Child Safe Blinds – Keeping Homes Safe Since 2014
Understanding Child Safe Blinds
Child safe blinds fall into two clear categories, depending on how the risk is managed:
1. Safe by Design Blinds
These products are inherently safe because they do not have accessible cords or chains.
2. Blinds Requiring Safety Devices
These blinds are compliant when fitted with the correct additional safety components, such as tensioners or cleats.
Wherever possible, we recommend Safe by Design solutions, as these remove the risk at source rather than relying on adjustments or ongoing behaviour.
- Tensioned pleated blinds
- Wand-operated vertical blinds
- Plantation shutters
- Motorised blinds (battery or mains powered)
- Perfect Fit blinds
- INTU blinds
- Curtains (when specified and installed correctly)
- Manual Roman blinds – fitted with a chain tensioning device
- Manual roller blinds – fitted with a chain tensioning device
- Wooden and faux wood Venetian blinds – fitted with a wall-mounted cleat
- Aluminium Venetian blinds – fitted with a wall-mounted cleat
- Cord or chain-operated vertical blinds – fitted with a chain tensioner
- Free-hanging pleated blinds – fitted with a cord cleat
Additional Safety Tips for Homes with Children
Even with compliant blinds installed, extra precautions can further reduce risk — especially in homes with babies and toddlers.
- Always secure cords and chains into cleats or tensioners after operating a blind
- Keep all blind cords fully out of reach of children
- Position cots, beds, playpens, and highchairs away from windows
- Move climbable furniture away from blinds and window areas
- Regularly check that safety devices remain securely fixed and in use
Our Installation & Safety Process
Child safety is not optional — it is a standard part of how we work.
- All blinds are supplied and installed in line with current UK child safety legislation
- Required child safety devices are included and fitted as standard
- Our installers explain how each safety device works and how it should be used
- Installations comply with British Blind and Shutter Association (BBSA) guidance
- Where suitable, safer Safe by Design alternatives are discussed before ordering
All measuring and fitting is carried out by our own employed installation team to ensure consistency, care, and accountability.
BBSA Guidance & Trusted Standards
We follow the guidance set out by the British Blind and Shutter Association, the UK’s governing body for window coverings. The BBSA provides industry standards, safety guidance, and public education through initiatives such as the Make It Safe campaign.
Further information is available through the BBSA’s official child safety guidance.
Choosing the Safest Option
The safest approach is always to choose a Safe by Design product wherever possible. Where this isn’t suitable, professionally fitted safety devices ensure compliance and significantly reduce risk.
Our role is to guide you clearly and responsibly — helping you choose a window covering that works for your home without compromising on safety.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are blinds legally required to be child safe in the UK?
Yes. Since 2014, UK law has required all new blinds supplied and installed professionally to be fitted in a way that minimises the risk to children. This applies to both domestic and commercial settings.What does “Safe by Design” mean?
Safe by Design blinds are products that do not have accessible cords or chains. Because there are no hanging or looped operating components, the primary child safety risk is removed entirely.
Which blinds are classed as Safe by Design?
Examples include tensioned pleated blinds, plantation shutters, motorised blinds, Perfect Fit and INTU blinds, wand-operated vertical blinds, and curtains when specified and installed correctly.
Are blinds with cords or chains illegal?
No. Some blinds can still be used safely, provided they are fitted with the correct child safety devices. These devices prevent cords or chains from forming hazardous loops and ensure the blind complies with UK regulations.What are child safety devices?
Child safety devices include chain tensioners, cord cleats, and wall-mounted safety fittings. They keep cords under constant tension or secured out of reach, reducing the risk of accidents.Do you supply and fit child safety devices?
Yes. Any required child safety devices are supplied and fitted as standard as part of our installation. There is no optional upgrade — compliance is built into how we work.Will someone explain how the safety devices work?
Yes. Our installers will always explain how each safety device works and how it should be used once the blind has been fitted.Are motorised blinds child safe?
Yes. Motorised blinds are classed as Safe by Design because they do not require cords or chains. Battery-powered options are particularly popular in family homes.What if I already have children or grandchildren at home?
We will always take this into account during your consultation and guide you towards the safest suitable options for your home, especially for bedrooms, nurseries, and play areas.
Can I choose a safer option instead of adding safety devices?
Yes. Wherever possible, we recommend Safe by Design blinds, as they remove risk at source rather than relying on additional components.Do installations follow industry guidance?
Yes. All our installations comply with current UK regulations and the guidance issued by the British Blind and Shutter Association (BBSA), the UK’s governing body for window coverings.Is there anything I should do after installation?
Yes. Always use cleats or tensioners after operating a blind, keep cords fully secured and out of reach, and ensure furniture such as beds, cots, or playpens are positioned away from windows.
Ready to Get Started?
Choose how you’d like to begin — we’re happy to help in whatever way suits you best.
Arrange a Home Consultation
If you’d prefer advice in your own home, we can arrange a home consultation and bring samples along to help you explore options properly.
Call or Email Us
If you’d prefer to speak to us directly or send an enquiry by email, our team is happy to help.
📞 Call us: 01483 608408
📧 Email: sales@blindsandshutter.co.uk
Visit One of Our Showrooms
See blinds and shutters in person, compare styles and finishes, try motorised options, and get personal advice from our team.
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Speak to our team today and let’s find the right solution for your home.