Kelkoo's Comprehensive Buying Guide to Curtains & Blinds

Curtains and blinds are an integral part of home decor, serving both functional and aesthetic purposes. They control light, provide privacy, and contribute to the overall ambiance of a room. With a plethora of styles, materials, and mechanisms available, choosing the right one can be a daunting task. This guide aims to demystify the process and equip you with the knowledge to make an informed decision.

Understanding Different Types of Curtains & Blinds

The first step is to understand the various types of curtains and blinds, each with its unique characteristics.

Curtains are typically made from lighter materials and come in a variety of styles, such as pleated, eyelet, and tab top. They are versatile and can suit any decor style. Notable brands include John Lewis, known for their quality and variety, and Dunelm, famous for their affordable range.
Blinds, on the other hand, are made from harder materials like wood, metal, or plastic. They come in styles like Venetian, roller, and Roman. For quality blinds, consider brands like Hillarys or Luxaflex.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Curtains & Blinds

When choosing curtains or blinds, consider the room's purpose, the size and shape of the windows, the desired amount of light control, and privacy needs. For example, blackout curtains from Argos or thermal blinds from Blinds2Go are excellent for bedrooms where light control and insulation are crucial.

Practical Aspects: Measuring and Installation

Correctly measuring your windows is essential. For curtains, measure the width of the rod and the desired length. For blinds, measure the width and drop of the window. Some companies, like Hillarys, offer professional measuring services.

Installation varies between curtains and blinds and the specific type chosen. While most curtains can be hung on a rod, blinds installation can be a bit more complex, requiring brackets. Some suppliers, such as Luxaflex, offer professional installation services.

Ready-Made Versus Custom-Made Options

Ready-made curtains and blinds are readily available and come in standard sizes. They are typically cheaper and quicker to obtain. However, they may not fit perfectly, especially for non-standard window sizes.

Custom-made options, like those from Hillarys or Made-to-Measure Blinds UK, offer a perfect fit and more choices in materials and designs. However, they are more expensive and take longer to produce.

Cleaning and Maintenance

Curtains generally require dry cleaning, while blinds can often be cleaned with a damp cloth. Always check the manufacturer's instructions. For example, Dunelm curtains usually require professional cleaning, while Ikea’s blinds often can be cleaned at home.

Cost Implications

The cost of curtains and blinds can vary greatly, depending on the type, material, brand, and whether they are ready-made or custom-made. While you can find budget-friendly options at Ikea or Argos, brands like John Lewis or Luxaflex are pricier but offer superior quality and design.

Latest Trends

Current trends in curtains and blinds include sustainable materials, bold patterns, and smart, motorised options. Companies like Somfy are leading the way in smart home compatible blinds.

Choosing the Right Style

To complement your home's decor, consider the style, colour, and material of the curtains or blinds. For a modern look, try roller blinds from Ikea. For a classic style, pleated curtains from John Lewis could be a perfect choice.

Where to Buy

In the UK, you can buy curtains and blinds both in-store and online. John Lewis, Dunelm, and Argos have physical stores and online platforms. For online-only, consider Blinds2Go or Made-to-Measure Blinds UK.

When looking for the best deals, compare prices on Kelkoo, look out for sales, and consider the cost of extras like installation and accessories.

This guide was crafted with the assistance of AI on 23/09/2023. Kelkoo does not endorse any of the brands mentioned.

Curtains & Blinds