The Dos and Don’ts of Interior Shutters

SmartLooks Window & Wall Decor • September 10, 2025

When many homeowners think of shutters, they imagine those exterior shutters that flank windows on outside walls. Interior shutters are their versatile and functional counterpart for facing inside the home. They’re stately, durable, and a true value-adding fixture that look and work great in modern homes.

 

Interested in learning about how to style with shutters? SmartLooks Window & Wall Decor partners with Hunter Douglas to offer these elegant custom window treatments, and to help clients make their purchase decisions, we like to share a few dos and don’ts.

Wooden blinds filtering sunlight in a room with patterned wallpaper and a decorative chair.

Do: Use Interior Shutters Any Room

Living rooms and family rooms are ideal for interior shutters. Large windows in these areas benefit from the light control shutters provide; you can adjust brightness throughout the day. Choose wider louvers for expansive windows to complement the proportions. We also recommend interior shutters for bedrooms; the louvers let you control morning sunlight and preserve nighttime privacy.

Don’t: Place Wood Shutters in Bathrooms or Basements

Kitchen windows above sinks and bathrooms benefit from easy-to-clean, moisture-resistant shutters made from composite or vinyl materials. Our team helps install them on the most difficult bathroom or kitchen windows carefully so they won’t interfere with closure or fixtures.

Do: Install Shutters for Sliding Glass Doors

While shutters look stunning on sliding glass doors, customization is essential because they demand precise measurements and professional installation. The weight of large panels can stress hardware over time, making this more challenging than standard windows. And if not installed properly, the shutters might move around when the door’s moved. Bifold panels, bypass tracks, and sliding shutters are popular options for sliding glass doors.

Don’t: Forget About Electrical Outlets

Your team will install shutters without limiting access to electrical outlets near the window. We’ll help plan around nearby switches and outlets to maintain functionality and avoid interference with shutter movement.

Don’t: Use Harsh Cleaning Products

Clean shutter louvers regularly with a microfiber cloth or vacuum brush to prevent dust buildup. Stick with mild soap and water or wood-specific cleaners to preserve finishes and to avoid discoloration or damage; read the manufacturer’s cleaning instructions for the best results.

Do: Consider Layering Shutters with Drapes

Consider layering your custom interior shutters with drapery panels for added design interest and insulation. This aesthetic will add texture and richness to your decor — it works well in bedrooms, living rooms, and dining rooms.

Smartlooks Offers Interior Plantation Shutters near Richardson, TX

Don’t waste time searching—SmartLooks Window & Wall Decor has you covered.

 

We feature Hunter Douglas window treatments, Carole Fabrics™, and an exceptionally talented interior decor team to help you find the window treatments of your dreams—inclding durable interior shutters.

 

Visit our showroom or contact us for a consultation in Richardson and the Dallas Metroplex, including Dallas, Plano, Allen, McKinney, Frisco, Fairview, Wylie, Sachse, Murphy, Parker, Garland, Rowlett, Rockwall, Heath, Sashe, Addison, Carrollton, Farmers Branch, Celina, and surrounding areas.

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