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Best Window Blinds, Shades and Curtains

  • 3 Day Blinds
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By: Jami Barnett, Ph.D.
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Edited by: Amanda Futrell

Best Window Blinds, Shades and Curtains

Use our guide to research the best blind and window treatment company for you. Most companies that sell window treatments offer blinds, drapes, indoor shutters, Roman shades, blackout curtains and more. We explain how to choose a retailer that provides the products you need at a reasonable price.

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Blinds and Window Treatments Buyers Guide

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How much do custom window treatments cost?

There’s no simple answer to how much custom blinds will cost. We priced faux-wood blinds for a 28x36 inch window, and prices ranged from about $20 to $100. The price increased even more if we opted for a cordless operation system. Regardless of which company you choose, several factors will affect the final cost of your window treatments.

  • Materials: The more expensive materials you choose, the more you’ll spend on window treatments. Real wood, designer fabric and insulated options will add to your final price. Aluminum mini blind or vertical blinds are cheaper options.
  • Shipping: Shipping is often free if you live in the contiguous United States. You’ll have to pay extra shipping fees if your blinds are very wide, meaning more than 90 inches, or if you live in Alaska or Hawaii.
  • Size: The larger your windows, the more materials you'll need, and the more expensive your window treatment will be. Treatments for very large or oddly shaped windows will cost more.
  • Operation: Blinds typically open and close using a cord or tilt rod. Cordless blind systems are safer for homes with children or pets, but they’re more expensive. You can program motorized blinds and shades to work with other smart home features, but the motorized operation can make even a small window treatment cost over $200.

How long will it take to get my order?

Ordering custom blinds or shades online means the items will fit your windows perfectly, but it can take some time to get them. If you’re in a rush to receive your new blinds or window shades, consider how quickly each site will manufacture and ship your items.

  • Item type: Treatments for odd-shaped windows and shades that must be sewn by hand are more difficult to make than others, so it will take longer for you to get them. Most sites have information about manufacturing times listed online. If they don’t, ask a customer service representative whether it will make a difference if you order Roman shades or Venetian blinds in terms of manufacturing and shipping time.
  • Manufacturing time: After you place an order, the blinds, shades or shutters will be made to your specifications. Check how long it takes for production to start and how long manufacturing will take.
  • Delivery time: A lot of companies offer free delivery if you choose standard ground shipping. Some companies offer expedited shipping for an additional fee. Ask how your order will be shipped once your items are made.

Can I return custom shades?

Because custom items are made just for you, companies can’t simply resell items you return. This means some online blind companies won’t accept returns. Policies vary by company, so ask a customer service representative before you finalize your order.

  • Returns: Some companies will accept returns. You usually need to contact the company within 14 days of receiving your items.
  • Exchanges: Many blinds manufacturers will let you exchange one product for another of equal value. If you choose a more expensive item, you’ll have to pay the price difference.
  • Limitations: Your order may not be eligible for either a return or an exchange if it has been damaged during an improper installation. You might also be ineligible if you didn’t order a sample before making your purchase. Order samples beforehand, and consider hiring a professional installer to take measurements and install the blinds, shades or shutters.

Can I see samples before ordering?

All the companies in this guide will either send you free samples of blind materials or fabric swatches for shades and drapes before you place an order. Some even have local consultants or showrooms to show you your options in person.

  • Samples: If you look at samples of the fabric or material, you’ll know that you like the look and feel of the material. Request samples to ensure you’ll be happy with the product you buy, especially if you’re ordering items online.
  • Showrooms: Some companies have showrooms where you can see all the materials and products. If you don’t have any idea what you want, look for a company with a showroom where you can see a lot of different choices.
  • Consultations: If you want help figuring out what kind of window treatments will work best in your home, choose a company that offers in-home consultations. A design consultant will bring samples to your house and take measurements. Some companies offer this service for free; others may charge a small fee for consultations.

Can I have online purchases professionally installed?

Some window treatments, like pocket-rod curtains, are very easy to install. Others, like indoor shutters, are a bit more labor-intensive. Having window treatments professionally installed can make the process less stressful. It may also be easier to be reimbursed through a warranty if your window treatments are installed by a professional. If you’re spending a significant amount of money on blinds, shades or shutters, paying for professional installation can bring you peace of mind.

  • Retailer employees: Some companies offer installation by in-house professionals.
  • NBI: Retailers without physical showrooms or local design consultants may not employ anyone who can install window treatments for you. Many of these companies, and several in this guide, work with the Nationwide Blind Installer (NBI) organization.
  • Independent installers: If you order from a company that doesn’t offer installation services, search online for an independent installer in your city.

What else should I consider when ordering blinds online?

Custom window treatments can be pricey, so buy them from a company that will support you before, during and after your purchase. Make sure you understand the company’s policies and reputation before buying your blinds or shades.

  • Warranties: If your blinds or shades break after a few months, you’ll want a company that will make it right. Look at the warranty information before you buy, and make sure to check what is covered. If a site simply says that products have a limited lifetime warranty without specifying the length or terms, ask a customer service representative for more details.
  • Satisfaction guarantees: A lot of companies advertise a satisfaction guarantee, but don’t assume that means you can just send an order back for a full refund if you’re unhappy. Read the exchange and return policy specifically so you know your options if you aren’t satisfied with your order.
  • Customer service: If you find blinds or shades you like for comparable prices on sites with similar return policies, then rely on reviews when making your final selection. Read about other people’s experiences with the company’s customer service to determine which one will be easier to work with.

Types of custom blind retailers

Custom blind companies usually fall into one of the following three categories. The right fit for you depends on your budget and how much help you want with the design process.

Online only

Some custom window treatment retailers only sell products online. These companies save money by reducing overhead and then passing those savings on to you.

Online and brick-and-mortar

Many companies have traditional brick-and-mortar locations as well as online stores. These retailers are ideal if you want to visit a location to see samples but then order online.

Design consultant only

Some companies believe the best way to serve you is by visiting your home and working with you in person. If you want a lot of assistance, look for a company that has showrooms or offers in-home consultations.

Blinds and window treatments FAQ

How do I get my blinds to go down?

Lowering your blinds is simple once you get a feel for it. For most types of blinds, follow these steps:

  1. To unlock your blinds, pull the cords to the left, toward the center of the blinds and in line with the top railing.
  2. Let the cord pull upward slowly without letting go.

If that doesn’t work, you may have to remove your blinds and tinker with the release mechanism (called a pawl).

What window treatments are in style?

Bamboo, linen or matchstick blinds are very trendy right now. Organic materials lighten a room and go with nearly any type of design. While smart home tech can be pricey, automated curtains and blackout shades can help reduce energy costs and boost your home’s resale value.

No matter what’s trending, though, the best window treatments are the ones that complement your home’s existing design and feel right in your space.

What are the different types of blinds?

The main types of blinds are:

  • Venetian blinds: Traditional horizontal slats
  • Vertical blinds: Longer slats that run the length of a window or door
  • Roller blinds: Soft fabric that rolls up and disappears when raised
  • Roman blinds: Soft fabric that folds up decoratively when raised
  • Pleated blinds: Honeycomb-shaped folds of fabric that fold flat when raised

While there are some functional differences between different types of blinds, most people choose one based on looks or budget.

What is the easiest way to clean blinds?

The simplest way to clean metal or wood blinds is to first close the blinds and then run a microfiber towel along each panel’s top and bottom. Make sure to vacuum the floor afterward to pick up all the excess dust that has fallen.

For blinds made out of fabric, attach a soft brush and vacuum your shades, starting from the top.

What is the best material for window blinds?

There is no single best material for window blinds, but if you want specific benefits, there are certain types that are better suited for specific applications. Here’s a short breakdown:

  • Best for decoration: Wood blinds or fabric blinds
  • Best for functionality: Cordless blinds
  • Best on a budget: Vinyl blinds
  • Best for energy efficiency: Pleated blinds, smart curtains and blackout curtains
Disclaimer

Information in this guide is general in nature and is intended for informational purposes only; it is not legal, health, investment or tax advice. ConsumerAffairs.com makes no representation as to the accuracy of the information provided and assumes no liability for any damages or loss arising from its use.

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    Blinds and window treatment author reviews

    Select Blinds

    SelectBlinds manufactures custom blinds and window shades in a wide variety of materials, colors and sizes. You can shop online and then order a sample of the materials you’re interested in before making your final selection. SelectBlinds is a part of the SelectShops company and is headquartered in Mesa, Arizona.

    Read more about Select Blinds
    Budget Blinds

    Budget Blinds sells blinds, shutters, drapes, curtains and other home decor through independently owned franchises across the U.S., with a few locations in Canada and Mexico. Schedule a free in-home consultation to explore available options. Budget Blinds is part of Home Franchise Concepts.

    Read more about Budget Blinds
    3 Day Blinds

    3 Day Blinds manufactures and sells window shades, blinds, interior shutters and curtains. Consultants come to your home to help you choose the best window treatment and give you a quote based on your needs. The company has consultants in Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Illinois, Massachusetts, Michigan, Missouri, Nevada, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania and Texas.

    • Financing available: 3 Day Blinds offers financing to help you afford the window treatments you want. Financing is based on credit approval, and you can apply online. Qualifying customers can make payments interest-free for up to 12 months.
    • In-home consultation: 3 Day Blinds brings the showroom to you with in-home consultations. The consultations are free, and you’ll be given a quote for your home. The company serves 13 states. To find your local consultant, visit 3 Day Blinds’ website.
    • Free safety kits: 3 Day Blinds will send you a kit to make your corded blinds or drapes safer for children. Several types of child safety retrofit kits are available to work with most types of blinds and shades. Anyone can order a kit, not only 3 Day Blinds customers.
    • Warranty: All 3 Day Blinds products come with a free limited warranty. Cords and ladders are covered for five years, and fabrics, motors and remote controls are covered for seven years. The operating mechanism is covered for the life of the product, which will vary based on the item you choose.
    • Referral bonus: If you refer friends to 3 Day Blinds and they make a purchase from the company, you’ll get a $50 Amazon gift card. You have to use an online form from the company’s website to be eligible for the reward.
    Read 2760 Reviews
    Blinds.com

    Blinds.com was established as No Brainer Blinds in 1996 and is now one of the world’s biggest online retailers for window treatments. It sells blinds, shades, curtains, drapes and other window treatments. It merged with The Home Depot in 2014.

    • SureFit: Blinds.com offers the SureFit guarantee. If you make a mistake when you measure your window and order the wrong size blinds, the company will exchange them for free.
    • Free swatches: You can order up to 10 fabric swatches or material samples for free. When you order, you’ll also get a $10 coupon for use on your purchase once you pick out which product you want.
    • Satisfaction guarantee: Blinds.com has a 100% satisfaction guarantee. If you don’t like the color, style or quality of your window coverings, contact the company to return or exchange them. You have 30 days to make up your mind about whether you like your new blinds.
    • Professional installation: Use the Blinds.com website to find a prescreened NBI professional blind installer. NBI workmanship is guaranteed for one year.
    • Decorating ideas: If you’re not sure what kind of window treatment you want, visit Blinds.com’s Inspiration Gallery. This section of the website has hundreds of pictures to give you ideas about curtains, blinds, inside shutters and more.
    American Blinds

    American Blinds sells custom-made window treatments, including shades, blinds, vertical blinds, drapes, indoor shutters and more. It also has specialty products for skylights, doors and unique windows. The company has been in business for over 60 years and has been involved in online blind sales for more than 20 years.

    • Free swatches: You can order up to 10 swatches for free. Use these to help ensure you pick out a color and material you like. You can choose a sample pack of popular products or design your own sample pack. You can have them shipped overnight to you for $10.
    • Warranty: In addition to any manufacturer’s warranties, blinds and shades from American Blinds come with a three-year warranty on all materials, including cords and ladders.
    • Professional installation: American Blinds works with the NBI to help you find a professional blind installer. When you enter your ZIP code on the site, it will show you the estimated cost. Use the online form to ask one of the installers to contact you and schedule an appointment.
    • Child-safe options: American Blinds’ website has a section dedicated to blinds and shades that are safer for children than traditional corded blinds. The company also has a Child Safety Matters page that tells you which type of blinds are safest for homes with children.
    • Lookbook: American Blinds’ online lookbook has images to help you find inspiration for your window treatment. You can filter images by room or by window treatment type.
    Zebra Blinds

    Zebra Blinds sells blinds, shades, indoor shutters and other window treatments. The website offers a wide selection, so you’ll be able to find treatments for all your window needs. Zebra Blinds ships directly from manufacturers’ factories to save you money.

    • Free shipping: Most blinds and drapes ship for free within the contiguous United States. Depending on the brand you select, there may be an additional charge for blinds over 94 inches or a handling fee for interior shutters. Visit the website’s shipping page for details.
    • Free samples: Create an account on Zebra Blinds’ website to order free fabric swatches and material samples.
    • Newsletter: Zebra Blinds regularly has sales and special discounts. Sign up for the company's newsletter to get alerts about sales in your inbox.
    • Designers and installers: Use the Zebra Blinds website to find local professionals to help you choose and install your window treatments. Installers are professionals with the NBI, and designers are members of the InteriorDesignPro network, an online community of professional designers.
    • Blog: The Zebra Blinds website contains a blog with home design ideas and articles on window treatments.
    The Shade Store

    The Shade Store has been making window treatments since 1946, and all items are still manufactured in the United States. You can order online or visit one of the company’s 55 locations. The Shade Store manufactures and sells customized blinds, shades and drapes. It offers free shipping to customers in the United States and will send you free fabric swatches and material samples.

    • Showrooms: The Shade Store has 55 locations across the United States. Find locations in Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Massachusetts, Nevada, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Texas, Virginia, Washington state and the District of Columbia.
    • Resizing: If you make a mistake when measuring and the item is too large, The Shade Store may be able to cut the item down to size. If the item is too small or can’t be resized, the company will give you a 50% discount upon reorder. You must request the resizing or discount within 30 days.
    • Warranty: Blinds and shades from The Shade Store come with a lifetime warranty on manufacturing defects and a five-year warranty on the motor in motorized blinds.
    • Measuring and installation: The Shade Store has partners in many areas of the country and can help you find professional installers. The company will measure your windows for free. Installation charges are based on the cost of your purchase, so it’s easy to determine the installation fee. Visit The Shade Store website for more details.
    • Child safety: All of The Shade Store’s products comply with standards from the Consumer Product Safety Council and the Window Covering Manufacturers Association. Many items can be customized to be cordless, adding increased safety for homes with small children and pets.
    Hunter Douglas

    The Hunter Douglas company was founded in 1919 and began making aluminum blinds in 1946. Today, the company sells window treatments around the world through local retail partners. It offers a variety of custom-made blinds and shades for windows.

    • Dealers: Hunter Douglas has authorized dealers throughout the United States. Visit the company’s website to find the nearest dealer and request a consultation.
    • PowerView Motorization: You can buy blinds and shades equipped with PowerView Motorization at Hunter Douglas. This motorized blind system is programmable, so you can open and close your window treatments on a set schedule. It’s also compatible with Nest and can be operated using an app on your smartphone or tablet.
    • Product Recommender: Use Hunter Douglas’ Product Recommender to determine which window treatments might be best for you. Answer a few simple questions about your needs and preferences to get customized recommendations.
    • Warranty: All Hunter Douglas products come with a lifetime warranty against material and manufacturing defects. Motors are covered for five years, while cords and operating mechanisms are covered for seven.
    • American manufacturing: Hunter Douglas has manufacturing facilities in the United States.
    3 Blind Mice Window Coverings

    3 Blind Mice Window Coverings serves parts of California and Texas. Design consultants come to your home to show you samples, help you decide on products and take measurements. You can find a consultant and book an appointment online.

    • Locations: 3 Blind Mice serves areas in Southern and Northern California as well as the Austin, Texas area. Local consultants can come to your home to help you make selections and take measurements.
    • Schedule online: If you’re in one of the service areas, you can schedule an appointment with a design consultant online.
    • Live chat: The 3 Blind Mice website has a live chat feature, so you can instantly get answers to your questions.
    • Video library: 3 Blind Mice’s website contains informal videos on choosing window treatments, motorized and smart blinds, child safe blinds and types of window shades. This video library may help if you’re just starting to choose a window treatment.
    • Referral bonus: If you refer a friend who makes a purchase from 3 Blind Mice, you’ll get $50 off your next purchase. Submit your friend’s name and email through a form on the company’s website.
    Blindsgalore

    Blindsgalore sells name-brand blinds, shades, indoor shutters, drapes and other window treatments. It offers a wide selection, including items for oddly shaped and unique windows. Blindsgalore offers a low-price guarantee and satisfaction guarantee. The company was established in 1998 and is headquartered in San Diego.

    • Referral discount: You earn 20% off future orders when a friend you’ve referred makes a purchase from Blindsgalore. Your friend will also earn 20% off when they use your referral link.
    • Free samples: You can order up to 15 material samples and fabric swatches for free. Samples arrive in a few days, but you can pay to have them shipped overnight if you need them faster.
    • Price guarantee: Blindsgalore has a low-price guarantee on all products. If you find a lower price on any product within 15 days of your purchase, the company will issue a refund for the difference.
    • Warranties: All Blindsgalore orders come with a manufacturer warranty. The warranties vary by product type and manufacturer. Make sure to read about the warranty for the specific product you’re ordering before you make a purchase.
    • Satisfaction guarantee: Blindsgalore offers a satisfaction guarantee on all orders. If you’re not completely happy, you can contact the company to make an exchange within 30 days. You will be responsible for any price difference when selecting a replacement.
    Smith & Noble

    Smith & Noble manufactures and sells shades, blinds, drapes and other window treatments online. In some locations, the company has designers who can help you choose your items. The company prides itself on providing a wide variety of customized options at affordable prices. It has been offering custom window treatments since 1987 and is located in Corona, California.

    • Motivia Motorization: Smith & Noble offers motorized blinds and shades with Motivia Motorization. You can choose to have a button on the window treatment or control the shades or blinds with a remote. Prices for motorization start at $79 per item.
    • Warranties: All Smith & Noble products come with a limited lifetime warranty for any manufacturing or material defects. Cords and Motivia motorization are covered under a five-year warranty.
    • Measurement and installation: Smith & Noble has professionals across the United States who can measure your windows and install your window treatments. Measurement is free, and installation starts at just $99. If you use one of its professionals, the company guarantees your blinds or shades will fit. If they don’t, Smith & Noble will replace them for free.
    • Financing: You can finance your new window treatments through Smith & Noble. Some financing plans have an interest-free period. Financing is subject to credit approval.
    • Design help: Schedule an in-home design consultation to get help selecting your window treatments. If a designer isn’t available in your area, you can have a design consultation over the phone.
    justblinds

    justblinds manufactures and sells shades, blinds and indoor shutters. You can order products online and have them shipped to you for free. The company sends free samples and has a satisfaction guarantee. It is based in Houston.

    • Satisfaction guarantee: If you’re not happy with your purchase, justblinds will work with you to resolve the problem. Contact the company within 30 days of getting your order to request an exchange or refund. To qualify for this offer, you must have ordered samples before making your purchase. Visit the website for specific details.
    • Warranties: justblinds warrants all products sold on its site. The materials and operating mechanisms are protected for three years.
    • PriceMatch: If you find the same item for less within 30 days of making a purchase from justblinds, the company will refund you the price difference.
    • Discounts: justblinds regularly has sales and offers special discounts. Visit the company’s website to sign up to receive email alerts about sales.
    • Video library: The justblinds website has dozens of videos, including blind installation guides, window treatment selection tips, product demos and more.

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