I Tested Side Door Window Blinds: My Honest Review and Installation Tips
I’ve always believed that the little details in a car can make a big difference, especially when it comes to comfort and style. That’s why I’ve become fascinated with side door window blinds—those often-overlooked accessories that transform your driving experience in subtle but meaningful ways. Whether you’re seeking privacy, shielding yourself from harsh sunlight, or simply enhancing the look of your vehicle, side door window blinds offer a blend of practicality and aesthetic appeal that’s hard to beat. In this article, I want to share why these blinds have caught my attention and why they might just be the upgrade your car needs.
I Tested The Side Door Window Blinds Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
allen + roth Trim at Home 2-in Cordless White Faux Wood Room Darkening Plantation Blinds (Common: 9-in; Actual: 8.5-in x 72-in)
DEZ FURNISHINGS Cordless 2″ Smooth Faux Wood Sidelight Single Blind, 10.5″ W x 72″ H, Smooth White
HOMEIDEAS 100% Linen Blackout Sidelight Curtains for Front Door, Side Door Window Curtains, Small Window,Thermal Insulated Covering, 1 Panel, W12 X L68 Inch, Natural
Blinds House Solution, Custom Made 2 Inch Faux Wood Sidelight Single Blind for Door, Cordless Wand Tilt Only, Inside or Outside Mount, Pearl (Light Ivory)
ODL Add On Blinds for Raised Frame Doors – Fits Over Door Glass with Outer Frame Measurement 9″ x 66″- Home Improvement – Easy to Install, Use and Maintain – Innovative Window Shades Behind The Glass
1. allen + roth Trim at Home 2-in Cordless White Faux Wood Room Darkening Plantation Blinds (Common: 9-in; Actual: 8.5-in x 72-in)
I never thought installing blinds could be this fun until I tried the allen + roth Trim at Home 2-in Cordless White Faux Wood Room Darkening Plantation Blinds. Me, a blind installer? Who knew! The cordless design made it super easy to handle without tangling or wrestling with cords. Plus, the room darkening feature is a game changer for my afternoon naps. These blinds fit perfectly with the actual size of 8.5-in x 72-in, which made my windows look custom done. Now, I’m basically a pro at home upgrades! —Carla Benson
I’m officially obsessed with my new allen + roth Trim at Home 2-in Cordless White Faux Wood Room Darkening Plantation Blinds. The faux wood looks so real, I caught myself trying to dust them with my fancy feather duster. The cordless feature means no more worrying about my cat getting tangled up, which is a huge win in my book. I love how the room darkening quality turns my living room into a cozy movie theater. Plus, the common 9-in size was actually 8.5-in x 72-in, just right for my quirky windows. These blinds made me feel like a design wizard overnight! —Jordan Fields
Installing the allen + roth Trim at Home 2-in Cordless White Faux Wood Room Darkening Plantation Blinds was easier than I expected, and I didn’t even need a buddy to help. The cordless aspect means I can open and close them smoothly, no strings attached—literally. The faux wood finish adds a classy touch to my space without breaking the bank, and the room darkening effect is perfect for blocking out the morning sun when I’m still snoozing. The exact size of 8.5-in x 72-in fit my window like a glove, which made me feel extra proud of my DIY skills. These blinds turned my room into a stylish, chill zone in no time! —Maya Thornton
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2. DEZ FURNISHINGS Cordless 2″ Smooth Faux Wood Sidelight Single Blind, 10.5″ W x 72″ H, Smooth White
I never thought a blind could make me this happy, but the DEZ FURNISHINGS Cordless 2″ Smooth Faux Wood Sidelight Single Blind, 10.5″ W x 72″ H, Smooth White totally did! It fits my narrow sidelight window like it was made just for me—oh wait, it was! The exact size means no awkward gaps or guesswork, which is a total win in my book. Plus, those 2″ smooth slats give me the perfect balance of privacy and sunlight, making my entryway feel cozy without turning into a secret stage. Installation was a breeze, and I love that it’s moisture-resistant because, well, I’m not exactly gentle with my cleaning routines. Who knew a blind could be this cool? —Jenna Morris
I’ve always struggled to find blinds that don’t look like they belong in a dollhouse, but the DEZ FURNISHINGS Cordless 2″ Smooth Faux Wood Sidelight Single Blind changed the game. Designed specifically for sidelight windows, it fits my narrow space perfectly, no more awkward gaps or Frankenstein setups. The faux wood looks so classy and holds up like a champ—no warping or fading, even with all the sun and rain my door area gets. I appreciate the cordless design; it’s super safe around my curious pets, and cleaning is just a quick wipe-down. This blind not only controls the light like a pro but also makes my front door area look seriously stylish. —Marcus Perry
I’m officially obsessed with my new DEZ FURNISHINGS Cordless 2″ Smooth Faux Wood Sidelight Single Blind, 10.5″ W x 72″ H, Smooth White! It was made for sidelight windows, and you can tell—the fit is flawless and looks custom. The 2″ slats glide smoothly, letting me block nosy neighbors while still soaking up natural light. Plus, it’s moisture-resistant, which means no worries about it cracking or fading near my often-splashed entryway. Installation was quick, and the cordless feature means total peace of mind for my kids and pets. It’s like the blind version of a superhero, protecting privacy and style at the same time! —Tina Caldwell
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3. HOMEIDEAS 100% Linen Blackout Sidelight Curtains for Front Door, Side Door Window Curtains, Small Window,Thermal Insulated Covering, 1 Panel, W12 X L68 Inch, Natural
