Made to Measure Blinds Materials Guide – What to Choose (And What to Avoid)
Authored By Michael Turner
Updated on April 30, 2026
Last Updated: May 2026 | Originally Published: April 2026
Choose polyester roller blinds for living rooms and kitchens (easy clean, affordable). Choose faux wood for bathrooms (moisture resistant). Choose cellular (fabric) shades for bedrooms (energy savings). Avoid real wood in bathrooms (warps) and cheap no-name materials (fragile mechanisms).
Here is what I learned from 2+ years of testing:
- Polyester roller blinds: 2+ years, still look new. Best value.
- Faux wood blinds in bathroom: 2+ years, no warping, no mold. Real wood warped in 8 months.
- Cellular (fabric) shades in bedroom: Saved $47 on heating bill. Worth the extra cost.
- Cheap Amazon blinds: Flimsy mechanisms, poor quality. Avoid.
Who this guide is for: Homeowners choosing materials for made to measure blinds.
Who this guide is NOT for: People who have already chosen their blind type – this guide helps you decide which material within each type.
Made to Measure Blinds Materials Guide – What to Choose (And What to Avoid)
Here is a truth most blind guides will not tell you: The material matters as much as the blind type.
You can buy roller blinds in polyester, vinyl, or even solar mesh. You can buy venetian blinds in faux wood, real wood, or aluminum. The material determines durability, cleaning ease, moisture resistance, and price.
I have tested all of these materials over 2+ years in my own home. I have made mistakes (real wood in bathroom – warped in 8 months). I have found winners (faux wood – still perfect after 2+ years).
This guide covers every blind material I have tested. You will learn which materials to choose for each room – and which materials to avoid entirely.
Let us get into it.
Need to choose a blind type first? See my Made to Measure Blinds Buying Guide.
Quick Reference – Best Material by Room
| Room | Best Material | Why | What to Avoid |
|---|---|---|---|
| Living room | Polyester (roller) | Easy clean, affordable, modern | Real wood (expensive, sun damage) |
| Bedroom | Cellular fabric | Insulation, blackout, quiet | Vinyl (no insulation) |
| Bathroom | Faux wood or vinyl | Moisture resistant, mold proof | Real wood (warps), fabric (mold) |
| Kitchen | Polyester (roller) or vinyl | Easy clean, grease resistant | Fabric (absorbs grease), real wood (warps) |
| Nursery | Polyester (blackout roller) | Complete darkness, easy clean | Any material with cords |
| Home office | Cellular fabric | Energy efficient, professional | Vinyl (looks cheap) |
| Sliding door | PVC (vertical blinds) | Easy clean, durable, affordable | Fabric (harder to clean) |
Material Comparison – At a Glance
| Material | Durability | Moisture Resistance | Cleaning Ease | Insulation | Price | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Polyester (roller) | Good | Fair | Easy | Poor | $ | Living rooms, kitchens |
| Vinyl/PVC | Very Good | Excellent | Easy | Poor | $ | Bathrooms, vertical blinds |
| Faux wood | Excellent | Excellent | Easy | Fair | $$ | Bathrooms, kitchens |
| Cellular fabric | Good | Poor | Hard | Excellent | $$$ | Bedrooms, home offices |
| Real wood | Fair | Poor | Hard | Fair | $$$ | Living rooms (low humidity) |
| Aluminum | Very Good | Excellent | Easy | Poor | $$ | Commercial, modern |
| Solar mesh | Good | Good | Easy | Poor | $$ | Patios, sunrooms |
Polyester (Roller Blinds) – Best for Living Rooms & Kitchens
What I use: Blindster Polyester Roller Blinds
What I paid: $149 per window
How long I have had them: 2+ years
Condition after 2+ years: Still look new
What Is Polyester?
Polyester is a synthetic fabric. It is the most common material for roller blinds. It is durable, affordable, and easy to clean.
Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Affordable (80−200 per window) | Minimal insulation (R-1.0 or less) |
| Easy to clean (wipe with damp cloth) | Can fade in direct sun over years |
| Available in hundreds of colors | Not moisture-proof (fine for kitchens, not bathrooms) |
| Durable – my 2+ year old blinds still look new | – |
| Lightweight – easy to install | – |
Best Uses
| Room | Why It Works |
|---|---|
| Living room | Clean look, easy clean, affordable |
| Kitchen | Wipes clean easily, grease resistant |
| Guest room | Budget-friendly, simple |
| Home office (light-filtering) | Professional look |
What to Avoid
| Situation | Why Avoid |
|---|---|
| Bathrooms | Not fully waterproof (can grow mold) |
| High-humidity areas | Moisture can damage over time |
| Extreme cold climates | No insulation value |
My experience: My polyester roller blinds in the living room and kitchen have held up perfectly for 2+ years. I wipe them down every 3 months. They still look new.
