Cordless Wood Blinds

Window Blinds Safety – No More Senseless Deaths!

If you are the parent of a small child or infant there are a few things you should know and be aware of when it comes to choking hazards of window blinds or shades.  I was deeply saddened to read about the death of a one year old girl in Greenwich, CT.  She choked to death on the cords of a roman shade that was over her playpen.  In reaction to this tragedy, IKEA and Green Mountain Vista window blinds is recalling over 670,000 blinds and shades manufactured in India and China.

So I say it is time for a reminder about window blind safety.  There are a few common sense steps you can take to protect your children and your pets for that matter.  The first step is, of course, awareness that some window treatments pose a choking hazard.  It may seem improbable but those dangling cords hanging off of many blinds and shades can be dangerous.

The best way to avoid this hazard is to purchase window treatments that don’t have cords at all.  This is what the WCSC (Window Coverings Safety Council) recommends – just don’t have them in your house! There are options you should be aware of in this category:  cordless, motorized and wand control.  Cordless blinds come in two forms: a spring loaded lift mechanism, like in solar and roller shades.  Or, the gear-assisted cordless option, like in wood blinds, faux wood blinds, cellular, pleated, woven woods and roman shades.  Spring rolls are operated by gently tugging downwards and then either raising or lifting.  Gear-assisted are operated by gently pushing or pulling the bottom rail.  For window blinds, the cordless option will include a wand to open and close (tilt) the louvers to let in light or darken the room.  If you are interested in roller shades or sun shades, there will be no wand control.  For vertical blinds and panel tracks, you can choose to purchase the wand control that will traverse the blind and rotate the vertical vanes.  The motorized option also eliminates the cords altogether for most products.

When the position of the window or large size of the shade prevents a cordless or motorized choice, the WCSC also approves the use of a continuous cord loop - this option features clutch-assisted lift control with a looped cord that is anchored to the wall and remains the same length regardless of the position of the shade. 

If you do order blinds with cords, make sure that the cords come with what is called a breakaway tassel.  A breakaway tassel will “break” if pressure is applied, thus drastically reducing the choking hazard.  Most of the US manufacturers of window treatments use breakaway tassels on their cords at no extra charge because it is the right thing to do.  For this reason, I would recommend steering clear of window treatments made in countries where child and pet safety is not a priority.   Just so you know the major US brands are: Hunter Douglas, Bali, Levolor, Graber, Comfortex, Springs, Kirsch and Nanik.

If you already have blinds or shades in your house, go through each individual blind and check the cords. Are they tangled?  Do they form a loop?  If so, untangle them or separate the cords so that they don’t form a loop and then go to a hardware store and purchase a cord cleat for each blind in your house.  A cord cleat can be mounted to the window frame, and will give you a place to secure the cord up high so it is out of reach.  Next, don’t place your child’s bed, playpen, etc. near a window if you can avoid it, even with a cord cleat.  Cord cleats are only good if you always secure the cord up high. 

Window blind safety is very important.  The main thing is to be aware of the danger.  Then you can decide how best to act, whether that be via cordless blinds, motorized blinds or simply using cord cleats. - David Brooks 

About the Author

David Brooks is a San Diego-based freelance SEO consultant and geothermal energy advocate.

Woman Adjusting the Blinds, Japanese Wood-Cut Print $19.99 Woman Adjusting the Blinds, Japanese Wood-Cut Print - Premium Poster

Traditional Wood Window Blinds $29.99 Real wood blinds are an elegant alternative to plastic – perfect for traditional or rustic decors. Features wand for opening and closing. 1" slats. Measures 25"W x 40"L. Available in Cherry (pictured left) or Oak (pictured right).

