Cord lock window treatments have been a popular choice for many years, allowing homeowners to easily adjust the height of their blinds or shades by pulling on a cord. However, recent safety concerns have led to a shift away from these traditional corded designs. In this blog post, we will explore why cord lock window treatment cords are no longer considered safe and why they are no longer being made.

The Dangers of Corded Window Treatments

Corded window treatments can pose a significant risk to young children, who can become entangled in the cords and potentially suffer strangulation or other serious injuries. According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), corded window treatments are among the top five hidden hazards in American homes. In fact, between 2012 and 2017, there were 50 fatalities reported due to corded window treatments, with the majority of victims being children under the age of six.

As a result, the CPSC has worked to increase awareness of the dangers of corded window treatments and has implemented stricter safety standards for these products. In 2018, the Window Covering Manufacturers Association (WCMA) introduced new safety standards that require all window treatments sold in the United States to be cordless or have inaccessible cords.

The Move Towards Cordless Window Treatments

In response to these safety concerns, many manufacturers have shifted their focus towards cordless window treatments. Cordless window treatments use alternative mechanisms to adjust the height of the blinds or shades, such as motorized systems, wands, or other types of manual controls. These designs eliminate the risk of entanglement and make window treatments much safer for households with young children or pets.

Cordless window treatments are also easier to use and more convenient than their corded counterparts. With cordless designs, homeowners can quickly and easily adjust the height of their blinds or shades without worrying about tangled cords or potential hazards.

The Future of Window Treatments

While cord lock window treatment cords are no longer considered safe and are no longer being made, there are still plenty of safe and stylish options available for homeowners who want to upgrade their window treatments. From cordless designs to other innovative solutions, manufacturers are continuing to develop new and exciting window treatment products that meet the latest safety standards while also offering a range of features and benefits.

In conclusion, the move away from cord lock window treatment cords reflects a growing commitment to safety in the home. By eliminating the risk of entanglement and other potential hazards, cordless window treatments are helping to keep households safer and more secure while also offering a range of stylish and functional design options. As a homeowner, it is important to choose window treatments that meet the latest safety standards and that provide the level of convenience and functionality that you need.