How to Maintain Privacy When There’s a Window in the Shower

A window in the bathroom can brighten up the space with natural light and bring in fresh air. However, it can also compromise your privacy, especially if the window is in the shower.

With most windows, simply adding a window treatment can solve the privacy issue. But showers are wet areas, making it tricky to use conventional curtains and blinds. Plus, attaching coverings to tile shower surrounds can be challenging. Fortunately, there are numerous cost-effective, quick-to-hang, and water-friendly window privacy options available.

Static Cling Glass Covers

Static cling glass covers are thin, flexible vinyl coverings that adhere to window glass without the need for adhesives. These covers are affordable, ranging from $5 to $15 per roll (enough for one or two windows), and come in various patterns, textures, and colors to suit different preferences.

Before applying the covers, make sure the glass is clean and spotless. Precise cutting is necessary to fit the glass, and a light mist of water helps the covers stick. Use a squeegee to remove any bubbles.

While static cling covers may occasionally fall off, they can be easily reapplied. However, mold and mildew might develop between the cover and the glass over time.

Although static cling covers are not a permanent solution, they're an inexpensive and simple way to add temporary privacy.

Tip

"Obscure glass" or "obscure plastic" refers to translucent materials that let light through but are opaque enough to ensure privacy. Popular styles include frosted, pebbled, ribbed, bubbled, or patterned textures.

Frosted Acrylic Obscure Panel

Not all shower window privacy solutions need to be applied inside the window. Installing a frosted acrylic panel on the outside can provide just as much privacy.

A small frosted acrylic panel costs between $20 and $40. Acrylic can be cut cleanly with a special $7 to $10 plastic cutting tool. The corners and edges of the acrylic can be drilled to attach the panel to the window's exterior trim. To prevent water from being trapped behind the panel and to allow airflow, use 1/4-inch plastic gaskets to stand the panel off from the trim.

Placing an obscure acrylic panel on the outside helps avoid issues with indoor shower spray and is ideal for smaller windows.

Frosted Glass Spray Paint

Frosted glass spray paint gives your window the look of etched glass with an oil-based obscuring coating. The semi-transparent layer lets light in while ensuring privacy.

One can of frosted glass spray paint is sufficient for one window and it takes about 10 minutes to apply. The cost is approximately $15, depending on the brand.

Note that frosted glass spray paint is not suitable for constant contact with water. Occasional water drops are fine, but extensive exposure will eventually wear away the coating.

Glass Etching Cream

While frosted spray paint and glass clings are easy and temporary fixes, glass etching cream offers a permanent solution for frosted glass.

A 2.8-ounce bottle of glass etching cream, which costs between $17 and $25, is enough to frost 6 square feet of window glass. The product is easy to apply and doesn't require scrubbing. Wash off the cream with soapy water and do a final cleaning with mineral spirits.

This method results in true etched glass that won't wear away, providing lasting privacy. Clean it with ordinary glass cleaners.

Waterproof Window Treatment

For a more traditional approach, you can use 100 percent waterproof window treatments in the shower. Options include PVC shutters, vinyl roller blinds, cellular honeycomb shades (which also insulate the window), and plastic mini-blinds.

Keep in mind that any shower window treatment will require attaching brackets to the wall, which involves drilling into tile. All screw holes must be thoroughly caulked to prevent water from entering the wall through the screws.

Tip

If you choose to install blinds, make sure to select ones with minimal metal parts to avoid rusting.

Glass Blocks

Replacing a shower window with a glass block window can provide natural light while significantly improving privacy. This solution also addresses any waterproofing issues permanently.

Due to the weight of glass blocks, mortar, and supporting steel, you may need to reinforce the entire wall or even rebuild it for proper structural support.

The cost to replace a window with glass blocks ranges from $600 to $1,200, but it can vary widely based on size, materials, and installation.

This permanent solution ensures privacy and gives you the opportunity to fix any underlying issues with moldy insulation or wet, decaying walls.