Blinds Shop 101: Types, Safety Changes, and How to Choose

Wondering why corded blinds have disappeared from store shelves? You're not alone. Many shoppers across Spokane have noticed this change and want answers.

This guide covers what a local blinds shop carries, why safety laws changed the industry, and how to find the right blinds for your home. We'll walk through popular blind types, explain the new cordless requirements, and share what to look for when choosing a shop.

At Profloors & Blinds, we help Spokane homeowners find window treatments that fit their style and budget. Whether you need blinds for a single room or your whole house, we're here to guide you through your options.

Why Are Blinds Being Discontinued?

Corded blinds are being discontinued due to child safety regulations. About 9 children under 5 die each year from blind cord strangulation, according to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). New safety standards (ANSI/WCMA A100.1-2022) took effect in June 2024. These rules require most blinds sold in the U.S. to be cordless or have inaccessible cords.

Blinds aren't going away — only the dangerous cords are. Today's blinds shops carry cordless, motorized, and wand-operated options instead.

Here's what you should know:

• The CPSC reports around 9 child deaths per year from cord strangulation
• Nearly 17,000 children under age 6 were treated in emergency rooms for window blind-related injuries between 1990 and 2015
• The new ANSI/WCMA standard applies to both stock and custom blinds
• Cordless, motorized, and wand-tilt options are now the standard
• Existing corded blinds aren't illegal, but replacement is recommended

We've helped many Spokane families switch from old corded blinds to safer cordless options. It's a quick upgrade that brings peace of mind.

Types of Blinds You'll Find at a Local Shop

A well-stocked blinds shop offers several styles to match your needs. Here are the most common types you'll find:

• Vinyl mini blinds — Budget-friendly and easy to clean. Great for kitchens, bathrooms, and rentals.
  
• Faux wood blinds — Moisture-resistant and looks like real wood. Works well in humid spaces like bathrooms.
  
• Wood blinds — Natural warmth and a premium look. Best for living rooms, bedrooms, and offices.
  
• Vertical blinds — Best for sliding doors and large windows. Easy to open and close for high-traffic areas.
  
• Vertical shades — A soft fabric alternative to vertical blinds. Adds texture while covering wide openings.
  

Each type comes in different colors, slat sizes, and finishes. The right choice depends on your room, your style, and how much light control you want.

How Cordless Blinds Work

Cordless blinds are simple to use. You lift them by pushing up on the bottom rail. You lower them by pulling down gently. That's it.

There are no cords to tangle, fray, or break. The look is cleaner, and the design is child-safe. Many Spokane homeowners prefer cordless blinds because they're easier to operate than older styles.

For hard-to-reach windows, motorized options are available. These let you raise and lower blinds with a remote or wall switch. Some models even work with smart home systems.

If you've only used corded blinds before, the switch takes no time to learn. Most people find cordless blinds easier after just a day or two.

What to Look for in a Blinds Shop

Not all blinds shops offer the same experience. Here's what to look for when choosing where to buy:

• Wide product selection — Look for a shop that carries wood, faux wood, vertical, and vinyl options. More choices mean a better fit for your space.
  
• Free consultations — A good shop offers free in-home or showroom consultations. This helps you get the right measurements and style advice.
  
• Professional measurement and installation — Proper fit matters. Ask if the shop measures and installs, or if you're on your own.
  
• Warranty and repair services — Blinds can break or wear over time. Choose a shop that stands behind what they sell.
  
• Showroom with samples — Photos don't show how light filters through or how the material feels. Seeing blinds in person helps you make a confident choice.
  

We always recommend touching and testing samples before you buy. What looks great online may not match your room in real life.

Visit Our Blinds Shop Today

Our blinds shop in Spokane is located inside our flooring and window treatment showroom at 6018 E Broadway Ave Suite #1, Spokane, WA 99212. Stop by to browse cordless, motorized, and custom options in person.

We offer free consultations to help you find the right blinds for your home. Our team provides professional measurement and installation so everything fits perfectly.

What to expect when you visit:

• Hands-on samples of wood, faux wood, vertical, and vinyl blinds
• Expert guidance on style, light control, and safety
• Help choosing options that match your budget

Personal flooring and window covering consultations are by appointment only. Call ahead at (509) 866-6776 to schedule your visit.