31/10/2022
Important Tips on How to Choose Curtains for Windows
1: Know the Difference Between Curtains and Drapes
The first step to figuring out how to choose curtains for windows is to figure out what your room requires. Oftentimes, homeowners choose curtains, roller blinds, venetian blinds, and vertical blinds without knowing the difference. Doing so can lead to these window treatments interfering with the amount of sunlight your room should get.
It is, therefore, important to know the difference between these two soft furnishings. Curtains are fabric panels made of light materials and hang from curtain rods. They are mostly used for privacy purposes, making it perfect for living rooms. On the other hand, are made of thicker materials that are made to block out sunlight, making it ideal for bedrooms.
2: Pick Out the Right Fabric
The material plays a vital role when it comes to selecting curtains for windows and impacts the look of the room. From sheer lace to lightweight cotton, medium-weight brocades to heavy velvet, your options in curtain designs for windows are aplenty. The two factors that you should consider while picking your fabric are:
• The amount of sunlight you want streaming in
• The mood and decor of your room. For example, heavier fabrics suit more traditional rooms while sheer fabrics work best in more minimalist rooms
Each fabric falls differently from an elevation and therefore will look different when pleated and drawn back. This is an important thing to remember when choosing curtain designs for homes.
3: The Colour of Your Curtain Design Can Make or Break the Look
The colour of your curtain designs for windows and doors should ideally be in sync with the rest of the furnishings. You could either choose drapes for windows that harmonise with the decor or contrast with it. For a pleasing look, choose drapes in a colour that complement the shade of your walls. Alternatively, if you want the curtain designs to be the focus, pick a hue that contrasts with the furniture and walls.
4: Choose Wisely between Prints and Solids
To know what to go with — prints or solids — we need to look at the rest of the decor. If all the other soft furnishings in the room are a solid colour, going with printed curtain designs for home can be a favourable choice. The opposite holds true as well. One thing to remember is that prints add visual weight to any element. Therefore, one way to work with printed curtain designs for windows is to pair them with solid-coloured furniture accessorised with printed cushions, area rugs, etc. You could use quirky prints and geometric patterns in a contemporary space, while florals would suit modern classic and traditional decor.
5: Pick between Lined and Unlined Curtains for Windows
This is where you weigh the functionality of the curtains or drapes that you have chosen. If the curtain hangs on a window that receives direct sunlight, a protective lining can make it more opaque, fade slower and last longer. Also, two layers — one sheer, one opaque can give you the flexibility to choose the amount of privacy and light you want. The fact remains that a lining makes drapes heavier — so choose wisely.
6: Select Fabrics Based on the Maintenance Required
The fabric and material of a curtain determines how it should be cleaned and how often you need to clean it. While all curtains and drapes should be washed every three-to-six months, there are some fabrics that require more care and some that can be machine-washed.
• Low-maintenance fabrics: If you are looking for curtains that need to be washed twice a year, opt for cotton or synthetic fabrics. These can be machine-washed if they are unlined or else, give your lined curtains a quick hand wash. A great option for those with dust allergies or kids and pets at home
• High-maintenance fabrics: Any curtain that has pleats or swags must be dry-cleaned regardless of the fabric. However, wool, silk and sheer curtains must be dry-cleaned or hand-washed in cold water to retain their colour and shape
You can also choose to vacuum your drapes and curtains on a weekly basis if you are prone to dust allergies.
It’s always best to factor in the curtains while you’re deciding the rest of the decor of your room. Consequently, your decor will be more coordinated and harmonious.
If you like to know more about our curtains, please contact us at 6447 1840 / [email protected]