The Big Mistake You're Making When Buying Window Treatments For A Bathroom

Picking the right window treatments is about more than just matching your decor — it's about choosing what's practical for each specific room, especially in spaces like bathrooms where functionality is key. Window treatments are a must-have in every bathroom, not just for design purposes, but to create a sense of privacy in one of the most personal rooms in your home. It's easy to focus on privacy and style when picking bathroom window treatments, but you don't want to overlook a crucial mistake — not opting for moisture-resistant materials.

Moisture control is a huge factor in choosing the right window treatments to use in your bathroom, as humidity from hot showers and baths is inevitable and can accumulate quickly. If you opt for window treatments that don't resist moisture, the fabric or material can end up absorbing it. This could cause mildew and other bacteria to grow, and might even result in damage to the treatments themselves. While there are many moisture-absorbing materials you'll want to avoid for your bathroom, there are also plenty of alternatives that will help you make a more successful decision. If you can avoid this common mistake, your window treatments will not only be practical for daily use, but more likely to stand the test of time.

Before you pick out bathroom window treatments that give a big boost of style, remember to opt for materials that can handle the moisture. One of the worst options for bathrooms is wooden shutters or blinds. Just like wooden floors are not recommended for bathrooms, wooden window treatments can absorb moisture like a sponge. This can cause the wood to warp, crack, and split, as well as foster mold and mildew — compromising both the appearance and integrity of the wood.

Beyond wood materials, heavy fabrics like silk and polyester are also best avoided in humid environments. Without proper ventilation, they absorb moisture that causes them to retain bacteria, odors, and mildew. These heavy fabrics are not only prone to damage, but can also be challenging to clean frequently — making it difficult to keep them fresh and pristine among the humidity of bathrooms. Some popular window treatments like roller shades and Roman shades tend to use these moisture-retaining materials, so not all options will be suited for your bathroom. It doesn't mean your favorite style is off limits, but it's important to be mindful of the materials. Always go for those that are moisture resistant, and avoid the rest.

If your favorite window treatments aren't suited for the high moisture of a bathroom, don't get discouraged. There are plenty of stylish and functional alternatives that thrive in humid conditions. Materials like PVC, faux wood, and vinyl are great choices for bathroom window treatments, as they resist moisture and maintain their appearance over time. Vinyl shades are a durable window treatment that's easy to clean, and provide a sophisticated look without the risk of moisture damage. PVC is a different form of vinyl which is particularly effective in bathrooms that contain high levels of moisture. For those that like the look of roller blinds, there are plenty of options made with PVC material to withstand that bathroom humidity.

A perhaps obvious alternative to wooden blinds is water-resistant, faux wood blinds. These are made from composite materials which offer the same look as wooden styles without the susceptibility to moisture that leads to damage and trapped bacteria. If you don't consider moisture-resistant options when finding your bathroom window treatments, you may make a crucial mistake. There are plenty of suitable materials available, but if you don't keep your eye out for them, you may end up with something that falls victim to damage and humidity. By opting for water-resistant alternatives, your window treatments can be both stylish and functional, helping to keep your bathroom looking great for years to come.