Vinyl / PVC – Best for Bathrooms & Vertical Blinds
What I use: Blinds.com PVC Vertical Blinds
What I paid: $199 for sliding door
How long I have had them: 2+ years
Condition after 2+ years: Good (2 slats replaced after dog ran through them)
What Is Vinyl / PVC?
Vinyl (also called PVC) is a solid plastic material. It is completely waterproof. It is commonly used for bathroom blinds and vertical blinds.
Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| 100% waterproof | Can look “plastic” (not premium) |
| Mold resistant | Limited color options |
| Easy to clean (wipe with damp cloth) | Can yellow in direct sun over years |
| Affordable (50−200) | No insulation value |
| Durable – will not warp or crack | – |
Best Uses
| Room | Why It Works |
|---|---|
| Bathroom | Waterproof, mold resistant |
| Kitchen | Easy clean, grease resistant |
| Sliding doors (vertical blinds) | Durable, affordable, easy slat replacement |
| Rental properties | Cheap, durable, easy to replace |
What to Avoid
| Situation | Why Avoid |
|---|---|
| Living rooms (decorative) | Looks cheap compared to fabric or faux wood |
| Bedrooms | No insulation |
| Homes seeking premium look | Faux wood or fabric looks better |
My experience: My PVC vertical blinds on my sliding door have held up well. They are not beautiful, but they are practical. When my dog broke slats, replacements cost $4 each.
See my full review of vertical blinds in the Made to Measure Blinds Buying Guide.
Faux Wood – Best for Bathrooms & Kitchens (Moisture Resistant)
What I use: Levolor Faux Wood Blinds
What I paid: $179 per window
How long I have had them: 2+ years
Condition after 2+ years: Still look new – no warping, no mold, no peeling
What Is Faux Wood?
Faux wood is a composite material made from PVC and wood fibers. It looks like painted wood but resists moisture. It will not warp, crack, or peel in humidity.
The Real Wood vs. Faux Wood Test
| Material | Bathroom Performance | Result |
|---|---|---|
| Real wood | Warped within 8 months | ❌ Failed |
| Faux wood | 2+ years, still perfect | ✅ Passed |
Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| 100% moisture resistant | Heavier than vinyl or polyester |
| Looks like real wood | More expensive than vinyl (100−250) |
| Durable – will not warp or crack | Limited color options (white, off-white, wood tones) |
| Easy to clean (wipe with damp cloth) | Can look “plastic” in cheap versions |
| Available in cordless | – |
Best Uses
| Room | Why It Works |
|---|---|
| Bathroom | Waterproof, mold resistant |
| Kitchen | Moisture resistant, easy clean |
| Basement | Humidity resistant |
| Rental properties | Durable, long-lasting |
What to Avoid
| Situation | Why Avoid |
|---|---|
| Homes wanting real wood grain | Faux wood looks like painted wood, not natural wood grain |
| Tight budgets | Vinyl is cheaper |
| Bedrooms needing blackout | Slatted blinds always have small light gaps |
My experience: After real wood warped in my bathroom, I replaced them with faux wood. Two years later, they still look new. No warping. No mold. I wish I had bought faux wood first.
Cellular Fabric (Honeycomb) – Best for Bedrooms (Energy Savings)
What I use: Blindster Double Cell Cellular Shades
What I paid: $249 per window
How long I have had them: 18 months
Condition after 18 months: Like new
What Is Cellular Fabric?
Cellular shades (also called honeycomb shades) are made of polyester or non-woven fabric formed into honeycomb-shaped cells. The cells trap air, creating insulation.
How Insulation Works
| Cell Type | R-Value | Insulation Level |
|---|---|---|
| Single cell | R-2.0 to R-2.5 | Good |
| Double cell | R-3.0 to R-4.0 | Very Good |
| Triple cell | R-4.5 to R-5.0 | Excellent |
The Energy Savings Math
| Before Cellular Shades | After Cellular Shades | Savings |
|---|---|---|
| $342 February heating bill | $295 February heating bill | $47 per month |
Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Best insulation of any blind type | Expensive (150−350 per window) |
| Blackout options available | Bulky when raised |
| Noise reduction | Cannot get wet (water destroys cells) |
| Soft, fabric appearance | Harder to clean (vacuum only) |
| Cordless options available | – |
Best Uses
| Room | Why It Works |
|---|---|
| Bedroom | Insulation, blackout, quiet |
| Home office | Energy efficiency, professional look |
| Cold climates | Keeps heat in during winter |
| Hot climates | Keeps heat out during summer |
What to Avoid
| Situation | Why Avoid |
|---|---|
| Bathrooms | Water destroys honeycomb cells |
| Kitchens | Grease and moisture damage fabric |
| Renters | Permanent installation |
| Tight budgets | 2-3x more expensive than roller blinds |
My experience: My cellular shades saved me $47 on my February heating bill. They will pay for themselves in 2-3 years. Just do not get them wet – I ruined my first set by spraying water on them.
