The decision to bring blackout blinds into the home is typically motivated by three things:
- The desire to take better control over unwanted external light
- Reducing noise pollution to create more comfortable interiors
- Better all-round energy efficiency through improved heat retention
High-end blackout blinds fitted with pinpoint precision can achieve all of the above. A uniquely practical choice for all rooms of the home, blackout blinds improves on the properties of almost all conventional window coverings.
But this is only true if the materials used to manufacture the blackout blinds are up to scratch. Contrary to popular belief, not all blackout blinds are (literally) cut from the same cloth. Even when two products look identical on the surface, they could have entirely different capabilities when put to use.
Which prompts the question – which is the best material for blackout blinds? Is anyone material better than any other, or is it more a case of quality and manufacturing standards?
A Question of Quality and Performance
“Jumping straight to the conclusion, the answer is no – there is no one specific material that is the outright ‘best’ material for blackout blinds. A wide variety of materials can be used to manufacture these specialist window coverings, but the quality of the materials matters most. For example, some of the panels used in blackout blinds are manufactured using 100% polyester. Elsewhere, you will find blackout blinds made using a cotton/polyester blend or panels comprised primarily of linen. On the other hand, you have blackout curtains for nursery from materials like polyester and cotton blends or linen in full.”
For example, some of the panels used in blackout blinds are manufactured using 100% polyester. Elsewhere, you will find blackout blinds being made using a cotton/polyester blend or panels comprised primarily of linen.
The important thing to remember in all instances is how material choice alone does not tell a great deal about the quality of the final product. With blackout blinds, what matters is the capacity of the materials selected to perform the function(s) required.
This is where things like material thickness and quality matter more than material choice. Some blinds feature premium-quality materials, but due to their extremely low density/thickness, they are not great at blocking out natural light. Elsewhere, more cost-effective materials may be used to create thicker panels that get the job done much better.
Cleaning, Care, and Maintenance
What is also important when selecting material for blackout blinds is care and maintenance requirements; some materials are naturally easier to keep clean and sanitary than others, helping reduce ongoing care and maintenance.
Most types of blackout blinds can be cleaned quickly and easily with a quick wipe. Some are more susceptible to damage through the use of cleaning products than others, just as some are more likely to accumulate dust, dirt, debris, and allergens.
All of which should be discussed in full with your preferred supplier before deciding which types of blackout blinds to go for.
Durability and Lifespan
The quality of the materials that go into your blackout blinds will also play a major role in determining their lifespan. The longer your blinds serve a practical purpose in your home, the more cost-effective the investment.
It is essential to set your sights exclusively on the highest-quality blackout blinds available. Low-cost options are always appealing but often need to be replaced within the first couple of years.
For total peace of mind, insist on blackout blinds that are fitted by a skilled installation team and covered by an extensive warranty.
To learn more about the benefits of blackout blinds or to discuss any of our products in more detail, contact a member of the team at Riverside Shutters today.