Faux Wood 34-inch Blinds $96.65 Dress up your home decor with these beautiful 2-inch blinds. These faux wood window blinds offer an elegant style and luxurious wood look.Color options: Pearl white, snow whiteMaterials: PVCEnergy saving: No Dimensions: 34 inches wide x 60 or 73 inches longThese blinds will measure about 34 1/2 inches wide with the mounting hardwareTilt location on the left, lift cord on the rightIncludes decorative 3-inch matching crown valance which measures 2 inches larger in widthIncludes 2 foot x 2 inch full-size metal headrail with industry standard internal componentsIncludes all installation hardwareConforms with CPSC child safety guidelinesThe digital images we display have the most accurate color possible. However, due to differences in computer monitors, we cannot be responsible for variations in color between the actual product and your screen.Mounting brackets add approximately 1/2 inch to headrail width when installed. If you are mounting inside the window casing please subtract 1/2 inch to 1 inch from the measurement to ensure the blinds will fit properly. Also, please note that the valance is 2 inches wider than the blinds.

Faux Wood 49-inch Blinds $128.87 Dress up your home decor with these beautiful 2-inch blinds. These faux wood window blinds offer an elegant style and luxurious wood look.Color options: Pearl white, snow whiteMaterials: PVCEnergy saving: No Dimensions: 49 inches wide x 60 or 73 inches longThese blinds will measure about 49 1/2 inches wide with the mounting hardwareTilt location on the left, lift cord on the rightIncludes decorative 3-inch matching crown valance which measures 2 inches larger in widthIncludes 2 foot x 2 inch full-size metal headrail with industry standard internal componentsIncludes all installation hardwareConforms with CPSC child safety guidelinesThe digital images we display have the most accurate color possible. However, due to differences in computer monitors, we cannot be responsible for variations in color between the actual product and your screen.Mounting brackets add approximately 1/2 inch to headrail width when installed. If you are mounting inside the window casing please subtract 1/2 inch to 1 inch from the measurement to ensure the blinds will fit properly. Also, please note that the valance is 2 inches wider than the blinds.

Faux Wood 66-inch Blinds $172.53 Dress up your home decor with these beautiful 2-inch blinds. These faux wood window blinds offer an elegant style and luxurious wood look.Color options: Pearl white, snow whiteMaterials: PVCEnergy saving: No Dimensions: 66 inches wide x 60 or 73 inches longThese blinds will measure about 66 1/2 inches wide with the mounting hardwareTilt location on the left, lift cord on the rightIncludes decorative 3-inch matching crown valance which measures 2 inches larger in widthIncludes 2 foot x 2 inch full-size metal headrail with industry standard internal componentsIncludes all installation hardwareConforms with CPSC child safety guidelinesThe digital images we display have the most accurate color possible. However, due to differences in computer monitors, we cannot be responsible for variations in color between the actual product and your screen.Mounting brackets add approximately 1/2 inch to headrail width when installed. If you are mounting inside the window casing please subtract 1/2 inch to 1 inch from the measurement to ensure the blinds will fit properly. Also, please note that the valance is 2 inches wider than the blinds.

Faux Wood 20-inch Blinds $76.9 Dress up your home decor with these beautiful 2-inch blinds. These faux wood window blinds offer an elegant style and luxurious wood look.Color options: Pearl white, snow whiteMaterials: PVCEnergy saving: No Dimensions: 20 inches wide x 60 or 73 inches longThese blinds will measure about 20 1/2 inches wide with the mounting hardwareTold location on the left, lift cord on the right Includes decorative 3-inch matching crown valance which measures 2 inches larger in widthIncludes 2 foot x 2 inch full-size metal headrail with industry standard internal componentsIncludes all installation hardwareConforms with CPSC child safety guildelinesThe digital images we display have the most accurate color possible. However, due to differences in computer monitors, we cannot be responsible for variations in color between the actual product and your screen.Mounting brackets add approximately 1/2 inch to headrail width when installed. If you are mounting inside the window casing please subtract 1/2 inch to 1 inch from the measurement to ensure the blinds will fit properly. Also, please note that the valance is 2 inches wider than the blinds.

