Window coverings like blinds, shades, and curtains can really change how your home looks and feels. They help control sunlight, give you privacy, and can even save energy. But many homeowners make simple mistakes when choosing them, which can waste money and cause disappointment.

In this blog, we’ll discuss the most common mistakes people make when picking window coverings and how you can avoid them. By the end, you’ll know how to choose blinds or shades that look great, work well, and last for years.

Mistake #1: Ignoring Function and Focusing Only on Style

One of the biggest mistakes homeowners make is choosing window coverings just because they look nice. Of course, style matters, but function should come first.

For example, heavy blackout curtains can look beautiful in a living room, but they might make the room too dark during the day. Light sheer curtains, on the other hand, look nice but won’t give you much privacy at night.

How to avoid this mistake:

Before buying window coverings, take a moment to think about what you really need.

• Do you want to block sunlight or let some light in?
• Is privacy important in that room?
• Does the window face the street or your backyard?

If you want both light control and privacy, try layering your coverings, for example, use sheer curtains with blackout roller shades for the best of both worlds.

Mistake #2: Choosing the Wrong Size or Fit

Blinds or curtains that don’t fit properly can ruin even the most stylish room. Blinds that are too short or curtains that hang awkwardly make windows look smaller and cheap.

How to avoid this mistake:

Measure your windows carefully before buying blinds. Check both the width and height,  and do it twice to be sure. Decide if you want the blinds to fit inside the window frame (for a clean, modern look) or outside the frame (to make the window look bigger). 

If you’re not sure how to measure, most window covering stores can help for free. Getting the right size will make your blinds look neat, stylish, and perfectly made for your home.

Mistake #3: Forgetting About Light Control and Room Direction

Not every room gets the same sunlight. An east-facing room is bright in the morning, while a west-facing room gets strong sunlight in the evening. If you don’t think about this, you might choose window coverings that don’t work well at different times of the day.

How to avoid this mistake: 

Pick the right blinds or shades based on how much light the room gets:

• Bedrooms: Use blackout blinds or shades to block light and help you sleep better.
• Living rooms: Try light-filtering shades. They let in soft light but cut down glare.
• Kitchens: Choose blinds that can handle steam and splashes, like faux wood or vinyl.
• Offices or study rooms: Go for solar shades. They reduce screen glare but still let in some daylight.

This small step makes your home feel better and can even help save energy.

Mistake #4: Overlooking the Importance of Material

Window coverings come in lots of materials, like fabric, wood, faux wood, vinyl, aluminum, and bamboo. Many people choose what looks good without thinking about how it will hold up over time.

For example, real wood blinds look nice but can bend or warp in damp places like kitchens or bathrooms. Soft fabrics can also fade if they sit in strong sunlight every day. So, it’s smart to match the material to the room’s needs.

How to avoid this mistake:

Choose materials based on the environment and usage:

• Wet Rooms (Kitchen, Bathroom): Use faux wood (it won’t warp).
• Living & Bedrooms: Use fabric shades for a soft look.
• For Easy Cleaning: Use aluminum or vinyl blinds.
• For a Cozy Feel: Use natural woven shades.

Mistake #5: Not Matching the Style of the Room

Sometimes people pick blinds or curtains just because they like how they look, like rustic wood or fancy drapes. But if they don’t match the rest of the room, things can feel off. Even a nicely decorated space can look messy if the window coverings don’t fit the style.

How to avoid this mistake: 

Before buying blinds or shades, think about your home’s style:

• Modern or simple homes: Pick roller shades, zebra blinds, or motorized ones in plain colors.
• Traditional homes: Go for roman shades or soft curtains with gentle patterns.
• Farmhouse or rustic style: Choose wood blinds or bamboo shades.

Try to match the colors with your walls or furniture so everything looks neat and goes well together.

Mistake #6: Ignoring Safety Features (Especially with Kids or Pets)

Cords from blinds and shades can be dangerous for children and pets. Sadly, many people don’t realize this risk until an accident happens.

How to avoid this mistake:

Go for cordless blinds or motorized window shades. They look neat, are easy to use, and much safer. If you already have blinds with cords, make sure to tie the cords up or use safety clips to keep them out of reach.

Remember: Safety always comes first, especially if you have kids or pets at home.

Mistake #7: Not Considering Maintenance and Cleaning

Window coverings can get dusty and dirty over time. Some materials are easy to clean at home, while others need professional cleaning. If you don’t take care of them, your window coverings can start to look old and dull very quickly.

How to avoid this mistake:

• Pick low-maintenance options if you prefer easy cleaning.
• Faux wood and aluminum blinds can be wiped with a damp cloth.
• Fabric shades may need occasional vacuuming or spot cleaning.
• Avoid high-maintenance materials in areas like the kitchen, where grease and dust build up faster.

Regular cleaning keeps your blinds looking fresh and extends their lifespan.

Mistake #8: Forgetting About Smart Options

Technology has made window coverings smarter and more convenient. But many homeowners still stick to old manual blinds, missing out on comfort and energy savings. How to avoid this mistake:

Think about getting motorized blinds or shades. You can open and close them with a remote or your phone. Some even work automatically based on the time of day or sunlight.

Smart blinds are not only modern and stylish, but they also help save energy and keep your home more secure.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right window coverings is more than picking what looks pretty. It’s about combining function, style, and practicality. Avoiding these common mistakes will save you money, reduce frustration, and make your home more comfortable and beautiful.

Before buying, take time to:

• Measure accurately
• Match materials to the room’s needs
• Consider light control and energy efficiency
• Think about long-term maintenance
• Prioritize safety and smart features

By following these simple tips, you’ll enjoy window coverings that not only look great but also make your home smarter, safer, and more energy-efficient.