No, we won’t be including ‘hang a bed sheet over the window’ on this list! Finding the perfect window covering can be a tricky task, especially when you’re trying to balance style with function and good value.
Thankfully there are plenty of options out there to bring shade to your bedroom or make your space more livable.
So to make your window covering choice as easy as possible, here is our take on the window coverings tier list.
The Worst: Sheer Curtains
This almost see-through curtain can sometimes make a room look lighter or add to the decor, but they serve very little practical function in your bedroom. Your bedroom window coverings need to do two things as a bare minimum:
- Offer some insulation to keep heat escaping from the windows
- Obscure your bedroom from prying eyes outside
Sadly, a sheer curtain can’t do either of these things. They’re only good when paired with heavy curtains, and even then, they’re just cumbersome and easily snagged by a cat’s claw. They can also be annoying to keep clean and are notorious for getting sucked into the vacuum!
Due to this, we think they are the worst choice for your bedroom in particular.
The “Not So Great”: Cafe Style Shutters
This type of shutter looks super stylish and can be the answer to privacy for many people in many rooms – but not in your bedroom. They last a long time because of their solid construction.
The obvious drawback is that cafe-style shutters only cover half your window. They work better when paired with curtains if installed in your bedroom, as you will want to block the light while you’re sleeping.
Not to mention the half-window covering doesn’t offer a tremendous amount of privacy!
The “Adequate”: Regular Off-The-Shelf Curtains
When you need a quick bedroom window covering, no one can blame you for going and grabbing the first set of curtains you can find at the shop. They can certainly be stylish, coming in a wide variety of colours and patterns.
They’re usually cheap, too, if you’re looking for an easy way to stop the neighbours peering in through the bedroom windows.
Unfortunately, they only allow for limited light control. You’re at the mercy of the quality of material used, which is often thinner the cheaper the curtains are.
In terms of insulation, they don’t offer much more than a sheer curtain. One thing they are good at is being in the way when draped on the floor. Furniture can get dragged over them, they can be noisy when flapping in the breeze, and be dangerous for young children and pets due to the risk of strangulation and suffocation.
The “Pretty Good”: Aluminium Blinds
Normally, we wouldn’t recommend an aluminium blind because of the limited style choice. However, ours come in 160 colours, so you can easily match your blinds with your bedroom decor.
But if you’re simply buying basic off-the-shelf aluminium blinds, they usually come in a few standard colours, like black and white, which don’t create the cosiest of atmospheres.
That being said, all aluminium blinds offer good light control with the tilt function and most have the option to use a wand controller instead of a cord.
The “Great”: Roller Blinds
Roller blinds are a versatile choice for your bedroom window covering. If you have a particular vision in mind, you’re pretty much guaranteed to be able to find a roller blind that fits your aesthetic.
This type of blind is efficient at blocking out the light because you can attach it in a way that perfectly fits your window. Choose from various fabrics that perfectly suit your bedroom’s style, child’s or guest’s.
It goes without saying that once your roller blind is down, no one can see inside your bedroom, making them a good choice for privacy.
The “Best”: Room Darkening Roman Blinds
Roman blinds use folds of fabric to create an elegant and pristine look. The final finish for Roman blinds is impressive, and they make an excellent covering for any type of window, including bay windows.
They can be made with room-darkening fabric for an excellent night’s sleep, but even without this extra lining, you’ll often find that Roman blinds don’t let in much light if you choose made-to-measure and professionally installed ones.
Worried about your children or pets? Roman blinds are frequently offered in motorised options – making the safest choice for children’s rooms.
The “Joint Best”: Tier On Tier Shutters
As much as we love blinds, tier-on-tier shutters offer an excellent alternative.
They provide maximum light control because each shutter can be adjusted and opened independently. This also allows you complete privacy, as you can ensure your entire window is covered, right the way to the edges of your window.
Because of their strong construction, they’re a long-lasting addition to your home, giving you soundproofing benefits too.
The only downside to these elegant window coverings is the price, as you don’t want to skimp on quality when it comes to shutters.
What’s The Best Bedroom Window Covering For You?
Shutters are a premium investment that offer superior light control, thermal capabilities and an unmatched style that never goes out of trend. They’ll last you far longer than any other option and can even add value to your home.
If you’re not looking to invest in shutters, then room-darkening blinds are a great alternative. With endless colours, patterns and styles to choose from, you can update your decor as often as you like! The dense fabric of room-darkening blinds means you’ll enjoy slumber, even when the sun is bright in the sky. And if you love the look of curtains, pairing your blind with gorgeous curtains creates a luxurious look with double the thermal and light-blocking ability.
If you’re looking for the perfect bedroom window covering, arrange a home visit from our shutter and blind experts at a convenient time. They’ll be happy to help you select the right option for your home.
