Stepping into the world of window treatments can feel a bit like navigating a maze, especially when terms like “wooden blinds” and “Venetian blinds” get tossed around. Are they the same thing? Is one better than the other? You’re not alone if you’ve pondered these questions! Understanding the difference between wooden and Venetian blinds is crucial for making the right choice for your home.
Generally speaking, “Venetian blinds” refers to a style of horizontal blinds featuring slats that can be tilted open or closed to control light and privacy. They can be made from various materials, including wood, faux wood, aluminum, or PVC. So, when we talk about “wooden blinds,” we’re usually referring to Venetian-style blinds made specifically from natural wood. However, many “Venetian blinds” on the market today are made from faux wood materials.
In this guide, we’ll clear up the confusion, highlight the key distinctions between natural wood and faux wood (which are often the core of the “wooden vs. Venetian” debate), and then dive into 10 top-rated products that exemplify these qualities, helping you pick the perfect window treatment for your space.
Understanding the Basics: Natural Wood vs. Faux Wood Venetian Blinds
While both offer excellent light control and privacy, their material dictates their performance, appearance, and suitability for different environments.
Natural Wood Blinds
These are crafted from real timber, such as basswood or cedar. They bring an undeniable warmth, organic texture, and classic elegance to any room.
* Pros: Authentic natural beauty, lightweight, good insulation, classic look.
* Cons: Higher cost, susceptible to warping/cracking in high humidity (bathrooms, kitchens), can fade over time, heavier to lift in larger sizes.
Faux Wood Blinds (Often Referred to Simply as “Venetian Blinds”)
Made from PVC or a wood composite, faux wood blinds mimic the look of real wood but offer enhanced durability. They’re a fantastic alternative, especially for areas where real wood isn’t practical.
* Pros: Highly durable, moisture-resistant (great for bathrooms/kitchens), easy to clean, won’t warp or crack, more affordable, often come with cordless options for safety.
* Cons: Can be heavier (especially wider slats), lack the unique grain of real wood, may not offer the same level of insulation as real wood.
So, when considering the difference between wooden and Venetian blinds, think of it as comparing natural wood (often in a Venetian style) with durable, moisture-resistant faux wood (also in a Venetian style). The best choice depends on your budget, aesthetic preference, and the room’s specific conditions.
Now, let’s explore some of the best options available, showcasing both natural and faux wood styles.
Top 10 Wooden & Faux Wood Blinds Reviewed
ARLO BLINDS Faux Wood Blinds with Crown Valance – 22.5″
These Arlo Blinds are a fantastic example of high-quality faux wood, offering a blend of style and practicality. They’re specifically designed to fit windows between 22.875 to 23.5 inches wide for an inside mount, ensuring a snug fit. The stylish crown valance adds a sophisticated touch, making these ideal for sprucing up any room without the fuss of real wood.
- Key Features:
- Designed for precise fit (22.5″ wide for 22.875″ to 23.5″ window frames).
- Stylish 3-1/4 inch crown valance with side-covers.
- Durable 2-inch PVC faux wood slats are moisture-resistant.
- Cordless lift design, “Best for Kids!” certified.
- Easy to clean and maintain.
- Pros:
- Excellent for high-humidity areas like bathrooms and kitchens.
- No warping, peeling, or staining, unlike natural wood.
- Child and pet safe cordless operation.
- Polished appearance with included valance.
- Cons:
- Exact measurements are crucial for fitting.
- Doesn’t offer the unique grain of real wood.
- User Impressions: Customers love the quality and the clean, modern look these blinds provide. Many highlight the ease of installation and the reliable cordless mechanism as major plusses, making them a popular choice for busy homes.
- See it on Amazon here
2″ Slats Wooden Venetian Blinds for Windows 20″ 28″ 32″
If you’re after the authentic charm of natural wood, these Venetian blinds are a solid contender. Made from 2-inch wide natural wood slats, they offer light filtering, sunshade, and a breathable quality that only real wood can provide. They’re also customizable, allowing you to get just the right fit for various indoor and outdoor spaces.
- Key Features:
- Made from 2-inch wide natural wood slats.
- Light filtering, sunshade, dustproof, and breathable.
- Customizable width (20in~72in) and length (30in~82in).
- Versatile for various indoor and outdoor scenes.
- Includes mounting hardware and instructions for easy installation.
- Pros:
- Authentic natural wood aesthetic adds warmth.
- Provides excellent sun protection and heat insulation.
- Easy to adjust for privacy and light control.
- Cons:
- Natural wood may be susceptible to humidity changes over time.
- Potentially higher maintenance than faux wood.
