Choosing blinds is already an involved process, and it can be even trickier when it comes to deciding on basement blinds. Not only can basement windows have an unusual size or placement, you also have to take into account the humidity and what you will be using the basement for.

Below, we explain factors to keep in mind as you choose the best blinds for small basement windows, plus our favorite window treatments for the basement.

Consider the size of your windows

The size and placement of your windows will affect what type of blinds you ultimately choose. If your windows are a standard size and regular inside mount placement, you’ll have plenty of options to explore. If your windows are strangely shaped or located very high up, you might want to consider custom blinds that will be perfectly tailored to the size and shape of the window.

Think about what you will use the basement for

The type of blinds you choose should also be influenced by what you plan to do in the basement. For instance, if you’re creating an entertainment room and plan to watch a lot of movies, you might want blackout blinds so that nothing will interfere with the picture. On the other hand, if you plan to do a lot of entertaining, wood blinds you can easily open and close to let in natural light might be a better option.

Evaluate the humidity

Basements tend to get less sunlight and trap more moisture than the rest of the house, so you’ll want to take humidity into account as you shop for basement blinds–especially if you already live in a humid area. If your basement tends to trap moisture already, you’ll want to choose mold resistance blinds that are easy to clean, such as faux wood blinds. After all, you don’t want to drop a lot of money on blinds only for them to mildew right away.

Be careful with cellular shades/honeycomb

For the reasons mentioned above, cellular shades are usually not the best choice for basement windows unless the room is very dry. The fabric is less mildew-resistant than other blinds materials like wood or plastic, and the structure of the cellular shades makes them difficult to clean.

This doesn't mean you can never put cellular shades in your basement, only that you should consider the decision carefully and pay attention to the humidity.

Now that you know what to keep in mind while you shop for blinds, here are some of the best blinds for small basement windows to consider:

8 Basement Window Treatments to Consider

When it comes to basement window treatments, you have a few different options. You can either choose to leave your windows bare, or you can add some type of window treatment to them. You can either opt to do traditional window coverings, such as curtains or blinds, or you can go with something a little more unique, such as shutters or film.

There are a few different things that you need to take into consideration when you are choosing the best basement window treatments for your home. Here are 8 basement window treatments to consider:

 Wood Blinds

Wood blinds offer a classic look that goes well with almost any decor. They’re easy to operate and clean, and they go well with both modern and traditional styles. If you’re looking for high quality blinds that will look great in your window frame and stand the test of time, wood blinds are the way to go. 

Faux Wood Blinds

If you like the look of wood blinds, but you’re looking for a more affordable or moisture resistant option, faux wood blinds are a good alternative. Made from a mixture of real wood and PVC, they capture the look of real wood blinds while saving you money on expensive wooden home decor – and better still, they’re resistant to warping.

Mini Blinds

If you’re on a serious budget, mini blinds are a very affordable pick. Often made of coated aluminum, they are also very durable and moisture-resistant, which makes them good for humid basements. They can also be cleaned very easily due to the coating.

Fabric Shades

If you want sophisticated window treatments that make a big design statement, fabric Roman shades are a great choice. They are available in a multitude of fabrics, from solid neutrals to big bold prints in many colors. When lowered, the swags of fabric create a dramatic look that can’t be duplicated by other window shades.

Roller Shades

If you like the idea of fabric shades for your small basement windows but don’t like the fabric swags of Roman shades, you should consider roller shades instead. These fabric roller blinds lay flat when fully extended for a sleek, modern look that goes well with contemporary decor. Perfect for a stylish home office!

If you’re ready to purchase and need to decide on the size of blinds, check out our guide that explains how to measure for blinds.

Drapery & Roman Shades

These all-season window treatments are an excellent choice for your basement windows. Drapery is available in a wide variety of colors, patterns, and fabrics to suit any style, and Roman shades provide a clean look while still allowing you to control the amount of light coming into the room. Both are categorized as the same because of the use of fabric and the way they are hung.

Vertical Blinds

Another top choice for light-filtering basement windows is vertical blinds. These window treatments can provide both privacy and light control, as you can adjust the slats to let in as much or as little sunlight as you want.

Vertical blinds come in a variety of colors and materials to suit your style, making them a versatile option for any basement (though they’re often used for French doors). If you have children or pets, vertical blinds can also be a good choice as they’re not as easy to break as some other window treatments.

Motorized blinds

When it comes to controlling light and privacy in your basement, motorized blinds are a great option. With the touch of a button, you can open and close your blinds, adjust the slats to let in just the right amount of light, and even schedule them to open and close at certain times of the day. It looks sleek and modern, plus it's safe for homes with small children or pets since there are no cords to worry about.

What kinds of coverings should not be installed in the basement window?

Not all window treatments are created equal, and when it comes to your basement windows, you'll want to be extra careful about what kinds of coverings you install. Don’t get fooled by the looks of a window treatment – some can actually do more harm than good to your basement windows. Here are four common types of window treatments and why they should be avoided in the basement:

1. Cellular Shades

Cellular shades are popular in many homes because they offer great insulation and light control. However, they're not the best option for basement windows. The main problem with cellular shades is that they're made of fabric, which can hold moisture and mildew over time. If your basement is prone to dampness, it's best to avoid cellular shades.

2. Venetian Blinds

Venetian blinds are a classic choice for many windows, but they're not ideal for basement windows. The main problem with Venetian blinds is that they have many small parts that can break easily. In addition, the cords that operate Venetian blinds can be a safety hazard in homes with small children or pets. Venetian blinds may not be the best option if you have a basement window that's difficult to reach.

3. Shutters

Shutters are popular for basement windows because they offer great light control and insulation. However, shutters can be difficult to clean and maintain, and they're not the best option if your basement is prone to dampness. In addition, shutters can be a safety hazard if they're installed near stairs or in other areas where people walk. Shutters may not be the best option if you have a basement window that's difficult to reach.

4. Overlays

Overlays are popular for basement windows because they offer great light control, room darkening, and insulation. However, overlays can be difficult to clean and maintain, and they're not the best option if your basement is prone to dampness. In addition, overlays can be a safety hazard if they're installed near stairs or other areas where people walk.

FAQs

Can you cover a window in the basement?

Yes, you can cover a window in the basement with blinds. However, you need to take into account the size of your window and the type of window before choosing the right blinds. This is to ensure that your window is still able to function properly and that the blinds will not damage your window.

What are the little basement windows called?

The little basement windows are typically called portholes. These windows are often small and round, making them difficult to cover with traditional blinds. However, there are porthole-specific blinds available that can be a great option for these types of windows.

How can I make my basement windows look better?

There are a few ways that you can make your basement windows look better. One way is to choose the right type of blinds. Another way is to add window treatments or curtains. Finally, you can also paint the trim around your windows to give them a fresh and updated look.

How do I clean my basement window blinds?

You can clean your basement window blinds by dusting them with a soft cloth or vacuum attachment. You can also use a mild soap and water solution to wipe down the blinds if they are particularly dirty.