Why bathrooms need a little extra thought
A bathroom window deals with warm steam, then cooler air, over and over. Water also splashes from the sink or shower. Over time that moisture can mark fabric, rust metal parts and swell materials that do not like damp. The good news is that the choice of material makes a big difference, and so does the way the room is ventilated.
Material by material
Faux wood and PVC slats
Faux wood venetian blinds are made from synthetic slats, and they are generally the first thing to consider for a wet room because the slats do not absorb water in the way real wood can. They wipe clean. They are heavier than aluminium, so there is a limit to size depending on the range. See faux wood blinds.
Aluminium venetian slats
Thin metal slats are light and wipe easily, and they suit small windows. Some finishes can mark or dent, and some fittings can corrode in a very damp room, so ask about the finish on the range you choose. See venetian blinds.
Roller blinds in wipeable fabric
Some roller fabrics are made to resist moisture and can be wiped with a damp cloth, and some are not. Because the fabric is a single flat surface, it has fewer places for water to sit. It is happiest when it is not left soaking, so a spot out of the direct line of a shower spray suits it well. See roller blinds.
Real wood slats
Real wood looks warm and rich, but it can react to a lot of moisture, depending on the finish and the conditions. In a well-ventilated en-suite that is rarely used for long showers, it may be fine. In a small windowless-feeling family bathroom, faux wood is often the easier choice. Our wood and faux wood guide compares them in detail.
Fabric pleated and Roman blinds
These look soft, but fabric can hold moisture and odours, and cleaning takes more care. They are happiest in a dry room, or in a bathroom with strong ventilation and a window well away from the water.
Shutters
Shutters are an option for bathrooms too, though the material matters a lot. Tell us what you are considering and we'll happily confirm what suits. See shutters.
A simple comparison
- Best chance in a wet room: faux wood, or a wipeable roller fabric.
- Fine in a ventilated room: aluminium venetian, pleated in a suitable fabric.
- Needs a little more care: real wood, and soft fabric blinds.
"Moisture resistant" is not quite the same as "waterproof", and ranges differ. We're happy to explain how a particular fabric or slat is meant to be cared for.
A note on privacy
Bathroom windows are usually frosted, but frosting can become clear when wet or lit from inside. A blind adds a second layer, and a blind that tilts, such as venetian slats, lets in light while limiting views. If you want a calm daytime feel with privacy, a fabric that filters light can be a lovely choice, and it often works better than a thin white one that can show silhouettes in the evening.
Fitting and position
- Position it away from direct spray. A blind over a bath is more exposed than one over a basin.
- Think about the window handle. If you open the window to ventilate, it helps if the blind is not in the way of the handle.
- Look at depth. Bathroom windows can be shallow, and that affects whether a blind fits inside the recess.
- Think about the cord. Bathrooms can be used by children unsupervised, so see the child-safe blind guide.
Helping any blind last longer
- Run the extractor fan or open the window during and after a shower.
- Raise or open the blind after use so the air can move around it.
- Wipe splashes quickly, using a damp cloth and a mild soap if the care guidance allows it.
- Go gentle with cleaners, as harsh ones could mark a finish.
- Dry slats gently after cleaning.
Frame-fitted options
Some blinds are fitted inside a frame on uPVC windows, which keeps the blind tight to the glass. This can be useful where there is no space or you do not want to drill. Ask whether it suits your window and how the range copes with moisture. See the compatibility guide.
Ask us at the measure
If you're not sure which suits your bathroom, we can talk it through at the window. Book a free measure and bring your questions about steam, size and privacy.
