Blind Fabrics and Materials Guide
When it comes to choosing the right blinds and curtains for your home, there are many things to consider, including the type of fabric or material you choose. The material or fabric that you choose is very important, as some are better suited to different environments, better at heating or cooling, and if you have kids, some are much easier to clean! Let’s get into the benefits of different fabrics and materials for your window coverings!
Types of material finishes for blinds and shutters
For window coverings that aren't made up of fabric panels or slats, there are many types of materials to choose from for the finish. These options are:
Aluminium
Aluminium is a versatile option for any room in your home. It's a finish that's durable, waterproof and can be used for both indoor and outdoor blinds and shutters. Two of the most common uses for aluminium blinds is in bathrooms or kitchens.
If you're looking for aluminium blinds, try Aluminium Venetian blinds or Aluminium shutters.
Aluminium is also a very easy blind or shutter option to keep clean, as it can be wiped over without the worry of the material getting damaged. To learn more about how you can clean aluminium blinds, head to our website.
Timber and wood options for your blinds and shutters
Timber or wooden blinds and shutters are a sturdy and clean finish for your window coverings.
Timber blinds are great for areas in your home such as bedrooms or living areas where they aren't exposed to water, condensation, or high temperatures, like in your bathroom.
No wood is completely water resistant, but if you're after a natural wood finish for blinds installed in wet areas, choose basswood shutters. Basswood is a strong and durable material as its grains are warp-resistant, meaning they won't bend out of shape if they are exposed to water like timber can. There's still the risk if they are exposed to too much water, but they are a much better option than normal timber!
Timber-look (faux timber) blinds
Timber-look blinds are the solution if you don't want to risk damaging any natural wood blinds in your home. These blinds are great if you want the look of a timber finish in wet areas or where there are higher temperatures.
Timber-look (or as it's also called, Faux timber) is a great option for giving you the aesthetic of real timber blinds, without the need to protect them from heat or water damage!
These blinds are often made from PVC, a durable and lightweight material that can be designed to fit any home décor. A great option is our Timber-look Venetian blinds.
Bamboo blinds
If you're after an eco-friendly blind option for your home, check out our Natural Wonders blinds, made from bamboo, jutes, and grasses. These blinds are a great addition to your home, as they can give the feeling of a warmer and inviting space. These blinds can also be lined with a fabric to provide additional blockout properties.
Fabric options for your window coverings
Standard fabric
If you're after a simple window covering, choosing one with a standard fabric option is the best way to go. Standard fabric gives you light control, privacy and is a great way to add to a space. There are no additional benefits like added blockout or sun protection, but if you don't need those options, these blinds are a great option.
Blockout fabric
If you're after window coverings which offer more light control and blockout the natural light, choosing a blockout fabric is the best option. This fabric is much thicker than a standard blind or curtain material thus providing much more light control throughout the day when the light is brighter.
Sunscreen fabric
Sunscreen fabric is a great option for areas of your home exposed to more direct sunlight, as well as for outdoor blinds. Sunscreen fabric works by reducing the impact of UV rays on skin as well as furniture. This fabric is available for both indoor and outdoor blinds.
Sheer fabric
If you're after a softer look, choosing a sheer fabric curtain can give you this. Sheer fabric is a translucent (semi-see through) fabric, that's often paired with blinds to provide your space with added light control and privacy.
Linen fabric
For a thicker fabric, try a linen curtain. Linen curtains are a great blockout option as the fabric is much heavier, and has the added benefits of providing added heat regulation within your home. These are also a great privacy option if you live in a particularly busy area and have street-facing windows.
Choosing the right colours and textures for your window coverings
Fabric colours
The benefit of choosing blinds and curtains made from fabric, is that they can be customised to almost any colour you desire. Colour is one of the best ways to really individualise a space and create the perfect atmosphere. From fluoro orange to understated neutrals, you can match your blinds to absolutely any décor or space – the only limit is your imagination!
Textured fabric options for your blinds
Make your coloured blinds pop even more or add some interest to neutrals with a stunning textured fabric. Our tip? Go for a matte-like finish to your blinds to give them some dimension. Texture can be a fun addition to your space and helps to create a focal point for your design!
Choosing the right fabric and materials for different spaces
When it comes to the vibe and feel of the room, your choice of material matters. Opt for heavier fabrics in bedrooms for extra privacy, opulence, and a greater feeling of division in the room. In living spaces, choose light, airy fabrics for a fresh and breezy feel.
Cleaning your window coverings
Cleaning your window coverings is one of the best ways to get the most out of them. There are a few ways you can do this:
Spot cleaning your blinds and curtains
The easiest way to maintain your blinds and curtains is to frequently spot clean them. This means vacuuming or dusting them regularly to prevent layers of dust building up.
If you happen to get any marks on your blind fabric, cleaning them as soon as you can helps to prevent the mark from permanently staining your blinds.
Giving your blinds and curtains a thorough clean
Depending on the fabric of the blinds, it'll determine how you maintain your blinds and curtains.
For example, cleaning roller blinds is very straightforward. All you need to do is simply unroll the fabric as far as you can off the roller, get some soapy water and a cleaning cloth, and give it a wipe down. It's important not to drench the fabric; instead, make sure your cloth is wet, but not dripping with water.
For any other fabric blinds, cleaning them is a bit different. Some curtains can go through the washing machine on a very delicate spin cycle, whereas some others require handwashing. It's important to always follow the cleaning instructions attached to your curtains.
For more information on how to give your indoor and outdoor blinds a thorough clean, head to our website!
Interested in finding the right blind material or fabric for your home? To arrange a free measure and quote with a highly-trained consultant in your own home, give us a call on 13 13 15 or fill out this simple online form. We provide this service to a wide range of locations around the metro and select regional areas, 6 days a week between 8am and 6pm.
The majority of our blinds, curtains and awnings are made in Australia and are sold for the lowest price in the market, guaranteed. Just bring in a quote on any competitor's comparable item and we'll beat it by 5%.