With kids around, it’s so important to ensure your home is childproofed to keep little ones safe from potential dangers. But some say the windows may be one of the trickiest areas to tackle, with too many cords and openings that tiny hands can get into. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed trying to figure out how to securely cover your windows while still letting in natural light, you’re definitely not alone. 

What to Know About Window Childproofing 

Childproofing your windows with window blinds is a crucial stage in the process of safeguarding the well-being of your children while they are at home. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) findings indicate that in the United States of America, window blinds with accessible operating cords pose a potential hazard to children. Replacing blinds with lines with cordless blinds or blinds with inaccessible cords is recommended to prevent accidents.

In addition to replacing blinds, you can take other childproofing measures. Cord cleats, loop anchors, wraps, wind-ups, and safety tassels are inexpensive accessories that can be easily installed to secure blind cords and prevent children from getting tangled.

It’s crucial to prioritize the safety of your children by taking appropriate measures to childproof your windows. The Blind Man Inc. offers a range of window blind options, including cordless blinds and blinds with hidden cords, ensuring both style and safety for your home.

How to childproof window blinds

Childproofing window blinds is crucial to prevent accidents and ensure the safety of young children. At The Blind Man, we recommend the following steps to childproof your window blinds:

  • Choose Cordless Blinds: Consider replacing corded blinds with cordless alternatives. Cordless blinds eliminate the risk of children becoming entangled in cords.
  • Install Cord Cleats: If you have corded blinds, install cord cleats high on the wall out of reach of children. Use them to secure and tie up cords, keeping them from curious hands.
  • Cord Shorteners: Use cord shorteners or wind-up devices to reduce the length of cords on blinds. These devices help keep lines out of children’s reach.
  • Safety Tassels: Install safety tassels on the ends of cords to prevent them from forming loops that could pose a strangulation hazard.
  • Window Cord Stops: Consider using window cord stops to limit the movement of lines and prevent them from being pulled.
  • Supervise and Educate: Always supervise children around blinds and educate them about the dangers of playing with cords.
  • Professional Consultation: For a comprehensive childproofing solution, consult with professionals like The Blind Man. They can advise, assess your needs, and offer customized child-safe window treatments.

By taking these childproofing measures, you can create a safer environment for your children while enjoying the functionality and beauty of your window blinds.

Are cordless blinds safer for kids?

Cordless blinds are generally considered safer for children compared to blinds with cords. Traditional corded blinds pose a significant safety danger to small infants and animals, as they have the potential to become entangled in the lines, leading to accidents and injuries, including strangulation.

Cordless blinds eliminate this hazard by utilizing alternative mechanisms for raising and lowering the blinds. Some cordless options include:

  • Cordless Spring-Loaded Blinds: These blinds have a spring system that enables you to pull or push them into the desired position without cords.
  • Cordless Motorized Blinds: Motorized blinds can be operated remotely or through a wall switch, eliminating the need for cords. These are highly convenient and safe options.
  • Cordless Cellular Shades: In addition to being referred to as honeycomb shades, cellular shades can be operated by simply pushing or pulling the bottom rail, eliminating cords.

Caregivers can lower the danger of accidents by choosing cordless blinds and providing a safer environment for children. At The Blind Man, we prioritize safety in all services, including ensuring a safe living environment for families.

Can childproofing blinds prevent accidents?

Childproofing blinds can be an effective way to prevent accidents and ensure the safety of young children in your home. Blinds with cords pose a significant hazard as children can become entangled in them, leading to serious injuries or even fatalities. To childproof your blinds:

  • Cord Shorteners: Use cord shorteners or wind-up devices to keep cords out of a child’s reach.
  • Cordless Blinds: Consider switching to cordless blinds, eliminating the risk of cord-related accidents.
  • Tie-Up Cords: For blinds with cords, use tie-up devices to secure cables high above the reach of children.
  • Cord Cleats: Install cord cleats on the wall to keep cords safely out of reach when blinds are not used.
  • Continuous Loop Cords: Be cautious with constant loop cords, which can create loops that pose a strangulation risk. Choose blinds with built-in safety features for continuous loop cords.

Childproofing your blinds is crucial in creating a safe environment for your little ones. At The Blind Man, we understand the importance of safety in the home and offer guidance on making your living space secure for your family.

What’s the cost of childproof window treatments?

The cost of childproof window treatments may vary greatly based on factors including the type of window treatments you choose, the size and number of windows you need to be childproof, and the specific childproofing mechanisms you prefer. Here are some cost considerations:

  • Cordless Blinds or Shades: Cordless window treatments, such as blinds or shades, are generally safer for children and may be slightly more expensive than their corded counterparts. The cost start from around $30 – $50 per treatment. 
  • Cord Shorteners and Safety Devices: If you’re retrofitting existing blinds with cord shorteners, cleats, or other safety devices, the cost will depend on the number of windows and the type of devices you choose. These are typically affordable and can be a cost-effective childproofing solution. Price can range anywhere from $10 – $25 per device. 
  • Professional Installation: If you opt for professional installation of childproof window treatments or safety devices, there may be additional installation fees. A pro installer can charge anywhere between $25 – $100 per panel. 

To get an accurate cost estimate for childproof window treatments for your specific needs, it’s advisable to consult with a local window treatment provider like The Blind Man. They can assess your requirements, provide product options, and offer detailed pricing based on your preferences and the project scope.

Are there safety regulations for window blinds?

Yes, there are safety regulations for window blinds to protect children from potential hazards associated with corded blinds. These regulations are designed to reduce the risk of strangulation and entanglement accidents. Some key safety regulations and guidelines include:

  • Safety Standards: The Window Covering Manufacturers Association (WCMA) has established safety standards for window coverings. These standards require corded blinds to be manufactured with specific safety features, including cord cleats, cord stops, and tie-down devices.
  • Cord Length Limitations: Regulations limit the length of cords on window blinds to prevent the formation of hazardous loops. Cord lengths must be within safe limits, and tassels must be used to prevent lines from creating loops.
  • Warning Labels: Manufacturers must provide warning labels on blinds to alert consumers to the potential dangers of cords and the importance of childproofing.
  • Phasing Out Corded Blinds: In recent years, there has been a push to phase out corded blinds in favor of cordless and cord-safe alternatives.

Compliance with these safety regulations is essential for manufacturers and retailers in the window covering industry, including businesses like The Blind Man. It ensures window blinds meet safety standards and provides a safer environment for families with children.

At The Blind Man, we take safety seriously. Compliance with window-covering safety regulations is a top priority for us. We are committed to offering window blinds and coverings that meet or exceed industry safety standards. 

Our products are designed with the well-being of families, especially children, in mind. We provide cordless and cord-safe options to minimize hazards associated with corded blinds. 

When you choose window treatments from The Blind Man, you can confidently make a safe choice for your home. Your family’s safety and peace of mind are paramount to us, and we are dedicated to delivering products that reflect that commitment. Contact us for more information!