Bay windows are one of the most attractive design features in a home. They add charm, create a sense of more space, and flood rooms with natural light. But when it comes to adding blinds to bay windows, things can quickly get confusing.
Different angles, varying window depths, and awkward corners can make many homeowners unsure of where to start.
In this ultimate guide, we explore the best blinds for bay windows, how to choose the right style for your space, and simple step-by-step measuring tips to ensure a perfect fit every time.
Why Bay Windows Need Special Consideration
Bay windows are a unique architectural feature. Unlike standard flat windows, they’re formed by three or more panels projecting out at different angles.
This means:
You need blinds that fit perfectly into each individual window section.
The blinds mustn’t get in the other’s way when opened or raised.
The style needs to suit the distinctive shape of the bay.
Choosing the right blinds can mean your bay window is the perfect centrepiece for the room. The wrong blinds can be a costly DIY headache that leaves you feeling defeated.
Best Types of Blinds for Bay Windows
1. Roller Blinds – Clean, Modern & Space-Saving
Roller blinds are one of the most popular choices for bay windows for a very good reason. They sit neatly against the frame and require very little space.
Benefits
Sleek and minimalist
Suitable for small rooms or narrow bays
Wide variety of blackout, thermal, and waterproof fabrics
Child-safe operation options available
Best for: modern living rooms, kitchens, and bedrooms.
2. Roman Blinds – Elegant & Soft
Roman blinds provide a much softer and more luxurious feel than roller blinds. They look great on bay windows and stack beautifully when raised.
Benefits
Traditional or cosy interiors
Wide choice of fabric textures and colours
Good insulation when closed
Best for: dining rooms, master bedrooms, or period-style homes.
3. Venetian or Faux Wood Blinds – Stylish Light Control
Venetian blinds are a great option for bay windows if you like precise control over light and privacy. The faux wood versions are especially popular.
Benefits
Fine tilt control of the slats
Faux wood is moisture-resistant
Adds depth to the window frame
Best for: kitchens, bathrooms, and contemporary living spaces.
4. Vertical Blinds – Perfect for Large or Deep Bays
Vertical blinds can work incredibly well in bay windows, particularly when the windows are tall.
Benefits
Suitable for wide or floor-to-ceiling bays
Smooth light control
Ideal for home offices and minimalist decors
Best for: large bay windows, floor-length bays, and modern homes.
How to Choose the Right Blinds for Your Bay Window
1. Consider the Room’s Purpose
Bedroom: choose blackout roller or Roman blinds for excellent light reduction.
Living room: opt for Venetian blinds or Roman blinds for flexible light control and style.
Kitchen or bathroom: moisture-resistant faux wood blinds or waterproof roller blinds work well.
2. Match Your Interior Style
Don’t let your blinds compete with the rest of your décor.
Modern home: choose roller blinds or faux wood Venetian blinds.
Classic home: choose Roman blinds in soft, elegant fabrics.
Scandi décor: choose light-coloured wood-effect blinds.
3. Choose the Right Fabric or Material
Bay windows are often exposed to a lot of sunlight. So you’ll want to consider:
Blackout fabric for bedrooms that face the street
Thermal fabric for cold and draughty bays
Moisture-resistant materials for kitchens or bathrooms
UV-resistant fabrics to prevent fading
How to Measure Bay Windows for Blinds (Step-by-Step)
Measuring bay windows for blinds can be a bit more involved than standard flat windows. But a little patience and careful measuring will ensure your new blinds are a perfect fit.
What You’ll Need
A metal tape measure
Pencil and notepad
A spirit level (optional)
A helper for large or awkward bays
Step 1: Measure the Recess Depth
This tells you which blinds will fit flush into the recess without obstructing neighbouring blinds.
Measure from the window frame to the end of the recess.
Most blinds require at least 5–7 cm (2–3″) of depth.
Roller blinds or slimline Venetian blinds are the best for shallow recesses.
Step 2: Measure Each Individual Window Panel
You need to measure each section of the bay as if it were a separate window.
For each window:
Measure the width at the top, middle, and bottom (take the smallest measurement).
Measure the drop from the top of the frame to the sill.
Record measurements clearly for each panel (e.g., Left Window, Middle Window, Right Window).
Step 3: Measure the Angles (for some blind types)
This is only needed for blinds that need to sit deeper in the recess, like Venetians, Roman blinds, or wider panel blinds.
An easy way to do this:
Take two rulers or pieces of card and place one along one frame, the other along the adjoining frame.
Mark where they overlap. This shows how close blinds can sit without clashing.
If there’s very little space, you’ll need to choose a narrower blind.
Step 4: Decide Inside or Outside Mount
Most bay windows look best with inside-mounted blinds. But you may want outside mount if:
The recess is too shallow for inside mount.
You want to block out even more light.
The frame is uneven.
Step 5: Double-Check Everything
This is where most mistakes occur. Re-measure each window section and check that you:
Have used the same measuring point for all widths (top or middle of the frame, for example).
Have recorded the exact numbers (don’t round up or down).
Know which measurements relate to which window panel.
If ordering made-to-measure blinds online, remember to enter the exact measurements – the manufacturer will add for fitting clearances.
Final Tips for Getting the Best Results
Blinds that fit flush to the frame are generally the best look for bay windows.
Avoid thick or bulky blinds if your bay is shallow or narrow.
For a cohesive look, use the same fabric or blind style on each panel.
Consider motorised blinds for large or awkwardly angled bays.
