Window blind cords have been identified as a serious strangulation hazard for young children. As Australian parents and caregivers, understanding the risks and available safety solutions is essential for protecting the little ones in our homes. This guide covers everything you need to know about child-safe window treatments.
Critical Safety Warning
Looped cords on blinds and curtains are a strangulation risk. Children can become entangled in seconds, and incidents can be fatal. The ACCC strongly recommends cordless blinds in homes with children under 6 years old.
Understanding the Risk
Young children are naturally curious and love to explore their environment. Blind cords present a hidden danger that many parents don't consider until it's too late. The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) has recorded multiple fatalities and serious injuries related to blind cord strangulation in Australian homes.
The risk is particularly high because:
- Cords are often at child height when blinds are partially raised or lowered
- Children can climb onto furniture near windows, putting cords within reach
- Incidents happen silently and quickly—strangulation can occur in under a minute
- Cots and beds near windows dramatically increase the risk
Australian Safety Standards
Australia has implemented mandatory safety standards for internal window coverings. The Competition and Consumer (Safety Standard for Internal Window Coverings) Regulations require:
- All internal window coverings with cords must include safety devices
- Products must meet AS/NZS 2309.1:2019 testing requirements
- Retailers must provide safety warnings and instructions
- Cord cleats or tensioners must be supplied with corded products
What the Standard Requires
Since 2015, all corded window coverings sold in Australia must include cord safety devices. However, the safest option remains choosing cordless products, especially in children's bedrooms and play areas.
Cordless Roller Blind Options
Modern roller blinds offer several completely cord-free operation methods that eliminate strangulation risks entirely:
Spring-Operated Roller Blinds
These blinds use an internal spring mechanism. You simply pull the blind down to the desired position, and a gentle tug releases it to roll back up. There are no exposed cords at any time, making this the simplest and most affordable cord-free option.
Motorised Roller Blinds
Electric or battery-powered motors allow operation via remote control, wall switch, or smartphone app. While more expensive, motorised blinds offer the highest level of safety and convenience. They're particularly valuable for hard-to-reach windows and can be integrated into smart home systems.
Wand-Operated Blinds
A rigid wand replaces flexible cords, allowing you to raise and lower the blind without any loop that could pose a strangulation risk. The wand can be kept short and positioned high, well out of children's reach.
Making Existing Corded Blinds Safer
If you have corded blinds and cannot immediately replace them, these steps can reduce (but not eliminate) the risk:
Install Cord Cleats
Cord cleats are small devices that mount on the wall, allowing you to wrap excess cord out of reach. Install them at least 1.6 metres from the floor. While not foolproof, they significantly reduce cord accessibility.
Use Cord Tensioners
For continuous loop chains (common on roller blinds), tensioners anchor the loop to the wall or window frame, preventing it from hanging loose. These must be properly installed with appropriate tension.
Shorten Cords
Cut cords as short as practically possible while still allowing blind operation. Never let cords hang within a child's reach.
Important Reminder
Safety devices reduce risk but don't eliminate it. The only way to completely remove the strangulation hazard is to choose cordless window coverings. Prioritise replacement in bedrooms and play areas.
Room-by-Room Safety Priorities
When budgeting for window treatment upgrades, prioritise these areas:
1. Children's Bedrooms (Highest Priority)
Children spend significant unsupervised time in their bedrooms, including sleep time when parents may not check on them frequently. Always choose cordless options for children's bedrooms.
2. Play Rooms and Living Areas
Areas where children play should have cord-free window coverings. Children often climb on furniture during play, bringing cords within reach.
3. Guest Rooms
If young visitors stay overnight, ensure guest rooms are safe. Portable cots are often placed near windows for convenience.
4. Rental Properties
If you're a landlord with tenants who have young children, consider replacing corded blinds with cordless alternatives. This protects children and reduces your liability.
What to Look for When Shopping
When purchasing new roller blinds for a home with children, ask these questions:
- Is this product completely cordless?
- Does it comply with Australian Standard AS/NZS 2309.1:2019?
- What safety warnings and devices are included?
- Is professional installation recommended for safety reasons?
Installation Best Practices
Even cordless blinds require proper installation for maximum safety:
- Secure mounting: Ensure brackets are firmly attached to prevent the entire blind from falling if pulled
- Check operation: Test that cordless mechanisms work smoothly so children aren't tempted to force them
- Regular inspection: Check blinds periodically for damage or wear that might affect safe operation
- Furniture placement: Keep climbing furniture away from windows where possible
Creating a Safer Home
Choosing child-safe window coverings is one of many steps in childproofing your home. Combine cordless blinds with other safety measures like furniture anchors, outlet covers, and stair gates for comprehensive protection.
Resources for Australian Parents
For more information on child safety and window coverings:
- Visit the ACCC Product Safety website for current safety alerts
- Contact your state's fair trading office for compliance questions
- Ask retailers about their child-safe product ranges
- Consider a professional safety audit of your home's window treatments
Protecting our children requires vigilance and proactive safety measures. By choosing cordless roller blinds and following safety guidelines, you can create a home environment where little ones can explore safely while still enjoying beautiful, functional window treatments.