Child-Safe Blinds: What Every Parent Should Know

Looped blind cords can be a serious hazard for babies and young children, who can get caught in them. The good news is that making your home safer is straightforward, and many of the most popular blinds can now be supplied without any cords at all.

Choose cordless where you can

Cordless and motorised blinds remove the problem completely. In children’s bedrooms and nurseries we recommend cordless operation, or a system with no accessible cords.

If a blind does have a cord

Cords and chains should be kept short and secured with a safety device fixed to the wall or window frame, so they cannot form a loop within a child’s reach. Safety devices need to be installed properly, which is something we do as part of every fitting.

Think about the room as well as the blind

Keep cots, beds, playpens and climbable furniture away from windows and blind cords. Even a blind that is safe on its own can become a risk when a child can climb up to it.

Shutters have no cords

Plantation shutters are operated by a tilt rod or by hand and have no loose cords, so they are a naturally child-friendly choice.

Standards and good practice

Blinds sold in the UK have to meet safety requirements, including a standard for internal blinds that covers cord safety (BS EN 13120). This is general guidance only, and the manufacturer’s instructions for a particular blind always come first.

Tell us if you have young children at home or visiting often when we survey, and we will recommend the safest option for each window. If you would like advice for your own windows, we offer a free, no-obligation survey and quote across Derby, Nottingham and Burton-upon-Trent. Call 01332 280585, message us on WhatsApp or use the chat on this page.