Which Way to Turn Vertical Blinds for Privacy?

Vertical blinds are a stylish and practical window treatment, but getting the most out of them isn’t just about choosing the right colour or material—it’s about knowing how to position them properly. Whether you’re relaxing at home during the day or winding down in the evening, the way you tilt your slats can make a big difference to your privacy. In this guide, we’ll walk you through exactly which way to turn your vertical blinds for optimal privacy, light control, and comfort—plus a few handy tips to keep your blinds working their best.

The Fundamental Mechanism of Vertical Blinds and Privacy

Vertical blinds are a popular choice for both homes and offices—and it’s easy to see why. Their clean lines, versatile operation, and ability to balance light and privacy make them a practical and stylish window dressing. But to make the most of your vertical blinds, it’s essential to understand how they work—especially when privacy is the priority.

Vertical blinds are made up of individual slats, also called vanes, which hang vertically from a headrail. These vanes can be tilted to various angles using a simple wand or cord mechanism, allowing you to control how much light filters into the room—and more importantly, how much of your space is visible from the outside.

Here’s where the privacy element comes into play. The angle at which you position those slats determines what passers-by can and can’t see. Tilt them one way and you’ll invite sunlight to pour in; tilt them the other and you’ll shield your interior from prying eyes. The key takeaway? For maximum privacy, the overlapping edges of the slats should face away from anyone trying to look in. This creates a tighter, more closed appearance that minimises visibility through the gaps, giving you peace of mind and a greater sense of security in your own space.

The "Closed" Positions and Their Privacy Implications

Once you’ve got the basics of vertical blind operation down, the next big question is: which way should you turn them for privacy? The answer lies in understanding the two primary “closed” positions—each offering very different results when it comes to both privacy and light control.

Convex Side Facing Out (Slats Rotated Towards the Window)

In this position, the curved or slightly rounded side of each slat faces outward, towards the window. From inside your home, you’ll see the flatter, more finished side of the blinds.

This is the go-to setting for maximum privacy—day or night. When the convex sides face the window, the vanes overlap in a way that forms a tighter barrier, closing off the view from outside. There are fewer gaps between the slats, making it incredibly difficult for anyone to peek in, even when the lights are on indoors.

In terms of light control, this orientation is also highly effective. The overlapping slats block out more sunlight, making it a great option when you want to reduce glare or create a darker, cosier atmosphere—perfect for movie nights or afternoon naps.

Concave Side Facing Out (Slats Rotated Away from the Window)

In this alternate position, the indented or hollow side of the slats faces outward, towards the glass. From your vantage point inside, you’ll be looking at the rounded side.

While it might look similar at first glance, this configuration offers significantly less privacy. The way the slats overlap in this direction creates small but noticeable gaps, especially when viewed at an angle. These gaps are all it takes for someone outside to catch a glimpse inside—particularly at night when your lights are on.

As for light control, it’s a bit of a mixed bag. While this position may deflect some direct sunlight, it doesn’t block it as effectively as the convex-out position. The uneven coverage from the gaps can allow streaks of light through, making it less ideal for rooms where consistent lighting or darkness is desired.

Visual Aid: See the Difference for Yourself

Factors Affecting Privacy

While slat orientation plays a key role in privacy, it’s not the only factor at work. Several other elements can influence how well your vertical blinds shield your space from outside view. Understanding these can help you make even better decisions when it comes to setup, material choice, and privacy layering.

Slat Material

The material your vertical blinds are made from has a major impact on privacy. Thicker, opaque materials naturally provide a stronger barrier between your home and the outside world. Fabrics or plastics with some transparency may look stylish, but they can allow light—and prying eyes—to sneak through. For rooms where privacy is essential (like bedrooms or bathrooms), opt for non-transparent, heavier materials that completely block the view from either side.

Slat Width

You might not think slat width makes a huge difference—but it does play a subtle role. Wider slats can look sleek and offer more coverage, but if they’re not angled properly, the space between each vane can become more noticeable. The good news? As long as you rotate them into the privacy-maximising position, those wider slats still offer excellent coverage. Just be mindful of precise angling to avoid exposing any accidental gaps.

Gaps and Overlap

Even when your blinds are technically “closed”, tiny gaps can remain between slats. This is where the orientation really matters. Rotating the slats so they overlap in a convex-outward position reduces visibility by creating a stronger visual barrier. It’s not 100% gap-free, but it does significantly minimise the direct line of sight—making it difficult for anyone to see into your home without being right up against the window.

Room Lighting

Here’s a common oversight: even perfectly angled blinds can reveal more than you’d like when the lights are on inside at night. From the outside, illuminated rooms can cast shadows and silhouettes onto the blinds, allowing outlines of movement or furniture to be visible through small gaps. If complete nighttime privacy is a must, consider layering your vertical blinds with curtains or drapes. It’s a stylish solution that adds both softness and a serious privacy boost after dark.

