Cellular Shades: The Real Scoop from Reddit on Single vs. Double Cell

If you're staring at your windows, wondering how to finally tackle that draft and glare, you've probably landed on cellular shades as a solution. And if you're anything like me, your next stop was likely Reddit, diving into threads to see what real people have to say. The chatter on forums is a goldmine of unfiltered opinion, especially when it comes to the great debate: single cell vs. double cell shades. The core question everyone wants answered is simple: are double cell shades worth the extra investment? Based on countless discussions and my own experience, the answer is a resounding 'it depends,' but leaning heavily toward 'yes' for specific needs. The value isn't universal; it's tied directly to what you want your windows to do for you.

What Reddit Users Actually Say About Performance

Scrolling through subreddits like r/HomeImprovement or r/HomeDecorating, you'll find a consistent theme. Users who prioritized maximum insulation and noise reduction are almost evangelical about their double cell shades. They report noticeable differences in rooms that were previously chilly in winter or overly warm from afternoon sun. One user described installing double cells in a bedroom over a garage, calling it the single best upgrade for making the space livable year-round. The science backs this up: the extra air pocket in a double cell shade creates a more substantial barrier against heat transfer. For energy efficiency, especially in extreme climates or for large, poorly insulated windows, the consensus on Reddit is clear—double cells deliver.

The Case for Single Cell Shades

But the conversation isn't one-sided. Plenty of Redditors advocate for single cell shades, and their reasons are just as valid. The most common advantage cited is cost. Single cells are significantly less expensive, both for the product and sometimes for installation if you're going custom. For someone covering many windows in a temperate climate, the return on investment for double cells might not pencil out. Aesthetic preference also comes into play. Single cell shades are less bulky, offering a cleaner, more streamlined look when raised in their headrail. In rooms where blackout or total insulation isn't critical—like a formal living room you rarely use or a hallway—a single cell shade often does the job perfectly well. As one DIYer put it, 'Don't over-engineer a solution for a problem you don't have.'

My Own Living Room Experiment

I faced this exact dilemma in my 1920s home. The living room has two large, original windows that are beautiful but drafty. I decided to run my own test, installing a high-quality single cell shade on one window and a double cell on the other. For a week, I used a simple infrared thermometer. On a cold, sunny afternoon, the difference was undeniable. The surface of the glass behind the double cell shade was consistently closer to room temperature, while the single cell window felt noticeably cooler to the touch. The draft was mitigated by both, but the double cell created a genuinely cozier zone. It was this hands-on test that sold me. For bedrooms and main living areas, I now lean double. For my home office with a smaller, newer window, a single cell was a cost-effective and great-looking choice.

Navigating Recommendations and Brands

When the question of 'the best cellular shades' pops up on Reddit, the answers are less about naming one universal winner and more about sharing positive experiences with companies and processes. Brands like Blinds.com, SelectBlinds, and Lowe's are mentioned frequently, often with users sharing coupon codes or sale tips. The real advice from seasoned Redditors is to order samples—always order samples. The feel of the fabric, the true color, and the cell structure look different in your hand than online. Many threads also praise companies with good customer service and clear return policies, as measuring windows can be the most nerve-wracking part. The 'best' shade is the one that fits your budget, your window measurements, and your performance needs.

Making Your Decision: Key Questions to Ask

Before you get lost in the sea of online opinions, ask yourself a few things. What's your primary goal? Is it slashing your energy bill, killing street noise for better sleep, or purely aesthetics and light control? What's your climate like? What's the condition of your windows? The Reddit hive mind suggests that if energy efficiency and comfort are your top priorities, and you live in a place with real winters or summers, the upgrade to double cell is often worth it. The initial sting of the higher price fades over years of lower utility bills and increased comfort. For milder climates, south-facing windows, or rooms used less often, a single cell provides excellent value and a clean look without over-spending.

Related Questions from the Community

Do cellular shades really make a room completely blackout?
While many cellular shades offer a 'room darkening' or 'blackout' fabric option, true blackout usually requires side channels or careful mounting to seal all light gaps. The honeycomb design itself blocks most light, but a sliver around the edges is common. For shift workers, Reddit users often recommend pairing a blackout cellular shade with curtains.

Are cellular shades easy to clean?
Most users on Reddit recommend regular dusting with a microfiber cloth or using the brush attachment on a vacuum. For deeper cleaning, spot cleaning with a mild detergent is the common advice. The consensus is that they are low-maintenance but not submersible—avoid soaking them as it can break down the cell structure.

Can I install cellular shades myself?
Yes, the vast majority of Reddit DIYers report that installation is straightforward, especially for inside-mount shades. The most critical step is measuring accurately—the mantra is 'measure twice, order once.' Most companies provide clear hardware and instructions. Outside mounts are also simple and can help hide imperfect trim.