Faux Wood 50-inch Blinds $130.95 Dress up your home decor with these beautiful 2-inch blinds. These faux wood window blinds offer an elegant style and luxurious wood look.Color options: Pearl white, snow whiteMaterials: PVCEnergy saving: No Dimensions: 50 inches wide x 60 or 73 inches longThese blinds will measure about 50 1/2 inches wide with the mounting hardwareTilt location on the left, lift cord on the rightIncludes decorative 3-inch matching crown valance which measures 2 inches larger in widthIncludes 2 foot x 2 inch full-size metal headrail with industry standard internal componentsIncludes all installation hardwareConforms with CPSC child safety guidelinesThe digital images we display have the most accurate color possible. However, due to differences in computer monitors, we cannot be responsible for variations in color between the actual product and your screen.Mounting brackets add approximately 1/2 inch to headrail width when installed. If you are mounting inside the window casing please subtract 1/2 inch to 1 inch from the measurement to ensure the blinds will fit properly. Also, please note that the valance is 2 inches wider than the blinds.

Faux Wood 67-inch Blinds $178.77 Dress up your home decor with these beautiful 2-inch blinds. These faux wood window blinds offer an elegant style and luxurious wood look.Color options: Pearl white, snow whiteMaterials: PVCEnergy saving: No Dimensions: 67 inches wide x 60 or 73 inches longThese blinds will measure about 67 1/2 inches wide with the mounting hardwareTilt location on the left, lift cord on the rightIncludes decorative 3-inch matching crown valance which measures 2 inches larger in widthIncludes 2 foot x 2 inch full-size metal headrail with industry standard internal componentsIncludes all installation hardwareConforms with CPSC child safety guidelinesThe digital images we display have the most accurate color possible. However, due to differences in computer monitors, we cannot be responsible for variations in color between the actual product and your screen.Mounting brackets add approximately 1/2 inch to headrail width when installed. If you are mounting inside the window casing please subtract 1/2 inch to 1 inch from the measurement to ensure the blinds will fit properly. Also, please note that the valance is 2 inches wider than the blinds.

Faux Wood 22-inch Blinds $82.1 Dress up your home decor with these beautiful 22-inch blinds. These faux wood window blinds offer an elegant style and luxurious wood look.Color options: Pearl white, snow whiteMaterials: PVCEnergy saving: No Dimensions: 22 inches wide x 60 or 73 inches longThese blinds will measure about 22 1/2 inches wide with the mounting hardwareTold location on the left, lift cord on the right Includes decorative 3-inch matching crown valance which measures 2 inches larger in widthIncludes 2 foot x 2 inch full-size metal headrail with industry standard internal componentsIncludes all installation hardwareConforms with CPSC child safety guildelinesThe digital images we display have the most accurate color possible. However, due to differences in computer monitors, we cannot be responsible for variations in color between the actual product and your screen.Mounting brackets add approximately 1/2 inch to headrail width when installed. If you are mounting inside the window casing please subtract 1/2 inch to 1 inch from the measurement to ensure the blinds will fit properly. Also, please note that the valance is 2 inches wider than the blinds.

Faux Wood 68-inch Blinds $168.37 Dress up your home decor with these beautiful 2-inch blinds. These faux wood window blinds offer an elegant style and luxurious wood look.Color options: Pearl white, snow whiteMaterials: PVCEnergy saving: No Dimensions: 68 inches wide x 60 or 73 inches longThese blinds will measure about 68 1/2 inches wide with the mounting hardwareTilt location on the left, lift cord on the rightIncludes decorative 3-inch matching crown valance which measures 2 inches larger in widthIncludes 2 foot x 2 inch full-size metal headrail with industry standard internal componentsIncludes all installation hardwareConforms with CPSC child safety guidelinesThe digital images we display have the most accurate color possible. However, due to differences in computer monitors, we cannot be responsible for variations in color between the actual product and your screen.Mounting brackets add approximately 1/2 inch to headrail width when installed. If you are mounting inside the window casing please subtract 1/2 inch to 1 inch from the measurement to ensure the blinds will fit properly. Also, please note that the valance is 2 inches wider than the blinds.

