Replacement vertical blind slats (also called louvres or vanes) are single fabric or PVC slats that clip onto your existing vertical blind headrail. You can swap one damaged slat, or change all of them to give the blind a new colour or turn it into a blackout or waterproof blind, without buying a new track. At 1ClickBlinds replacement slats are sold per slat, so you only buy what you need.

Replacing slats is the quickest and lowest-cost way to fix a vertical blind. If the headrail still turns and draws smoothly, there is no need to replace the whole blind.

Replacement vertical blind slats: the quick answer

• What they are: single vertical blind slats that fit your existing headrail.
• When to use them: a slat is torn, stained, faded or bent, or you want a new colour or fabric.
• Types: light-filtering fabric, blackout fabric and blackout waterproof PVC.
• Width: match the width of your old slats. Most UK vertical blinds use 89mm (3.5 inch) slats.
• Drop: order the length that matches your existing slats.
• Fitting: no tools. Clip the slat onto the hanger on the headrail.

Types of replacement slats

Turning a fabric vertical blind into a blackout blind is as easy as swapping every slat for a blackout slat. Read blackout vertical blind slats.

Replace the slats or buy a new vertical blind?

How to measure for replacement vertical blind slats

1. Check the width: measure across one of your existing slats. Most are 89mm (3.5 inches). Order the same width so the slats overlap correctly.
2. Measure the drop: measure the length of one existing slat from the top edge to the bottom edge, in millimetres. If your slats are uneven or damaged, measure from the bottom of the headrail to where you want the slat to finish, then take off about 10mm so it clears the floor or sill.
3. Count the slats: count how many slats you need. If you are replacing them all, count the hangers on the headrail.
4. Check the bottom: note whether your blind has weights and a chain at the bottom, so you can move them onto the new slats.

Step-by-step help: how to measure and swap replacement vertical blind slats.

How to replace vertical blind slats

1. Turn the slats open: rotate the blind so the slats are side-on (open), so each hanger faces you.
2. Take off the bottom chain: unclip the chain that links the weights at the bottom.
3. Remove the old slat: pull the slat down and slightly forward to release it from the hanger, or press the hanger clip.
4. Move the weight: slide the weight out of the old slat and into the pocket at the bottom of the new one.
5. Clip in the new slat: push the top of the slat into the hanger until it clicks.
6. Refit the chain: clip the chain back on and check that the slats turn and draw smoothly.

Full guide with tips: how to replace vertical blind slats.

Which slats for which room?

For wet rooms, read PVC vertical blinds for kitchens and bathrooms.

Common vertical blind problems and fixes

Spare parts are in blinds accessories.

How to clean vertical blind slats

• Fabric slats: close the blind and vacuum gently with a brush attachment, or wipe with a barely damp cloth.
• PVC slats: wipe with warm soapy water and dry.
• Stubborn marks: replacing the slat is often quicker than trying to clean it.

More in how to clean vertical blinds.

Frequently asked questions

Can you replace individual vertical blind slats?

Yes. Each slat clips onto its own hanger, so you can replace one slat at a time without taking down the headrail.

How do I know what size replacement slats to buy?

Measure the width of an existing slat (most are 89mm) and its length from top to bottom. Order the same width and the drop you need.

Will new slats fit my old vertical blind?

New slats fit most standard vertical blind headrails if the width matches your old slats. Check your slat width before you order.

Can I change my vertical blind to blackout?

Yes. Replace all the slats with blackout fabric or blackout PVC slats. The headrail stays the same.

Are PVC slats waterproof?

Yes. Our blackout PVC slats resist water and steam and wipe clean, so they suit kitchens and bathrooms.

Do I need to reuse the weights and chain?

Yes, if they are in good condition. Slide the weight from the old slat into the new one and refit the bottom chain so the slats turn together.

Does replacing slats cost less than a new blind?

Usually yes, as long as the headrail works. You only pay for the slats you need.

Can I mix new and old slats?

You can, but old slats often fade, so a new slat may look brighter. For an even look, replace all the slats.

How do I order the right number of slats?

Count the hangers on your headrail. You need one slat per hanger.

Explore more: blackout blinds, waterproof blinds and perfect fit shutters.