<h2>How to practice sustainable living</h2>
<p>A good starting point for creating a sustainable lifestyle is by sorting your rubbish into the right bins. Waste is an unavoidable part of living in the modern world, but we can all minimise the waste we send to landfills.</p>

<p>Do you only have one household bin? If so, perhaps think about adding more. Adding more bins or containers is a great visual reminder to sort your rubbish. </p>

<p>We recommend having: </p>
<ul>
<li>1 main bin for non-recyclable items </li>

<li>1 bin for recyclable items </li>

<li>1 bin for any containers that can receive 10 cents back from the <a href="https://www.containersforchange.com.au/wa/how-it-works" target="_blank">Containers for Change Program</a></li>

<li>A few smaller containers for items like batteries, old pens, or electronic devices </li>

<li>A compost bin</li>

</ul>

<h3>How to recycle </h3>
<p>When you’re looking at any plastics, check to see if it says PET and has the recycle icon. PET stands for polyethylene terephthalate and is a completely recyclable material.</p>

<p><b>Common items for your yellow recycling bin</b></p>
<ul>
<li>Paper (including magazines, leaflets, and newspapers) </li>

<li>Cardboard </li>

<li>Juice and milk containers (without the lids)</li>

<li>Any clean jars or containers that have no lids</li>

<li>Empty aerosol containers </li>

</ul>


<p><b>What not to recycle</b></p>
<ul>
<li>Garden waste </li>

<li>Medical waste </li>

<li>Light bulbs or ceramic materials </li>

<li>Disposable nappies </li>
</ul>

<h3>How to recycle electronics and household items</h3>

<p>E-waste is the name given to any electronic item that’s no longer in use or has broken. E-waste consists of items such as old computers or laptops, monitors, keyboards, printers, cables, hard drives or CDs/ DVDs. Electronic items cannot go in your recycling bins and will end up in landfills if they aren’t separated out. </p>

<p>One of the best ways to recycle old household electronic items is by going to your local Officeworks. Most Officeworks stores have recycling bins for these items, so you can bring them in and they will dispose of them for you.</p>

<p>As well as e-waste recycling at Officeworks, you can also recycle the following items: </p>

<ul>
<li>Printer cartridges </li>

<li>Mobile phones </li>

<li>Batteries </li>

<li>Pens and markers</li>

</ul>

<h3>How to practice sustainable living</h3>
<p>In our everyday lives, there are many ways we can make better decisions to reduce our environmental impact. </p>

<h3>Choose natural materials or upcycling </h3>
<p>When choosing furniture and home décor items for your home, the most sustainable options are products made from natural woods. If natural woods aren’t the aesthetic you’re after, another option is to check our your local op-shop or by buying second-hand furniture. Upcycling furniture reduces land waste, saves you some money, gives your furniture some personality and can allow you to create the exact look you’re after. </p>

<h3>Grow your own vegetables </h3>
<p>The cost of groceries adds up over time, so why not make it a household project and start your own veggie patch? If you don’t have a lot of room, starting with a few pot plants of different herbs can make a difference! </p>

<p>If you’re renting you can create a vertical garden that hangs up or use some sort of trough which sits up off the ground and can be moved around with you.</p>

<h3>Recycle your containers to make some extra money </h3>
<p>Thanks to the introduction of Containers for Change, you can take in most aluminium, glass, plastic, and steel for a 10c refund per container! If your container is eligible for the program, you will see a 10c recycling icon on the label or box. </p>

<p>When taking any containers in for recycling, ensure you have removed any labels and the inside is empty. </p>

<p>Not only is this program good for the environment, but you can also make some pocket money, or even donate to local charities taking part in the program.</p>

<h3>Switch to smart home technology</h3>
<p>If your budget allows it, we recommend making the switch to smart technologies that can help regulate your home’s temperature. The logic behind this is simple: the greater control you have over the temperature, the less you’ll have to use heating and cooling appliances. </p>

<p>A good place to start converting your home into a smart home is by making the change to <a href="https://www.abcblinds.com.au/motorised-blinds">motorised blinds</a>! Motorised blinds can be installed inside or outside your home and are simple to use. They work by connecting to a Smart Home Hub which is a central device for all your blinds. One hub can pair up to 20 sets of blinds, which can then be controlled using a smartphone or smart home device over your home Wi-fi. One of the most popular options is motorised roller blinds. <a href="https://www.abcblinds.com.au/roller-blinds">Roller blinds</a> are a very versatile and affordable blind for your home. Motorised roller blinds can protect your rooms from harsh sunlight while still letting in the natural light when needed.</p>

<p>For more reasons why you should <a href="https://www.abcblinds.com.au/blog/why-choose-motorised-blinds">choose motorised blinds</a> for your home, check out our blog post.</p>

<p>If you’re after other ways to create an <a href="http://www.abcblinds.com.au/blog/5-easy-ways-to-create-an-energy-efficient-home">energy efficient home</a>, head to our website!</p>

<h3>Eco-friendly products for your home</h3>
<p>Around your house you’re bound to have many items that are single use. For example, makeup pads, Ziplock bags, or even produce bags if you’ve bought loose fruit and veg. These products all have a reusable alternative that will last you longer and is better for the environment.</p>

<p>Some great starting places for making the switch to reusable products are to: </p>
<ul>
<li>Switch your plastic toothbrush for a bamboo toothbrush </li>
<li>Purchase reusable Ziplock bags or sandwich pouches which are made from an insulating material </li>
<li>Using reusable makeup pads instead of single-use pads </li>
<li>Keeping a set of mesh produce bags in your car when you do the grocery shopping rather than buying pre-packaged fruit and veg, or using plastic bags </li>
<li>Use travel or keep cups when you’re purchasing a drink on the go! </li>
</ul>

