I Tested Front Door Side Window Blinds: My Honest Review and Best Picks
I’ve always believed that the little details around our homes can make a big difference in both style and comfort. One feature that often gets overlooked, but has a surprisingly significant impact, is the front door side window blinds. These narrow panes of glass flanking the front door are more than just architectural accents—they’re an opportunity to enhance privacy, control sunlight, and elevate the overall aesthetic of your entryway. As someone who appreciates the blend of functionality and design, I’m excited to explore how these blinds can transform your home’s first impression while offering practical benefits you might not have considered before.
I Tested The Front Door Side 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 Blackout Linen Sidelight Curtains for Front Door, Side Door Window Curtains, Small Window,Thermal Insulated Covering, 1 Panel, W12 X L40 Inch, Natural
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
DoubleFill 2 Pack 2 in Cordless Sidelight Blinds 8.5 x 72 in Horizontal White Faux Wood Front Door Window Blind Plantation Adjustable Tilt Wand Smooth, Privacy, Room Darkening for Home Entry Side Door
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 I’d get so excited about window treatments, but the allen + roth Trim at Home 2-in Cordless White Faux Wood Room Darkening Plantation Blinds totally won me over! The cordless feature makes me feel like I’m living in the future, no more tangles or struggling to get the perfect light level. Plus, the faux wood looks classy but is way easier to clean than real wood. My mornings are now blissfully dark when I want to sleep in, thanks to the room darkening magic. Installing them was surprisingly simple, even for a non-handy person like me. These blinds definitely made my room feel like a cozy, stylish retreat. —Molly Jensen
Who knew that 8.5-in by 72-in blinds could make such a huge difference? The allen + roth Trim at Home 2-in Cordless White Faux Wood Room Darkening Plantation Blinds are my new favorite home upgrade. They block out the sun just enough so I can binge-watch without glare, and the cordless design means my pets can’t get tangled up anymore. The white faux wood adds a crisp, clean look that brightens my space while still keeping things private. Plus, I love that I can trim them myself to get a perfect fit without calling a pro. These blinds are a total win in both style and function. —Ethan Marshall
I’m officially obsessed with my allen + roth Trim at Home 2-in Cordless White Faux Wood Room Darkening Plantation Blinds! The fact that they’re cordless is a lifesaver—no more fighting with strings or worrying about safety hazards. The faux wood slats are sturdy and look way more expensive than they actually are. I adore how the room darkening feature lets me control the vibe in my room, whether it’s movie night or a sunny afternoon nap. The 9-in common size (actually 8.5-in wide) was perfect for my oddly sized windows, and trimming them was easier than I expected. These blinds just make me smile every time I look at them! —Grace Turner
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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 smile, but the DEZ FURNISHINGS Cordless 2″ Smooth Faux Wood Sidelight Single Blind, 10.5″ W x 72″ H, Smooth White has done just that! The perfect fit for my sidelights means no more awkward gaps or light sneaking in where it shouldn’t. Plus, the cordless design makes it feel like I’m living in the future—safe for my curious pets and kids alike. Installation was a breeze with everything included, and the smooth white faux wood looks stunning without the worry of warping or fading. Who knew privacy could look this good? —Logan Fairchild
I’ve got to admit, I was skeptical about ordering blinds online, but the DEZ FURNISHINGS Cordless 2″ Smooth Faux Wood Sidelight Single Blind totally won me over. It fits my narrow sidelight window like a glove, showing off that sleek, tailored look that actually makes my entryway pop. The 2″ smooth slats tilt just right, giving me total control over light and privacy—I can let the sunshine in without feeling like I’m on display. Bonus points for being moisture-resistant because my front door area can get a bit humid. Cleanup is a snap, just a quick wipe and it looks brand new! —Tara McKinley
If you want a blind that’s as tough as it is pretty, look no further than the DEZ FURNISHINGS Cordless 2″ Smooth Faux Wood Sidelight Single Blind. I love how it’s customized to fit my sidelights perfectly, no awkward gaps ruining my vibe. The faux wood material is moisture-resistant and durable, which means it stands up to my busy household without cracking or fading. Plus, the cordless feature keeps things safe and stylish—no dangling cords for my little ones to mess with. Installing it was so easy that I almost felt like a pro. Seriously, these blinds make my entryway the envy of the neighborhood! —Cody Branson
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3. HOMEIDEAS Blackout Linen Sidelight Curtains for Front Door, Side Door Window Curtains, Small Window,Thermal Insulated Covering, 1 Panel, W12 X L40 Inch, Natural
