A tidy look for offices
Tilting the slats easily cuts glare on computer screens. Fully closed, they darken a meeting room enough for presentations. Available in grey, anthracite, white and metallic tones to match corporate colours. How we plan whole workplaces is explained on our page about office blinds.
Worry-free in kitchens and bathrooms
Metal slats are not affected by water or steam and clean with a damp cloth. In homes close to the sea, they also outlast fabric curtains in the salty air – our guide to curtains for Antalya’s climate looks at humidity and sea air in more depth.
What 16 mm slats give you
At 16 mm, aluminium slats are far slimmer than wooden ones. When the blind is raised it leaves only a small stack at the top, so almost all of the glass stays clear. Slim slats also fit shallow frames and sash mounting without getting in the way of the handle. Because the tilt moves in small steps, fine-tuning the light is easy. If you prefer a bolder, more decorative line, look at our 50 mm wooden blinds.
Choosing a colour
White and light grey slats blend the window into the wall; anthracite and metallic finishes stand out more in modern kitchens and offices. In homes most people pick a shade close to the window frame, so the window still looks calm with the blind down. On south- and west-facing glass, light colours absorb less heat.
Where they are not the best choice
Bedrooms that must be pitch dark will see light between the slats; a blackout roller blind or pleated blind is the better option there. And if you want a soft, fabric look in the living room, zebra blinds or a sheer-and-curtain combination usually feel more homely.
Holiday lets and utility rooms
Aluminium blinds also earn their place in laundry rooms, pantries and narrow windows next to built-in units, where bulky curtains would be in the way. In rental flats and holiday homes they stand up to frequent use by guests and need far less looking after than fabric.
Mounting options
They can be fixed to the window frame, the wall or the ceiling. On tilt-and-turn windows we mount them on the sash so the window still opens freely – in a small bathroom this also stops the blind hanging over the basin or shower.
Cleaning
Wipe the slats with a damp cloth, or a little soapy water if needed; a soft sponge deals with kitchen grease. Support each slat from behind with your other hand so it does not bend. More tips are in our guide on how to clean blinds.
Best suited for
- Offices and meeting rooms
- Kitchens and bathrooms
- Glazed balconies and sliding doors
Last updated:






