Curtains vs Blinds: Which Are Better?

An important part of furnishing any home, window furnishings usually fall into two categories: curtains and blinds.

They both come in a range of styles, colours and materials, and both have been popular with homeowners for a long time. But which ones are better?

This month, at John Frederick Ltd, we’ll be explaining the differences between the two, what the benefits of each are and where they are best suited in terms of placement in your home.

By pitting the two against each other, you’ll hopefully be able to decide whether you’d prefer curtains or blinds for your home.

The difference between curtains and blinds

Both options go over your windows, but before we get into the comparison, let’s first explore what makes them different, requiring you to choose between them. 

Curtains are long sheets of material which, more often than not, cover your window recess, covering a small portion at the top and bottom.

Sometimes, people like their curtains to extend all the way down to the floor. They can be hung in a variety of ways, from hoops and rod pockets to pleats and eyelets.

Blinds, on the other hand, often sit within the window recess, covering only the window fitting itself.

As with curtains, there are a number of styles to choose from for the basic operation, including Roman, roller, Venetian and vertical blinds. 

What are the benefits of curtains?

Curtains are a chance to offer texture through textiles and a touch of soft comfort to your home.

Here are just a few of the benefits you can expect from quality curtains:

• Variety in material choices
• Insulative properties in winter
• Privacy when drawn closed
• Control over light into the property
• Comforting feel through soft furnishing
• Finishing touches available (ties, ropes, pelmets etc.)

Which rooms best suit curtains?

Curtains, due to their textile-based design, are better suited for rooms which will remain dry and which could benefit from the thermal efficiency offered when placed over potentially draughty windows.

This means that living rooms, dining rooms and bedrooms are all great places to hang curtains. 

You might also consider curtains over larger windows, such as patio doors or large conservatory windows, just be sure to consider how naturally warm these areas get and whether the privacy afforded by curtains outweighs this temperature issue.

What are the benefits of blinds?

If you’re going sleek, stylish and minimal, blinds are usually the preferred option, but with some materials available for roller and Roman blinds, it’s not all about plastic, woods and steel. Here are some of the advantages of blinds for the home:

• Excellent light filtration options
• Variety of materials to choose
• Saves on space when fitted to the window
• A durable option for any home

Which rooms best suit blinds?

People often choose blinds for rooms such as the kitchen or bathroom where there will be humidity and the chance of them getting wet on a regular basis.

However, with the right material, blinds can suit any room – blackout materials are great for a bedroom for little ones or for those who need to sleep during the day due to work schedules.

Looking to add that final, finishing touch to any room in your home? Look no further than curtain and blind supply from John Frederick Ltd.

We use only the highest quality fabrics and technology to help you match your window dressing to your decor. With over 90 years of industry experience, simply contact us today for professional advice – we’re always happy to book a quote for home.

John Frederick is based in Hendon, but provides cleaning services throughout the Greater London area, including Stanmore, Pinner & St John’s Wood.

John Frederick’s are expert carpet, upholstery, curtain & blind cleaners. They also supply a wide range of curtains & blinds and carpet & flooring options to customers throughout London.