Are you aware of the silent dangers that traditional corded blinds pose to children and pets in homes and commercial settings? Tragically, these cords have led to countless preventable injuries and even fatalities, creating a serious hidden hazard.
Due to severe strangulation risks to children and pets, new industry standards and government regulations in the United States and Canada now mandate that most new window coverings sold must be cordless or have inaccessible cords, making safety the primary driver for this shift.
As someone deeply involved in sourcing and providing window treatments, I have seen the evolution of safety standards firsthand. What was once a "voluntary" suggestion has become an imperative, profoundly changing how we approach window coverings for any project. This shift is all about protecting our most vulnerable. Today, let us explore the significant changes underway and why cordless blinds[^1] are no longer just an option but a critical requirement.
What is the new law for cordless blinds?
Are you trying to understand the latest rules affecting window coverings[^2], especially for new installations? It is important to know how recent safety mandates impact the blinds you can now purchase and install.
New regulations, primarily effective June 1, 2024, require that nearly all window covering products sold in the United States now be cordless or designed with inaccessible cords. These rules apply to both standard, off-the-shelf blinds and custom-made options.
From my perspective in the industry, these changes are monumental and have been years in the making. The shift began with voluntary standards from the Window Covering Manufacturers Association (WCMA), established in January 2018, with manufacturers adopting them by December 2018. By 2019, all standard model window blinds available for purchase were expected to be cordless. The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) then pushed further, voting in November 2022 to ban window coverings with hazardous cords. This culminated in the new safety standard, ANSI/WCMA A100.1-2022[^3], which truly changed the game. As of June 1, 2024, virtually all window coverings manufactured and sold in the U.S., whether stock or custom, must meet strict requirements for being cordless or having cords that are inaccessible or extremely short. This means the elimination of free-hanging operating cords, free-hanging tilt cords, and multiple cord connectors. The goal is clear: to prevent accidental strangulation, which has tragically injured and killed children for decades. This impacts not just retailers but also every project contractor and designer, as we must now specify and install these safer products.
Why are all blinds cordless now?
Are you curious why traditional corded blinds seem to have vanished from the market? The reason is a profound shift driven by a widespread commitment to child safety.
All standard blinds are now cordless primarily due to extensive data on child strangulation incidents and subsequent industry-wide voluntary standards, which were later reinforced by mandatory regulations aimed at eliminating hazardous cords from window coverings.
The primary catalyst for this widespread change is the alarming number of injuries and deaths caused by accessible blind cords. Between 1990 and 2015 alone, over 16,000 children were injured by these cords, with approximately one child dying each month from strangulation. The sheer volume of these preventable tragedies fueled a strong movement towards safer designs. The problem was clear: children, particularly toddlers, were getting entangled in cords that were often within their reach, and strangulation can happen silently and quickly. This led the industry, through organizations like the WCMA, to implement stringent voluntary safety standards, advocating for cordless products. These standards evolved, first making stock products cordless and then, more recently, extending to custom-made window coverings. The CPSC actively supported and then mandated these changes, recognizing that consumer education and voluntary measures alone were insufficient to fully address the hazard. Thus, the near-universal adoption of cordless designs is a direct response to a critical public safety issue, transforming the entire window covering market to prioritize child protection.
Are cordless blinds safe for children?
Concerned about ensuring the safest environment for children in your projects? Investing in window coverings free from common hazards is a top priority for developers and parents alike.
Yes, cordless blinds are significantly safer for children compared to corded options because they eliminate the strangulation hazard posed by accessible pull cords. This design removes a leading cause of child fatalities and serious injuries related to window coverings.
From my experience, the core benefit of cordless blinds for children’s safety is straightforward: no cords means no strangulation risk. Traditional blinds with their dangling cords, looped cords, or even inner lift cords created potential death traps for curious young children and even pets. The design of modern cordless blinds typically features an internal mechanism concealed within the headrail or bottom rail. To operate them, you simply push up or pull down on the bottom rail. Motorized options further enhance safety by allowing remote or automated control, completely removing any accessible cords. The "Best for Kids" certification, launched by the WCMA and supported by the CPSC, specifically helps consumers and professionals identify products that meet strict criteria for child safety[^4], ensuring they are free from hazardous cords. While no product can guarantee absolute safety from all potential hazards (a child could still, for instance, play roughly with the blind slats), cordless functionality addresses the single most dangerous element previously associated with window coverings. Therefore, when I guide project buyers, prioritizing certified cordless or motorized solutions is always at the top of my recommendations for any family-friendly or public space.