<h3>Sustainable food options</h3>

<p>When doing your grocery shopping, it’s important to think about the items you’re purchasing and their packaging. </p>

<p>When planning a sustainable food grocery shop, some things to think about include: </p>
<ul>
<li>Does this item come in a non-recyclable package? Is there another options like bulk food stores, loose fruit and veg or recyclable packaging? </li>
<li>How much of this item do I really need so I’m reducing the amount of food waste? </li>
</ul>

<h3>Compost your food scraps </h3>
<p>There are times where food waste is unavoidable, however there are ways you can still use it to have a positive environmental impact and reduce your carbon footprint. </p>
<p>Composting is the recycling of organic matter, such as food and garden scraps. These scraps can be fruit or veggie peelings, eggshells, wilted leaves, tea bags, over ripe fruit, garden leaves and more. </p>
<p>There are many benefits to composting your scraps instead of throwing them away. Composting is a great way to use any nutrients left over to naturally fertilise your gardens. Not only are you reducing landfill, but you’re also reducing the amount of artificially produced fertilisers or growth chemicals added into your garden. It’s also a lot safer for any kids or pets playing in the backyard!</p>

<h3>Unplugging unused items around your home when you’re out </h3>
<p>When you’re out of your house, sometimes it’s good to keep a light or the TV on to make it look like someone is home, but there are alternative ways to manage your electrical products when you’re out. </p>

<p>To start with, unplug any devices you don’t need on. For example, the kettle, toaster, or lamp, and turn off any lights not in use. </p>

<p>To make your home look like someone is inside, you can set up your devices to be on timers so that they turn on and off at certain times. This is great for any lamps, a radio or TV. This way, you only have on devices for periods of time rather than the entire time you’re not home, therefore reducing your electrical usage.  </p>

<h3>Swap your shower head</h3>
<p>Did you know that showers make up 22% of total household water use? Cutting down on your shower time is a great sustainable living practice to take on board, as is switching to a water efficient shower head. By making the switch, your household can save up to 20,000 litres of water each year. If you can, try and aim for your showers to be between 5-10 minutes. </p>

<h3>Avoid fast fashion</h3>
<p>Fast fashion consists of cheap, poor-quality clothing that doesn’t last long and is mass-produced for cheap labour. The idea of fast fashion is to keep up with what is trending, which in fashion, doesn’t last long. </p>

<p>There are a few ways you can make a positive contribution, save money, and invest in quality clothing. By making positive changes you can reduce the environmental impact of the fashion industry. </p>
<ul>
<li>Clothes swaps with friends or groups of interested people</li>
<li>Fashion rental stores – instead of buying a new outfit you might only wear once or twice, why not rent a piece? </li>
<li>Buy from thrift shops. Albeit this is not for everyone, op-shopping can be a great way to upcycle clothes or find brand new clothes with the tags on. </li>
<li>Buy pieces of clothing that are versatile all year round and can be made into different outfits.</li>
</ul>

<img src="http://www.abcblinds.com.au/images/blog/media/tips-for-sustainalbe-living-in-blog.jpg" style="max-width: 100%"/>
<h3>Recycling your blinds and curtains </h3>
<p>If you’re looking to buy new blinds, choosing timber, bamboo or aluminium blinds have the least impact on the environment. </p>

<p>Our <a href="https://www.abcblinds.com.au/venetian-blinds/aluminium">aluminium Venetian blinds</a> and <a href="https://www.abcblinds.com.au/indoor-shutters/aluminium">aluminium shutters</a> are ideal, as aluminium is a widely accepted material at Perth recycling facilities.</p>

<p>Bamboo blinds are also suitable for eco-friendly homes, as the bamboo biodegrades easily once thrown away. If you’re after bamboo blinds, check out our <a href="https://www.abcblinds.com.au/natural-wonders">Natural Wonders</a> eco-friendly bamboo blinds as an option for your home. </p>

<p>You can learn more about <a href="https://www.abcblinds.com.au/blog/your-guide-to-recycling-blinds-in-perth">recycling your blinds</a> in our blog.</p>

<p>If you have old curtains, there are a few ways you can recycle them, depending on their condition. For curtains in a good condition, you can donate them to your local second-hand store otherwise, if your old curtains have seen better days, then it’s best to repurpose or recycle them. To do this, do some research into what facilities are close by that accept fabric or textile donations. It’s important to remember not to put fabrics in your general curb-side recycling bin, as fabrics aren’t collected with your everyday recyclable products.</p>

<p>Did you know, there are some curtains you can purchase that are already made from recycled products and are therefore better for the environment. This includes our range of “Rejuvenate Recycled Curtains”. </p>

<p>At ABC Blinds, we care about the impact of our products on the environment. These curtains are 100% recyclable and made from recycled polyester yarn. The yarn itself is made from recycled plastic products that would have ended up in landfill. </p>

<p>To find out more about our range of recycled curtains, check out our blog on <a href="https://www.abcblinds.com.au/style-hub/spotlight-on-rejuvenate-acoustic-curtains-amp-recyclable-blinds">Rejuvenate Acoustic Curtains and Recyclable Blinds</a>.</p>

<h3>Spread the word</h3>

<p>The more people who choose to live a sustainable lifestyle, the greater the positive impact on our planet. Share your sustainable living tips with your friends, family, and even colleagues. You might be surprised by the power it can have. Even if only a few lifestyle changes are implemented, it all makes a huge difference. </p>

<p><b>Interested in making the switch to sustainable blinds for your home? Give us a call on <a href="tel:131315">13 13 15</a>, visit one of our <a href="https://www.abcblinds.com.au/showrooms-perth">Perth showrooms</a> or arrange a <a href="https://www.abcblinds.com.au/booking">free measure and quote</a> with a highly-trained consultant in your own home.</b></p>

<p><b>All our blinds, curtains and awnings are made in Australia and are sold for the lowest prices in the market, guaranteed. Just bring in a quote on any competitor’s comparable item and we’ll beat it by 5%!</b></p>


With a big push for more people to be living a more sustainable lifestyle and thinking about their environmental footprint, it can be challenging to know where to start. 
Not knowing what can and can’t be recycled; disposing of odd items like furniture and batteries; and of course, remembering to bring reusable bags when doing your grocery shopping. 
So, if you’re wondering how you can improve your environmental footprint and “go green,” here’s our guide on ways to think about sustainable living daily. 

