What are the differences between blinds and shades?

Blinds and shades are both types of window treatments. Sometimes the words are used interchangeably but they are two distinct categories of window coverings. This guide will help you understand the difference between blinds and shades. Once you know the difference, it will be much easier to decide which one would work best for your home.

One of the main differences between blinds and shades is the material that each are made of. Blinds are typically made with sturdier harder material such as metal, vinyl, or wood. Shades are made of either one or more pieces of fabric. Although both are are used for covering a window, the slight differences in each can affect a room's style, additional features, and overall price. 

Blinds

Blinds are easily operated and adjusted. For blinds to let light in, you are not required to raise the blind itself via a lifting mechanism. You can control how much light gets it by opening and closing the slats of the blind. Blinds come in different colors and styles, but are usually not pattered or too customizable. Since blinds are made of hard material, they hold up to general wear and tear nicely and are easily cleaned. Wiping the blinds with a cloth or duster is usually more then enough to clean them. If you have questions on how to clean blinds, read our guide about cleaning aluminum, wood, and faux wood blinds.

See below for examples of common types blinds.

Wood Blinds

Vertical Blinds

Shades

Shades can come in several different styles, patterns, and colors making it easy for you to match your home's decor and style. Unlike blinds, shades have to be raised to let light in. However, certain fabrics are able to control how much light comes in. Blackout fabric, light filtering fabric, or vision fabric all allow different amounts of light in Shades also can be combined with other window treatments and accessories. Shades work well with curtains or a valence to give even more customization. Shades have good durability, but it is not unlikely for the fabric to get blemishes or wear marks if the shade can be tugged on or moved around often. Cleaning shades can be simple but it is important that the fabric doesn't get damaged during the cleaning process. Read our guide on how to properly clean roller shades.

See below for examples of common types of shades.

Roller Shades

Cellular Shades

Roman Shades

Now that you know the difference between blinds and shades, it is important to know about some of the myths regarding them. Read about 6 misconceptions about blinds and shades.

For questions or more information, email info@blindshadeparts.com. For blind parts and shade parts, shop at blindshadeparts.com