Why Are Fewer People Opting for Fabric Curtains?
– High Cost
Initially, one might assume that curtains are a simple and inexpensive addition to a home, with a few hundred thousand being enough for a single window. However, upon further investigation, it becomes clear that curtains can be quite costly.
Certain types of high-end fabric curtains with excellent light-blocking capabilities can be expensive, with the fabric alone costing several hundred per meter. The fabric is usually doubled over to create folds, and an additional layer of sheer fabric is often used, causing the cost to multiply.
On top of that, there are costs for decorative trim, shaping, sewing style, curtain rods, and installation. Altogether, the cost of curtains for a single room can easily reach millions of dong.
– Hassle of Cleaning
Fabric curtains tend to be thick and attract dust easily. Over time, a thick layer of dust accumulates on the curtains, making them difficult to clean. Curtains are often large and heavy, making them cumbersome to wash at home. Home washing machines may not have the capacity to handle the load, and hand washing can result in unsightly wrinkles due to the heat-setting treatment the curtains have undergone.
Taking them to a dry cleaner can be expensive. The cost of curtain cleaning typically ranges from 250,000 to 500,000 dong per set. For a house with five rooms, the total cost of cleaning the curtains could reach several million dong, which is quite a significant expense.
– Potential Formaldehyde Hazard
Curtains are one of the areas in the home most susceptible to formaldehyde pollution, and this can be confirmed with a simple testing device, which will often show levels exceeding the standard.
Some people have shared their experiences, noting that just half an hour after installing new curtains, they began to feel a sore throat. While they didn’t think much of it at first, by the next morning, they felt nauseous due to the strong chemical smell that had permeated the room after the windows were closed for the night.
During the production process, chemical dyes may be used, and these can contain formaldehyde, especially in brightly colored curtains. Even after multiple washes, it is challenging to completely eliminate this chemical, which will continue to off-gas over an extended period, posing a serious health risk to the household.
– Not Pet-Friendly
For homes with pets, fabric curtains can be a challenge. Many people have shared that as soon as they lower their curtains, their pets jump at the chance to scratch and bite them, especially if they are expensive and easily damaged. Dogs and cats tend to view curtains as toys, and the results are often unsightly scratches, frayed edges, and fur all over the fabric. Some people have resorted to tying up their curtains to keep them out of reach of their pets.
Clip: Why Traditional Curtains Are Falling Out of Favor
What Are Modern Alternatives to Fabric Curtains?
Due to the limitations of traditional fabric curtains, many young families are now opting for simpler, more aesthetically pleasing, and easier-to-maintain alternatives.
– Sheer Curtains for the Living Room
An increasing number of households are forgoing the traditional thick fabric curtains in the living room. In reality, some homes have curtains that remain closed all year round, blocking out natural light. Sheer curtains, on the other hand, offer privacy while still allowing sunlight to filter through, creating a bright and airy atmosphere.
When there is a breeze, sheer curtains flutter gently, adding a touch of romance and poetry to the space. For large glass doors or windows in the living room, sheer curtains are an ideal choice: they provide brightness during the day and elegance in the evening when combined with soft lighting.
If you’re concerned about privacy, you can pair sheer curtains with linen curtains or illusion sheers. This combination offers both aesthetic appeal and light control.
– Wooden Blinds
In recent years, wooden blinds have become increasingly popular. They offer the ability to adjust lighting flexibly while bringing a sense of warmth and nature into the space, making them ideal for bedrooms, studies, and more.
Combining wooden blinds with a layer of sheer curtains creates a delicate French atmosphere that is both elegant and luxurious. Whether your style is retro or modern, wooden blinds can complement it beautifully. The sunlight filtering through the wooden slats casts a romantic pattern of light and shadow on the walls and floors.
While wooden blinds are beloved for their aesthetic appeal and lighting control, there are a few important considerations to keep in mind when choosing this option.
Firstly, the quality of the wood is crucial. Inferior wood may release formaldehyde and is more prone to warping and cracking over time, especially with prolonged exposure to sunlight. Look for blinds made from wood with distinct grains, a solid feel, and no strong chemical odor.
Secondly, consider the opening style of your windows. If your windows open inward, you must carefully calculate the length of the blinds when raised to ensure you can still open the windows. This is not an issue if your windows open outward.
Lastly, regular cleaning is essential to maintain the beauty and longevity of your wooden blinds. Fortunately, they are not difficult to clean. A quick dusting with a feather duster every two to three days is usually sufficient, and you can use a mini vacuum cleaner for a more thorough cleaning when needed.
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