If you’re wondering how you can improve your environmental footprint and “go green,” here’s our guide on ways to think about sustainable living daily. 

Tips for sustainable living in WA

Tips for Sustainable Living in WA

<h2>Rainy day activities for kids </h2>

<p>While not all winter days will be rainy (hopefully), on the days where you’re wondering how to keep kids occupied indoors, there are a few ways to have fun at home when it’s raining. </p>

<h3>Games for kids </h3>

<p>While it’s good to keep kids learning throughout the school holidays, they deserve a bit of a break away from educational content and to have some fun! On rainy days, it’s hard for them to go outside and explore, so that’s where games come in handy. Games (in moderate amounts) are a break from reality and are a way for kids to express their creativity and problem-solving ability. </p>

<p>Some games can even have multiple people playing at the same time, so you could even turn it into a fun way to spend time together as a family. </p>

<h3>Fun science experiments </h3>

<p>A rainy day is a great time to keep your kid’s mind learning, and with science experiments, there are many ways you can stimulate their curiosity and still have some fun! Great ways to do this are through basic science experiments where they can learn what’s happening and why. </p>

<p>Fun science experiments for kids include: </p>
<ol>
<li><b>Making slime</b>: Slime is all the craze, so why not save some money, as well as learn how it’s made by getting creative at home. Making slime at home is super simple and usually only requires 4 main ingredients plus food dye. As you’re making it, try to understand the science of what makes slime, slime! </li>
    
<li><b>Making sherbet</b>: While making sherbet is a little less on the educational side, it’s an interesting way to learn how different amounts of each ingredient affect the taste. Not to mention, it’s a great experiment for the taste buds too! </li>
    
<li><b>The Mentos in the Coke</b>: An oldy but a goody, putting Mentos in Coke is an exciting experiment for younger kids to see the fizz of the coke reacting to the lolly. </li>

</ol>
    
<h3>Baking </h3>

<p>Cooking is a useful skill to learn, so why not start learning from a young age? Learning to cook can simply be getting your kids involved by assisting with meal prepping, or even helping to put together the meal as they get older. </p>

<p>Baking is a good way to teach kids about measuring ingredients, following instructions, and having fun! You can even make it more fun by having a cookie or cake decorating contest and see who can be the most creative. </p>

<p>Our <a href="https://www.abcblinds.com.au/venetian-blinds/aluminium">aluminium venetian blinds</a> are ideal for the kitchen as they are durable, water-resistant and super easy to clean, so no need to worry when things get a little messy in the kitchen! Plus, they come in a huge range of colours, making them the perfect, stylish addition to your home.  </p>

<h3>Mindfulness </h3>

<p>Research shows that when there’s multiple days with less sunshine, our mood is affected, and we often feel less motivated and happy.</p>

<p>To keep spirits in good health this winter children can practice mindfulness activities to keep them focused on something other than the weather.</p>

<p>There are many great activities to help mindfulness, for kids to do solo, or even make it a family activity to practice self-care together! Some activities you can try are: </p>
<ul>
<li>Painting </li>
<li>Paint by number kits </li>
<li>Colouring </li>
<li>Meditation </li>
<li>Puzzles</li>
</ul>
    
<h3>Crafts to do at home</h3>
<p>Another fun activity to do at home when it’s raining is to get out the craft box! Doing arts and crafts at home is a great way for your kids to be creative, have fun and pass the time! If you don’t have a lot of craft items around the house, something fun to make could be upcycling old (and clean) socks into sock puppets! Give your puppet a name and tell a story. </p>

<p>To start an arts and crafts box, some good craft items are: </p>
<ul>
<li>Pop sticks </li>
<li>Coloured paper </li>
<li>Craft glue </li>
<li>Googly eyes (especially for DIY sock puppets)</li>
<li>Felt </li>
<li>Art smock </li>
<li>Water-based or acrylic paints</li>
<li>Paint brushes </li>
<li>Recycled paper / scrap paper </li>
<li>Old newspapers (great for stopping paint getting on the furniture)</li>
</ul>

<p>Getting together a crafts box doesn’t need to be an expensive project for your kids these school holidays. Shops like Kmart and The Reject Shop have a great selection of fun activities to try, or even get on Facebook and find your local “Buy Nothing” group for your suburb and see if anyone no longer wants their craft items. Getting items from Facebook groups is good for the environment, reducing waste and saving money! </p>

<h3>Have a movie marathon! </h3>

<p>When the weather is cold and gloomy outside, what better way to spend the day than to curl up with a fluffy blanket, popcorn or a nice warm drink, and a darkened room to binge your favourite movies or TV show.</p> 

<p>With streaming services releasing content at the same time as cinemas, staying home and avoiding the wet weather sounds good. </p>

<p>To make the most of your home cinema experience, try to make the room as dark as possible. To do this, blockout blinds or curtains are best as they stop any excess light seeping through any gaps and reduce the glare on your TV screen. <a href="https://www.abcblinds.com.au/roman-blinds">Roman blinds</a> with a blockout fabric or <a href="https://www.abcblinds.com.au/roller-blinds/double-roller-blinds">double roller blinds</a> are great options for blocking out light while watching a good movie. </p>

