Curtains on doors and windows are essential to prevent intense sunlight from entering the room or to protect privacy. A curtain is not only a piece of fabric hung over a window, but also a symbol of luxury. If you choose the right curtains for your home wisely, they can reduce the intensity of light in your room as well as enhance its beauty. But if you don’t know how to choose the perfect curtains, there is no need to worry. We will guide you on how to choose the right curtains. Let’s find out:
Understand Your Needs
Before selecting curtains, you need to understand what kind of curtains you require because there are different types of curtains, each with a unique function.
Some curtains are designed to protect privacy, some are meant to block sunlight from entering the room, and others help maintain room temperature, keeping the room warm in winter and cool in summer. So, first, confirm your needs and choose the curtains accordingly.
Choosing the Right Fabric for Curtains
Choosing the right material for any product is crucial, and it’s no different for curtains because the durability and beauty of a curtain depend on the material it’s made from. Letโs learn about some popular materials used for making curtains:
1. Cotton Curtains
Cotton is the most popular material for making curtains. Cotton is usually sourced naturally from trees, though some cotton is produced by processing in factories rather than from natural fibers. Most curtains, however, are made from natural cotton.
Advantages:ย A screen made of cotton allows for excellent ventilation. As a result, the room temperature adjusts according to the weather as the air circulates. These curtains come in various designs and colors, allowing them to easily fit into any room’s aesthetic. Cotton curtains are also very easy to clean because they are machine washable.
Consideration:ย The downside of cotton curtains is that they wrinkle easily, which may require ironing or steaming after a while. Moreover, cotton curtains cannot block much light. If you donโt like a lot of light or are choosing curtains for a bedroom or media room, cotton curtains may not be the best choice for you.
Best For:ย Cotton curtains are ideal for use in the living room, kitchen, or a slightly open meeting room. If youโre choosing curtains for these areas, cotton curtains are a great option.
2. Linen Curtains
Fiber from the stems of the flax plant is used to make linen. Linen is produced by a spinning process. First, the flax plant is harvested, and then the fiber is separated through grading. The fibers are then spun into linen, which is used to make linen curtains.
Advantage:ย Linen curtains are eco-friendly and healthy since they are made from natural materials. Like cotton curtains, they allow air to circulate, helping to regulate the room temperature according to the weather. Linen curtains are known for their durability and long-lasting nature. While cotton curtains may feel rough to the touch, linen is soft and smooth. Additionally, linen curtains do not shrink like cotton.
Consideration:
Linen curtains are as thin as cotton curtains and cannot block much light, which might pose issues in maintaining privacy. One thing to keep in mind when choosing linen curtains is that they are often blended with yarns made from other materials. This can add a shine to the fabric but may reduce the quality of the curtain.
Best For;
Linen curtains, like cotton curtains, are perfect for the living room, kitchen, or a slightly open meeting room.
2. Silk Curtains
Silk curtains are also made from natural materials. They are crafted from the thread produced by the larvae of an insect known as the silkworm, and from this thread, the curtains are made.
Advantage: Instead of being thin like cotton or linen, curtains made of silk are a bit heavier. They can maintain privacy inside the house. Moreover, they can help control the room temperature. Silk curtains can last for a long time if properly maintained. If you want to choose curtains for a place that requires less light and more privacy, silk curtains are a great option.
Consideration: The downside of silk curtains is that they can fade if exposed to direct sunlight. Additionally, silk curtains need to be cleaned carefully. It is best not to machine wash or steam them. If you ever need to wash them, do not use hot water. The best approach is to have them cleaned by a professional. Typically, silk curtains are more expensive than other materials.
Best For: Although cotton or linen curtains are not ideal for bedrooms or private spaces, silk curtains are perfect for these areas.
4. Velvet Curtains
Velvet is a type of cloth or fabric made thick with silk, cotton, or nylon. These curtains are very strong and heavy.
Advantage: Velvet curtains are a bit heavy, so they don’t let much light in. They can easily block sunlight from entering the house and protect your privacy. This makes them perfect for use in bedrooms and media rooms. Velvet curtains help keep the room warm in winter and cool in summer.
Consideration: Velvet curtains need to be cleaned carefully. They can gather dust and therefore require regular maintenance. Additionally, their price is slightly higher than that of cotton or linen curtains.
