Different Types of Curtains & How to Pick the Right Design

Curtains are a must for every home because they don’t just block the lights; they also add style and privacy to every room. However, there are so many different curtains: different designs, different types, lengths, etc. So, how do you choose the right one? Don’t worry - in this article, we will present you with the best types of curtains and give you a few tips on how to pick the right design. 

Different Types of Curtains

As we mentioned, there are many different types of curtains. Each of them has its own specifics and benefits, and it can be hard to choose without knowing these. Here are some of the best types you can choose from. 

Panel Curtains

Panel curtains are the ones you will see in most homes these days. They are made from long fabric panels that hang from a rod, and you can open or close them to control the amount of light that comes into a room or to have more privacy. These curtains can be made in different materials, colors, and patterns, which makes them a great choice for any space. However, we think those are the best options for living rooms, bedrooms, and dining rooms - places where you want to create a more aesthetic and sophisticated look.

Sheer Curtains

Sheer curtains are made from lightweight and transparent fabric. They let natural light in while offering some privacy. These curtains are perfect for places where you want to have a bright and airy vibe - living rooms, sunrooms, or kitchens. You can use them alone or layer them with heavier curtains. They are available in many colors and patterns, but white and neutral tones are the most popular because they combine perfectly with many different decors.

Blackout Curtains

Blackout curtains are made to completely block out light, so they are perfect for home theaters, nurseries, bedrooms, and other spaces where light is not so wanted. These curtains are made from thick, opaque fabrics that stop the light from passing through, which helps to create a dark and peaceful ambiance. These curtains can also reduce your energy costs because they keep rooms cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter. 

Grommet Curtains

Grommet curtains have a metal ring at the top which moves smoothly along the curtain rod. They have a modern look and are a favorite for minimalist decor. They are also available in many different materials, from sheers to heavy blackout fabrics. The metal grommets serve as a decorative element to the curtains, and you can find them in different finishes - silver, gold, or bronze - whichever matches your style. Grommet curtains are ideal for living rooms, bedrooms, and offices where you want stylish and practical window decoration.

Rod Pocket Curtains

Rod pocket curtains have a pocket that is sewn in at the top of the curtain panel. This helps the curtain rod to slide through for easy installation. These curtains are a popular choice for traditional and formal spaces because of their timeless - classic and elegant look. You can find these in different forms - different materials (cotton, velvet), different colors, different patterns. They are very easy to hand, but they can be hard to open and close compared to other types of curtains. This means they are the best option for windows that don’t need frequent adjustment.

Tab Top Curtains

Tab top curtains are designed with fabric loops (tabs) at the top of the panels. These tabs make it simple to install the curtains by sliding them over the rod. They have a casual and relaxing style, and it makes them perfect for more relaxed spaces like children’s rooms, bathrooms, or kitchens. Tab top curtains are also available in different materials and designs, and the tabs can be decorative elements as well (tied bows or buttoned loops). These types of curtains are very easy to hand and remove, and they are a perfect, practical choice for places where you want to change curtains often.

Cafe Curtains

Cafe curtains are a lovely and functional choice for bathrooms and kitchens. These types of curtains cover only the bottom part of the window, so natural light can still come in while also providing some privacy. Cafe curtains usually have basic patterns, like checks or stripes, and are made from lightweight materials like linen or cotton. Installing and adjusting them is a breeze since they are usually hung on a tension rod or a tiny curtain rod. Whenever you want to add style without sacrificing light or airy feel, cafe curtains are the way to go. 

How to Pick the Right Design?

Once you have an idea of which popular curtain option exists, the next question that pops up is how to pick the right one for your space. Each type of curtain has its benefits, and are perfect options for certain areas of your home. However, choosing the right curtain is not only choosing the style you like - you also need to consider some additional factors. So, here are some important things you should consider when making your decision.

Think About the Room’s Purpose

The first step is to think about the room’s purpose. For example, blackout curtains are perfect for bedrooms or home theaters where you don’t want any light, just a relaxing environment. On the other side, sheer curtains are perfect for your living room or kitchen where natural light is more than welcome, but a bit of privacy is also needed. Think about every room, how you use it, and which kind of ambiance you want to create there.

Consider Custom-Made curtains

Custom-made curtains are the perfect option if you have unique windows or want some special design. If you have some windows that have unusual shapes or just want a fabric or pattern that can’t be found in stores, custom made curtains can meet all your expectations. You will create a truly personalized, perfect look for your space. Custom-made curtains are also a great option if you need some extra-long or extra-wide panels that standard sizes can’t cover.

Match Your Decor

If you don’t want custom-made curtains, it’s important to choose ones that will match your decor as well. For example, for formal and traditional spaces, you can choose rich fabrics like silk or velvet or silk which will add a touch of elegance. If you have a modern or minimalist room, you’ll need some solid colors or geometric patterns that will create a clean look. Look at your room - its colors, patterns, and textures - and choose the curtains that match them.

 

Pay Attention to Length and Width

The length and width of your curtains can have a big effect on the room’s look. If you choose too short curtains, it will make windows look smaller, and if you choose too long ones, it will create a messy look. Pay attention to length and width - make sure curtains are wide enough to cover the entire window - they should be at least 1.5 to 3 times the width of the window. When it comes to length, it’s all up to you and your raster, but they usually should just touch the floor or pool slightly to give it a luxurious look. However, if you want a more modern look, curtains should just reach the window sill.

Try Layering for More Style and Functionality

Layering is a great way to add even more style to your windows, but also more functionality. For example, if you want to have enough natural light during the day and block out light at night, you can pair sheer curtains with heavy blackout curtains. Layering is also great because you can combine different colors, patterns, and textures, and create a perfect, stylish look. You can easily layer two sets of curtains with a double curtain rod, or you can use tiebacks and holdbacks to organize the layers according to your style.

Consider Their Maintenance and Durability

One more thing you should have in mind while shopping is how easy the curtains will be to maintain and how durable they will be over time. This is an important matter, because some materials need dry cleaning or delicate washing, while for others that are more durable, machine washing is totally fine. If you have children or pets, you should choose curtains that are made from fabrics that are easy to clean, like cotton or polyester. These materials can survive frequent washing, and that is a very practical choice for busy homes. On the other hand, if you decide on silk or velvet, be prepared for intensive maintenance to keep them in their best shape.

Buying the right curtains can refresh your home - it will improve both its look and the feel you have. Think about which of these types work for you, how they fit your decor, and how easy they are to maintain. If you don’t find the ones that match your vision, always go for custom-made curtains. This way, you won’t have to settle for less and you’ll soon have a comfortable and stylish home.