Bamboo blinds are a type of woven wood shade that is often lumped together with natural shades and matchstick shades. They are best known for the natural warmth that they provide for a home. Bamboo blinds also tend to be highly durable, inexpensive, and light. In addition, they hide dust well and are neutral shades that look good with almost any décor, from an elegant dining room to a casual kitchen.
While bamboo blinds tend to be especially appealing to those who want to maintain a natural look in their home, their low price is another attractive quality. Bamboo blinds are relatively inexpensive because it is easy for bamboo manufacturers to harvest more bamboo, since the plant re-grows in only five years, compared to wood blinds made from cutting down trees. Bamboo blinds re-grow more quickly because they are actually a type of grass, not a tree. They grow in many varieties throughout the world.
Some varieties of bamboo are so strong that they are twice as hard as red oak. This is why in addition to blinds, they are used for flooring, furniture, baskets, and more. The variety of bamboo throughout the world also allows bamboo blind makers to create the blinds in a variety of colors, from light blond to dark brown.
Bamboo has the added benefit of being resistant to moisture damage, as evidenced by the fact that the humid country of Japan uses them. In fact, bamboo blinds are a traditional Japanese craft, and one that is still in use. The bamboo is whittled down into thin shafts, with the outer layer removed. The craft involves a combination of handcraft and machinery.
While the overall look of a bamboo blind is very natural, styles vary depending. You can see a
selection of bamboo styles. Bamboo blinds tend to let more light through than heavy drapes. For this reason, depending on the style you select, you may want to consider adding a privacy liner with a bamboo shade.
Fun facts- Bamboo shades have been credited with having a natural fire repellant quality.
- One variety of bamboo plant, known as Lucky Bamboo, has been popular in the United States as both a home and office plant. The plant is easy to maintain, inexpensive, and a symbol of good health.
