Vertical Blinds vs Horizontal Blinds for Sliding Doors: Which Is Right for You?

TL;DR

• In the debate of Vertical Blinds vs Horizontal Blinds for sliding doors, Vertical Blinds are the clear winner. They operate side-to-side, matching the door’s function for easy access.
• Horizontal Blinds are not a practical solution for sliding doors. They must be fully raised to use the door, which is cumbersome and puts heavy strain on the blind’s mechanisms.
• Modern Vertical Blinds have shed their outdated reputation with stylish fabric and vinyl options that look fresh and contemporary.
• For a more updated look, consider alternatives like Panel Track Blinds or Vertical Cellular Shades, which also operate side-to-side.
• Prioritize cordless or motorized options for homes with children and pets  All our custom blinds are handcrafted and backed by a free 3-year warranty 

Vertical Blinds vs Horizontal Blinds for Sliding Doors: Which Is Right for You?

So, you have a beautiful sliding glass door, and it’s time to find the perfect window treatment. This is where one of the oldest debates in the window world comes up: Vertical Blinds vs Horizontal Blinds. Here at Blindsgalore, our family has been guiding homeowners through this exact question for over 25 years. The answer is actually much simpler than you might think.

The way your door moves dictates the best solution. A sliding door glides from side to side. Your blinds should too. Let’s break down why one of these options works beautifully, why the other is a bit of a headache, and explore some stunning modern alternatives you may not have even considered.

The Core Difference: Function Follows Form

This isn’t just about style. It’s about pure, simple, everyday function.

How Vertical Blinds Work for Sliding Doors

Vertical Blinds are the classic, logical choice for a reason. Their long vanes hang vertically and glide along a track from side to side, perfectly mimicking the motion of your sliding door. This means you can easily part them just enough to slip outside without having to open the entire blind. 

For light control, you simply tilt the vanes to direct the sun exactly where you want it. This intuitive design is why vertical blinds for sliding doors have been a go-to solution for decades 

How Horizontal Blinds Function on Sliding Doors

Now let’s talk about Horizontal Blinds. While they are fantastic for standard windows, they create some real problems on a sliding door. Horizontal Blinds are designed to move up and down. To walk through your sliding door, you would need to raise the entire, often very heavy, set of blinds all the way to the top 

Imagine doing that every time the dog needs to go out. It’s impractical, and the weight puts a lot of strain on the lift cords and mechanisms, leading to potential damage over time. While it’s technically possible to install horizontal blinds for sliding doors, we simply don’t recommend it. It’s a classic case of trying to fit a square peg in a round hole.

A Closer Look at Vertical Blinds for Sliding Doors

Now that we’ve established that vertical is the way to go, let’s look at the pros and cons of traditional Vertical Blinds.

Advantages of Vertical Blinds

• Functionality: As we said, they open in the same direction as your door. It just makes sense.
• Light Control: Tilting the vanes gives you incredible, precise control over light and privacy.
• Affordability: They are one of the most budget-friendly solutions for covering large expanses of glass 
• Durability: Our Blindsgalore Vinyl Vertical Blinds are workhorses. They are easy to wipe clean and can stand up to the wear and tear of a busy household.

Potential Downsides of Vertical Blinds

Let’s be honest. Some people have a bad memory of old, clacky, plastic Vertical Blinds. The downsides can include:

• They can make noise when they knock together in a breeze.
• The long, individual vanes can be tempting for pets and small children to play with, which is why choosing the right material is key if you’re looking for cat-proof blinds.
• The look can feel dated if you choose a basic, low-quality option.

So, Are Vertical Blinds for Patio Doors Outdated?

Absolutely not! The key is to choose modern materials. Forget the flimsy plastic of the past. Today’s options have transformed the category.

• Blindsgalore Fabric Vertical Blinds offer the softness and warmth of drapery with the function of a blind. They are available in a huge range of styles, from subtle woven fabrics to striking colors and prints 
• Levolor Visions Faux Wood Vertical Blinds give you the rich look of wood in a material that won’t warp or fade.

Modern Alternatives to Traditional Blinds

If you love the function of a vertical treatment but want a more contemporary look, you are in luck. Here are our favorite modern sliding door blinds and other solutions:

• Panel Track Blinds: These are the chic, updated cousin of Vertical Blinds. Wide panels of fabric slide smoothly on a track, creating a clean, sophisticated look. They don’t tilt, but they stack neatly to the side, offering a clear view. They are our top recommendation for a modern home.
• Vertical Cellular Shades: The energy-saving champion. These shades have honeycomb-shaped pockets that trap air, providing excellent insulation to keep your home cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter. They slide side-to-side and have a soft, elegant look.
• Drapery: Never underestimate the timeless appeal of curtains. A beautiful pair of drapes can frame your door, adding color, texture, and a sense of luxury. For ultimate control, you can layer them over a functional shade.
• Sliding Shutters: For a high-end, architectural look, sliding shutters are unbeatable. They move on a track and offer incredible durability and light control.

How to Choose the Right Blinds for Your Sliding Door

Making the final decision is all about matching the product to your lifestyle.

A Note on Safety and Installation

In any home with children or pets, safety is paramount. We strongly recommend cordless or motorized options. Motorization is not only the safest choice, but it’s also incredibly convenient 

And don’t be intimidated by installation. 99% of our customers install their own treatments. Whether you’re a DIY expert or not, it’s a breeze. All you need are a few basic tools and about an hour. Our instructions are clear, and our in-house experts are just a phone call away.

KEY TAKEAWAY: A Crucial “Don’t” As you plan, remember our golden rule of cleaning: never submerge your blinds or shades in water. A deep soak can damage the materials and mechanisms. A gentle wipe-down is all you need to keep them looking great.

Time to Decide

In the great debate of Vertical Blinds vs Horizontal Blinds for your sliding door, the winner is clear. A vertical treatment that moves with your door is always the better choice for function and durability. The exciting part is choosing which vertical solution best fits your home’s style.

Ready to take your sliding door from blah to ta-da? Start by exploring our full collection of custom-built Vertical Blinds and other patio door solutions. Don’t forget to order up to 15 free samples to see the colors and materials in your own home  Most of our custom orders are handcrafted and shipped for free in as little as 5-7 business days