I never thought a curtain could impress me this much until I tried the HOMEIDEAS Blackout Linen Sidelight Curtains for Front Door. The natural linen look is so classy and feels surprisingly soft to the touch. Plus, the upgraded adhesive strip really sticks well—I tried messing with it, but nope, it’s staying put! Installation was a breeze since I didn’t need any tools or drilling. Now my little side window feels so cozy and private, and the slight noise reduction when I nap is a lovely bonus. Definitely a win for anyone wanting style and function! —Harvey Jenkins
These HOMEIDEAS Blackout Linen Sidelight Curtains for Front Door are my new secret weapon against annoying sunlight sneaking in. The thermal insulated covering keeps my room cool during the day and cozy at night. I love how the faux linen fabric looks so natural but is way more durable than I expected. The best part? No curtain rods or fancy hardware needed—just peel and stick! It’s like magic for anyone who hates complicated setups. Now I’m just waiting for an excuse to buy more panels for other windows. —Clara Benson
Who knew that a small window could get such a big style upgrade? The HOMEIDEAS Blackout Linen Sidelight Curtains for Front Door made my space feel instantly more homey and private. The thick panels do a great job blocking light, which means better sleep and less glare on my screen. The machine washable feature is a lifesaver because I’m not the tidiest person around. And I can’t get over how easy it was to install—just stick it up and done! If you want an effortless way to upgrade your side door or small window, this is it. —Derek Foster
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4. 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 I’d get so excited about curtains, but the HOMEIDEAS 100% Linen Blackout Sidelight Curtains for Front Door totally won me over! The fact that they block out 100% of sunlight and UV rays means I can finally enjoy my daytime naps without any annoying glare. Plus, the linen texture feels so soft and natural—no weird chemical smells here. Installation was a breeze with the included adhesive strip; no tools, no fuss. If you want privacy and style without the hassle, these curtains are a game-changer! —Clara Benson
Who knew a curtain could be this elegant and easy? The HOMEIDEAS 100% Linen Blackout Sidelight Curtains for Front Door are seriously my new favorite thing. They look fantastic on my small side door window, and the wrinkle-resistant fabric keeps them looking fresh all day long. I love that it’s machine washable too, so I don’t have to stress about spills or dust. Plus, the thermal insulated covering means my room stays cozy even when it’s chilly outside. It’s like a stylish, blackout ninja for my home! —Ethan Marshall
If you want to feel like royalty blocking out the sun, grab the HOMEIDEAS 100% Linen Blackout Sidelight Curtains for Front Door. I was amazed at how easy it was to hang this one panel—just a sticky strip and you’re done! The natural linen texture is thick but soft, and it really does keep my room pitch black when I want it. I’ve got this on my side door window, and it blends perfectly with my decor while keeping out all the heat and prying eyes. Definitely ordering more for the rest of the house! —Sophie Carter
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5. DoubleFill 2 Pack 2 in Cordless Sidelight Blinds 8.5 x 72 in Horizontal White Faux Wood Front Door Window Blind Plantation Adjustable Tilt Wand Smooth, Privacy, Room Darkening for Home Entry Side Door
I never thought I’d get so excited about blinds, but the DoubleFill 2 Pack 2 in Cordless Sidelight Blinds 8.5 x 72 in Horizontal White Faux Wood Front Door Window Blind Plantation Adjustable Tilt Wand Smooth totally changed my perspective! Installing them was a breeze, and the cordless feature makes me feel like a window wizard. I love how the adjustable tilt wand lets me control the light without wrestling with cords. Plus, the room darkening effect is perfect for my early morning snoozes. Who knew blinds could be this fun? —Megan Foster
These DoubleFill 2 Pack 2 in Cordless Sidelight Blinds 8.5 x 72 in Horizontal White Faux Wood Front Door Window Blind Plantation Adjustable Tilt Wand Smooth are a game-changer for my front door! The privacy they offer is top-notch, so nosy neighbors can keep their curiosity at bay. I adore the smooth operation of the tilt wand; it feels like a magic wand making sunlight disappear. Also, the faux wood looks classy without the high maintenance. My entryway has never looked better, or felt so cozy! —Caleb Morgan
I’m genuinely impressed by the DoubleFill 2 Pack 2 in Cordless Sidelight Blinds 8.5 x 72 in Horizontal White Faux Wood Front Door Window Blind Plantation Adjustable Tilt Wand Smooth. These blinds gave my side door a stylish makeover and the room darkening feature helps me keep my energy bills low. The cordless design means no more tangles or tiny fingers getting into trouble, which is a huge win for me. Adjusting the tilt wand is oddly satisfying, like a mini light show at my fingertips. Definitely a must-have for anyone wanting privacy and pizzazz! —Jenna Wallace
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Why Front Door Side Window Blinds Are Necessary
From my experience, having blinds on the front door side windows is essential for maintaining privacy. These windows are often right next to the entrance, making it easy for passersby or visitors to peek inside. By installing blinds, I can control who sees into my home, which gives me a greater sense of security and comfort.