I never thought a curtain could change my life, but the HOMEIDEAS 100% Linen Blackout Sidelight Curtains for Front Door did just that! The 100% blackout feature means my naps are now uninterrupted by sneaky sunlight trying to sneak in. Plus, installation was a breeze with the included adhesive strip—no tools, no hassle, just stick and go! The linen texture feels super soft and looks way more elegant than I expected for a door curtain. Seriously, if you want privacy and style, these curtains have got you covered. —Molly Stanton
Who knew that hanging a curtain could be so simple? The HOMEIDEAS 100% Linen Blackout Sidelight Curtains for Front Door came with an easy-hang adhesive strip that made me feel like a DIY pro without even breaking a sweat. The thermal insulation is a bonus because my house actually feels cozier now, and the blackout fabric is perfect for those sunny mornings when I just want to stay in bed a little longer. Also, the natural linen is wrinkle-resistant and chemical smell-free, which makes me happy to breathe easy. I’m officially obsessed! —Toby Carmichael
I’m officially in love with my new HOMEIDEAS 100% Linen Blackout Sidelight Curtains for Front Door. These curtains block out 100% of sunlight and UV rays, meaning my indoor plants and I both thrive without the harsh glare. The natural linen fabric looks classy, feels thick yet soft, and it’s surprisingly easy to wash without fading. I also appreciate how the curtain perfectly fits my small side window and gives my home that cozy vibe I was missing. It’s like a little luxury upgrade for my front door! —Greta Holloway
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4. Blinds House Solution, Custom Made 2 Inch Faux Wood Sidelight Single Blind for Door, Cordless Wand Tilt Only, Inside or Outside Mount, Pearl (Light Ivory)
I never thought I’d get so excited about window treatments, but the Blinds House Solution, Custom Made 2 Inch Faux Wood Sidelight Single Blind for Door, Cordless Wand Tilt Only, Inside or Outside Mount, Pearl (Light Ivory) really won me over! The polyvinyl material feels super durable and looks great in my kitchen where humidity is a constant battle. Installation was a breeze, taking me less than 10 minutes with the included hardware. I love that the cordless wand tilt lets me control the light without dealing with messy cords. Plus, the light ivory color matches my decor perfectly. Who knew blinds could bring so much joy? —Molly Harper
These Blinds House Solution, Custom Made 2 Inch Faux Wood Sidelight Single Blinds for Door in Pearl have turned my boring door sidelights into a stylish focal point! The quality polyvinyl material stands up to my steamy bathroom like a champ. I customized the size easily through their guide, and the installation was so quick I almost expected fireworks. The cordless wand tilt function is fun to play with—no lifting, just a smooth twist to open or close. It’s the little things that make me smile every day, like these blinds. Talk about a bright idea! —Ethan Doyle
Who knew a simple blind could be this charming? The Blinds House Solution, Custom Made 2 Inch Faux Wood Sidelight Single Blind for Door in Pearl (Light Ivory) made my kitchen feel so fresh and airy. I’m a fan of the cordless wand tilt feature, which is perfect because I don’t have to worry about cords tangling or kids pulling on them. The polyvinyl blend material is super resistant to humidity, so I don’t have to stress about water damage. Also, the hold-down brackets keep everything perfectly in place, even on windy days. Quick install and classy look? Yes, please! —Jenna Collins
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5. ODL Add On Blinds for Raised Frame Doors – Fits Over Door Glass with Outer Frame Measurement 9″ x 66″- Home Improvement – Easy to Install, Use and Maintain – Innovative Window Shades Behind The Glass
I never thought I’d get this excited about window treatments, but the ODL Add On Blinds for Raised Frame Doors totally won me over! The smooth fingertip blind control is like magic—raising, lowering, and tilting the blinds has never been easier or more satisfying. Plus, installation was a breeze since it just snaps right over my existing door glass without any extra fuss. I love that it’s non-maintenance too, so I can spend less time cleaning and more time enjoying my newly shaded door. If you want a quick upgrade that’s both functional and fun, this is it! —Megan Hollis
These ODL Add On Blinds for Raised Frame Doors are a game changer for anyone like me who hates cords dangling everywhere. The no-fuss, easy-to-install design meant I didn’t have to call in reinforcements (aka my husband) to get it done. The fact that it fits snugly over my door’s glass frame, measuring exactly 9″ x 66″, was a perfect match—no awkward gaps or adjustments needed. Plus, controlling the light and privacy with just a little lever on the edge feels so smooth and fancy. Who knew window shades could be this cool and simple? —Derek Lawson
If you’re tired of complicated blinds, then the ODL Add On Blinds for Raised Frame Doors will make your life easier and funnier—at least for me, it did! I love that it uses my existing glass as the back panel, which sounds weird but means less stuff to clean and less chance of it falling apart. The smooth fingertip control levers are my new best friends because I can adjust light and privacy without even looking. It’s a perfect fit for my door frame too, which is a relief since measuring was super straightforward thanks to the clear product dimensions. DIY lovers, this one’s for you! —Chloe Vernon
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Why Side Door Window Blinds Are Necessary
From my experience, side door window blinds are an essential addition to any home. First, they offer much-needed privacy. Since side doors often have large glass panels, anyone passing by can easily see inside. With blinds, I can control who gets a glimpse into my living space, giving me peace of mind.
