Light Filtering Blinds

Three things about light-filtering shades that buyers miss:

• Most light-filtering shades provide good nighttime privacy — but three fabric types do not — linen roller and roman shades, honeycomb cellular, and zebra blinds (in solid-band mode) all block outside view after dark. The exceptions: solar shades at 3% and 5% openness, linen roller shades in shade RT017, and bamboo / woven wood shades without lining — these fabrics are semi-transparent and allow silhouettes to be seen from outside when the room is lit at night. Avoid these for bathrooms or street-facing bedroom windows.
• Solar shades and RT017 linen are see-through fabrics — in both directions — solar shades at 3% and 5% openness let you see outside clearly, but also let people outside see in during the day. At 1% openness, solar shades are opaque enough to block the view in both directions. RT017 linen roller shades are similarly sheer. If you want a view-preserving shade for an office or sunroom but need privacy, choose 1% solar rather than 3% or 5%.
• Bamboo / woven wood shades without lining are open-weave — not a privacy shade — the natural jute, ramie, and bamboo weave lets in dappled light and allows silhouettes to be seen from outside. This is the characteristic look of bamboo shades, and it works beautifully in interior-facing or low-traffic rooms. For bathrooms or street-facing windows, choose bamboo shades with an added lining, which closes the weave and provides both privacy and reduced light infiltration.