If you’re in the market for new window treatments, you may have come across pleated shades (also known as pleated blinds or accordion blinds). But what are they? What are the pros and cons of using them? How much do they cost? And which rooms are they suited for?
In this article, we will answer all of your questions and provide you with everything you need to know in order to decide if they are the right choice for you.
What Are Pleated Shades?
Pleated shades are a popular window treatment choice for many homeowners. They offer a sleek, modern look and can be made in a variety of colors and fabrics. They are also versatile, working well in both small and large windows.
They get their name from the way they fold up when they are raised – in pleats or folds.
They are made of fabric that is pleated or folded, into a series of small accordion-like folds (hence the name). The number of pleats per shade can vary, but most have between seven and twelve.
They offer a number of benefits for your home. For one, they are very good at controlling light ad are a very good light-filtering shade. When open, they provide lots of natural light and when closed, they can block out a great deal of the light from a window. This makes them ideal for bedrooms, nurseries, and home theaters.
The most popular choice is fabric, as it offers a more elegant look. Paper is also available, but they are not as durable as its fabric counterparts.
They are also quite good at providing privacy because they fold up tightly when raised, and they prevent people outside from seeing into your home. This makes them a good choice for bathrooms and bedrooms.
Pleated shades are quite durable and can last for many years with proper care and maintenance.
What Are The Advantages of Pleated Shades?
Pleated shades offer a number of benefits including:
- UV Protection
- Light Control
- Privacy
- Insulation
- Durability
- Ease To Use
- Wide range of fabrics
- Multiple types of cord options – cordless most popular
- Lower cost option
What Are The Disadvantages of Pleated Shades?
- Not as energy efficient as some others
- Only one layer of fabric
- Difficult to clean, yet learn how to clean pleated shades. The pleats can trap dust and dirt, making it hard to get them to look like new again.
Pleated shades are also not always the most stylish option. They can sometimes look dated or frumpy, especially in comparison to other window treatments like blinds or curtains.
How Much Do Pleated Window Shades Cost?
As with most blinds and shades, the cost is dependent on a number of factors, including the material, size, and brand. As a guide, pleated shades can range in price from $20 to $200 per shade.
So, they are not too expensive but are certainly not 100% budget-friendly if you need multiple windows covering.
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What Rooms Are Suitable For Pleated Blinds, And What Rooms Are Not Suitable?
Pleated shades are greatly suited for rooms where privacy and light control are a priority. This includes bedrooms, bathrooms, nurseries, and home theaters. They are also the perfect window treatment for people with allergies or sensitivities to dust and dirt, as they can help to keep these particles out of the air.
While they are good for a number of rooms, there are also some rooms where they may not be an excellent choice. One room where they might not be ideal is the kitchen.
Kitchens are often hot and humid, which can cause warping or discoloration over time.
Cleaning can also be difficult, naturally, they will likely get splattered with food or grease. This is something to keep in mind if you have young children who like to help out in the kitchen!
If you do choose to use them in the kitchen, be sure to get shades that are made from a durable or easily cleaned material.
Cleaning Pleated Shades
The great way to clean pleated shades is to vacuum them with the brush attachment on your vacuum cleaner. You can also dust them with a microfiber cloth. If they get wet, you can spot-clean them with mild detergent and water. Just be sure not to soak them or put them in the washing machine, as this can damage the fabric.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the difference between pleated and cellular shades?
Pleated window shades have folded or pleated fabric forming a series of small accordion-like folds. Cellular shades have fabric made up of small cells, or pockets, that trap air. This makes them a more energy-efficient window covering than pleated shades.
Are Pleated Blinds Durable?
Pleated blinds are quite durable. They can last for many years with proper care and maintenance.
Can Pleated Shades be 100% blackout?
If your room is just not dark enough, you can upgrade your shades with a room-darkening liner, effectively turning them into blackout shades. Blackout liners are available for most pleated shades, and they’re a great way to improve the light-blocking abilities of your window coverings.
If you want complete darkness in a room, specific blackout shades are a better option than pleated shades. However, if you’re just looking to reduce the amount of light that comes in, pleated shades with blackout liners will do the trick!
Do Pleated Shades Provide UV Protection?
Yes, pleated shades can provide UV protection for your home. When closed, they can block up to 99% of harmful UV rays. This helps to protect your furniture and flooring from fading and damage.
Final Thoughts
If you are considering installing pleated shades, you can now see that they are a great option. They are durable, effective at controlling light and privacy, and stylish to boot. They are also relatively affordable, making them a great choice for budget-conscious shoppers. Be sure to keep in mind the specific needs of your room when choosing pleated shades, as they may not be ideal for every space.
Just be sure to take into account the potential difficulty of cleaning before making your final decision.
