Choosing the Right Blinds | What to Know Before You Buy
Blinds are more than just window coverings—they affect light, privacy, energy use, and style. Whether you’re designing a new space or updating a room, choosing the right blinds can make a big difference in how your home looks and feels.
At Bindi and Bird, we help homeowners across Bellingham and Whatcom County find blinds that fit both their style and needs.

What to Consider When Choosing the Right Blinds
Before you start shopping, keep these key factors in mind:
- Light control – Do you want a bright, airy feel or a dark, cozy space?
- Privacy – Is the room exposed to neighbors or foot traffic?
- Energy efficiency – Do you want to keep heat in or block sun out?
- Safety – Are there young children or pets in the home?
- Durability – Will the blinds be in a high-traffic area like the kitchen?
- Style – Should the blinds match a modern, rustic, or classic design?
- Smart features – Do you want to control your blinds remotely?
- Materials – What works best for your space and moisture level?
Now, let’s look at each one in more detail.

Light Control and Room Purpose
Some rooms benefit from natural sunlight, while others need more shade. Think about how the room is used and how much light you want throughout the day.
- For bright rooms: Use solar shades or light-filtering roller shades.
- For darker rooms: Choose blackout or cellular shades for better light control.
Privacy Needs
Privacy matters most in spaces like bathrooms and bedrooms. The right blinds help block outside views without making the room feel closed off.
- Top choices for privacy: Top-down/bottom-up shades or roller shades.
Energy Efficiency
Certain blinds can help regulate indoor temperatures, reducing your heating and cooling costs.
- Most energy-efficient: Cellular (honeycomb) shades, which trap air in pockets and provide insulation.
Maintenance and Durability
Busy areas like kitchens or kids’ playrooms need blinds that are easy to clean and built to last.
- Low-maintenance materials: Faux wood and Roller Shades.
Style and Aesthetic
Blinds should match the look and feel of your home. From cozy to clean and modern, there’s a style to suit every room.
- Rustic feel: Woven wood or Roman shades
- Modern design: Sleek roller or metal blinds
- Classic look: Wood blinds or layered treatments
Smart Blinds and Home Automation
Smart blinds offer remote control, voice commands, and app integration. They’re great for convenience and modern living.
- Smart features include: Timers, light sensors, and smartphone control
- Popular systems: Google Home, Alexa, Apple HomeKit
Blind Materials
Each material has its pros and cons. Choose based on how the room functions and your design goals.
- Wood: Warm and natural, better for dry areas
- Faux wood: Durable, moisture-resistant, and easy to clean
- Aluminum: Long-lasting with a modern feel
- Fabric: Softens the space and helps absorb sound
- Natural fibers: Eco-friendly and stylish with a textured look
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right blinds and shades means thinking about function, comfort, and style. From controlling sunlight to adding personality to a room, blinds can make a space feel right.
At Bindi and Bird, we’re here to help you find blinds that fit your lifestyle and your space. Whether you’re furnishing a new home or updating one window at a time, we’ll guide you to the perfect match.