Real Wood – Beautiful But High Maintenance
What I tested: Bali Real Wood Blinds
What I paid: $199 (guest bathroom – mistake)
How long they lasted: 8 months before warping
Verdict: ❌ Do not put real wood in bathrooms or kitchens
What Is Real Wood?
Real wood blinds are made from basswood or other hardwoods. They are beautiful but sensitive to humidity.
Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Beautiful natural wood grain | Warps in humidity |
| Timeless, classic look | Expensive (150−400 per window) |
| Can be stained or painted | Heavy |
| Eco-friendly (if sourced sustainably) | Hard to clean (no water allowed) |
| – | Fades in direct sun |
Best Uses (Only)
| Room | Why It Works |
|---|---|
| Living room (low humidity) | Beautiful, classic look |
| Dining room (low humidity) | Elegant |
| Home office (low humidity) | Professional |
What to Avoid (Most Rooms)
| Room | Why Avoid |
|---|---|
| Bathroom | Humidity causes warping (happened to me) |
| Kitchen | Steam and grease damage |
| Basement | Humidity |
| Any room with children | Slats break easily |
My experience: I put real wood blinds in my guest bathroom. They warped within 8 months. The humidity from the shower destroyed them. I replaced them with faux wood – 2+ years and still perfect. Do not buy real wood for bathrooms or kitchens.
Aluminum – Best for Commercial & Modern
What I tested: Levolor Aluminum Mini Blinds (guest bedroom)
What I paid: $89
How long I have had them: 18 months
Condition after 18 months: Good
What Is Aluminum?
Aluminum blinds are made from thin, lightweight metal slats. They are durable and moisture resistant.
Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Lightweight | Can dent easily |
| Moisture resistant | Noisy in breeze or when operating |
| Affordable (50−150) | Can look “office-like” |
| Easy to clean (wipe with damp cloth) | Limited color options |
| Rust-proof | Minimal insulation |
Best Uses
| Room | Why It Works |
|---|---|
| Home office | Clean, professional look |
| Basement | Moisture resistant |
| Rental properties | Affordable, durable |
| Modern homes | Sleek, minimalist |
What to Avoid
| Situation | Why Avoid |
|---|---|
| Bedrooms | Noisy, no insulation |
| Living rooms (decorative) | Can look cheap |
| Homes with pets | Slats dent easily |
My experience: Aluminum blinds are fine for home offices and basements. They are not beautiful, but they are practical. I use them in my guest bedroom (used infrequently). For main living areas, I prefer other materials.
Solar Mesh – Best for Patios & Sunrooms
What I tested: Coolaroo Solar Shades (patio door)
What I paid: $89
How long I have had them: 18 months
Condition after 18 months: Good
What Is Solar Mesh?
Solar mesh is an open-weave fabric designed to block heat and UV rays while preserving your view. It is commonly used on patios and sunrooms.
Openness Factor Explained
| Openness | Light Blockage | View | Heat Reduction |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1% | Blocks 99% of light | Very hard to see through | Excellent |
| 3% | Blocks 97% of light | Somewhat visible | Very Good |
| 5% | Blocks 95% of light | Clearly visible | Good |
| 10% | Blocks 90% of light | Very clear view | Fair |
Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Blocks UV rays (95%+) | Poor privacy at night (people can see in) |
| Reduces heat and glare | No insulation |
| Preserves view (unlike blackout) | Limited to roller blind style |
| Affordable (50−150) | Not for cold climates |
| Easy to clean | – |
Best Uses
| Room | Why It Works |
|---|---|
| Patio door | Preserves view, blocks heat |
| Sunroom | Reduces glare, UV protection |
| Home office (with direct sun) | Reduces screen glare |
| West-facing windows | Blocks afternoon heat |
What to Avoid
| Situation | Why Avoid |
|---|---|
| Bedrooms | No privacy at night |
| Nurseries | No blackout |
| Cold climates | No insulation |
My experience: I use solar shades on my patio door. They block the afternoon sun while letting me see the backyard. At night, you can see inside – so do not use them in bedrooms.