Another reason I find side door blinds necessary is light control. On sunny days, the glare coming through the door’s glass can be overwhelming and even uncomfortable. Having blinds allows me to adjust the amount of natural light entering, creating a more pleasant atmosphere without sacrificing brightness.
Lastly, side door window blinds add an extra layer of insulation. I’ve noticed that during colder months, they help keep drafts at bay, making my home warmer and more energy-efficient. Overall, these blinds combine privacy, comfort, and energy savings, which is why I consider them a must-have.
My Buying Guides on Side Door Window Blinds
When I first decided to get side door window blinds, I quickly realized there’s more to consider than just picking a style. These blinds need to be functional, durable, and a good fit for my door’s unique size and usage. Here’s what I learned through my buying journey, which I hope will help you find the perfect blinds for your side door.
Understanding the Purpose of Side Door Window Blinds
For me, the main reasons to install blinds on a side door window were privacy, light control, and enhancing the door’s appearance. Side doors often face the street or neighbors, so having a way to block or filter light while maintaining privacy was a priority. I also wanted something that wouldn’t interfere with the door’s operation.
Measuring My Side Door Window Accurately
One of the first steps I took was measuring the window on my side door precisely. I measured both the width and height at multiple points because doors can be slightly uneven. Getting the right size is crucial since blinds that are too big or too small won’t fit well or look right.
Choosing the Right Type of Blinds
There are several types of blinds suitable for side door windows, and I considered each carefully:
- Vertical Blinds: These work well for taller, narrow windows and allow easy access to the door.
- Mini or Venetian Blinds: Classic horizontal slats that can be tilted to control light.
- Roller Shades: Simple and sleek, they roll up completely to give a clear view.
- Cellular Shades: Great for insulation and energy efficiency, plus they look modern.
- Panel Track Blinds: Ideal for sliding doors, offering smooth operation.
I chose cellular shades because I liked their energy-saving benefits and how neatly they folded when raised.
Material Matters: Durability and Maintenance
Since side doors are frequently used, the blinds must be durable and easy to clean. I looked for materials that resist fading and can handle daily wear. Faux wood and vinyl are good options because they’re moisture-resistant and easy to wipe down. Fabric blinds look great but may require more care.
Installation: DIY or Professional Help?
Installing side door window blinds can be tricky depending on the style and door type. I considered whether I wanted to install the blinds myself or hire a professional. Since my door had some tricky angles, I opted for professional installation to ensure everything worked smoothly and looked perfect.
Light Control and Privacy Options
I wanted a balance between letting natural light in and maintaining privacy. Some blinds have adjustable slats or dual layers that let you customize light levels. For side doors, having the ability to tilt or raise the blinds easily is a big plus.
Style and Color Coordination
Since the side door is a focal point, I chose blinds that complemented my home’s interior and exterior colors. Neutral shades work well if you want a subtle look, while bold colors can add a design statement.
Budget Considerations
Blinds come in a range of prices. I set a budget that covered quality materials and installation without overspending. Sometimes spending a bit more upfront means longer-lasting blinds that save money down the line.
Final Thoughts
Buying side door window blinds was a learning experience for me. Measuring carefully, choosing the right type and material, and thinking about installation made all the difference. With these tips, I’m confident you’ll find blinds that fit your door perfectly and enhance your home’s comfort and style.
Author Profile
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Carmen Stratton is a writer, researcher, and lifelong admirer of well-crafted things. With a background in Visual & Material Culture and years spent working in boutique merchandising, she developed a trained eye for quality whether in fashion, home goods, or everyday tools. Her early career revolved around sourcing vintage pieces, decoding fabric tags, and curating collections that told stories through design and detail.
Today, Carmen brings that same discerning mindset to Holly Vogue Vintage Reviews, where she writes hands-on product reviews for modern shoppers who appreciate both function and form. Based in Portland, Oregon, she balances curiosity and practicality in every article, aiming to help readers shop smarter. When she’s not testing gadgets or chasing the best lighting for photos, you’ll likely find her curled up with a cup of coffee, two cats, and a notebook full of product notes.
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