Your bathroom window needs special care when choosing window treatments. Every time you have a shower or bath, steam fills the air and settles on surfaces. This creates challenges when choosing window dressing that can handle all that moisture without getting damaged.

The wrong window blinds in your bathroom can quickly become a breeding ground for mould, start to warp, or simply fall apart. But with the right choice, you can have both privacy and style whilst keeping moisture problems at bay.

 

Why Moisture Matters for Your Bathroom Window

Bathrooms naturally produce lots of moisture. When you run hot water for a shower or bath, steam fills the room and turns back into water droplets when it hits cooler surfaces like windows, walls, and window treatments.

When the relative humidity is more than 50%, moisture problems may occur, according to the University of Minnesota Extension. In kitchens and bathrooms, humidity levels can shoot up much higher during use, creating the perfect conditions for mould and mildew to grow.

This excess moisture can cause several problems:

• Paint and wallpaper start to peel
• Mould and mildew grow on surfaces
• Wood starts to rot or warp
• Fabric window treatments develop musty smells
• Metal fittings begin to rust

 

Best Window Treatment Options for Your Bathroom Window

 

1. Water-Resistant Roller Blinds

Roller blinds made from water-resistant materials are excellent for bathroom windows. They’re easy to clean and won’t absorb moisture. Look for vinyl or specially treated fabric blinds that can handle steam and splashes.

These blinds come in many colours and patterns, so you don’t have to sacrifice style for practicality. They’re also simple to operate and take up minimal space when rolled up. Many suppliers offer free samples so you can see how they look in your bathroom before buying.

 

2. Faux Wood Venetian Blinds

Real wood isn’t ideal for bathrooms because it can warp and rot when exposed to moisture. However, faux wood shutter materials or venetian blinds made from composite materials are perfect. They look like a wooden venetian blind but are made from materials that won’t be damaged by steam.

Venetian blinds in faux wood are easy to clean with a damp cloth and provide excellent light control. You can tilt the slats to let in natural light whilst maintaining privacy. They also help reduce heat loss through your bathroom window when closed.

 

3. Bathroom Window Shutters

Bathroom window shutters are an excellent choice for wet areas. Made from moisture-resistant materials like vinyl or specially treated wood, they can handle steam and humidity without problems.

Plantation shutter style window treatments offer several advantages:

• They’re built to last in wet conditions
• Easy to clean and maintain
• Provide excellent privacy and light control
• Add value to your home
• Look elegant and timeless
• Improve energy efficiency by reducing heat loss

 

4. Vertical Blinds for Larger Bathroom Windows

Vertical blinds work well for larger bathroom windows, especially those in family bathrooms. Choose ones made from water resistant materials like vinyl or treated fabric. They’re practical and allow good airflow when partially open.

 

5. Perfect Fit Blinds

Perfect fit blinds sit snugly within your window frame without any drilling. This makes them ideal for bathrooms where you want to avoid creating holes that could let moisture into window frames. They’re available in water-resistant materials and provide a neat, streamlined look.

 

6. Roman Blinds for Style

Roman blinds can work in bathrooms if made from the right materials. Choose water-resistant fabrics that won’t absorb moisture. They add a soft, elegant look to your bathroom whilst still being practical.

 

What to Avoid for Bathroom Window Treatments

Some window treatments simply aren’t suitable for bathrooms:

Untreated fabric curtains – These absorb moisture and can develop mould or mildew quickly. They’re also difficult to clean properly.

Real wood blinds – Natural wood can warp, crack, or rot when exposed to bathroom moisture regularly.

Paper-based blinds – Pleated paper blinds will quickly deteriorate in a steamy environment.

Metal blinds without proper coating – Unprotected metal can rust in humid conditions.

 

Tips for Bathroom Window Treatments

Choose the right materials – Always opt for water-resistant or waterproof materials designed for wet areas.

Ensure good ventilation – Use your bathroom extractor fan during and after showers to reduce moisture levels. This helps protect your window treatments and prevents other moisture problems.

Regular cleaning – Wipe down your bathroom window blinds or shutters regularly to prevent soap residue and mineral deposits from building up.

Consider your window location – If your bathroom window is very close to the shower, choose completely waterproof options rather than just moisture-resistant ones.

Professional fitting and measurement – Proper measurement and blind fitting ensure your window treatments work effectively and last longer. Good customer service from your supplier will help you get the right size.

 

Energy Efficiency Benefits

The right bathroom window treatments don’t just handle moisture – they also improve energy efficiency. Quality window blinds or shutters help reduce heat loss through your windows, keeping your bathroom warmer and reducing heating costs.

This is especially important in bathrooms where you want to stay warm after a shower. Plantation shutter style treatments are particularly good at creating an insulating barrier.

 

Blinds vs Shutters for Bathroom Windows

Both bathroom window blinds and bathroom window shutters can work well in wet areas, but they each have advantages:

Window blinds are often more affordable and come in a wider range of styles and colours. Roller blinds, venetian blinds, and roman blinds are all available in water-resistant materials. They’re also easier to replace if needed.

Bathroom window shutters tend to be more durable in the long term and can handle very wet conditions better. They also add more value to your property and have a more premium feel.

 

Getting Professional Advice

Many interior designers recommend getting professional advice for bathroom window treatments. The unique challenges of moisture, privacy, and light control in bathrooms mean it’s worth speaking to experts.

Look for suppliers who offer good customer service and can provide free samples of water-resistant materials. They should also offer proper measurement blind services to ensure a perfect fit for your bathroom window.

 

Perfect for Other Rooms Too

The same principles that make window treatments work well in bathrooms often apply to other areas. Kitchens and bathrooms both face moisture challenges, whilst your living room might benefit from the light control and energy efficiency that quality window blinds or shutters provide.

 

Making the Right Choice

When selecting window treatments for your bathroom window, think about:

• How much moisture does your bathroom typically generate
• Your budget
• The style you want to achieve
• How much maintenance are you willing to do
• Whether the window is close to the shower or bath
• Energy efficiency benefits
• Professional measurement blind services are available

The key is choosing materials that can handle moisture without getting damaged. Whether you choose bathroom window blinds like roller blinds or venetian blinds, or opt for bathroom window shutters, make sure they’re water-resistant and easy to clean.

With the right moisture-resistant window treatments, you can enjoy privacy, style, and functionality in your bathroom without worrying about damage from steam and humidity. Your bathroom window can look great and work well for years to come.