Best For: Velvet curtains are ideal for bedrooms or media rooms as they provide excellent light-blocking and privacy protection.
5. Polyester Curtains
Although the curtains discussed above are made of natural materials, polyester curtains are synthetic fabrics.
Advantages: Curtains made of polyester are very strong and durable. They are ideal for use in populated areas. Polyester curtains are relatively durable and can easily be used for years. Moreover, they are easy to clean as they are machine washable. Being made from synthetic fabric, polyester curtains tend to cost less than other materials. Curtains come in a variety of colors and designs, easily matching the ambiance of any room. Another good aspect of them is that they can be used in any room, from the bedroom to the living room.
Consideration: Polyester curtains cannot adjust heat like naturally made curtains.ย As a result, your room may feel a bit uncomfortable. Moreover, polyester is usually made from polypropylene or polyethylene, which makes them not environmentally friendly.
Best For: Polyester curtains are suitable for any room. They are perfect for use in busy areas or children’s rooms because they don’t cost much and are very durable.
TYPES OF CURTAINS
1. Sheer Curtainsย
These types of curtains are lightweight and transparent, allowing light to pass through easily. Since the curtains are transparent, it is better not to use them in the bedroom or media room. Rather, sheer curtains are perfect to use in the living room, dining room, or open spaces. If you want to choose sheer curtains, you can opt for ones made of cotton or linen.
2. Blackout Curtains
These types of curtains are made from heavy opaque fabric, so light cannot pass through easily, helping to protect privacy. This makes blackout curtains perfect for use in bedrooms or media rooms. If you like a little less sunlight, you can use them in the living room or dining room. Velvet or silk curtains are suitable choices for blackout curtains.
3. Thermal Curtains
These curtains are made of special insulating material that helps regulate the roomโs temperature. Thermal curtains can keep the house warm in winter and cool in summer. If you want such curtains, you can choose ones made of velvet, cotton, linen, or silk.
TYPES OF CURTAIN TOPS
There are various designs at the top of curtains to hang them on the rod. These designs can affect the usability of the curtains. Some popular designs include:
1. Grommet Curtains
These curtains have metal or plastic rings attached to the top of the fabric. As a result, the curtains can be opened or closed easily. Moreover, when grommet curtains are closed, they hang nicely. These are the most popular type for hanging curtains.
2. Tab Top Curtains
Unlike grommet curtains, rings are not used to hang these curtains. Instead, the fabric of the curtain is looped over the rod and fastened with buttons or stitching. Tab top curtains are also called rod pocket curtains.
3. Pleated Curtains
These types of curtains are attached to a metal or plastic frame, but not with rings like grommet curtains. Instead, the top of the curtain is pleated and rings are attached to it. Pleated curtains look very elegant.
DETERMINING THE RIGHT LENGTH AND WIDTH
There are a few things to consider when determining the right length and width for home door and window curtains:
1. Door Curtains
Length: The curtain should be 10-15 cm longer than the door height, so it slightly touches the ground.
Width: The curtain should be twice the width of the door to ensure full coverage and a beautiful drape.
2. Window Curtains
Length: The curtain should be 10-15 cm longer than the window height. If there is furniture under the window, adjust the length accordingly.
Width: The curtain should be twice the width of the window for full coverage and a nice drape.
CURTAIN LININGS
Linings are an additional layer placed behind the main curtain, adding more functionality to it. Different types of linings serve different purposes. Here are some common types of linings and their benefits:
1. Blackout Linings
Advantages: These linings completely block outside light from entering the room. They also help regulate room temperature and block noise.
Usage: Blackout linings are especially used in bedrooms or areas where total darkness is needed.
2. Thermal Linings
Advantages: These linings help regulate room temperature, keeping the house warm in winter and cool in summer.
Usage: Thermal linings are ideal if you want to maintain a comfortable temperature throughout the year.
3. Cotton or Polycotton Linings
Advantages: These lightweight linings allow air circulation and help maintain room temperature.
Usage: Cotton or polycotton linings are commonly used in living rooms or dining rooms.
4. Sheer Linings
Advantages: These linings allow light to enter while maintaining privacy.
Usage: Sheer linings are commonly used in living rooms or kitchens, especially in spaces that need natural light.
