DRAPERY STREET: Safe and Shady

Cordless Blinds are Sleek, Stylish & Safe

When it comes to choosing window treatments, there are many options. It’s important, however, to be aware of the safety issues associated with shades that have long cords because they present a strangulation hazard to small children and pets. In fact, new industry standard rules passed in January 2018 state that by the end of the year, U.S. consumers will be unable to purchase window treatments with accessible cords. They will have to go to a window treatment specialist for corded options. This is because according to the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), nearly one child death per month is caused by entanglement in window blinds. Window treatment specialists, however, can walk clients through all viable options and determine the best one for you.

“If we’re meeting with someone to choose window treatments for an in-law suite for their aging parents, for example, we may suggest a totally different lift system than if it’s for a baby’s room,” says Caryn O’Sullivan, owner of Drapery Street.

Though cordless options are most popular from both a safety and aesthetic design perspective, there are situations when they simply won’t work. For instance, in a two-story great room, the top of the window cannot be reached. An elderly or disabled person may also struggle with a cordless option. In such instances, your choices are a cord, a motorized blind or a retractable cord. Hunter Douglas makes one called Ultra Glide that’s available through custom order. Hunter Douglas also offers products that can be operated via remote control or smartphone.

Though motorized blinds are costlier, O’Sullivan notes that in the past few years prices have dropped considerably and technology has improved dramatically, making them a viable option for many. Curtains are another safe window treatment option – not to mention a great way to finish a room.

“I view drapes as a picture frame to the window,” O’Sullivan says. “If you have a great view, drapes can really accent that view. They don’t have to block anything.”

Stop into the Drapery Street gallery, located at 200 S. Rangeline Rd., Suite 109 in Carmel, and check out all the lift systems on display. You can give them a call at 317-399-1746 or visit them online at DraperyStreet.com.