Faux Wood 35-inch Blinds $90.41 Dress up your home decor with these beautiful 2-inch blinds. These faux wood window blinds offer an elegant style and luxurious wood look.Color options: Pearl white, snow whiteMaterials: PVCEnergy saving: No Dimensions: 35 inches wide x 60 or 73 inches longThese blinds will measure about 35 1/2 inches wide with the mounting hardwareTilt location on the left, lift cord on the rightIncludes decorative 3-inch matching crown valance which measures 2 inches larger in widthIncludes 2 foot x 2 inch full-size metal headrail with industry standard internal componentsIncludes all installation hardwareConforms with CPSC child safety guidelinesThe digital images we display have the most accurate color possible. However, due to differences in computer monitors, we cannot be responsible for variations in color between the actual product and your screen.Mounting brackets add approximately 1/2 inch to headrail width when installed. If you are mounting inside the window casing please subtract 1/2 inch to 1 inch from the measurement to ensure the blinds will fit properly. Also, please note that the valance is 2 inches wider than the blinds.

Faux Wood 52-inch Blinds $130.95 Dress up your home decor with these beautiful 2-inch blinds. These faux wood window blinds offer an elegant style and luxurious wood look.Color options: Pearl white, snow whiteMaterials: PVCEnergy saving: No Dimensions: 52 inches wide x 60 or 73 inches longThese blinds will measure about 52 1/2 inches wide with the mounting hardwareTilt location on the left, lift cord on the rightIncludes decorative 3-inch matching crown valance which measures 2 inches larger in widthIncludes 2 foot x 2 inch full-size metal headrail with industry standard internal componentsIncludes all installation hardwareConforms with CPSC child safety guidelinesThe digital images we display have the most accurate color possible. However, due to differences in computer monitors, we cannot be responsible for variations in color between the actual product and your screen.Mounting brackets add approximately 1/2 inch to headrail width when installed. If you are mounting inside the window casing please subtract 1/2 inch to 1 inch from the measurement to ensure the blinds will fit properly. Also, please note that the valance is 2 inches wider than the blinds.

Faux Wood 69-inch Blinds $203.71 Dress up your home decor with these beautiful 2-inch blinds. These faux wood window blinds offer an elegant style and luxurious wood look.Color options: Pearl white, snow whiteMaterials: PVCEnergy saving: No Dimensions: 69 inches wide x 60 or 73 inches longThese blinds will measure about 69 1/2 inches wide with the mounting hardwareTilt location on the left, lift cord on the rightIncludes decorative 3-inch matching crown valance which measures 2 inches larger in widthIncludes 2 foot x 2 inch full-size metal headrail with industry standard internal componentsIncludes all installation hardwareConforms with CPSC child safety guidelinesThe digital images we display have the most accurate color possible. However, due to differences in computer monitors, we cannot be responsible for variations in color between the actual product and your screen.Mounting brackets add approximately 1/2 inch to headrail width when installed. If you are mounting inside the window casing please subtract 1/2 inch to 1 inch from the measurement to ensure the blinds will fit properly. Also, please note that the valance is 2 inches wider than the blinds.

Faux Wood 24-inch Blinds $82.1 Dress up your home decor with these beautiful 2-inch blinds. These faux wood window blinds offer an elegant style and luxurious wood look.Color options: Pearl white, snow whiteMaterials: PVCEnergy saving: No Dimensions: 24 inches wide x 60 or 73 inches longThese blinds will measure about 24 inches wide with the mounting hardwareTold location on the left, lift cord on the right Includes decorative 3-inch matching crown valance which measures 2 inches larger in widthIncludes 2 foot x 2 inch full-size metal headrail with industry standard internal componentsIncludes all installation hardwareConforms with CPSC child safety guildelinesThe digital images we display have the most accurate color possible. However, due to differences in computer monitors, we cannot be responsible for variations in color between the actual product and your screen.Mounting brackets add approximately 1/2 inch to headrail width when installed. If you are mounting inside the window casing please subtract 1/2 inch to 1 inch from the measurement to ensure the blinds will fit properly. Also, please note that the valance is 2 inches wider than the blinds.

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