Most homeowners use cloth valances, blinds, or some regular curtains to dress up their windows. Yet, choosing the perfect window blinds is not that simple, especially when your curtains are too old or you want to change the window’s style.
In this case, you can opt for some alternatives to window blinds. So what to use instead of the window blinds? A few popular blind alternatives are window films, panels, shutters, or even plants.
If you want to discover more, keep scrolling down. Don’t forget to look at the pictures attached for a better approach.
Best Alternatives to Window Blinds
Designers & decorators have come up with many blind alternatives to cover the window area for privacy but still keep the style of the house. Let’s read on and take note if you see your favorite!
1. Window Privacy Film
Window films are a great blind alternative if you fail to enjoy the light because of the blocked view. If you raise pets who attempt to toss things at windows or bite on them, they can be pretty helpful.
Because static electricity can keep the films on the windows, they are straightforward to set up and uninstall. And their selections are just getting better.
2. Stained Glass Window
When employed as a window treatment, stained glass provides a splash of color and reflects light in a beautiful, distinctive way.
You may even design your own stained-glass panels from scratch. All you need for this project is glass, some adhesive strips, and glass paint, which can all be available at any local craft shop.
3. Sliding Panels
These panels perform the same functions as vertical blinds but with a less integrated design. Sliding panels are more comprehensive and flexible, allowing them to be layered or split for illumination and security control.
They’re simple to install and change by having the panel cut to the desired width. You don’t have any messy cables, which is ideal for a room with youngsters.
4. Roller Shades
Roller shades provide a sleek and elegant appearance that is excellent for contemporary architecture and a perfect window blinds alternative.
They’re also tremendously helpful for bigger windows that need minimal maintenance. In spaces where the window is the centerpiece, many architects opt for roller blinds.
When wrapped behind the roller, roller shades almost vanish. They also come with various light settings, ranging from darkness to shade, making them a viable option for any space and lighting situation.
5. Roman Shades
They contain some of the most customized qualities and a broad selection of vivid colors and artful designs.
As a result, this alternative is an excellent choice for creating a unique appearance.
Roman shades combine the strengths of blinds with the aesthetic of the light drapery.
6. Cellular Shades
Cellular shades have an identical modern style to the roller shades, but they give a different feel to the room and offer other benefits.
This blind alternative supports windows with exceptional insulation, improving the energy-saving qualities with their characteristic wavy shape.
The point is to keep cold air trapped within the first layer of the panels in a double-layered arrangement, preventing it from reaching the living space.
7. Transitional Shades
Transitional shades are a fantastic way of making a point without drawing attention away from a modern room’s slender lines and minimalistic styling. They’re a type of roller shade with a textile front and back that alternates between the stripes.
Their one-of-a-kind layout maybe half, fully, or opened. They can fit nicely in a room with bigger windows and bring a sense of depth because of their stunning horizontal lines.
8. Bamboo Shades
The vibe from the color and shape of bamboo will bring the most natural look to your windows. There are many variants of this option, such as the grass-like one. You can feel free to choose.
There are both traditional and painted colors available. The treated bamboo can withstand a lot of moisture. You don’t need to worry about the dampness that wood often faces. If you are looking for window blind alternatives that are eco-friendly and can match Japanese-style rooms, the bamboo shades are a wise choice.
9. Farmhouse Shutters
The farmhouse concept and shutters are a perfect match. Weathered wood shutters can add a lovely and genuine country atmosphere to any space.
You can use both natural or grey wood shutters, and they all go well with neutral decor. Farmhouse shutters are also a great way to add a splash of color to a primarily white farmhouse setting.
10. Plantation Shutters
Plantation shutters are customizable to restrict the light and control temperatures within the house. This alternative is also the ultimate window decoration for creating Hampton’s impression.
The shutters offer you a luxurious look, but they seem to be the most costly window coverings on the list.
