Are Window Blinds With Cords Illegal?
Are Window Blinds With Cords Illegal/Banned?
Yes. Corded blinds are not governed by state or federal law. Cords on custom-made coverings are now permitted under new, safer guidelines. Custom cords should not be longer than 40% of the window height, according to WCMA guidelines. However, window coverings that have been in production before 2012 may still have cords longer than 40%.
No state or federal agency is responsible for making sure that the safety of your window coverings is maintained. This is up to you. The best way to ensure that you purchase safe window coverings is to ensure they are compliant with the guidelines set by the Window Covering Manufacturers Association (WCMA). These guidelines should be followed at all times.
There are some rules regarding the types of blinds you can use based on your windows’ size. For instance, if it is a standard-sized window (width and height between 34 and 72 inches), awning blinds are usually recommended. To be on the safe side, make sure that you purchase a blind that is 4 to 4.5 feet wide so it will cover more of a window.
These guidelines include:
You must not install blinds with cords longer than 24 inches without written approval from the manufacturer. You must abide by the UL safety test requirements for corded blinds and must have all cords tested at least once every two years through an independent lab testing service by an accredited testing facility approved by the WCMA for this purpose.
Failure to do so can lead to serious injury or death due to fire or electrical failure. This is something that you are legally liable for regardless of whether your blind was sold at a retail store or online.
Can You Still Buy Window Blinds With Cords?
Yes, you can still buy window blinds with cords. However, many companies are now offering cordless window blinds as an alternative. Cordless window blinds are considered to be safer, especially for homes with children and pets.
Cordless window blinds are considered to be safer for homes with small children or pets, as there is no risk of them becoming entangled in the cords.
Cordless window blinds are also easier to operate, as you don’t have to worry about reaching for the cords every time you want to adjust the blinds. Finally, cordless window blinds can give your home a more modern and sleek look.
