Child-Safe Blinds: Essential Safety Standards and Tips for Parents

Every parent wants their home to be a safe place for their children. When it comes to window coverings like blinds, shutters, and curtains, safety is often overlooked. Yet, these everyday items can pose serious risks, especially to young children and pets. There are clear safety standards and practical options designed to reduce hazards. This guide explains what parents need to know about child-safe blinds, cordless designs, and why professional fitting matters.

Perfect Fit blinds. One of the many child-safe options for your windows

Understanding the Risks of Traditional Blinds

Blinds with cords have been linked to tragic accidents involving children. The main danger comes from the loops and cords that can cause strangulation if a child gets entangled. According to the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA), there have been multiple incidents in the UK where children have been seriously injured or worse due to unsafe blind cords.

The risk is highest for children under five, who are naturally curious and may not understand the danger. Even if cords are out of reach, children can climb furniture to access them. This makes it essential for parents to choose safer alternatives and follow strict safety guidelines.

UK Safety Standards for Child-Safe Blinds

The UK government and safety organisations have introduced regulations to reduce risks. The key standards include:

• BS EN 13120: This European standard covers the safety requirements for internal blinds. It includes tests for cord strength, breakaway devices, and limits on loop lengths.

• The Child Safety (Corded Window Coverings) Regulations 2022: These regulations ban the sale of blinds with unsafe cords and require manufacturers to provide clear safety information.

• British Blind and Shutter Association (BBSA) Guidelines: BBSA promotes best practices for safe blinds, including the use of cordless options and secure fixing methods.

  
  

Manufacturers and retailers in the UK must comply with these standards, but parents should still verify safety features before purchasing.

Why Cordless Blinds Are the Best Choice

Cordless blinds eliminate the risk of strangulation because they do not have accessible cords or loops. Instead, they operate with mechanisms such as:

• Spring-loaded systems that allow the blind to be raised or lowered by hand.

• Motorised blinds controlled by remote or smart devices.

• Tensioned blinds that stay in place without cords.

  
  

Cordless blinds are widely available in a variety of styles, including Roller blinds, Roman blinds, and Vertical Blinds. They offer the same functionality and aesthetic appeal without compromising safety.

Benefits of Cordless Blinds for Families

• Reduced risk of accidents: No cords means no strangulation hazard.

• Ease of use: Simple to operate for all family members.

• Cleaner look: No dangling cords improve the room’s appearance.

• Compliance with regulations: Meets UK safety standards.

  
  

The Role of Professional Fitting in Safety

Even the safest blinds can become hazardous if installed incorrectly. Professional fitting ensures:

• Secure fixing: Blinds are firmly attached to walls or window frames, preventing them from falling.

• Proper cord management: If cords are present, they are fitted with safety devices like cleats or tensioners.

• Correct operation: Professionals check that blinds open and close smoothly without risk of entanglement.

• Compliance with building regulations: Ensures the installation meets all legal requirements.

  
  

Many UK companies offer fitting services with trained technicians who understand child safety. Investing in professional installation reduces risks and provides peace of mind.

Practical Tips for Parents to Improve Window Safety

Beyond choosing the right blinds and fitting them professionally, parents can take additional steps to protect children:

• Keep cords out of reach: Use cleats or cord winders to secure cords high on the wall.

• Avoid placing furniture near windows: Children can climb to reach cords if furniture is close.

• Regularly inspect blinds: Check for wear and tear or loose parts that could pose hazards.

• Educate children: Teach older children about the dangers of cords and blinds.

• Consider shutters or curtains: These alternatives often pose fewer safety risks but still require proper installation.

  
  

Comparing Blinds, Shutters, and Curtains for Child Safety

Each window covering type has pros and cons when it comes to child safety:

Blinds: A wide variety of cordless blinds are available, and most corded blinds come with a way to secure any loose cords. It's important that those cords are properly managed. Professional opinions and fitting are recommended to ensure your choice of blinds offers the right safety features and are installed correctly.

Shutters: No cords make them a fantastic option when child safety is your number one priority. They are very durable but quite heavy, so proper installation is essential to prevent them from falling and causing harm or damage.

Curtains: A Curtain pole means no cords are necessary. They can simply be opened and closed manually. You can also get track Curtains, which can come with a motorised option if preferred, giving you the function of the track without any cords. Tiebacks can also pose a risk, though there are also alternative options for keeping curtains out of the way without them.

Parents should weigh these factors based on their home layout, child’s age, and personal preferences.

Where to Find Child-Safe Blinds in the UK

Many UK retailers and manufacturers specialise in child-safe window coverings. Some tips for finding the right supplier:

• Look for products labelled 'cordless' or 'child-safe'.

• Check for compliance with BS EN 13120 and other safety standards.

• Ask about professional fitting services.

• Read customer reviews focusing on safety and quality.

• Consider local companies that understand UK regulations and offer personalised advice.