Installation Quality

Finally, never underestimate the importance of a proper fit. Correct installation ensures that the slats hang straight, rotate evenly, and sit close enough together to function as intended. Poorly fitted blinds can sag, misalign, or leave larger-than-intended spaces between the vanes—all of which reduce privacy. Always follow manufacturer guidelines or have a professional install your blinds to get the best results.

Practical Tips and Best Practices

Now that you know how vertical blinds work to protect your privacy, it’s time to put that knowledge into action. Here are some easy, practical tips and best practices to help you get the most out of your blinds—day and night.

Daytime vs. Nighttime Considerations

Whether it’s broad daylight or the middle of the night, the same privacy principle applies: rotate the slats so the convex side faces the window. This maximises overlap, reduces gaps, and helps block the view from outside—regardless of the time of day. While it’s especially important at night (when interior lights can silhouette movement), this position is just as valuable during daylight hours to keep things private while still allowing in soft, filtered light.

Easy Checks from Outside

Not sure if you’ve got your slats angled the right way? Do a quick walk outside and take a look at your window from the street or pavement. If you can see into the room, so can others. If everything looks well-covered with no noticeable gaps, your blinds are likely positioned for optimal privacy. A regular outside glance is a simple but effective habit—especially after cleaning, redecorating, or having guests who might’ve adjusted the blinds.

Adjusting for Light and Privacy Balance

Need a little daylight but don’t want to give up too much privacy? You can slightly tilt the slats open, just enough to let in some natural light while still obscuring the view from outside. This small adjustment is ideal for rooms like kitchens, home offices, or living areas where you want brightness without putting your space on full display. It’s all about finding the sweet spot between comfort and seclusion.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your blinds don’t seem to be offering the privacy they once did, it might be time for a little maintenance. Here are a few quick fixes to common problems:

• Misaligned Slats: Sometimes slats twist at uneven angles or get out of sync with the others. Gently adjust or realign them to restore even coverage.


• Damaged Vanes: Cracked, bent, or warped slats can create unintended gaps. Consider replacing individual vanes to restore full function.


• Faulty Mechanisms: If the rotation wand or chain doesn’t turn the slats smoothly, the internal mechanism might be jammed or worn. In many cases, this can be repaired or replaced without having to buy a whole new blind.


• Improper Reinstallation: If your blinds were recently removed and re-hung (for decorating or window cleaning, for example), double-check that they were reinstalled level and properly clipped in. A minor tilt can cause major privacy issues.

Beyond Basic Privacy

While privacy might be your main concern when adjusting vertical blinds, these versatile window coverings offer so much more than just a visual barrier. With a few thoughtful tweaks to the slat angle, you can also enhance comfort, improve air circulation, and even boost your home’s energy efficiency.

Light Control and Glare Reduction

One of the best things about vertical blinds is the ability to fine-tune how much sunlight enters your space. By slightly angling the slats, you can let in natural light without blinding glare, making them perfect for rooms with screens—like home offices, living rooms, or media spaces. Whether you’re trying to soften harsh sunlight or brighten a dull day, a small adjustment to the tilt can make all the difference.

Ventilation with Privacy

Need to let in a breeze? You don’t have to sacrifice privacy to get fresh air. Simply partially open the slats to allow airflow through your open window while keeping the view from outside obscured. This is especially useful in kitchens and bathrooms, where ventilation is key. It’s a clever way to stay cool and comfortable without putting your space on display.

Energy Efficiency

Vertical blinds also play a role in your home’s energy performance. Closing the blinds in the evening or during particularly hot or cold weather can help create an insulating layer against the window. This reduces heat loss during winter and blocks solar heat gain during summer—helping you maintain a stable indoor temperature and potentially lowering your energy bills. A simple twist of the slats can make your space not only more private, but also more energy smart.

Final Thoughts

Getting the most out of your vertical blinds is all about knowing how—and when—to adjust them. Whether you’re aiming for complete privacy, improved light control, better airflow, or increased energy efficiency, the position of your slats plays a vital role. With just a few easy tweaks, you can turn your vertical blinds into a multifunctional feature that enhances both comfort and security in your home.

At DotcomBlinds, we offer a wide range of high-quality made-to-measure vertical blinds in a variety of styles, colours, and materials—perfect for tailoring your space to your exact privacy and design needs. Whether you're updating a bedroom, living room, or home office, our vertical blinds combine practicality with style.

Not sure which to choose? Ordering free samples is quick and easy—giving you the chance to see and feel the fabric before you buy. It’s all part of our mission to make buying blinds a stress-free experience from start to finish.