All About Child Safe Window Coverings

The temps are dropping, and we’re preparing for winter. Now’s a great time to slow down and work on indoor home projects. One very important aspect to consider in your home design is safety, especially if you have children or pets. It’s more common to consider outlets, sharp corners, and protecting your little loved ones from appliances. But window treatments should also be considered. Our team at Randall's promotes safety in the home. Let’s take a look at regulations, what child safe window coverings look like in the home, and what products would work best for your specific design taste. 

The Regulations.

Having exposed cords in the home is a huge risk to children and pets. Luckily, we have standards that don’t allow for any exposed cords under the Corded Window Coverings Regulations, published by the Justice Laws Website. Take a look at the regulations:

Reachable Cords:

“A reachable cord with one free end must not exceed 22 cm in length when it is pulled in any direction.”

Unreachable Cords:

“A cord that is not reachable must remain so, whether the corded window covering is fully opened, fully closed or in any position in between, throughout the useful life of the corded window covering.”

Cords in the Home.

Your home may have blinds cords, since many window treatments featured cords before the regulations were put into place. But, there are certainly risks. If children get access to the cords, they might look at them as a fun toy! This can be extremely dangerous (and even fatal).

Aside from the dangers, cords are also a hassle. To keep them out of the way, there isn’t much else you can do besides tie them up and throw them to the top of the window. Plus, since they’re outdated, there’s a chance the blinds don’t function the same as they used to. 

It’s Time for Cordless Shades. 

The risks and hassle are not worth it. If your home still features cords, it might be time to consider child safe window coverings. Here are a few options.

#1 LiteRise

This cordless window treatments operating system is offered for both blinds and shades. You push up on the shade or pull it down to adjust the position. It’s that simple. 

#2 Automation

There have been so many innovations in the window covering world over the past few years. Our favorite is motorized shades. Child safe shades have never been easier to control—you can quite literally have control at your fingertips.

Along with using a smart device, you can also use voice control. Or, let your automated child safe window coverings do the work for you by creating a set schedule on the PowerView app. You won’t have to think twice about protecting your loved ones. 

#3 SoftTouch Wand Motorization

If you still like to have control right at the window, the SoftTouch Motorization system might be right for you. This features a wand, which rests along the side of the window, and replaces any necessary cords. To adjust your shades, all you do is gently push or pull the wand. If a little one gains access to it and pulls on the wand too hard, it will disconnect from the magnet that holds it in place. 

#4 Shutters

Interior shutters have been popular for decades for their stunning look. But, they are also considered to be child safe window coverings because they have no cords attached. 

Are There Safe Cords?

Sometimes, a cord is just necessary. When you have windows that are hard-to-reach, due to ceiling height or furniture placement, sometimes a cord is necessary.

UltraGlide

UltraGlide window treatments allow for a cord while maintaining child safe regulations. The short cord (less than 22cm!) extends to operate and then retracts to the short position. No dangling, dangerous cords!

Ask Our Child Safety Experts. 

If you’re unsure about the safety of your window treatments, we want to help. Your home’s safety is one of our top priorities. Let our designers answer all of your questions and ensure that you have child safe window coverings in your home. Contact our team today at Randall’s for your free, in-home consultation.