Are corded blinds still legal?
Are you wondering if older corded blinds are now illegal to own or if you can still find them for sale? It is important to clarify the legal status and practical implications of corded window coverings.
While existing corded blinds in homes are generally not illegal to possess, the sale of most new corded window coverings has been effectively banned in the United States since June 1, 2024, under new safety regulations. This means manufacturers can no longer produce or distribute them for general sale.
This is a common question I get from clients and homeowners. It is crucial to understand the distinction between owning existing products and the sale of new ones. The government regulations, primarily driven by the CPSC and enforced through the WCMA and ANSI standards, target the manufacturing and sale of window coverings. They are not retroactive mandates for homeowners to remove or replace existing corded blinds. However, these regulations mean that if you go to buy new blinds from a major retailer, you will find only cordless options. Corded blinds and shades are no longer available for general sale in the United States. This includes a strict elimination of free-hanging operating cords, free-hanging tilt cords, and multiple cord connectors on virtually all new window covering products, including those that are made-to-order. While it is technically possible that some very niche, special-order custom products might still feature cords for specific accessibility needs, these would come with enhanced safety features like retractable or continuous cord loop systems that must be securely anchored. For the vast majority of consumers and projects, the era of readily available corded blinds for new installations is over.
Did America ban blinds with cords?
Are you trying to confirm whether the U.S. has officially prohibited blinds with cords? The answer is a clear yes, particularly concerning their availability for sale to the general public.
Yes, the United States has effectively banned blinds with cords for sale by implementing industry-wide regulations that require new window covering products to be cordless or have inaccessible cords, a measure specifically aimed at preventing child strangulation.
From my vantage point in the window covering industry, this "ban" marks a pivotal moment driven by decades of tragic accidents. While there might not be a single, overarching federal law that explicitly "bans" possession of corded blinds, the market has undergone a fundamental transformation due to a combination of strong voluntary standards becoming effectively mandatory through industry compliance. The Window Covering Manufacturers Association (WCMA) set a key voluntary standard in January 2018 for stock products, and manufacturers quickly adopted it by December of that year. Then, in November 2022, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission[^5] (CPSC) voted to strengthen these requirements, leading to the effective ban on the sale of corded window coverings, including custom products, from June 1, 2024 onwards. This means any company manufacturing, distributing, or selling window coverings in the U.S. must now comply with these child safety standards. So, while it is not illegal to have existing corded blinds, it is virtually impossible to buy new ones unless they are specially ordered for specific accessibility needs and include enhanced safety features. This aggressive move aims to remove a significant hazard from homes and childcare facilities across the nation.
Do landlords have to replace corded blinds?
Are you a landlord or a tenant wondering about the responsibility for replacing existing corded blinds in rental properties? This is a frequent point of confusion, and understanding the nuances is key.
Currently, there is no blanket federal or state law specifically mandating landlords to replace existing corded blinds with cordless ones in the United States. The new safety regulations primarily apply to the sale and manufacture of new window coverings.
When I consult with property managers and landlords, this question often arises. The recent regulations that effectively ban the sale of new corded blinds affect manufacturers and retailers, not necessarily what is already installed in existing properties. Landlords are generally not legally required to provide window coverings at all. However, most choose to do so to make properties more appealing to renters. If blinds are provided as part of the rental, the landlord is typically responsible for their upkeep due to normal wear and tear. If a tenant damages the blinds, the tenant is usually responsible for repairs or replacement. While landlords are not legally compelled to replace existing corded blinds with cordless versions, doing so is highly recommended from a safety and liability standpoint, especially in properties frequently occupied by families with young children. Retrofitting with safety devices like cord cleats or continuous loop tensioners can reduce risk, but replacing them with cordless or motorized options is the most effective way to eliminate the strangulation hazard and protect occupants, offering peace of mind and potentially attracting more tenants.
Is it illegal to rent a house without blinds?
Are you questioning whether landlords are legally required to provide window coverings in rental properties? This concern often comes up for both landlords and prospective tenants.
