Inspiration

Curtains in the bathroom: beautiful or big mistake?

Love the idea of having curtains in your bathroom but not quite sure if it’s the most practical choice? We ask the experts how to make it work.

Love the idea of beautiful, billowy curtains in the bathroom but can’t help but worry about the maintenance involved – or the mould!

When it comes to choosing window coverings for wet rooms, curtains aren’t usually people’s first choice but they are becoming increasingly popular and it’s easy to see why.

Curtains help to soften a room – perfect for bathrooms which are typically full of hard surfaces – adding texture, insulation, and privacy where you need it most. Sheer curtains are particularly popular as they provide privacy but also allow for ample natural light (think morning sun on your face as you step out of the shower – bliss!)

While there are a few practicalities to consider when it comes to hanging curtains in the bathroom, there’s no reason why you should steer away from this elegant window covering option in wet rooms. With the right ventilation, fabric type and maintenance, curtains in the bathroom can be beautiful and practical.

So, if you’re ready to swap your shutters for sheers, here’s how to make curtains in the bathroom work.

KEEP CURTAINS CLEAR OF WET AREAS

“The ultimate factor for any installation is to ensure that the curtains are away from direct wet areas,” says Carpet Court Category Manager – Window Furnishings & Rugs, Rachel Meikle. “It’s also important that the hem of the curtains isn’t sweeping the floors. This will make sure your beautiful sheers are protected from being wet.”

BEST FABRIC CHOICE FOR BATHROOM CURTAINS

Material matters when it comes to choosing curtains for your bathroom. Look for lightweight, machine washable fabrics such as linen, cotton or polyester, that are quick-drying and easy to clean.

“Polyester is the ideal fabric to use as it is hard-wearing, lightweight and ideal for maintaining colour freshness,’ says Rachel. “Take the Bali S-wave sheer curtains for example, which is UV resistant and has a material that diffuses light evenly – allowing you to enjoy the charm of natural light within the bathroom. It also creates and aesthetic that is casual and organic.”

Pairing sheers with a roller blind allows you to have the ultimate light control and privacy as needed.

HOW TO PREVENT MOULD AND MILDEW ON CURTAINS IN THE BATHROOM

Efficient ventilation is important in every bathroom – curtains or no curtains – but even more so if you have fabric window coverings or timber finishes. Exhaust fans are essential and windows that can be opened are ideal when it comes to keeping humidity and moisture under control and preventing mould growth.

Washing your curtains and hanging them to dry completely is another way to keep mould and mildew at bay. “Some curtains can be hand washed using diluted fabric solution (check manufacturer’s instructions) to limit mould and mildew, helping retain freshness,” says Rachel.

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