<img src="http://www.abcblinds.com.au/images/blog/media/rainy-days-in-blog.jpg" style="max-width:100%"/>

<h3>Create a home scavenger hunt</h3>

<p>If your kids like to solve puzzles, why not create a home scavenger hunt for them? It could be as simple as hiding objects around the house and they find them, or, for some extra fun on a boring rainy day, why not make it so that every location they need to go to around the house is a clue to another location? </p>

<p>Having a home scavenger hunt is a great way to teach kids to think about the problems they need to solve, as well as something active and exciting! </p>


<h3>Build a blanket fort</h3>

<p>Another fun thing to do while it’s raining is to curl up in a blanket fort! </p>

<p>A blanket fort is a good way to have some fun, make some mess and have a cosy space away from the rainy weather. What you’ll need: </p>
<ul>
<li>Thicker blankets / quilt </li>
<li>Sheets </li>
<li>Pillows / cushions </li>
<li>Chairs </li>
<li>Pegs</li>
</ul>
    
<ol>
<li>To build the fort, start by clearing a space and set up your chairs in a square. Make sure your chairs are close enough for the blankets to reach, but not so close so the blankets droop in the middle.</li>
<li>Get your thick blanket and place that on the floor in the middle of the chairs.</li>
    
<li>Take your sheets and drape them over the chairs. Try to find two sheets – one sheet for two of the chairs, and another for the other two chairs. </li>
    
<li>To secure your sheets, take some pegs and put them onto the chair. If the chair is too thick for pegs to hold, you could try a lacky band or small pieces of rope. </li>

<li>Once your fort roof is in place and it’s secure, get your pillows and cushions and put them on the floor over your thick blanket. </li>

<li>To get cosy, you could add smaller blankets, hot chocolate, popcorn, and a movie, or even play a game of cards in there! </li>

</ol>

<h3>Creating a productive space for kids </h3>
<p>If your kids are getting older and starting to have more homework and need their own desk space to work, it’s important for them to have their own dedicated space to focus and be productive. A rainy-day activity could be to design and create a space in the house for kids that’s theirs. </p>

<p>To create a productive space for kids, it needs to have a few crucial elements. These include:</p>
<ul>
<li>Good lighting </li>
<li>Free of distractions like toys or games </li>
<li>Stationery – pens, highlighters, sticky notes </li>
<li>A clock or timer to keep their focus for periods of time </li>
<li>Coloured pens, highlighters, pencils </li>
</ul>

<p>This is important for times when they are at school, but it’s also good for them to maintain a routine of doing some study each day, whether it’s learning about a topic they’re interested in, reading a book, or completing any holiday homework. </p>

<p>To learn more about how to <a href="https://www.abcblinds.com.au/style-hub/how-to-create-a-productive-study-space-for-kids">create a productive study space for kids</a>, check out our blog article! </p>

<p>Blind options for a study space need to let in the sunlight so kids don’t strain their eyes, but also filter out harsh sun rays to reduce on screen glare. <a href="https://www.abcblinds.com.au/roller-blinds">Roller blinds</a> are a great option for this as they are versatile blinds which are easily adjustable, we recommend checking out the <a href="https://www.abcblinds.com.au/roller-blinds/sunscreen">sunscreen</a> fabric option for your study space!</p>

<h3>Keeping kids safe indoors during rainy weather </h3>
<p>With the wintery weather limiting the amount of time your kids are spending outside they’re going to be indoors a lot of the time, which means you need to make sure they’re able to play and be safe. </p>

<p>One of the biggest hazards for young kids around the home are blinds. Blinds typically have dangling cords and chains that are fascinating to play with and can be dangerous for kids. </p>

<p>One way to make sure your curtains and blinds are completely child-proof is through installing <a href="https://www.abcblinds.com.au/motorised-blinds">Motorised Blinds</a>! Motorised blinds are growing in popularity and are a way you can control the opening and closing of your blinds with your smartphone, or a smart home device like Google Home or Alexa. </p>

<p>The great thing about motorised blinds is that they are available on a wide range of indoor and outdoor blinds.  </p>

<p>Fun things to do with the family on a rainy day </p>
<p>As kids get older, it gets a lot less cool to be spending time with their family, so having some fun activities is a great way to get everyone to spend time with one another, and for everyone to try and enjoy it. Here’s a few fun things to do with the family to keep everyone happy on rainy days: </p>
<ul>
<li>Fun family board games (such as Monopoly, Uno, or Yahtzee) </li>
<li>Pictionary </li>
<li>Go bowling, to indoor mini golf or to an arcade </li>
<li>Hide and seek</li>
<li>Movie night (if everyone can agree on a movie!)</li>

</ul>

<p><b>To arrange a <a href="https://www.abcblinds.com.au/booking">free measure and quote</a> with a highly-trained consultant in your own home, give us a call on <a href="tel:+131315">13 13 15</a> or fill out this simple <a href="https://www.abcblinds.com.au/booking">online form</a>. We provide this service to a wide range of locations around the metro and select regional areas, 6 days a week between 8am and 6pm.</b></p>

<p><b>The majority of our blinds, curtains and awnings are made in Australia and are sold for the lowest price in the market, guaranteed. Just bring in a quote on any competitor’s comparable item and we’ll beat it by 5%.</b></p>


With the winter school holidays just around the corner, keeping your little ones inside and entertained during the wet weather can sometimes be a bit of a struggle! 
To try and stop your kids complaining that they’re bored at home, here’s some of our tips on how you can keep kids of any age mentally and physically engaged on a rainy day! 

With the winter school holidays just around the corner, to try and stop your kids complaining that they’re bored at home, here’s some of our tips on how you can keep kids of any age mentally and physically engaged on a rainy day! 