- User Impressions: Users appreciate the natural look and feel of these blinds, noting how they enhance the decor of their homes. The customization option is a big hit, ensuring a perfect fit for unusual window sizes.
- See it on Amazon here
Cordless Room Darkening Venetian Blind – 36 Inch Width
Achim Home Decor’s Cordless Room Darkening Venetian Blind is a fantastic choice for those prioritizing privacy and energy efficiency. These vinyl blinds are engineered to reduce heat and darken a room, making them perfect for bedrooms or media rooms. The cordless design ensures safety and ease of use, a key feature in today’s homes.
- Key Features:
- Room darkening vinyl slats (2-inch).
- Cordless design for child and pet safety.
- Reduces heat and helps save on electric bills.
- Easy to install with included hardware.
- Available in Mahogany and White, durable construction.
- Pros:
- Excellent for achieving significant room darkening.
- Highly durable vinyl resists chipping, denting, or fading.
- Safety-focused cordless operation.
- Simple lift and lower mechanism for light control.
- Cons:
- Vinyl material lacks the aesthetic of real wood.
- May not be suitable for those seeking a light-filtering effect.
- User Impressions: Customers frequently praise the effective room darkening capabilities and the convenience of the cordless system. They find these blinds easy to install and a reliable solution for improving sleep quality.
- See it on Amazon here
EVOZEN 2″ Slats Wood Blinds for Indoor Windows, Custom
The EVOZEN Wood Blinds offer the elegance of solid wood with the convenience of custom sizing. These blinds are designed to add natural warmth and sophistication to any interior, while also providing energy-efficient benefits. They’re a prime example of high-quality wooden Venetian blinds designed for flawless coverage and intuitive light control.
- Key Features:
- Crafted from premium solid wood with 2-inch slats.
- Customizable for exact window widths (inside/outside mount options).
- Energy-efficient: helps cool in summer and trap warmth in winter.
- Includes all hardware and clear instructions for easy installation.
- Dual cords for intuitive tilt and lift control.
- Pros:
- Authentic solid wood enhances home aesthetics.
- Provides natural insulation, potentially reducing energy costs.
- Custom sizing ensures a perfect, professional fit.
- Timeless versatility suitable for any room.
- Cons:
- Requires a minimum window depth for inside mount.
- Solid wood requires more care in high-humidity environments.
- User Impressions: Reviewers highlight the beautiful natural look and feel of these solid wood blinds, noting their transformative effect on a room. The custom fit and easy installation are frequently mentioned as significant advantages.
- See it on Amazon here
CALYX INTERIORS Faux Wood Blinds with Classic Valance
CALYX INTERIORS brings us another excellent faux wood option, emphasizing quality construction and durability. These 2-inch faux wood slats are built to resist warping and are incredibly easy to maintain, making them a practical choice for busy households. The cordless lift and tilt system ensures safety, making them WCMA ‘Best for Kids’ certified.
- Key Features:
- Precisely sized (30.5″ wide for 30.75″ to 31.5″ window frames).
- Durable PVC 2-inch smooth slats resist warping.
- Cordless lift and tilt system for child and pet safety.
- WCMA ‘Best for Kids’ certified.
- Includes hardware and easy installation instructions.
- Pros:
- Highly durable and low maintenance.
- Moisture-resistant, suitable for various room types.
- Cordless design provides excellent safety.
- Classic valance blends well with any decor.
- Cons:
- Precise measurement is key for inside mounting.
- Doesn’t offer the unique texture of real wood.
- User Impressions: Customers appreciate the robust construction and how simple these blinds are to install. The cordless feature is a consistent favorite, lauded for both safety and convenience in daily use.
- See it on Amazon here
2″ Wood Blinds for Home – Blackout Privacy Custom Size
These “Wood Blinds” actually focus on high-quality faux wood, offering superior blackout privacy and light control. They are an ideal solution for those seeking the look of natural wood without its maintenance drawbacks, particularly in areas like bathrooms and kitchens. Their custom sizing capability ensures a perfect fit for almost any window, including French doors.
- Key Features:
- 2-inch faux wood slats for superior blackout privacy.
- Resists warping and moisture; ideal for high-humidity areas.
- Customizable width (13”-83”) for a perfect fit.
- Drill-mounted installation for secure fit.
- Eco-friendly options with choice of solid wood or faux wood finishes.
- Pros:
- Effective room darkening for optimal privacy.
- Highly durable and suitable for humid environments.
- Wide range of customizable sizes.
- Mimics natural wood aesthetics without the upkeep.
- Cons:
- Requires drill-mounted installation, which might be more involved for some.
- Faux wood, so not real timber.