Generally, no, it is not illegal for a landlord to rent a house without blinds in most parts of the United States. While privacy and light control are important, window coverings are not typically a direct legal requirement for habitability in the same way functioning windows or plumbing are.
From my conversations with property owners, the decision to provide blinds usually comes down to marketability and practicality rather than strict legal obligation. Many landlords choose to install blinds because it makes the property more attractive, allows them to potentially charge slightly higher rents, and prevents tenants from drilling holes or installing unsightly window coverings like sheets, which could violate Homeowner Association (HOA) rules or detract from the property’s aesthetic. However, if a landlord does provide blinds, they are usually responsible for maintaining them due to normal wear and tear. Tenants who find a rental without blinds often choose to install their own, sometimes after getting approval from the landlord. While not legally mandated, I always suggest that properties include at least basic window treatments. It reflects positively on the property and provides a baseline level of privacy and comfort for residents without them having to incur immediate costs or worry about installation.
Conclusion
The global push for cordless blinds stems from a critical need to prevent child strangulation incidents. New regulations in the US have effectively banned the sale of most corded window coverings, making safety the new standard.
Partner for Safer Projects
Navigating evolving safety standards and sourcing compliant, high-quality window coverings can be complex. At VelaBlinds, we are committed to providing smart shading solutions that meet the strictest safety regulations while offering aesthetic appeal and energy efficiency. Partner with us to ensure your projects are both beautiful and safe, securing peace of mind for your clients.
Email us at: info@velablinds.com
Extended FAQ Section
What is the "Best for Kids" certification for blinds?
The "Best for Kids" certification is a program developed by the Window Covering Manufacturers Association (WCMA) and supported by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). It helps consumers easily identify window covering products that are safest for homes with young children. To receive this certification, a product must undergo laboratory testing and meet stringent criteria, primarily ensuring it has no accessible cords or that any cords present do not create a strangulation hazard. This includes designs like completely cordless operation, motorized systems, or enclosed continuous cord loops with tension devices. Products with this label provide an extra layer of assurance for project buyers and homeowners that the window treatments are designed with child safety as a top priority. Look for this certification when specifying blinds for nurseries, schools, or any spaces where children will be present.
How do cordless blinds actually work without visible cords?
Cordless blinds operate using an internal spring-loaded or tension system hidden within the headrail or bottom rail. Unlike traditional blinds that rely on external pull cords to raise or lower them, cordless designs are manipulated directly by pushing up or pulling down on the bottom rail of the blind itself. This internal mechanism maintains the blind’s position seamlessly. Some models may feature a small handle or tab on the bottom rail for easier grip. For tilting slats, a wand or finger swipe can be used. Motorized cordless blinds go a step further, using a small, battery-powered or hardwired motor to control movement, often via a remote control, wall switch, or smart home app. This completely eliminates any need for manual interaction with the blind body, providing both convenience and the highest level of child safety by removing all accessible chords.
What are safe temporary solutions for existing corded blinds?
If you have existing corded blinds and cannot immediately replace them with cordless options, there are several temporary safety measures recommended by the CPSC and the Window Covering Safety Council. While these steps do not entirely eliminate the hazard, they can significantly reduce the risk of strangulation. First, move all cribs, beds, and furniture away from windows with cords. Shorten pull cords as much as possible by cutting looped cords above the tassel and re-tying, or using cord cleats mounted high on the wall (at least five feet from the floor) to wrap excess cord. For continuous loop cords, ensure they are anchored tightly to the wall or floor with a tension device. You should also ensure that cord stops are properly installed on inner lift cords to prevent dangerous loops. It is vital to regularly check these safety measures, as children are resourceful and can find ways to access tempting cords. However, replacing all corded blinds with cordless or motorized options remains the safest and most permanent solution for preventing tragic accidents.
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[^1]: Explore how cordless blinds eliminate strangulation risks, making them a safer choice for homes with children.
[^2]: Discover the safest window covering options that comply with new safety regulations.
[^3]: Get insights into this important safety standard that governs window covering design.
[^4]: Explore various strategies to improve child safety, particularly regarding window coverings.
[^5]: Understand the CPSC's impact on window covering safety regulations and consumer protection.Partner with VelaBlinds for Your Next Project
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"I built VelaBlinds to solve the real challenges I faced as a project buyer – long lead times, unclear specs, and unreliable suppliers. Let’s discuss how we can power your projects with smarter blinds."
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