Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Blinds & Shades

We’re all concerned about the environment… but there’s so many of us who can’t figure out how to play our part in creating a meaningful change. Perhaps because we think the effort needs to be significant—like installing solar panels or eliminating plastic all at once. But we often tend to forget that it’s always the little things that add up to big changes, and just like that, home decor aspects, like the window treatments, are a good place to start—exactly what we’ll talk about today 🤍

 

What Makes Window Treatments Eco-Friendly?

Many homeowners want to go green but can’t seem to figure out what sets sustainable options apart from traditional ones. Here’s what you need to look for —

 

Minimum environmental impact from production to disposal (eco-friendly materials, durability, and energy efficiency)

Fewer resources and less energy for production

Materials that maximize energy efficiency by controlling indoor temperatures with insulation (like cellular/solar shades).

Durable, well-constructed options (to minimize waste, and frequent replacements).

 

Benefits of Sustainable Shades/Blinds

 

Reduced carbon footprint - Eco-friendly blinds use fewer materials for production. They are durable (so they last longer). And, they’re also biodegradable, so they won’t sit in the landfill for years.

 

Conservation of natural resources - Window treatments made of sustainable materials reduce the pressure on finite scarce resources (like wood). Recycled polyester, for example, is a decent pick often used in homes. It recycles plastic waste (a burden on the planet) to create an essential that serves wonderfully.

 

Energy efficiency - You’ll notice eco-friendly materials regulating indoor temperatures without the need for strong heating/cooling systems. It’s a 2-in-1; aesthetic window treatments + reduced energy bills.

 

Better air quality - Conventional window treatments are often treated with chemicals that release VOCs into the air; sustainable options eliminate this problem. They’re free from harmful dyes and chemicals—making for a healthier living environment.

 

Best Eco-Friendly Blinds & Shades

Bamboo

As one of the fastest-growing plants, bamboo is highly renewable. It needs nothing to thrive. Minimal water and almost no pesticides. It’s naturally durable and good at filtering light (both properties ideal for window treatments). And did we mention the warm, earthy feel it adds to every and any design style? An absolutely perfect addition to your home.

Recycled Materials

You will find multiple companies utilizing recycled materials to create innovative blinds and shades. Recycled metals, plastics, and fabrics are all stunning options; ones that prove style and sustainability can go hand-in-hand.

Energy-Efficient Choices

With style, eco-friendly window treatments also bring energy efficiency. We all know how frustrating those heavy electricity bills are 💲💲💲 Sustainable blinds can help save a couple of bucks here. They keep the interior warm during winters (by trapping heat) and cool during the summer (by blocking sunshine).

 

When searching the market, look for—

Cellular shades (features pockets that trap air)

 Thermal draperies (offer a foam backing for excellent insulation)

 Plantation shutters (add an extra layer of insulation by fitting tightly in the window frame)

Organic Fabrics…

…organic linen, cotton, hemp. The special materials prized for their incredible sustainability. They’re grown without synthetic pesticides (or fertilizers). Soft, eco-friendly, and simply stunning.

FSC-Certified Wood Blinds

The wood used for these blinds is certified from sustainably sourced forests. An eye-catchy window treatment that doesn’t harm the environment 😉

Less Is More

Not exactly a type of sustainable blinds material, but a great choice for homeowners who don’t want to block the lovely outdoor view. If you have a picturesque landscape from your window that would be a crime to cover up, don’t. Perhaps one of the coolest options on the market today is a residential window film. It blocks out harmful UV rays (and reduces the glare on your mirrors and screens!). If privacy is a concern, rice paper window films are a good alternative; they give a lovely etched glass design. You see, it’s still contributing to protecting the environment—a win-win situation!

Tips to Take Care of Sustainable Window Treatments

Eco-friendly blinds and shades are durable, but that doesn’t mean they don’t need maintenance. Proper care can extend their lifespan—and keep your window treatments looking new.

 

Clean regularly. Like floors need to be cleaned every day, walls (and the elements on the walls) need regular cleaning, too. And it doesn’t necessarily have to be something fancy. Simple dusting and vacuuming will do the job. Our Favorite Cleaning Products: Blind Cleaner Duster Tool and Cordless Handheld Vacuum Cleaner.

 

Sign up for professional maintenance. Periodic professional maintenance checks are a must. You want things to stay in place, and catch any faulty components before they become a big problem.

 

Repair or replace whenever required. Check your window treatments. Ask yourself what the problem is. Is it a minor problem, like a loose cord, that can be repaired? Or is something more serious, like warped materials, that need replacement?

 

Ensure good ventilation. We don’t want mold growing on our blinds or shades. And if they get wet, dry them ASAP (bamboo and hemp are particularly susceptible here).

 

Protect from sun damage. A light-blocking lining is a good idea. You can also rotate the shades (if possible) to ensure even exposure.

 

Potential Allergies from Sustainable Window Treatments

 

Not very common, but there’s definitely a chance to be allergic to sustainable window treatments. Now, what causes the allergy—and how can it be avoided? Let’s find out.

 

Cause: Natural plant residues from materials like organic cotton or hemp.

Tips to Minimize:

✔️ Choose window treatments labeled hypoallergenic (and clean them regularly).

✔️ Add a protective sealant to reduce fiber shedding.

 

Cause: Mold and mildew.

Tips to Minimize:

✔️ Proper ventilation.

✔️ Cleaning windows immediately if they get wet.

✔️ Choosing blinds with moisture-resistant finishes.

 

Cause: Dust and mites.

Tips to Minimize:

✔️ Clean blinds/shades regularly.

✔️ Wash in hot water (if washable).

 

Cause: Chemical sensitivities (if treated with dyes)

Tips to Minimize:

✔️ Only use naturally dyed options.

✔️ Choose products certified as VOC-free

 

FAQs

Are faux wood blinds eco-friendly?

Common belief, but not true. Faux wood blinds are, in fact, one of the least sustainable options. They are typically made of PVC and hardwood, both materials that cannot be rcycled once fused together.

 

When shopping for eco-friendly window treatments, double-check to make sure you have your hands on natural (and not composite) wood blinds.

Are aluminum blinds sustainable?

Aluminum is the easiest metal to recycle. So, if entirely natural or recycled blinds are not an option, aluminum window treatments are a close runner-up.

 

Never think your effort is little. Aluminum blinds will keep the demand for non-renewable resources low and will also keep them out of landfills.

 

Protect the Environment 🤍

In a world where there’s so much pressure on scarce resources, the smallest change, the simplest effort, can make the biggest difference. Start however you feel is easiest for you. Even if it’s simply swapping out a plastic paper towel dispenser for a bamboo dispenser, it counts—and it helps. Every bit of effort is worth it. Worth every penny. Worth every minute spent on planning.