When it comes to window coverings, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. Different types of blinds offer various features with advantages or disadvantages depending on how you use a particular room and where the sun hits the window at different times of day. Style, utility, privacy, light control, and cost may help dictate your window covering choices. For example, you may want blackout shades in your bedroom or where you watch television, but prefer diffuse light in your kitchen or bathrooms. The right coverings can transform a room’s feel or improve energy efficiency.
At Best Blinds & Awnings in Lewiston, Idaho, we help homeowners select window coverings that best match their spaces and lifestyle. Three popular choices stand out among the different blinds and shades available: roller blinds, Roman blinds, and cellular shades. Here’s how they compare—and how to choose the right ones for the rooms in your home.
Roller Blinds: Clean, Modern, and Low-Maintenance
Roller blinds are exactly what they sound like: single pieces of fabric that roll up and down using a chain or motorized system. They’re ideal if you want a sleek, minimal look. Perfect for modern or transitional spaces, roller blinds come in a wide range of fabrics, including blackout and light-filtering options.
Pros:
- The simple design works in almost any room
- They are easy to clean and maintain
- Choices are budget-friendly
- Works well for layering with curtains or drapes when you want the ease and utility of roller blinds but are aiming for a softer aesthetic
Cons:
- Offer less insulation compared to other options
- Light gaps are visible around the edges unless you add side channels
Roller blinds are ideal for kitchens, bathrooms, offices, or any room where simplicity and ease are desirable.
Roman Blinds: Elegant and Timeless
Roman blinds are made from long pieces of fabric that fold neatly into soft pleats when raised, adding texture and a touch of luxury to your windows. These are a favorite for living rooms, dining rooms, and bedrooms where aesthetics matter just as much as function.
Pros:
- Add softness and elegance to a room
- Come in a wide range of fabrics and patterns
- Offer good light control
Cons:
- Not as easy to clean as roller blinds
- Not ideal for high-humidity areas like kitchens or bathrooms
Roman shades are best for formal spaces, cozy master bedrooms, or anywhere you want a more decorative feel.
Cellular Shades: Smart Design Meets Energy Efficiency
Also known as honeycomb shades, cellular blinds have a unique structure that traps air within their cells. This creates depth to the shades, offering a layer of insulation that helps regulate indoor temperatures year-round. This is especially valuable in Lewiston, where summers can be hot and winters cold.
Pros:
- Provide top-notch insulation and energy efficiency.
- Excellent for light control, including blackout options
- Available in cordless and motorized styles for child safety
Cons:
- Slightly more expensive than roller shades or Roman blinds
- Because of the design, the fabric can be harder to clean than vinyl or wood
Cellular shades are suitable for bedrooms, nurseries, and any room where temperature control and comfort are a priority. They can also be paired with curtains or drapes, like roller shades.
So, Which Should You Choose?
What works for you will depend on the style you are aiming for, as well as utility. Roller blinds tend to work well with modern interiors, and they are very budget-friendly. Roman shades have a much softer and more luxurious aesthetic, and work better with traditional decor. Cellular shades are great for energy efficiency and provide good light control without the harshness of conventional slat blinds. They can work with both modern and traditional styles.
Still not sure? At Best Blinds & Awnings in Lewiston, our team can show you real samples, help you compare options side-by-side, and even provide professional measuring and installation. We know that blinds aren’t just window coverings—they’re a key part of your home’s look, feel, and comfort. Contact our Lewiston showroom or schedule a no-cost in-home consultation. We’ll help you find the perfect fit for every window in your home.