The Serious Part First
Window blind cords are among the top hidden hazards in homes with young children. The CPSC reports that on average, about one child per month dies from window covering cord strangulation. Many more are injured.
This isn't meant to scare you—it's meant to inform you. The good news is that completely safe options exist, and they're not even more expensive than corded alternatives.
What Makes Window Treatments Dangerous
The hazards include:
- Looped cords – The most dangerous. A child can get their head caught in the loop.
- Long pull cords – Can wrap around a child's neck.
- Inner cords – Even "cordless" blinds sometimes have accessible inner cords that can be pulled out.
Any cord within reach of a child—including from cribs, beds, and furniture they might climb on—is a potential hazard.
Completely Cordless Options
Cordless Lift Blinds and Shades
These operate by pushing up on the bottom rail to raise and pulling down to lower. No cords whatsoever. Available in almost every style:
- Honeycomb/cellular shades
- Roller blinds
- Roman shades
- Faux wood blinds
- Pleated shades
Motorized Blinds
Remote, app, or voice-controlled. Zero cords, and you get the added benefit of convenience.
Plantation Shutters
No cords at all—just solid panels with adjustable louvers. One of the safest options available.
Curtains and Drapes
Basic curtains have no mechanical parts to worry about. Just make sure tiebacks are out of reach.
Making Existing Blinds Safer
If you already have corded blinds and can't replace them immediately:
1. Move cribs, beds, and furniture away from windows – Children shouldn't be able to reach cords even when standing on furniture.
2. Install cord cleats – These anchor cords to the wall out of reach. It's a free retrofit from most manufacturers.
3. Cut looped cords – Convert continuous loops into individual cords with separate pulls.
4. Use cord stops – These prevent inner cords from being pulled out.
5. Check the back of blinds – Inner lift cords can be just as dangerous as front cords.
These are temporary measures. The only truly safe solution is cordless window treatments.
Room-by-Room Priority
When budgeting for cordless upgrades, prioritize:
1. Children's bedrooms – Highest priority. Kids spend unsupervised time here.
2. Playrooms – Extended time + active play = higher risk.
3. Living areas – Common family spaces.
4. Guest rooms – Lower priority but still should be addressed.
What About Older Homes?
Older homes often have outdated corded blinds in every room. When updating:
- Get a quote for the whole house so you can prioritize
- Consider doing children's rooms first, then the rest over time
- Ask about manufacturer rebate programs for safety upgrades
The WCSC Safety Standard
Look for products certified to the current WCSC (Window Covering Safety Council) standards or ANSI/WCMA A100.1. These meet the latest safety requirements.
As of December 2018, all window coverings sold in the US must meet these standards for new construction. Retrofit products for existing homes may still have cords.
Cost Comparison
Cordless options typically add only a small amount to the cost per window compared to corded versions. For a child's safety, there's no reason not to choose cordless.
Motorized blinds cost more but aren't necessary for safety—basic cordless is sufficient.
What We Recommend
For any home with children under 8 (or where young children visit regularly):
1. Replace all corded blinds with cordless alternatives
2. Prioritize bedrooms and playrooms if doing it in phases
3. Choose motorized for windows children might try to operate themselves
4. Consider shutters for a permanent, cordless solution
We offer free child safety assessments as part of our in-home consultations. We'll identify hazards and recommend cordless options for your home.