Things to do on a Rainy Day

<h2>What are motorised blinds?</h2>

<p><a href="https://www.abcblinds.com.au/motorised-blinds">Motorised blinds</a> (also known as automated or electric blinds) are blinds which are electronically operated, allowing you to open and shut your window treatments without having to use a manual chain or rope system. </p>

<p>Motorised blinds are growing in popularity due to the increase in home automation, making our homes easier to control with the touch of a button, all from one location. </p>

<h3>How do motorised blinds work? </h3>

<p style="margin-bottom:20px">Motorised blinds are connected to a central device called a Smart Motor System. This device can control up to 20 sets of blinds within your home, all at once! The Smart Motor System connects to your home Wi-Fi to control your blinds. You can raise or lower your blinds using a:</p>
<ul>
    <li>Smart home device such as a Google Home or Alexa</li>
    <li>Remote control </li>
    <li>Wall switch </li>
    <li>Smart home applications on your Apple or Samsung smartphones. </li>
</ul>

<h3>What types of motorised blinds are there?</h3>

<p style="margin-bottom:20px">Motorised blinds are available for a wide range of our indoor blinds, including: </p>
<ul>
    <li><a href="https://www.abcblinds.com.au/roman-blinds">Roman Blinds</a> </li>
    <li><a href="https://www.abcblinds.com.au/vision-blinds">Vision Blinds</a></li>
    <li><a href="https://www.abcblinds.com.au/roller-blinds">Roller Blinds</a> </li>
    <li><a href="https://www.abcblinds.com.au/tripleshade-blinds">Tripleshade Blinds</a></li>
</ul>

<p>Motorised curtains are coming soon, so keep an eye out!</p>

<p style="margin-bottom:20px">If you’re looking for motorised outdoor blinds, they are available for our range of: </p>
<ul>
    <li><a href="https://www.abcblinds.com.au/blog/spotlight-on-windmaster-blinds">Windmaster Blinds</a></li>
    <li><a href="https://www.abcblinds.com.au/zipscreen-blinds">Zipscreen Blinds</a> </li>
    <li><a href="https://www.abcblinds.com.au/wireguide-outdoor-blinds">Wire guide Blinds</a> </li>
    <li><a href="https://www.abcblinds.com.au/outdoor-blinds-and-awnings/retractable-awnings">Retractable Awnings</a> (Folding Arm Blinds)</li>
</ul>

<p>To decide which style of motorised blinds are best for your home, start by making a list of what you need in the space, this could include privacy, light control, style, etc. </p>

<p>If you’re looking for a versatile and more affordable option, roller blinds are one of our most popular products. If you’re looking for something a bit more elegant and stylish, go for our designer range Tripleshade blinds. Roman and Vision blinds are also great options for keeping out harsh sunlight as they are made from a thicker fabric. </p>

<p>Motorised blinds are suitable for all areas of your house, including wet areas like your bathroom, as they are not connected to any electrical outlets. </p>

<p>To decide on motorised outdoor blinds, it’s important to consider practicality, budget and usage. It’s also important to look at the average wind speed in your area, to help you decide which outdoor blinds are suitable for the weather conditions. If you live in a particularly windy area, Windmaster blinds might be the best option for you, as they’re specifically designed to withstand strong winds. To learn more about Windmaster blinds, check out our blog!</p>

<h3>The benefits of motorised blinds:</h3>
<ol>
<li><b>They’re 100% child safe</b>
    <p>Motorised blinds are the safest blinds money can buy, simply because they don’t have the hazard of a chain, rope or wand. Remove the dangerous element and you’re left with the blinds alone, and a far safer option for your home. This is a particularly great option for your child’s bedroom, to learn more about our range of <a href="https://www.abcblinds.com.au/blog/thinking-child-safe-when-choosing-blinds"></a>child safe blinds, check out our blog.</p></li>
<li><b>They’re easy to use</b>
    <p>Operating your blinds is simple, you can do so via a wall switch (just like you would with lights), a remote control, a smart home device like Google Home, or even by using your smartphone! There’s no manual control required so no reaching for loose cords or getting up to open them. Say hello to opening your blinds from the comfort of your warm bed on a Sunday morning sleep in! 
Motorised blinds also give freedom back to people who struggle with mobility limitations, as they don’t have to physically open and shut blinds.</p></li>
    
<li><b>They’re battery powered </b>
    <p>Motorised blinds can be installed in any window, regardless of nearby electrical sockets, as they are battery powered. These smart blinds are powered by a 240V electric battery or a lithium rechargeable battery (which can last up to 9 months depending on use).</p></li>
    
<li><b>They’re stylish</b>
    <p>With no chains, ropes or wands, electric blinds are sleek and simple, with clean lines and no annoying loose cords. Available in a range of colours, styles and designs, motorised blinds make a stylish addition to your home, plus you can control the amount of natural light and privacy you want with the touch of a button.</p></li>
    
<li><b>They’re ideal for both residential and commercial properties</b>
    <p>Automating manual tasks makes life simpler and more convenient, making motorised blinds a welcome choice for both home and work.</p></li>
<li><b>Added security </b>
    <p>As you can control your blinds with your smart phone, you can do this from anywhere, including when you’re not at home! Having the ability to open and close blinds without being at home gives any unwanted visitors the illusion someone is home. </p></li>
<li><b>Motorised blinds help to create an <a href="https://www.abcblinds.com.au/blog/5-easy-ways-to-create-an-energy-efficient-home">energy efficient home</a></b>
    <p>Controlling your blinds with your smartphone also allows you to easily open your blinds to let in the sunlight or, shut the blinds to preserve the heat inside your home when you’re not there. This allows you to come home to a warmer house as you can shut the blinds before it gets colder at night, spending less on heating costs. For more tips on how you can create an energy efficient home, check out our guide!</p></li>
</ol>

