I want to chat about the new regulations affecting Canadian window coverings that came into effect on May 1, 2022. Cordless blinds regulations affect what I do, and the design industry in general. This new legislation was put into place to eliminate child strangulation risks due to accessible cords. They ensure our pets are safer, too.

I had a great chat about this with my go-to supplier, Mark Thomas of Budget Blinds, Peterborough. Mark and I have worked together on many projects over the past 8 years, and I have a great confidence in their product line, their quality of service, and the new products they have introduced to address this new legislation.

I share that video chat further down, but before we get to that, let’s have a reminder of a few things in general.

Closed window blind with plant in stand on window sill — Cordless Blinds

What do these new regulations mean for our home decor needs? No more blinds or shades with dangling cords. However, there are some great solutions in place.

What Window Blinds Are

One of the questions I get asked a lot is what is the difference between blinds and shades? In general conversation, we tend to interchange both terms, so here’s the distinction between the two.

Blinds are louvered slats (ie mini blinds back in the day) that can be raised up or lowered, as well as tilted to control the sun.

A shade, on the other hand, is a fabric or material that comes down from the top and covers your window, ie a Roman Shade. They have the up-down movement, the don’t have the tilting action of a blind.

While I’m here, the third type of related window covering is the shutter. We all pretty much know this one as a frame of vertical and horizontal louvers that is hinged to the window. The slats move up and down, and the shutter frame swings open and closed on those hinges.

Which Window Blinds Are Best?

That’s another frequently asked question. The answer to this one is not straight forward. There are many things to consider when choosing the best blinds for your particular needs. The new cordless blinds regulations will also direct the available choices.

It will depend first on the function that you need.

Are you needing some privacy from the nosy neighbours?
Is the sun coming in so strong and hot that you’re driven out the room?
How much sun protection do you want?
Do you want some protection and daytime privacy while being able to enjoy a pretty view?
Would an insulating factor be a good choice for your room?
Do you want it to feel light and airy with a sheer fabric, or do you need full blackout for those on shift work who sleep during the daytime?

You will want to consider a quality product that will give you good service for years to come. You’re making an investment when purchasing your window treatments, and you want to get it right.

You will also want to consider the style of your decor. Different blinds, shades or shutters each bring a unique sense of style to a space.

For example, Roman blinds (or should I say shades) are timeless, and bring a sense of luxury to the look and feel of almost any space.

Plantation shutters are the perfect choice on sliding patio doors. They allow the natural light in and let you enjoy that pretty view in the back yard or deck.

Cellular shades are versatile, insulating, and just so pretty in my opinion. They work on so many window types, and one great recommendation from Budget Blinds is to use them on French doors because of their tight stack.

Did you know that cellular shades are cordless? That makes them the perfect product solution for the cordless blind Canada is now requiring.

What Has The Cordless Blinds Regulations Affected?

There are very specific details laid out in this new legislation. Click Here for all the exact definitions and specifications shown on the Government of Canada website.

It does say, and I quote, “corded window covering means an indoor window that is equipped with at least one cord.” It talks about the exact meanings of cord, loop, and reachable. In general, the reachable cord cannot be longer than 22cm when it’s pulled in any direction.

In our video chat, I believe Mark mentions that we no longer have the top down-bottom up product as we knew it. There are modified versions with two fabric versions now that comply.

We know that most blinds and shades are still available. However, they are available without the corded lift system we’ve enjoyed in the past.

How Do Cordless Window Blinds Work?

We now see the cordless lift to raise and lower, simply by hand pushing-pulling the bottom of the shade. And of course, the motorized lift and lower is a terrific option, and one that gives you a smart feature in your home by interfacing with your phone.

Both of these products have been around for a while and are really great to have. And now, with the smart technology feature, it’s even better.

Mark shares some great advice and product solutions in this video chat we had. Learn, enjoy and contact me for the help you need with your decor and window treatments. Bad decor is just as expensive as good decor.

Changes to the Canada Consumer Product Safety Act in the form of an Annex to the Corded Window Coverings Regulations came into affect May 1, 2022. Jill chats with Mark Thomas, Budget Blinds Peterborough, about how this affects our industry and what products replace the corded options no longer available.

My best advice is to get the information from a trusted and informed source who understands the Cordless Blinds Regulations, and can provide the regulated products you need. Mark and I are always available to help.