Typically, blinds are engineered to offer optimal privacy and light screening when positioned downwards. However, this ‘down’ setting isn’t necessarily the best in all circumstances. The orientation of your blinds may vary largely based on the time of day. This is more than just a consideration of style, it’s a practical strategy closely linked with our day-to-day activities.
When the Sun is Set
In the evening, it is generally advisable to place your blind’s slats downward. This orientation enables your blinds to obstruct a greater amount of incoming light, thus aiding in the creation of the necessary darkness that facilitates the production of melatonin – a hormone that significantly impacts the quality and duration of your sleep. Furthermore, downward-facing blinds also augment your privacy. However, this is not a hard and fast rule, and there can be deviations based on individual preferences. For instance, if you are someone who enjoys waking up at the crack of dawn, you may choose to orient your blinds upwards during the night. The reason behind this is that blinds set in a downward position may prevent sufficient morning light from entering your room, and thus may not wake you up from your sleep.
When the Sun is Up
During daylight hours, it’s advisable to maintain your blinds in an upward position to protect against the harmful effects of the Sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays. Although UV rays constitute a minor fraction of solar emission, their potential to fade and degrade woods and fabrics makes them damaging to both your health and home. By positioning the slats of your blinds upward, you can enjoy the advantages of natural light without the detrimental UV exposure. It’s worth noting that windows without blinds can only obstruct around 50% of UV rays, whereas appropriate use of blinds can block 90-99% of these rays. This also plays a significant role in maintaining a home’s thermal comfort.
Up or Down
During the active, daytime hours, blinds directed upwards are most beneficial. This orientation allows the soft diffusion of sunlight into the room, providing adequate illumination without overwhelming brightness. However, as the day transitions into night, and relaxation takes precedence, it is preferable to position the blinds downwards. This arrangement ensures maximum darkness and solitude, which may enhance the length and quality of your sleep. Consequently, adjusting your blinds appropriately involves a careful consideration of your requirements for light, privacy, and the specific time of the day.