<h3>The cost of motorised blinds </h3>
<p style="margin-bottom: 20px">There are many factors which determine the price of installing motorised blinds. The biggest factors to consider before purchasing are: </p>
<ul>
<li>The size of the window you want to cover. Depending on how big or small your window is, it will impact the size of the blind you need, and therefore the cost of motorisation</li>
<li>The number of sets of motorised blinds you want to install throughout your home</li>
<li>Whether you want to install indoor or outdoor motorised blinds</li>
</ul>

<h3>Do all the blinds in my home need to be automated? </h3>
<p>Some people prefer all the window treatments throughout their home to match, but how you dress your windows in each room should reflect your budget and how much you use the space. For high-traffic areas like the living area, main bedrooms and kitchen, motorised blinds would be used frequently and therefore more of a benefit to you, rather than in a guest room or a room you use maybe once a week. </p>

<p><b>Are you interested in purchasing motorised blinds for your home? To arrange a <a href="https://www.abcblinds.com.au/booking">free measure and quote</a> with a highly-trained consultant in your own home, give us a call on <a href="tel:+131315">13 13 15</a> or fill out this simple <a href="https://www.abcblinds.com.au/booking">online form</a>. We provide this service to a wide range of locations around the metro and select regional areas, 6 days a week between 8am and 6pm.</b></p>

<p><b>The majority of our blinds, curtains and awnings are made in Australia and are sold for the lowest price in the market, guaranteed. Just bring in a quote on any competitor’s comparable item and we’ll beat it by 5%.</b></p>

Imagine you’ve just sat down on the couch to watch a movie, you’re comfortable and the dog is curled up on your lap. However, you forgot it’s that time of the day where the sunlight hits your TV perfectly, causing that annoying glare, the last thing you want to do is get up and close the blinds. 
Your solution? Motorised blinds! 

Motorised blinds are growing in popularity due to the increase in home automation, making our homes easier to control with the touch of a button, all from one location. 

Why Choose Motorised Blinds?: ABC Blinds Blog

Why Choose Motorised Blinds?

<h2>Types of windows </h2>

<p>There are quite a few different types of windows which you may have in your home, and knowing what each of them are called can help you when purchasing new window treatments. </p>

<h3>Blinds for two-panel sliding window</h3>
<p>The standard window throughout your home is likely to be a two-panel sliding window. This is a window which has one pane of glass that doesn’t move, and one that slides open horizontally along a track to let fresh air in. </p>

<p>The best blinds for two-panel sliding windows are ones which slide left or right along a track, as they won’t partially block the inflow of fresh air into your house. Blinds such as <a href="https://www.abcblinds.com.au/vertical-blinds">Verticals</a>, <a href="https://www.abcblinds.com.au/vertisheers">Vertisheers</a> or <a href="https://www.abcblinds.com.au/panel-blinds">Panel Blinds</a> work well for this type of window. </p>

<h3>Blinds for clerestory windows</h3>

<p>Clerestory windows are a series of windows positioned higher than average, usually stretched across the top of a room to allow extra natural light without compromising privacy.</p>

<p>If the windows go right up to the ceiling, <a href="https://www.abcblinds.com.au/curtains">Curtains</a> which you can pull across when needed are a good option. If there is extra wall space above the window, face fitted <a href="https://www.abcblinds.com.au/roller-blinds" >Roller Blinds</a> also work well, leaving the windows completely clear when they are rolled up. </p>

<h3>Blinds for bay windows</h3>

<p>A bay window is where there is a space projecting outward from the main walls of a building, forming a ‘bay’ or a ‘nook’ in a room. Often, people use this space to build a seated area in front of the window.</p>

<p>As bay windows can be an awkward size, finding blinds for these windows can be difficult. We recommend going for something simple like a plain <a href="https://www.abcblinds.com.au/curtains/material-sheer">Sheer Curtain</a>. If your bay window faces the street, <a href="https://www.abcblinds.com.au/venetian-blinds">Venetian Blinds</a> are also a popular choice and can really let the window be a feature! </p>

<p>To give you an extra layer of privacy, <a href="https://www.abcblinds.com.au/outdoor-roller-shutters">Roller Shutters</a> are a great option for the outside wall of the bay window. Not only do they protect your house from onlookers, but they can also add value to your home as they provide added security.</p>

<h3>Blinds for french doors </h3>

<p>French doors, sometimes referred to as ‘French-style doors’, are large, floor to ceiling double doors that unite your indoor and outdoor spaces.</p>

<p>Vertisheers look like a curtain but function like a blind. They are great for filtering light during the day, creating a soft and inviting space and double as a blackout blind when closed. </p>

<p>If you’re wanting a more premium and versatile option, <a href="https://www.abcblinds.com.au/jamaican-blinds">Jamaican Blinds</a> are great for French doors. Jamaican Blinds are a type of Roman Blind and are available in fabric ranging from translucent all the way to complete blockout. </p>

<h3>Blinds for sliding doors </h3>

<p>Sliding doors, or sliding glass doors, are the standard doors you often have in your house, separating the inside from your backyard. </p>

<p>One of the best blinds for sliding doors that is both aesthetically pleasing and functional is Vertical Blinds as they can be slid along a track to open with the door. They also come in a wide variety of colours to suit any space.</p>

<h3>Blinds for bathroom windows </h3>

<p>Bathroom windows typically are a frosted glass window that might open slightly at the top of the windowpane, providing optimal privacy. </p>

<p>A durable and waterproof option for bathroom windows is <a href="https://www.abcblinds.com.au/venetian-blinds/aluminium">Aluminium Venetians</a> blinds. These blinds are ideal for the bathroom as they let in the natural light whilst maintaining privacy. </p>

