As families get ready for another school year, it’s also a good time to look around your home and make sure everyday features are as safe as possible for young children. Window coverings are one area that shouldn’t be overlooked.
Choose Cordless Blinds Whenever Possible
Traditional window coverings with cords can create a serious hazard for young children. Cords and chains can become wrapped around a child’s neck, particularly when furniture such as beds, cribs or chairs is positioned close to a window.
Cordless blinds and shades eliminate hanging operating cords, making them an excellent choice for family homes. Many modern styles offer simple push-button, lift-and-lower or touch-operated mechanisms while maintaining a clean, attractive appearance.
Consider Motorized Window Coverings
Motorized blinds and shades offer another convenient, child-friendly option. With no dangling cords or chains, they can help reduce potential hazards while making it easy to control hard-to-reach windows.
Depending on the product, motorized coverings can be operated with a remote, wall switch or smartphone and can even be programmed to open and close at specific times. This can be especially useful for bedrooms and playrooms or where windows may be difficult to access safely.
Pay Attention to Hardware and Placement
Child safety isn’t just about the window covering itself. Make sure mounting brackets, cords and other hardware are securely installed and regularly check for loose or damaged components.
Keep beds, cribs, sofas and other furniture away from windows where possible to prevent children from accessing blinds, shades and their operating mechanisms.
If you already have corded window coverings, consider whether they can be replaced with a cordless or motorized alternative. Depending on the product, child-safe hardware may also be available to improve safety.
A Safer Home for the School Year
Back-to-school season is a natural opportunity to review safety throughout your home. By choosing cordless or motorized window coverings and paying attention to hardware and furniture placement, parents can help create a safer environment for children without sacrificing style or convenience.
If you’re considering updating your window coverings, come and talk to one of our experts at Island Window Coverings about child-safe options that suit your home’s windows, décor and everyday needs.