- User Impressions: Users are impressed by the blackout capabilities and the sturdy feel of these blinds. The custom sizing is a huge plus, ensuring a seamless look that enhances their interior spaces.
- See it on Amazon here
2″ Slats Cordless Window Blinds Faux Wood Blind 20″ 28″
This faux wood blind combines practicality with style, featuring 2-inch wide slats that offer excellent sun protection and privacy. Its unique labor-saving system makes it incredibly easy to open and close, allowing quick adjustment of light intensity. Being cordless, it also champions safety and convenience, making it a great choice for any room, even high-traffic areas.
- Key Features:
- 50mm/2-inch wide faux wood slats for sun protection and privacy.
- Energy-saving: helps cool in summer and insulate in winter.
- Suitable for a wide range of indoor and outdoor uses.
- Cordless, labor-saving system for easy operation.
- Customizable range: 15-75 inches wide, 25-100 inches high.
- Pros:
- Very practical and easy to maintain.
- Contributes to energy efficiency.
- Safe and convenient cordless operation.
- Highly customizable to fit specific window dimensions.
- Cons:
- Faux wood may not satisfy those seeking authentic natural materials.
- Requires accurate measurements for custom orders.
- User Impressions: Customers love the smooth, effortless operation of these cordless blinds and their ability to effectively manage light and privacy. The energy-saving aspect is also a commonly highlighted benefit.
- See it on Amazon here
Wood Blinds, 2″ Slats Faux Wood Blind, Window Shades 22″
Despite the “Wood Blinds” title, this product is a faux wood Venetian blind designed to offer the aesthetic of natural wood with enhanced durability. It features 2-inch wide slats with a water-based paint finish, making them resistant to moisture and easy to clean. These versatile blinds are excellent for adjusting light, protecting privacy, and enhancing interior decor in various settings.
- Key Features:
- Faux wood (PVC) with 2-inch wide slats and water-based paint finish.
- Shading and privacy: easy to adjust light and indoor temperature.
- Multi-purpose: suitable for living room, bedroom, kitchen, office, etc.
- Customizable width (14 in ~ 75 in) and length (20 in ~ 96 in).
- Easy to install for both indoor and outdoor mounting.
- Pros:
- Mimics the look of natural wood without the upkeep.
- Moisture-resistant and easy to clean.
- Highly customizable for a precise fit.
- Versatile for various rooms and decor styles.
- Cons:
- Not real wood, if that’s a strict preference.
- Customization requires accurate self-measurement.
- User Impressions: Reviewers appreciate the blend of durability and aesthetics, often remarking on how well these blinds hold up in humid environments like bathrooms while still looking stylish. The ease of adjustment for light control is also a highlight.
- See it on Amazon here
2″ Slats Cordless Wood Blinds Wooden Venetian Blinds for
These “Wooden Venetian Blinds” are crafted from selected natural wood, undergoing strict drying and waterproof paint treatment to resist deformation and cracking. They offer flexible dimming with precise slat control, allowing you to manage light from gentle morning rays to complete blackout. The special triple-anti-coating process also makes them incredibly easy to clean, combining the beauty of wood with practical maintenance.
- Key Features:
- Made from natural wood with beautiful, unique texture.
- Waterproof paint treatment resists deformation and cracking.
- Flexible dimming with precise slat angle control.
- Easy to clean with a special triple-anti-coating (waterproof/oilproof/dustproof).
- Designed for simple DIY installation.
- Pros:
- Authentic natural wood beauty and unique texture.
- Enhanced durability for real wood (waterproof treatment).
- Excellent light control and privacy protection.
- Low maintenance for a natural wood product.
- Cons:
- Real wood can still be heavier than faux wood.
- Potentially higher price point than faux wood options.
- User Impressions: Customers rave about the rich, natural look and feel of these blinds, noting their quality craftsmanship. The easy-to-clean feature for real wood blinds is a significant advantage, often mentioned in positive reviews.
- See it on Amazon here
CHICOLOGY Faux Wood Blinds , Window Blinds , Wood Blinds
Chicology offers a simple yet elegant faux wood blind solution that fits seamlessly into various home decors. These window blinds feature a cordless mechanism, ensuring safety for homes with children and pets. With a twisting wand, you can easily switch between light filtering and room darkening, making them highly versatile for different needs and rooms, from offices to bedrooms.
- Key Features:
- Elegant faux wood design fits any decor.
- Cordless mechanism for child and pet safety.
- Twisting wand for easy light filtering or room darkening.
- Suitable for various interior windows (office, children’s room, living room, bedroom).
- Width has a 1/2-inch deduction for inside mount; hardware and instructions included.
