Why is the window treatment industry moving away from free hanging cords?

On June 1,2024 free-hanging operating cords, free-hanging tilt cords and multiple-cord connectors will no longer be offered as lift options on all window treatments. This is an industry-wide requirement.

The Window Covering Manufacturers Association (WCMA) represents the interest of window covering manufacturers, fabricators and assemblers. To learn more about them, click here.

What lift types will be available?

All blinds and shades sold by Blinds.com will have either a continuous cord loop with a tension device or a cordless lift system. For increased ease of use, you can also upgrade to motorization.

What if I already have corded products in my home?

If you have corded window treatments in your home, there are ways to childproof them to increase safety for homes with children and pets. Out of Sight, Out of Reach Ensure that all window cords are out of sight, reach and are fully inaccessible to young children. Cord cleats can be used to wrap cords out of reach. You can also order a free cord retrofit kit from www.windowcoverings.org. Shorten the Cord Long cords can be cut and shortened to keep them out of reach, but cords will hang down as a potential hazard when blinds or shades are fully raised. Watch our cord shortening video below to learn how to shorten your cords while maintaining functionality of your window treatment. No Access Move all cribs, beds, furniture and toys away from windows and window cords. These items could act as unintentional “step stools” that allow a child to reach a window or cord. Pull Tight! Continuous loop pull cords should be pulled tight and anchored to the floor or wall with a tension device instead of hanging loose. Install Properly Be sure cord stops are properly installed and adjusted to limit movement on inner cords on blinds and shades. Can I get my corded product remade with a cordless lift instead? We will work with you to find the best product for your needs that complies with the new guidelines.

Child Safety | Blinds.com

Safety and Style Are at our Core

At Blinds.com, safety isn't just a feature—it's a non-negotiable for everything we offer. Every product we sell is designed and tested to ensure they meet the highest safety standards.

To ensure compliance with new safety requirements that have come into effect in 2024, we will no longer offer window treatments with free hanging cords. Visit the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission’s web page on window coverings or Window Covering Safety Council website for more information on these industry-wide federal regulations going into effect June 1, 2024. 

Cordless window treatments have always been a popular choice for our customers, and for good reason. You'll benefit from a cleaner, more modern aesthetic, ease of use and you’ll find a variety of styles to choose from at Blinds.com.

Child operating cordless cellular shades while his mom watches

Our Hands-On Approach 

Our knowledgeable Design Consultants are always available to help find the best solution for your home. Get in contact with a member of our Style Squad by calling 800-505-1905 or click here to learn about our free design services.

Plus, we offer the option to add professional measuring and installation services to your order ensuring your window treatments are properly mounted in your home. To see if measuring and installation services are available in your area, click here.

FAQ

What if I already have corded products in my home?: If you have corded window treatments in your home, there are ways to childproof them to increase safety for homes with children and pets.
Out of Sight, Out of Reach 
Ensure that all window cords are out of sight, reach and are fully inaccessible to young children. Cord cleats can be used to wrap cords out of reach. You can also order a free cord retrofit kit from www.windowcoverings.org. 
Shorten the Cord 
Long cords can be cut and shortened to keep them out of reach, but cords will hang down as a potential hazard when blinds or shades are fully raised. Watch our cord shortening video below to learn how to shorten your cords while maintaining functionality of your window treatment. 
No Access 
Move all cribs, beds, furniture and toys away from windows and window cords. These items could act as unintentional “step stools” that allow a child to reach a window or cord. 
Pull Tight! 
Continuous loop pull cords should be pulled tight and anchored to the floor or wall with a tension device instead of hanging loose. 
Install Properly 
Be sure cord stops are properly installed and adjusted to limit movement on inner cords on blinds and shades. 
Can I get my corded product remade with a cordless lift instead?
We will work with you to find the best product for your needs that complies with the new guidelines.
What is the WCMA?: The Window Covering Manufacturers Association (WCMA) represents the interest of window covering manufacturers, fabricators and assemblers. To learn more about them, click here.
What lift types will be available?: All blinds and shades sold by Blinds.com will have either a continuous cord loop with a tension device or a cordless lift system. For increased ease of use, you can also upgrade to motorization.
When are we removing free hanging cords from our products?: Blinds.com will no longer offer window treatments with free hanging cords afterJune 1, 2024.
Why is the window treatment industry moving away from free hanging cords?: On June 1,2024 free-hanging operating cords, free-hanging tilt cords and multiple-cord connectors will no longer be offered as lift options on all window treatments. This is an industry-wide requirement.

Ensuring Your Window Treatments are Child Safe

No free hanging cords, no worries

FAQ