When you’re fixing up and furnishing a rental property, selecting blinds and shades for the windows might not be the first item on your to-do list. Property owners tend to focus on the paint colors or finding a carpet that hopefully doesn’t show every scuff mark. But the truth is, the window coverings you select can make a big difference—not just in how the space looks but also in how easy it is to maintain and how attractive it is to potential renters. Plus, let’s be honest: no one wants to wrestle with cheap, bent metal blinds when showing the place off to a new tenant.
Here’s your ultimate guide to selecting blinds and shades for your rental property, brought to you by Best Blinds & Awnings—your friendly neighborhood window treatment experts in Coeur d’Alene, Spokane, and Lewiston!
Durability Matters (A Lot)
Let’s start with the biggest factor: durability. Rental properties sustain more wear and tear than an owner’s residence. Tenants might not treat window coverings with the same TLC you would in your own home. That’s why you need blinds and shades built to last.
Faux wood blinds are a stellar choice here. They look just as polished as real wood but are far more resistant to warping, cracking, and moisture—perfect for hot Spokane summers or chilly Idaho winters. Aluminum blinds are another durable option, especially for high-traffic areas or properties with frequent tenant turnover. If you’re aiming for a more modern look, roller shades made with durable, easy-to-clean fabrics are practically a landlord’s best friend.
Style vs. Function: The Sweet Spot
You want your rental to feel like a home, but it’s also not the place to install custom silk drapes or those ultra-fancy blinds that cost as much as a month’s rent. The goal is to find window coverings that strike a balance between style and practicality.
For living rooms and bedrooms, consider neutral-colored cellular shades or roller shades. They look sleek and go with almost any décor style, so tenants can bring their own personality to the space. Bonus points: Cellular shades also help with insulation so they keep utility costs down—a welcome extra that might just nudge your tenants toward signing that lease.
In kitchens and bathrooms, where things tend to get steamy or messy, stick with moisture-resistant options like faux wood or vinyl blinds. These materials are easy to wipe down and won’t be phased by the occasional spaghetti sauce splatter or shower steam.
Light Control: Let There Be (the Right Amount of) Light
Good lighting can make or break a rental property. Tenants love natural light, but they also value privacy—especially in bedrooms and bathrooms.
Blinds with adjustable slats, like faux wood or aluminum blinds, are ideal for allowing tenants to control light and privacy levels. For spaces where light filtering is key (think living rooms or home offices), roller shades with light-diffusing fabrics are an excellent choice. They soften harsh sunlight without plunging the room into total darkness.
Easy Maintenance = Happy Landlord and Tenant
Let’s face it: No one wants to clean blinds, especially not tenants who are already juggling move-in checklists or landlords who have five other units to manage. That’s why easy-to-clean options are a must.
Look for blinds and shades made with low-maintenance materials. Faux wood, vinyl, and aluminum blinds can be wiped down in minutes with a damp cloth. Steer clear of fabric shades in high-traffic areas unless they’re specifically designed to resist stains or are easily washable.
Safety First (Especially for Family Rentals)
If your property is geared toward families, child safety is a top-of-the-list consideration. Opt for cordless blinds or shades to eliminate the risk of dangling cords. These options not only look sleek and modern but also give parents peace of mind.
Go With the Pros
Choosing the right blinds and shades for your rental property might seem like a small decision, but it can have a big impact on the property’s overall appeal, maintenance costs, and tenant satisfaction. By prioritizing durability, practicality, and style, you’ll set your rental up for long-term success (and fewer frantic calls about broken blinds).
Ready to upgrade your rental property’s window coverings? Best Blinds & Awnings is here to help! With locations in Coeur d’Alene, Spokane, and Lewiston, we specialize in custom blinds and shades tailored to your needs. Visit our website or make an appointment today to explore your options. Your tenants—and your to-do list—will thank you!