Fabric Vertical Blinds versus Vinyl Vertical Blinds

When it comes to vertical blinds, we often encounter the age-old question, "Which is better, fabric or vinyl?" There is no "right" answer, but a choice of which type of vertical blinds works best in your space. Vinyl vertical blinds are easy to clean (generally, you only need to wipe with damp sponge or cloth, using warm water). By a patio door vertical blinds stand up better to "wear and tear". For this reason alone, vinyl is a popular choice for families who have young children or pools close to their patio doors (children/adults often enter the house wet).

So when are fabric vertical blinds the right choice? If you want a soft and airy look, a sheer fabric may be perfect for your vertical blinds. As with any blinds, however, different fabrics offer different light-diffusing or blocking abilities. Heavier fabrics such as vinyl, wood, or faux wood help darken a room when they're closed (good for a room which has a TV anywhere near the patio doors) and sheer fabrics gently diffuse the light, creating a more romantic effect. Fabric vertical blinds do require more cleaning and care since they collect dirt and dust easier than vinyl vertical blinds. You may find yourself dusting, washing, treating spots or dry cleaning them periodically, depending on the manufacturer's instructions. And as with any cloth or fabric surface in your home, fabric vertical blinds retain odors. That means fabric may not be the best choice if anyone in the house suffers from allergies.

Fabric provices:

• The look of a curtain -(with light control)
• Fabrics can be sheer, textured or plain
• Optional PVC backing
• Ideal for intense sun light

Vinyl provides:

• Ease-of-cleaning
• Room darkening
• Endurance to high moisture
• Better resistance to "wear and tear"

Whichever you choose for your vertical blinds, vinyl or fabric, you'll have the benefit of choosing from a wide array of styles, designs, colors and finishes. Today's manufacturers have created enough variety to help everyone find the perfect look and feel for their room.