Smart Solutions for Child-Safe, Stylish Windows
Cordless wood blinds with tilt wand. Photography courtesy of Lafayette Interior Fashions
As a window treatment professional, I am well aware of the statistics on deaths and injuries sustained by children from shades and other window coverings. I am committed to keeping homes safe by educating my clients on choosing safe products.
Identifying Hidden Hazards in Window Coverings
What is dangerous about window treatments? The most common things are loose cords from older Roman shades and cord loops that are not attached to the wall with a tension device (or are improperly attached). Additionally, the cords on the back side of shades can also create a hazard.
Soft roman shades with bead chain and clutch. Bead chain is secured to the window frame with a tension device.
Safe & Stylish Options for Families
For shades or blinds, there are many safe products to choose from at a wide range of price points. Spring-assisted lift systems, cranks, and motorized options are the most common. Bead loops on shades and cord loops for drapery panels are safe as long as they are secured properly to the wall with a tension device.
If you are not sure if your window coverings are safe, I'm happy to consult with you. Often, obsolete cords and operating systems can be replaced at a low cost.
Motorized Man Truc woven wood shades from Lafayette Interior Fashions. Photography courtesy of Lafayette Interior Fashions.
My Commitment to Window Treatment Safety Standards
It is my job to stay up to date on cord safety standards set by the CPSC. I strictly adhere to them in order to provide the highest level of safety on all of the window coverings I fabricate and install. Every product I use in fabrication has passed rigorous testing to ensure it meets or surpasses industry standards and safety laws.
I sell hard treatments such as roller shades and wood blinds from Lafayette Interior Fashions because I know they follow these guidelines as well. If I wouldn't put something in my house, I won't put it in yours.
cordless top down bottom up Parasol honeycomb shades. Photography courtesy of Lafayette Interior Fashions.
Key Takeaways: Child-Safe Window Treatments
Loose cords are the top hazard in older Roman shades, blinds, and window coverings if not secured with proper tension devices.
Safe alternatives are available including cordless shades, spring-assisted lifts, cranks, and motorized window treatments.
Affordable upgrades exist—many outdated cords and systems can be replaced at low cost.
Compliance with CPSC safety standards ensures your family’s window coverings are tested and meet national safety laws.
Peace of mind is foremost when you have children, grandchildren, and visitors in your home or a rental you own. I'd love to help answer your questions, whether you order from me or elsewhere. My goal is to make sure everyone has safe window coverings!
Until next time,
Laura
Meet the Designer
Laura Nelson is the owner and lead designer at Sew Nice, a West Lafayette-based workroom specializing in custom draperies, soft furnishings, and window treatments.
With three decades of experience, Laura helps homeowners and designers elevate their spaces with beautifully crafted, functional designs, from bespoke drapery and shades to slipcovers, pillows, and more.