Best and Worse Window Coverings for Allergies

If you’re allergic to dust, dust mites, pet dander, or pollen, you may not realize how much your home environment contributes to your allergy symptoms. Unfortunately, the many undisturbed surfaces throughout your home make it a playground for allergens. One way to reduce the number of particles in the air is to choose your window coverings carefully. Here are five of the best options for people with allergies, plus four window treatments you may want to avoid.

Which Window Coverings to Install if You Have Allergies

• Roller shades: As a no-fuss window covering with a completely flat surface, roller shades are some of the best options for allergy sufferers. Dust buildup is minimal when the shades are pulled down, and particles can’t settle on them at all when they’re rolled up.
• Roman shades: Many people like the look of Roman shades because of their sleek appearance, both when opened and closed. The flat, vertical surface is also less likely to attract dust. To clean Roman shades, simply vacuum them with the brush attachment.
• Vertical blinds: The wide, vertical slats of these window coverings make them less prone to collecting dust. Cleaning them is also a breeze—just wipe off each slat with a slightly damp microfiber cloth.
• Wide-slat horizontal blinds: Available in wood and faux wood, wide-slat blinds are easy to wipe down with a damp cloth, removing dust and other allergens in the process.
• Wood or faux wood shutters: As with wide-slat blinds, shutters have relatively few surfaces for dust to settle on. The solid material is also a breeze to clean, maintaining a sleek, beautiful appearance and providing excellent light control options.

Which Window Coverings to Avoid if You Have Allergies

• Heavy drapes: The thick folds and soft material of heavy drapes are a magnet for dust, pet hair, and other allergens, especially if the fabric pools on the floor. If you like how drapery looks, choosing a thin, airy style is better for your allergies.
• Dry-clean-only curtains: While the material may be high-end, steer clear of curtains that require dry cleaning. You’ll be less motivated to wash your window coverings if you can’t do it at home. Plus, dry cleaning chemicals may further aggravate your allergies.
• Mini blinds: With dozens of small slats, mini blinds collect more dust and are harder to clean.
• Cellular blinds: The honeycomb shape and soft fabric of cellular blinds allow them to trap more airborne particles than other types of window treatments. Cleaning dust from the cellular “tunnels” is also all but impossible.

Turn to Value Blinds & Shutters for the best selection of high-quality shutters, blinds, and shades from Hunter Douglas and other top brands. We have over 18 years of experience helping Denver-area homeowners make their homes more beautiful, functional, and comfortable with the right window treatments. To request a free in-home consultation, please call 303-663-8120 or contact us online. You can also visit our showroom in Castle Rock on weekdays from 9 am to 5 pm.