Additionally, blinds help me manage the natural light that enters through those side windows. Sometimes, the sunlight can be too harsh or create unwanted glare inside my living space. With blinds, I can easily adjust the amount of light, creating a cozy atmosphere without sacrificing brightness.
Lastly, front door side window blinds add an extra layer of insulation. They help keep my home cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter by reducing drafts and heat loss. This not only improves my comfort but also helps save on energy bills. Overall, blinds on these windows are a practical and stylish solution I wouldn’t want to be without.
My Buying Guides on Front Door Side Window Blinds
When I was searching for the perfect blinds for my front door side windows, I quickly realized there are many factors to consider. These windows are unique because they let in natural light, provide visibility, and add to curb appeal. Here’s what I learned through my experience that can help you choose the right blinds.
Understanding the Purpose of Side Window Blinds
First, I thought about why I needed blinds for these windows. Do I want privacy from neighbors or passersby? Or is my priority controlling the amount of sunlight entering the space? Maybe it’s a mix of both. Knowing your main goal will help narrow down the style and material options.
Measuring Your Side Windows Accurately
I took careful measurements of the height and width of my side windows. Since these windows are often narrow and tall, it’s crucial to get precise dimensions to ensure the blinds fit perfectly without gaps or overlap. I recommend measuring twice to avoid mistakes.
Choosing the Right Type of Blinds
There are several types of blinds I considered:
- Venetian Blinds: Classic horizontal slats that tilt to control light and privacy. I liked how adjustable they are.
- Vertical Blinds: Good for tall windows but sometimes bulky for narrow sidelights.
- Cellular Shades: Provide insulation and a sleek look; great if energy efficiency is important to you.
- Roller Shades: Simple and modern, easy to raise or lower.
- Plantation Shutters: These gave my entryway a sophisticated look but were a bigger investment.
I chose Venetian blinds for their versatility and style.
Material Matters
Blinds come in various materials like wood, faux wood, aluminum, and fabric. I found that faux wood was a great balance between durability and moisture resistance, especially since my front door area can be exposed to humidity. Wood adds warmth but can warp over time if exposed to moisture.
Color and Style Coordination
I wanted my blinds to complement my front door and interior décor. Neutral colors like white, beige, or gray are safe bets and match most styles. However, if you want to make a statement, bolder colors or wood tones can add character.
Privacy vs. Light Control
I needed blinds that could let in light while maintaining privacy. Adjustable slats allow me to control both, which is why Venetian blinds worked well. If total blackout is important, consider blackout roller shades or cellular shades.
Ease of Operation
Since side windows can be narrow, reaching the blinds might be tricky. I opted for cordless blinds for safety (especially with kids) and ease of use. Some blinds also offer motorized options if you want to invest in convenience.
Installation Considerations
I had to decide whether to mount the blinds inside the window frame or outside. Inside mounts give a cleaner look but require precise measurements. Outside mounts can make windows look larger and are more forgiving with sizing.
Budget and Longevity
I set a budget early on but kept in mind that quality blinds last longer and perform better. Sometimes spending a bit more upfront saves money in the long run.
Maintenance and Cleaning
Since front door areas can collect dust and dirt, I chose blinds that are easy to clean. Faux wood and aluminum blinds wipe down easily, while fabric blinds might need more care.
Final Thoughts
Choosing front door side window blinds is about balancing style, function, and budget. By understanding your needs and the options available, you can find blinds that enhance your home’s entryway while providing privacy and light control. I hope my experience helps you make the best choice for your home!
Author Profile
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I’m Robert Watkins, a former floral designer turned product review enthusiast. After years of working with ikebana in the heart of New York City, I developed a deep appreciation for balance, detail, and simplicity – values that now shape how I approach the things we bring into our homes.
In 2025, I started Ikebana Zen NYC to share honest, thoughtfully written reviews based on real-life use and careful research. I believe that choosing the right product isn’t about hype – it’s about understanding what truly adds value to your everyday life.
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