Material Selection by Priority
If Your Priority Is…
| Priority | Choose This Material |
|---|---|
| Lowest price | Polyester (roller) or vinyl |
| Best insulation | Cellular fabric (double or triple cell) |
| Best moisture resistance | Faux wood or vinyl |
| Easiest to clean | Polyester (roller), vinyl, or faux wood |
| Best appearance | Real wood (living room) or faux wood (bathroom) |
| Best for blackout | Polyester blackout roller or cellular blackout |
| Best for sliding doors | PVC (vertical blinds) |
| Best for patios | Solar mesh |
Materials to Avoid (My Mistakes)
| Material | Why Avoid | Where I Made This Mistake |
|---|---|---|
| Real wood in bathrooms | Warps from humidity | Guest bathroom – lasted 8 months |
| Cheap no-name polyester | Flimsy mechanisms, poor fabric quality | Amazon – returned all three |
| Cellular shades in bathroom | Water destroys cells | Master bathroom – ruined in 1 month |
| Real wood in kitchens | Steam and grease damage | Kitchen – warped within 1 year |
My advice: Spend a little more on quality materials from reputable brands (Blindster, SelectBlinds, Levolor). Cheap blinds cost more in the long run when you have to replace them.
Material Durability Comparison (Real Testing)
| Material | My Test Duration | Current Condition | Expected Lifespan |
|---|---|---|---|
| Polyester (roller) | 2+ years | Like new | 5-10 years |
| Faux wood | 2+ years | Like new | 10-15 years |
| Cellular fabric | 18 months | Like new | 10-15 years |
| PVC vertical | 2+ years | Good (2 slats replaced) | 5-10 years |
| Aluminum | 18 months | Good | 5-10 years |
| Solar mesh | 18 months | Good | 3-5 years (sun damage) |
| Real wood (bathroom) | 8 months | Failed (warped) | Avoid in humidity |
Material Cost Comparison
| Material | Price Range (per window) | My Cost | Value Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| Polyester (roller) | 80−200 | $149 | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Vinyl/PVC | 50−200 | $199 (vertical) | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Faux wood | 100−250 | $179 | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Cellular fabric | 150−350 | $249 | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Real wood | 150−400 | $199 (warped) | ⭐⭐ |
| Aluminum | 50−150 | $89 | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| Solar mesh | 50−150 | $89 | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the most durable blind material?
A: Faux wood. It resists moisture, does not warp, does not crack, and is easy to clean. My faux wood blinds have lasted 2+ years in a bathroom with daily showers. They still look new.
Q: What is the best material for bathroom blinds?
A: Faux wood or vinyl. Both are 100% waterproof and mold resistant. Real wood will warp. Fabric will grow mold. I tested real wood – warped in 8 months. Faux wood is still perfect after 2+ years.
Q: What is the best material for kitchen blinds?
A: Polyester roller blinds or vinyl. Both are easy to clean and resist grease. Wipe with a damp cloth. Fabric blinds (roman, cellular) will absorb grease and odors.
Q: What is the best material for energy savings?
A: Cellular fabric (honeycomb). The cells trap air, creating insulation. Double cell has R-3.0 to R-4.0. Triple cell has R-4.5 to R-5.0. My cellular shades saved me $47 on my February heating bill.
Q: What is the cheapest blind material?
A: Polyester roller blinds (80−200) or vinyl blinds (50−150). Both are affordable. Roller blinds look more modern. Vinyl blinds are more moisture resistant.
Q: What is the best material for sliding glass doors?
A: PVC (vertical blinds). PVC is durable, easy to clean, and affordable. Individual slats can be replaced if damaged (my dog broke slats – $4 each). Fabric vertical blinds are harder to clean.
Q: Can I put real wood blinds in my bathroom?
A: No. Do not do this. I made this mistake. Real wood warped within 8 months from shower humidity. Faux wood looks similar and resists moisture. Buy faux wood instead.
Q: Can I put cellular shades in my bathroom?
A: No. Water destroys the honeycomb cells. I ruined my first set of cellular shades by spraying water on them. Use faux wood or vinyl in bathrooms.
Q: What material is best for blackout?
A: Polyester blackout fabric (roller blinds) or blackout cellular fabric. Both block 99-100% of light. For true blackout in a nursery, add side channels to eliminate edge light gaps.
Q: Does blind material affect installation difficulty?
A: Yes. Heavier materials (faux wood, real wood) need stronger brackets and may require mounting into studs. Lighter materials (polyester, vinyl) are easier to install and can use drywall anchors.
Your Action Plan
Step 1: Identify the room you are buying blinds for.
Step 2: Check the “Best Material by Room” table at the top of this guide.
Step 3: Choose your material based on your priority (budget, durability, appearance, insulation).
Step 4: Order free samples of your top 2-3 materials. See them in your home before buying.
Step 5: Order your blinds during a holiday sale (20-40% off).
Step 6: Install yourself (save 100−150 per window).
Ready to order? See my Made to Measure Blinds Buying Guide for recommendations.
[Order Free Material Samples from Blindster →]
[Compare Material Options at SelectBlinds →]
[Shop Faux Wood Blinds at Levolor →]