- Pros:
- Simple, elegant, and versatile design.
- Excellent safety features with cordless operation.
- Easy to control light and privacy.
- Durable faux wood material.
- Cons:
- 1/2-inch width deduction must be accounted for during measurement.
- Doesn’t provide the distinct character of real wood.
- User Impressions: Users frequently praise the ease of installation and the smooth, safe operation of the cordless system. Many find them to be a cost-effective way to update their windows with a clean and modern look.
- See it on Amazon here
Buying Guide: Choosing Your Perfect Blinds
When deciding between natural wooden blinds and faux wood Venetian blinds, consider these factors:
- Location: For high-humidity areas like bathrooms, kitchens, or laundry rooms, faux wood is the undisputed champion due to its moisture resistance. Real wood can warp or crack.
- Aesthetics: If you crave the authentic grain, warmth, and classic appeal that only natural materials can offer, real wood blinds are your go-to. If you want a similar look with more durability and easy maintenance, faux wood is an excellent alternative.
- Budget: Generally, faux wood blinds are more affordable than real wood blinds, offering a cost-effective way to achieve a sophisticated look.
- Maintenance: Faux wood blinds are a breeze to clean—a quick wipe-down usually does the trick. Real wood might require more delicate cleaning to preserve its finish.
- Light Control & Privacy: Both natural wood and faux wood Venetian blinds offer excellent control over light and privacy through their adjustable slats. Cordless options, often found in both, enhance safety and ease of use.
- Durability: Faux wood blinds are engineered for maximum durability, resisting warping, cracking, and fading. Real wood, while durable in its own right, is more susceptible to environmental factors.
Understanding the difference between wooden and Venetian blinds (especially the material aspect) empowers you to make an informed decision that perfectly suits your home’s needs and your personal style.
FAQ Section
Q1: What is the main difference between wooden and Venetian blinds?
A1: The term “Venetian blinds” generally refers to a style of horizontal slatted blinds that can be tilted. These can be made from various materials, including natural wood or faux wood (PVC/composite). “Wooden blinds” specifically refers to Venetian-style blinds made from natural wood. So, the main difference often comes down to the material: real wood vs. faux wood, both in the Venetian style.
Q2: Are faux wood blinds truly better than real wood blinds?
A2: It depends on your priorities! Faux wood blinds excel in durability, moisture resistance, and affordability, making them ideal for high-humidity areas like bathrooms and kitchens. They are also easier to clean and won’t warp or crack. Real wood blinds offer unparalleled natural beauty, warmth, and a unique grain, but they come at a higher cost and are more susceptible to humidity damage.
Q3: How do I clean wooden or faux wood blinds?
A3: Faux wood blinds are very easy to clean: simply wipe them down with a damp cloth or use a duster/vacuum with a soft brush attachment. For real wooden blinds, it’s best to use a dry cloth or a feather duster. Avoid harsh cleaners or excessive moisture, as it can damage the wood finish.
Q4: Are cordless blinds really safer for kids and pets?
A4: Absolutely! Cordless blinds are designed with safety in mind, eliminating dangling cords that can pose a strangulation hazard for young children and pets. Many are “Best for Kids” certified, meeting strict safety standards. They are operated by simply pushing or pulling the bottom rail to raise and lower.
Q5: Can I install these blinds myself, or do I need a professional?
A5: Most modern blinds, including the ones reviewed here, are designed for relatively easy DIY installation. They typically come with all necessary hardware and clear, step-by-step instructions. While professional installation is always an option, many homeowners find they can successfully install their new blinds themselves with basic tools.
Q6: Do blinds help with energy efficiency?
A6: Yes, both wooden and faux wood blinds can contribute to your home’s energy efficiency. By closing the slats, they create an insulating barrier that helps block heat from entering your home in the summer and prevents heat from escaping in the winter, potentially reducing your heating and cooling costs.
Q7: What’s the difference between inside mount and outside mount?
A7: Inside mount means the blinds are installed within the window frame, creating a clean, recessed look. This requires precise measurements of your window’s interior width and height. Outside mount means the blinds are installed on the wall or trim outside the window frame, covering the entire window opening. This can make the window appear larger and provides better light blockage and privacy as it minimizes light gaps around the edges.
Q8: How do I choose the right slat size (e.g., 2-inch or 2.5-inch)?
A8: Slat size primarily affects the visual aesthetics and view. Larger slats (like 2-inch or 2.5-inch) offer a more contemporary look and provide a clearer view when open, as fewer slats overlap. Smaller slats (e.g., 1-inch) create a more traditional or classic appearance and are often preferred for smaller windows.