What Are the Best Bathroom Window Treatments for Your Home?
Bathrooms are the red-headed stepchild of window treatments. No one considers them until the neglect becomes too obvious to ignore. You step out of the warm glow of your living room (with brand-new Hunter Douglas® woven shades) into the strictly utilitarian and somewhat industrial lavatory, and it’s like finding yourself in the bad part of town. With nowhere else to go.
But the right window treatment can transform your ordinary bathroom into an inviting and stylish space! It may not attract runway models, but it can make your bathroom a more pleasant place for your — ahem! — business. And let’s not forget about the primary function of a bathroom window treatment: privacy.
Here, we’ll explore the exciting world of bathroom window treatments (yes, we find it exciting) and help you make the best choice for your home.
Not Just Any Old Window Treatments Will Do
Your bathroom is your sanctuary. A great window treatment can dramatically change the look and feel of the most private room in the house.
Bathrooms are prone to humidity and moisture, even mold. Window covers made of moisture-resistant materials like vinyl, faux wood, or aluminum are usually best.
Fabric shades or curtains can absorb moisture and become musty. However, if you’re after a soft fabric look, treat them with a waterproof coating before hanging them up.
Best Bathroom Window Treatments
1. Curtains
Choose mildew-resistant fabrics, and don’t forget a waterproof curtain liner. Lighter colors and sheer fabrics allow natural light to filter through while maintaining privacy. Voile, lace, and muslin are popular options for bathrooms. Steer clear of heavier materials like velvet or silk, as moisture can damage them.
2. Blinds
Blinds provide maximum privacy and excellent light control. Aluminum blinds are lightweight, durable, and easy to clean. Vinyl blinds resist water damage and are more affordable than metal blinds. Wood blinds are less than ideal for bathrooms, but faux wood blinds can provide the same look with moisture-resistant materials. Opt for horizontal blinds with larger slats for better light and privacy control.
3. Shutters
Plantation shutters have a timeless beauty, making them a good choice for bathrooms. They’re highly customizable, allowing you to choose the level of privacy and light control you desire. Moisture-resistant and easy-to-clean vinyl or composite material shutters are most suitable for bathrooms.
4. Shades
Roller shades or woven wood shades offer a polished and modern look. They’re available in various colors, patterns, and materials, including moisture-resistant options like vinyl or PVC-coated fabric. Solar shades admit natural light while protecting your privacy with their one-way view feature. Woven wood shades made from bamboo, reeds, and jute are stylish and naturally water-resistant.
6. Frosted Glass
Frosted glass offers maximum privacy while allowing natural light to enter the room. The good news is that you don’t have to buy new windows — frosted adhesive film will do the trick. It pays to have a professional install the film for a flawless finish.
Tips for Choosing the Right Bathroom Window Treatment
- Style: Your bathroom window treatment should complement your existing decor.
- Privacy: Consider the position of your bathroom window and any neighboring buildings.
- Moisture resistance: Your window coverings should hold up in a moist environment.
- Natural light: Bathrooms without plenty of natural light feel dark and dingy. Window coverings should allow light to filter through.
- Ventilation: Choose window coverings that allow proper airflow.
- Cleaning: Bathrooms are prone to dirt, dust, and grime. Easy-to-clean materials like vinyl or faux wood are best.
- Installation: We recommend hiring a professional to install your bathroom window treatment for optimal performance and appearance.
Call Aero Shade for Help
Confused by all the options? We invite you to visit our Los Angeles showroom to see, feel, and test the various window coverings you may want to evaluate for your bathroom (or any other room).
We’ve been in the business for nearly 50 years, are passionate about window treatments, and are confident we can find the perfect solution for your bathroom. Book a free consultation with us today!
FAQs: More about Bathroom Window Treatments
Q: Can I use regular curtains in my bathroom?
You can choose mildew-resistant fabrics and use a waterproof curtain liner to protect against moisture.
Q: What is the best window treatment for a small bathroom?
Small bathrooms can benefit from window treatments that allow natural light to filter through while maintaining privacy. Sheer curtains, solar shades, or frosted glass are ideal. Blinds and Roman shades or blinds have a clean and uncluttered look suitable for smaller bathrooms.
Q: Do I need special window treatments for my bathroom?
Bathrooms are moist. They need ventilation. Your window treatments should withstand these conditions and provide the desired functionality. Moisture-resistant materials like vinyl or faux wood are perfect for bathrooms.
Q: Is there a solution if my bathroom is prone to high moisture levels?
Consider window treatments made of synthetic materials that resist water damage, such as vinyl or aluminum blinds. Or faux wood blinds that mimic the aesthetic of natural wood while delivering superior moisture resistance.
Q: Are there eco-friendly window treatments for bathrooms?
You can choose bamboo shades or other sustainable materials.
Q: What’s the best way to clean bathroom window treatments?
The cleaning method depends on the type of treatment. Curtains are usually machine washable, while blinds and shades can be wiped clean.
Q: Can I install my own bathroom window treatment?
You can, but professionals have the experience and tools to ensure a proper and secure installation. Plus, they can offer expert advice on the best window treatment for your needs.
Q: What if I want to add a pop of color with my bathroom window treatment?
Many window treatments come in a variety of colors. For instance, roller shades and curtains are available in hues and patterns that can add vibrancy to your bathroom.
Q: Can window treatments help with my bathroom’s energy efficiency?
Some window treatments provide excellent insulation, helping to keep your bathroom warm in winter and cool in summer. Cellular shades, in particular, have a honeycomb structure that traps insulating air.
Q: What window treatments are best for a bathroom with a view?
We recommend window treatments that provide privacy without completely blocking the scenery. Top-down, bottom-up shades and plantation shutters with adjustable slats are excellent choices.