11. Fabric Valances
Materials for the fabric valances are of high quality while still offering a stunning look. They add simplicity and elegance to the overall design of the windows as alternative window coverings.
You can make a bold statement with vibrant colors that reflect your modernism. You may also buy them at a reasonable price.
12. Macrame Curtain
Knotted blinds are a good option if you don’t like traditional blackout curtains. Yarn, jute, and nylon string are the most popular materials for making these curtains.
No matter which option you choose, the unique look remains the same in all the models, which will help your windows stand out.
13. Beaded Curtain
Hanging beads are one-of-a-kind and inspire a bohemian vibe that is hard to resist.
If you’ve completed other DIY projects, you can hang this mini blind alternative in front of your bedroom window. Beads enable light to pass through while limiting direct sunlight.
You can adjust the dangling beads to allow less or more light in by pulling them to the side with a string.
14. Laser Cut Wood Panel
The laser-cut wood panels can cover the surface of the windows, providing complete privacy and sunlight access.
It would be best to roll these panels over the white wall to display a beautiful work of art. These are also cost-effective despite their durability.
15. Glass Window Shelves
Some windows don’t need to be fully covered. Rather than curtains, homeowners might use a collection of glass shelves for their windows.
This method allows individuals to manage their privacy while displaying decor items, a collection of plants, or anything else that suits their interests.
16. Hanging Plants
If your windows aren’t too big, consider using hanging plants instead of blinds. These options are convenient and may save you a lot of money if you choose the DIY plants.
Because of the accessibility to sunshine, your plants will look fabulous, especially if they are well-maintained. The plants can add a fresh and natural look to your windows.
Does Privacy Window Film Work At Night?
No. The window film offers you a high degree of privacy during the daytime while it can’t perform well at night.
Mirrored window film can provide you with privacy during the daytime, thanks to the light balance functionality of the film. The face of the film that faces the brighter light has a reflecting mirror look.
Throughout the day, the outer side of the film appears to be a silver glass or a silver reflected surface.
You will achieve a reversed effect when the light is stronger inside than it is outside. This effect typically occurs when the sun sets and artificial lights are operating inside.
It is not an issue in most situations because most business and residential users close their curtains or blinds as night comes.
What Can You Put On Windows To See Out But Not In At Night?
If you apply the one-way window film on your windows, you can see out but not in. However, this principle isn’t true when the dark comes.
With the assistance of a one-way window film, you can put on windows to see out but not in.
An ultra-thin coating of reflective material sits between a top player and an adhesive layer. When the sunlight bounces off of your windows, it creates a one-way mirror image.
However, these sorts of films can’t offer you the same privacy at night when the outside is darker. Once the light outdoors goes off and the lights indoors go on, the one-way mirror illusion works in a reserved way.
Should I Leave My Windows Bare?
Yes. It depends on your requirements and preference to leave the windows bare.
Window coverings may completely change the appearance of a space while also providing privacy. However, you can usually do without them in higher places such as your kitchen or living room.
A window with no covers or restrictions may significantly improve the brightness of your house. You can also save money on electricity because you don’t need much lighting. You can take advantage of natural light instead.
Since bare windows appear fresh and clean, they are ideal for minimalist households.
Is Aluminum Foil On Windows Illegal?
Some individuals worry that putting aluminum foil over their windows may pose serious safety risks. Luckily, there is no proof that covering windows with foil is harmful.
Some people have also argued that putting a lot of aluminum foil on windows may make a property a lightning aim. However, this thought isn’t science-based.
The foil behind the glass of your windows has no impact on the course of lightning bolts. It doesn’t lure or attract them, so there’s no need to be afraid.
The Bottom Line
Perhaps you found the best alternative to window blinds from the ideas above. Remember that there is no limitation to creativity. You can apply the listed ideas in another way or create your own design.
Hopefully, you will find this article helpful. If you need any further information, please feel free to ask. Thank you for following this post!
