I'm curious though—how easy are those cellular shades to clean? Our windows are huge and dust seems to settle everywhere...
We just got manual cellular shades too, and honestly, they're pretty low-maintenance so far. Dust hasn't been a huge issue yet, but we've only had them a few months...maybe someone who's had them longer can chime in? Either way, definitely easier than heavy curtains!
I've had cellular shades installed for about five years now, and while they're generally low-maintenance, cleaning can be a bit tricky if dust really settles in. A quick vacuum with the brush attachment every month or so usually does the trick, but I've had to spot-clean a couple times with mild detergent—nothing too complicated, though. One thing I'm wondering about is fading...has anyone noticed their cellular shades discoloring over time, especially on larger windows with lots of direct sunlight?
I've had mine for around six years, and yeah, I've noticed some slight fading on the ones facing west—probably from the intense afternoon sun. It's subtle, but noticeable when compared to windows without direct sunlight. Honestly though, it's nothing that bothers me enough to replace them yet...just something I keep in mind for future purchases. Maybe lighter colors hide fading better? Curious if anyone else has tried darker shades and noticed quicker discoloration.
I've actually had darker shades in my living room for about four years now, and yeah, they definitely faded quicker than I expected. My windows face southwest, so they get hammered by afternoon sun, especially in summer. Initially, I loved the deep navy color I chose, but after a couple of years, it started looking noticeably washed out compared to the edges hidden behind furniture.
I recently switched to lighter-colored curtains in another room—like a soft beige—and honestly, fading hasn't been nearly as noticeable. I'm guessing the lighter shades just mask the discoloration better. Another thing I've found helpful is using sheer curtains or UV-blocking window films behind the main curtains. It cuts down on direct sunlight and seems to slow down fading quite a bit.
Just something to consider if you're attached to darker colors but worried about fading.
"Another thing I've found helpful is using sheer curtains or UV-blocking window films behind the main curtains."
Interesting point about the UV films—I hadn't thought of that. My parents have these massive floor-to-ceiling windows in their living room, and they went for dark charcoal curtains thinking it'd block out glare better. Same issue though, after a couple summers, those curtains looked like they'd been through the laundry cycle one too many times, lol.
Weirdly enough, my own living room has medium-colored gray shades, and they seem to be holding up okay. Maybe it's just luck? Or maybe it's because there's a big maple tree outside that offers some shade during peak sun hours... who knows.
But now you've got me curious about the UV film. Is it noticeable at all when you look out the windows? Like does it alter the view much or make things look tinted? Wouldn't want to lose my crystal-clear bird-watching mornings over it.
I've tried UV films before, and honestly, they weren't my favorite. They did help with fading furniture and curtains, but I found they gave the view outside a slightly bluish or grayish tint—nothing drastic, but noticeable enough to bug me. If you're really into clear bird-watching mornings, you might find it distracting. Maybe test it out on a smaller window first before committing to the big ones?
"They did help with fading furniture and curtains, but I found they gave the view outside a slightly bluish or grayish tint—nothing drastic, but noticeable enough to bug me."
Yeah, I totally get what you're saying about the tint. UV films can be hit or miss depending on your priorities. I've used them myself, and while the slight color shift didn't bother me personally (I'm more about energy savings and protecting furniture), I can see how it might get irritating if you're into crystal-clear views—especially for bird-watching.
Testing on a smaller window first is actually a smart idea. That way, you can see how much it bothers you over time without committing fully. Another option might be looking into sheer solar shades—they're pretty subtle and don't mess with colors as much. I've seen some that roll up completely out of sight when you're not using them, which could be perfect if you love your morning views.
Either way, big windows are always tricky to cover without losing what makes them great in the first place. Good luck figuring it out... you'll find something that works!
"Testing on a smaller window first is actually a smart idea."
Yeah, that's exactly what I did—tried one small window first. Glad I did, because the bluish tint bugged me more than I expected. I've been looking into cellular shades lately...heard they're good for insulation and don't mess with colors. Anyone here tried those? Curious if they really help with fading furniture or if that's just marketing hype.
I've had cellular shades for about two years now—quick thoughts:
- Definitely helps with insulation, noticed less draftiness in winter.
- Colors stay true, no weird tints or anything.
- Furniture fading...eh, still happens a bit if you get direct sun all day. Better than nothing, but don't expect miracles.
Overall, pretty happy with mine. Just don't go super cheap—had a friend who did and they looked kinda sad after a year or so, lol.
Totally agree on not going too cheap. I made that mistake with some roller shades a while back and regretted it—frayed edges and weird wrinkles after just a few months. Cellular shades have been solid for me too, especially insulating-wise. One thing I'd add: if your windows are huge, consider motorized ones. They're pricier upfront but honestly worth it to avoid wrestling with cords every day...especially if they're up high or hard to reach.