.
By balancing style with factors like light control, privacy, and energy efficiency, you’ll make a choice that not only looks good but also enhances your home’s overall functionality.
Mistake #5: Not Measuring Accurately
Getting the measurements right is key to making sure your window treatments fit perfectly. If you skip this step or don’t measure carefully, you could end up with coverings that don’t sit right, leaving gaps, misaligned edges, and an overall look that’s just not up to par. Plus, if your treatments don’t fit properly, they won’t do their job as well—whether that’s blocking out light, providing privacy, or just looking good.
Steps to Ensure Accurate Measurements:
- Measure the width and height of your window: Take measurements at three different points—top, middle, and bottom—to account for any variations, especially in older homes where windows might not be perfectly square. This helps ensure you get the most accurate dimensions.
- Decide on mounting style: Figure out if you want an inside or outside mount, as this will impact your measurements. An inside mount gives a clean, streamlined look, while an outside mount can make your windows look bigger and help block out more light.
- Double-check your measurements: Before you place an order, go back and re-measure everything to make sure it’s correct. It’s also a good idea to have someone else take a look and double-check your measurements to avoid any costly mistakes.
For a more detailed guide, you might want to consult a professional or follow a comprehensive measurement tutorial to make sure your window treatments fit just right.
Conclusion
Avoiding these five common mistakes will help you select window treatments that are not only stylish but also functional and safe. By considering space limitations, opting for pet-friendly options, prioritizing child safety, balancing aesthetics with practicality, and ensuring accurate measurements, you can make informed decisions that enhance both the look and usability of your home.
