Choosing the right blinds for your bathroom and kitchen can be difficult due to the prevalence of moisture from cooking, showering, and cleaning. This can quickly lead to unhygienic and unattractive window coverings that you have to replace due to mould and rot. Below, we run you through some options that are perfect for damp environments, from aluminium venetian blinds to coated fabric vertical blinds.
What Materials Should You Avoid?
When choosing blinds for your kitchen and bathroom you want to choose materials that are resistant to the type of moisture they will encounter. Splashing, steam, and spraying are all things to watch out for.
As a rule of thumb, you want to avoid un-treated soft fabrics, as they will absorb moisture, growing mould and rot when exposed to moisture for prolonged periods of time. You can however coat fabrics with a water-resistant coating if you have your heart set on fabric blinds.
For similar reasons, you will want to avoid choosing natural wood blinds, as along with developing rot and mould, this material can begin to buckle and warp due to heat from steam.
What Materials are Best?
You will want to use materials that are resistant to moisture, even when exposed to it for many years. Along with this resistance, you want a material that is easily cleanable without requiring disassembly.
Aluminium venetian blinds are an excellent moisture-resistant option, as the metal is smooth and hardy. Not only is it resistant to dampness, but it’s also easy to keep clean and maintain. If you’re looking for the classic wood finish even though natural woods aren’t an option, you could go with faux wood blinds made from a water-resistant composite plastic, giving you the best of both worlds.
Styles to Choose From
The way your blinds work is also something to consider in damp environments like kitchens and bathrooms.
Venetian Blinds
As previously mentioned, aluminium venetian blinds can be an excellent option for damp environments, but venetian blinds, in general, lend themselves well to the types of materials you’ll want to use. Venetian blinds can be made from plastics and metals in many colours and sizes and will give a timeless quality to your kitchen and bathroom.
Roller Blinds
Roller blinds can be a very convenient option for bathrooms and kitchens. Despite being commonly made from fabric, anti-fungal treatments can make them moisture-resistant and suitable for damp environments. Roller blinds in New Zealand homes can also often add a distinguished look to a minimalist bathroom design.
Multi-Use Shutter Blinds
Multi-use shutter blinds are low-maintenance and easy to clean, making them an ideal choice for bathrooms and other damp environments. They also have a stylish look that will compliment any room seamlessly.
*Disclaimer – Blinds are not designed to get wet and stay wet. If you are using blinds in a damp environment, make sure the room is well-ventilated.
Get Your Bathroom or Kitchen Blinds from NZ Blinds
For venetian, vertical, or roller blinds New Zealand-wide, get in touch with NZ Blinds! We stock a variety of options to suit modern homes and would be thrilled to run you through which blinds would best suit your kitchen or bathrooms. Contact us today.