<h3>Blinds for outdoor windows and alfresco areas</h3>

<p>There are many different types of outdoor blinds, some of which can be installed on the outside of your windows or doors and some which are suited to patio or alfresco areas. </p>

<p>An alfresco area is usually built under the main roof of the house, whereas a patio is an external structure that’s attached to the house. This space is often used as an outdoor entertaining area and needs to be enclosed in the winter months to protect the space and guests from the weather. </p>

<p>There are a few types of outdoor blinds, one option is going for modern <a href="https://www.abcblinds.com.au/patio-blinds">Café Blinds</a>. Café blinds are a stylish and practical choice, and with no ropes or pulleys they are either motorised or operate with a crank. You can learn more in our <a href="https://www.abcblinds.com.au/blog/why-caf-blinds-are-perfect-for-the-home-or-business">blog post about Café blinds</a>.</p>

<p>Another option is a <a href="https://www.abcblinds.com.au/outdoor-blinds-and-awnings/canvas-awnings">Canvas Awning</a>. These awnings are made from high-quality canvas providing protection from the sun in summer, and the wind and rain in winter. </p>

<p>For blinds on the outside of your windows, you can’t go past <a href="https://www.abcblinds.com.au/outdoor-blinds-and-awnings/pivot-arm-awnings">Pivot Arm Awnings</a> as they are perfect for circulating airflow and reducing direct sunlight into the home. These can be used on most windows and doors around your home and are great for casement windows, windows that open outwards, as they allow plenty of space for the window. They are also a great fit for sliding doors as they allow you to access your home even whilst the awning is closed. </p>

<p><b>To arrange a <a href="https://www.abcblinds.com.au/booking">free measure and</a> quote with a highly-trained consultant in your own home, give us a call on <a href="tel:+131315">13 13 15</a> or fill out this simple <a href="https://www.abcblinds.com.au/booking">online form</a>. We provide this service to a wide range of locations around the metro and select regional areas, 6 days a week between 8am and 6pm.</b></p>

<p><b>The majority of our blinds, curtains and awnings are made in Australia and are sold for the lowest price in the market, guaranteed. Just bring in a quote on any competitor’s comparable item and we’ll beat it by 5%.</b></p>



Finding the right blinds to suit different types of windows can be difficult. Unfortunately, there’s no one-size-fits-all approach when it comes to choosing your window dressings. To help, we’ve put together our top tips on the best blinds for the most common types of windows.

Finding the right blinds to suit different types of windows can be difficult. To help, we’ve put together our top tips on the best blinds for the most common types of windows.

Blinds Solutions for Every Type Of Window: ABC Blinds Blog

Blinds Solutions for Every Type Of Window

<h2>How to choose the right colour scheme for your home</h2>
<p>With so many colour options it can be overwhelming to know where to start and what will work in your space. 
What is a home colour scheme? </p>
<p>A home colour scheme is a carefully selected group of colours used to guide the interior design in your home. To create a seamless transition throughout your home, you can use the same colour scheme in each room, or if you want some variety, why not separate your home into distinct areas and choose a few different colour schemes you like. </p>

<h3>Types of colour schemes </h3>
<p>There are many types of colour combinations to choose from when selecting a colour scheme that works for you and your space. Here are a couple of colour scheme options to help you get started. </p>

<ol>
    <li><b>Monochromatic colour scheme</b>
    <p>A monochromatic colour scheme is where you select one colour with a variety of tones and shades. This colour scheme is good for giving your room a consistent look and feel and has a very clean finish. The downside of a monochromatic colour scheme, is that you may not have any feature items or furniture which stand out. </p>

    <p>A monochromatic colour scheme might be a good option if you have an open plan living and kitchen area and want to create a seamless design throughout the space. </p></li>

    <li><b>Complementary colour schemes</b>
    <p>A complementary colour schemes is made up of colours that are opposite one another on a colour wheel. For example: green and red, or purple and yellow. If you’re wanting a space with a high amount of colour contrast, this is the colour scheme for you! </p>
    <p>This colour scheme is also a great option if you want to create a feature wall with your paint colours in the space. </p>
    
    </li>

</ol>
    
<h3>Choosing a home interior colour palette</h3>
<ul>
    <p><b>Neutral colour palette</b><br/>
    Neutral colours are a great starting point if you’re feeling stuck, as they are simple to style, work well together, and are great if you have a specific feature piece of furniture with a pop of colour. This palette consists of creams, whites, light browns, or beiges. </p>

    <p><b>Warm colour palette  </b><br/>
    Warm paint colours are the reds, yellows, and oranges on the colour wheel. These colours can make your space feel vibrant, bright, and the room feel more spacious.</p>
    <p>If you’re feeling unsure about using a warm colour combination, creating an <a href="https://www.abcblinds.com.au/blog/spotlight-on-earthy-tones-and-natural-interior-design">earthy tone throughout your interior design</a> is always a popular choice. These colours range from shades of ochre to turmeric.</p>
    
    <p><b>Cool colour palette</b><br/>
    A cool colour palette is made up of blues, greens and purples, and can make your home feel calm and relaxing. If you’re wanting to create a space that feels cosy, this is the colour scheme for you. </p>
</ul>


<h3>Tips for choosing a home colour scheme</h3>

<ol>
    <li>
    <b>Don’t forget about your flooring</b>
    <p>Your flooring can make a huge difference in the effect it has on your home paint colour, so it’s important to take it into consideration when you’re choosing a new colour palette. </p>

    <p>As flooring is one of the more expensive aspects of your home to renovate, it’s better to make every design aspect in your space work with it, rather than make the flooring work with your home décor and paint colours. </p>
    </li>

