Pleated Shades vs Cellular Shades: Which One is The Best?

When it comes to the latest interior design trends, nothing compares to the simplicity and beauty of pleated shades and cellular shades. Whether you’re looking for a classic look or something with more modern flair, these two window treatments have plenty to offer in terms of style, functionality, and energy efficiency.

But which is best? Is it the pleated blinds with their timeless design, or the cellular shades that provide superior insulation? In this article, we’ll compare pleated shades vs cellular shades to help you decide which window treatment is best for your home.

Pleated Shades

Inspired by the look of classic draperies, pleated blinds are a timeless window treatment. They feature evenly-spaced horizontal folds that create an elegant look and offer superior light control. Plus, they come in a variety of fabrics and colors to fit any décor style.

Pleated shades don’t offer much in the way of energy efficiency, but they are great for blocking out light. They’re also easy to clean and maintain since the fabric is machine-washable or can be vacuumed.

Pros & Cons of Pleated Shades

Pros:

• Beautiful, timeless design
• Excellent light control
• Easy to clean and maintain

Cons:

• Not very energy efficient
• Can be more expensive than other window treatments

Cellular Shades

The cellular shade is certainly a triumph in both practicality and aesthetics. With its honeycomb-shaped cells, the cellular shade offers superior insulation and light control. It can be bought in almost any color or fabric and is available in a variety of lift systems for ease of use.

Pros & Cons of Cellular Shades

Pros:

• Simplistic design
• Excellent insulation and light control
• Available in a variety of colors and fabrics

Cons:

• More expensive than other window treatments
• Can be harder to clean and maintain

What's the Difference Between Pleated Shades and Cellular Shades?

You know how all squares are rectangles, but not all rectangles are squares? Well, all cellular shades are pleated shades, but not all pleated shades are cellular shades.

Let us explain.

Every pleated window shade — and every cellular shade — is made from fabric that is folded. When the shade is raised, the fabric is compressed along those fold lines. When it's lowered, the fold lines give the shade some texture.

A pleated shade features a simple fold pattern that we all mastered in elementary school. A cellular shade has a more complex construction. Also called “honeycomb shades,” cellular shades have geometric folds that resemble honeycombs.

Cellular window shades are available with both a single layer of these honeycombs and a double layer, called “single cell” and “double cell,” respectively. Both the single- and double-cell structure create small pockets that trap air. These air pockets are what give cellular shades a distinct advantage over other types of window coverings: They add a significant layer of insulation to your windows.

What does this insulation do? Well, it prevents heat transfer during cold months by as much as 40 percent. It also dramatically lowers solar gain during hotter months by up to 80 percent. This will create energy savings you'll notice in your monthly utility bill. Of course, double-cell window shades are more energy efficient than single-cell shades, and any treatment must be tightly fit to your window in order to effectively prevent energy transfer.

Determining the Right Shades for Your Home

It's never easy to make a snap decision about which window treatment to buy. You need time to weigh up the options – and we're here to help by comparing pleated shades vs cellular shades.

Energy Efficiency

There's no question of which window treatment is the winner when it comes to energy efficiency. The cellular shades offer superior insulation, making them a great choice for homes in more extreme climates.

This doesn't necessarily mean that you should choose them. If you're not living in extremis, or you're not concerned with energy efficiency, then the pleated shades may actually be the better option for you.

Easy, Versatile Style

Both pleated and honeycomb shades offer a classic, versatile look that can fit any décor style. But if you're looking for something more modern or contemporary, the honeycomb shades may be the better option.

The pleated shades may have a timeless elegance to them, perfect for a traditional home. Both pleated and cellular shades come in a range of colors and fabrics.

Light Control

The amount of light coming through your window treatment is an important factor to consider. Both pleated and cellular shades provide excellent light control, with the honeycomb shades providing slightly more privacy than the pleated ones.

If you enjoy a bit more natural light coming through, choose a lightweight fabric for the pleated shades. For those who prefer complete darkness at night, go with a heavier fabric or blackout liner on the honeycomb shades.

Lift Types

The type of lift system you choose can drastically change the look and feel of your window treatment. Both pleated and cellular shades come with a cordless or wand-control option, or you can get them in top-down bottom-up format.

Top-down bottom-up gives you a lot more freedom when it comes to light control. You can open the top for natural light, but keep the bottom closed for privacy.

Best Places to Hang Pleated Shades

Pleated window shades are a simple design choice with a classic feel. No matter where you hang them, they'll shower you with soft, filtered light. Choose from a variety of neutral shades as well as bold pops of color for statement-making homeowners.

Here's where we recommend hanging them:

• Living areas, like family rooms and dining rooms, where you don't require absolute darkness during the daytime
• North- or south-facing rooms that don't get direct sunlight
• Bathrooms, where you want natural light but need privacy
• Bedrooms that don't receive direct sunlight

Best Places to Hang Cellular Shades

Cellular shades are more flexible than standard pleated shades. Why? Because you can order cellular styles with adaptive blackout liners, top-down/bottom-up constructions and designs with differing levels of light filtration.

Where should you hang cellular window shades? Here are our top picks:

• Older homes with poorly fitted windows
• Drafty rooms, or rooms that don't heat or cool evenly
• Spaces that receive strong afternoon sun
• Bedrooms where you require window coverings that will create blackout conditions
• TV rooms, where you want the option of complete darkness 24 hours a day

How to Make Your Choice

For a soft and simple window covering, there's no choice better than a pleated or cellular shade. We offer cost-effective options in both styles, which means that budget doesn't have to be a factor in your decision between the two.

Instead, consider these two questions. First, how much do you value energy efficiency? Second, how much light filtration does your home require?

Homes in extreme environments and areas with high energy costs could benefit significantly from cellular window shades. So can wallet-conscious homeowners and renters who want to see a decrease in their utility spending.

On the other hand, homes that don't get a lot of direct sunlight need to bring in as much natural light as possible. If you're on a small lot, have close neighbors or are surrounded by trees that block the sunlight, pleated window shades are an excellent choice.

Reach Out to Us Today To Choose the Best Option For Your Home!

Here at Factory Direct Blinds, we pride ourselves on offering excellent products at even better prices. What's more, we can help you with the entire process – from choosing the perfect window treatment to ordering and installation. (You heard right – we'll come and install your shades for you!)

So, take the guesswork out of window treatment shopping and get in touch with us today. We're more than happy to help you pick between pleated vs cellular shades; in fact, we'd love to.

FAQs

Which is better, pleated or honeycomb shades?

It depends on your needs. If you're looking for energy efficiency, then honeycomb shades are the way to go. But if you want something more traditional in style, pleated shades may be the better choice. 

Are cellular shades out of style?

No, not at all. Cellular shades have a modern and contemporary look that can fit into any décor style.

How long do pleated shades last?

Pleated shades are usually very durable and can last for years with proper care. Just remember to vacuum the shades periodically to remove dust and dirt.

Are cellular shades worth it?

Yes, cellular shades are a great choice for anyone looking for energy efficiency and superior insulation. Plus, they come in a range of colors and fabrics to suit any décor style.