Better Alternatives for Window Treatments
While mini blinds are one of the most popular window treatments for modern spaces, especially small windows, plenty of alternatives exist.
Mini blinds, also known as aluminum blinds, are one of the most affordable window treatments that improve the curb appeal of your home, and provide privacy and light control.
However, these mini-slat shades may not be good at providing perfect insulation, energy efficiency, and blackout effect. Also, mini blinds are not suitable for windows with bigger frames. So, you’ll have to look for alternatives.
One of the best alternatives to mini-slat window coverings is faux wood blinds. They provide natural wood-like decorative touch to your home’s interior decor and have bigger slats to fit larger windows.
Some other alternatives are also available that offer unique benefits and design possibilities. This article explores various alternatives to mini blinds, discussing their advantages and considerations when choosing them as your window coverings.
What Are Mini Blinds?
Mini blinds – also referred to as aluminum blinds – are a type of horizontal window blind made of long, narrow slats that are less than half the width of standard blinds and are held together by a strong. They are also operated by a string or cord. However, Elite 1 Inch One Touch Mini Blinds come with cordless and motorized lift options.
Mini blinds are simple, durable, and affordable window coverings that are typically made of aluminum. There is a huge variety of window mini-slat window treatments featuring slats that are 1-inch wide.
They range in sizes from 18 W x 24 H inches to 72 W x 72 H inches. The color options include white, silver, and charcoal. Similarly, functional variants range from light filtering to total blackout.
1. Why look for Alternatives to Mini Blinds
Here are some of the reasons you might look for alternatives to aluminum blinds.
Versatility
Mini blinds have a relatively simple and uniform design with slat size ranging from ½ to 1 ½ inches, while alternative options offer greater versatility, such as Roman shades.
Better Light Control
While mini blinds allow for some light control, alternative window coverings like blackout roller shades often provide more precise light adjustment.
Window shades, curtains, drapes, and natural materials like bamboo blinds or woven wood shades offer better light-filtering potentials.
Improved Privacy
Privacy is a significant concern for many homeowners, and alternative window coverings like room-darkening sheer shades can offer better privacy options compared to mini blinds.
Energy Efficiency
Some alternative options, such as honeycomb or cellular shades, have insulating properties that can help improve energy efficiency of your home. They provide better insulation, reducing heat transfer through windows and helping to maintain a comfortable temperature indoors.
Noise Reduction
Certain alternative window treatments, such as thick curtains or heavy fabric blinds, can help absorb sound and reduce noise pollution from outside.
This can be especially beneficial if you live in a noisy area or near a busy street.
Eco-Friendly Choices
If sustainability is important to you, alternative window coverings made from natural materials like bamboo, linen, or jute can be excellent choices. These materials are renewable and eco-friendly, and they can contribute to a greener home environment.
What Is a Good Alternative to Mini Blinds?
Below are some of the good alternatives to mini blinds that homeowners and businesses usually go for.
Faux Wood Blinds for Privacy & Light Control in Humid Environments
Faux wood blinds provide the timeless elegance of real wood window treatments at a more affordable price. Made from composite materials, vinyl, or PVC, they are resistant to moisture, making them ideal for humid environments.
Faux wood blinds offer excellent light control, privacy, durability, and easy maintenance, making them a practical alternative to mini blinds.
Available Sizes: 20 x 24” (w x h) to 72 x 74”
Price Range: $41 to $125 or more
Recommended: Exclusive Cordless 2 Inch Faux Wood Blinds
Venetian Blinds for Versatility and Precise Light Control
Venetian blinds are a cute and classic alternative to mini blinds, known for their adjustable slats that allow for precise light control and privacy.
Available in various materials such as aluminum, wood, or faux wood, Venetian blinds offer versatility in style and design.
They add a touch of sophistication to your room while providing privacy and allowing you to regulate the amount of sunlight entering your room.
Available Sizes: 18 x 24” (w x h) to 74 x 96”
Price Range: $36 to $150 or more
Vertical Blinds for Large Windows & Sliding Glass Doors
Vertical blinds are an excellent alternative to mini blinds for large windows, sliding glass doors, or patio doors. The vertical orientation of slats allows for easy operation and convenient light control.
- They hang vertically from top to bottom and allow you to open, close, or adjust them for varying amounts of sun exposure as needed.
- Vertical blinds are another great option if you need to add extra insulation while controlling how much light enters your home.
- Vertical blinds often come with fabric vanes which also help reduce glare and improve energy efficiency in rooms facing south or west during sunny days.
- They can be easily mounted on top of the window or ceiling.
Available Sizes: 24 x 24” (w x h) to 115 x 120”
Price Range: $35 to $600 or more
Insulating Cellular Shades for Energy Energy Efficiency
Blackout insulating cordless cellular shades are a popular alternative to mini blinds, especially for energy-conscious homeowners. Being cordless, they are safe (CPSC-approved) for homes with young children and pets.
Their unique honeycomb design traps air, providing excellent insulation and helping to regulate the temperature inside your home. These shades allow you to control privacy and light while reducing energy costs.
Available Sizes: 21 x 24” (w x h) to 72 x 72”
Price Range: $40 to $121 or more
Blackout Roller Shades for Bedrooms & Media Rooms
If you’re seeking maximum light control and privacy, blackout roller shades are an excellent option.
These shades feature a dense fabric that completely blocks out light, making them an ideal choice for bedrooms, media rooms, or any space where you want to create a dark and cozy ambiance.
Available Sizes: 15 x 24” (w x h) to 103 x 120”
Price Range: $39 to $365 or more
Recommended: Blackout Roller Shades Elite
Roman Shades for Decorative Touch and Noise Reduction
Roman shades with noise-reducing properties offer a stylish alternative to mini blinds, and some varieties are designed to reduce outside noise.
These window coverings feature thicker fabrics, providing an additional layer of sound insulation in your home. Noise-reducing Roman blinds are a great option for homes located in noisy environments or for rooms where sound control is important, such as bedrooms or home offices.
Available Sizes: 12 x 16” (w x h) to 115 x 120”
Price Range: $108 to $550 or more
Recommended: Affordable Flat Roman Shade Essential
Woven Wood Shades for Natural, Earth-Toned Look
Natural-looking woven wood shades are another alternative to mini blinds, if you prefer earth-toned look.
Benefits
- They can be used vertically or horizontally.
- Woven wood shades are completely versatile and can match virtually any interior style.
- They are durable and efficient.
- You can also buy custom cordless woven wood bamboo shades to fit your door perfectly.
- They come in a wide range of colors, styles, and fabrics.
Recommended: Essential Cordless Woven Wood Bamboo Shades
Conclusion
When it comes to window treatments, there are numerous alternatives to traditional mini blinds. From faux wood blinds and vertical blinds to roller shades, Roman shades, cellular shades, and creative DIY solutions, the options are endless.
Consider factors such as privacy, light control, insulation, energy efficiency, aesthetics, and personal preferences when choosing the alternative that best suits your needs and decor style. By exploring these alternatives, you can find the perfect window coverings for your living space.
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Need More Help?
Still unsure which alternatives to mini blinds are suitable for your unique situation? Get in touch for help now! Use 24/7 live chat or give us a call at (800) 863-6109 to contact our home improvement and interior design experts for custom solutions.