    <li>
    <b>Consider your window dressings</b>

    <p>Window dressings are an important design element in your home, and it’s a good idea to try before you buy to make sure your paint colours and dressings will complement one another.</p>

    <p>If you’re wanting to change your window dressings, a great way to ensure the colour and fabric of them will match your new paint is to order fabric and colour swatches from a range of curtain and blind options you like. At ABC Blinds, you can <a href="https://www.abcblindsonline.com.au/">order 5 free samples</a> to help you make the right interior design choices. </p>
    
    <p>When choosing window dressings, consider how you want them to look in the room. If you want your curtains or blinds to be featured, choose blind options which come in a wide range of colours that way you’re guaranteed to find an option which will suit your space. </p>

    <p>Two of our most versatile blind options for colour choices are <a href="https://www.abcblinds.com.au/vertical-blinds">Vertical blinds</a> and <a href="https://www.abcblinds.com.au/roller-blinds">Roller blinds</a>. </p>
    </li>


    <li>
    <b>Consider the lighting</b>
    <p>The light, both natural and artificial, will affect the way that your paint colour looks on your walls. So, before settling on shade, select a few paint swatches or samples you like, and spend some time observing the space with those samples on the wall before committing to painting the entire space. </p>
    <p>Depending on the time of day of when you’re planning on using the space, your paint colour will look different. Natural light isn’t a consistent light source as it changes throughout day, typically strongest during the middle of the day, and warmer around sunset. If you want to capitalise on that natural light but find it too strong at times, our <a href="https://www.abcblinds.com.au/curtains/material-sheer">sheer curtains</a> are a great option for softening incoming light, while still creating a bright and calming space. </p>
    <p>Artificial light sources also impact the look of your paint colours. Incandescent bulbs produce a warm, yellow-amber light, which can make reds, oranges, and yellows more vivid, while drowning out blues and greens. On the other hand, the cool tones of fluorescent lighting bring out the best in blue and green hues.</p>
    <p>Another consideration is how the colours themselves react to light. For example, black absorbs all colours, while white absorbs none and can instead reflect its surrounding colours. </p>
    <p>If you have a particular colour you want to use in a specific room, but the natural light doesn’t complement it, consider blockout blinds to lessen the impact of the natural light. Blockout blind options include our <a href="https://www.abcblinds.com.au/roller-blinds/double-roller-blinds">Double roller blinds</a>, or for a more luxe look, try the <a href="https://www.abcblinds.com.au/tripleshade-blinds">Tripleshade blinds</a> from our designer range. </p>
    </li>
    
    <li><b>Apply the ‘three-colour rule’ when choosing a colour scheme</b>

    <p>The three-colour rule is where you pick no more than three colours (excluding tints and shades of those colours) when designing a space in your home. We recommend choosing one colour for the walls, the second for trims, and the third for any accents. </p>

    <p>Any more than three colours within one room comes with the risk that it might make the space feel cluttered and lack cohesion. This rule applies to both colour schemes inside your hone as well as exterior home colour schemes. </p>
        
    </li>
</ol>
    
<h2>Exterior house colour schemes</h2>
<p>If you’re feeling like you’re on a roll, why not tackle the exterior paint colours of your home as well?</p>


<h3>3 Tips for choosing an exterior home colour scheme</h3>

<ol>
    <li><b>Keep it simple with pops of colour</b>
        <p>To make the process of redecorating and choosing new exterior colour schemes for your home simpler, we recommend keeping the exterior shades as neutral as possible. To personalise your home, you can easily add a pop of colour to your front door or by playing with colour through adding pots or outdoor furniture.</p>

        <p>Keeping a consistent and clean colour scheme also makes your house easier to sell and potentially even increases the selling     price if you ever decide to move.</p></li>
    <li><b>Match the era</b>

    <p>If you’re still feeling a bit unsure, take inspiration from the architecture and era of your home. From modern or heritage, to minimalist or industrial, choose the right colour palette for your home by doing your research.</p></li>


    <li><b>Exterior blinds for your house</b>

    <p>When it comes to <a href="https://www.abcblinds.com.au/outdoor-blinds">outdoor blinds</a> or <a href="https://www.abcblinds.com.au/outdoor-blinds-and-awnings">outdoor awnings</a>, our range is available in a variety of popular neutral shades to add that special finishing touch to your home’s exterior. Our outdoor blinds also offer your home better control of the light and added privacy. </p>
    </li>
</ol>

<p>The most important thing is to have fun with the colour schemes you choose! Colour choices are subjective, so what works for someone else’s home might not work for yours. </p>


    <p><b>To arrange a <a href="https://www.abcblinds.com.au/booking">free measure and quote</a> with a highly-trained consultant in your own home, give us a call on <a href="tel:+131315">13 13 15</a> or fill out this simple <a href="https://www.abcblinds.com.au/booking">online form</a>. We provide this service to a wide range of locations around the metro and select regional areas, 6 days a week between 8am and 6pm.</b></p>

<p><b>The majority of our blinds, curtains and awnings are made in Australia and are sold for the lowest price in the market, guaranteed. Just bring in a quote on any competitor’s comparable item and we’ll beat it by 5%.</b></p>



Are the paint colours throughout your home feeling a bit outdated and could do with an upgrade? 
In some cases, the paint colours you choose can make or break the space, so it’s important to be confident in your decision when it comes time to whip out the paint rollers.

Whether you’re renovating or planning for your future home, here are a few tips to help you decide on a new colour palette.

How to choose the right colours for your home

Are you feeling like it’s time to give your home décor a makeover and finally create your dream home aesthetic? Well we’re here to help! Here are a few home decorating ideas you can try, to make your home’s interior feel more inviting, exciting, and overall, a more personalised space! 

Here are a few home decorating ideas you can try, to make your home’s interior feel more inviting, exciting, and overall, a more personalised space.