Natural light can do wonders for any room, making it feel cozy, expansive and welcoming. But while sunlight brightens a room, if you’re not careful about how you control it, that same wonderful daylight can cause irritating glare or unwelcome heat. The right blinds and shades in your windows can let in just the look and ambiance of light you want while maintaining privacy. Not sure which window treatments will work best? Here’s a practical guide to help you find out which are the best blinds and shades for letting in light.
Light-Filtering roller Shades
Roller shades with light-filtering fabrics are made to let the sunshine through softly while reducing the glare of the sun. They allow a warm glow of sunlight to fill your room, and make perfect for kitchens, dining areas, or home offices where you might like a nice atmosphere but don’t want to be blinded by incoming sunlight. They come in many different colors and materials so you will find some that would match your décor.
Zebra Blinds
Blinds known as Zebra (or dual-layered blinds) are perfect for light control. They provide an alternating opaque and sheer layer of fabric so you can easily determine the light level that best suits you. When opened up, the opaque parts allow just the right amount of ambient light in, while closed opaque sections will ensure privacy.
Venetian Blinds
You have complete control over how much light enters the room with Venetian blinds, thanks to their adjustable slats. Whether you want to open them right up and let the natural light flood in or keep them shut tight for total privacy, it’s up to you. Aluminum Venetian blinds are great for kitchens and bathrooms and wooden or faux wood work well in living rooms or bedrooms.
Vertical Blinds
Ideal for large windows or sliding glass doors, vertical blinds provide ultimate control over sunlight. Rotate the slats to let in as much light as you want—or close them completely to enjoy shade. To open the blinds, simply slide them out of the way. Opt for fabric vertical blinds for a sleek, modern look that also lets soft light filter into your room.
Cellular Blinds (Honeycomb Shades)
Cellular shades are known for their energy efficiency, but they are also excellent for letting in light. The honeycomb design keeps air in so as to provide insulation and light-filtering options give you the chance to have soft light in your room These shades are perfect for bedrooms as well as any other room where you want to reduce glare but still enjoy natural light.
