Window Treatments
How to Choose Window Treatments
Make each window in your home as pretty as a picture with the perfect window treatment. Read on to discover how each type is different, where to feature them in your home, and learn our top tips to style your windows beautiful.
Curtains and drapes are the go-to window treatments for most rooms because there's a wide variety of styles and fabrics available. Unlined window curtains let in light while maintaining some privacy, making them ideal for living rooms and dining rooms. Lined window drapes provide even more privacy and can significantly darken rooms if you choose blackout style panels, making them more suitable for bedrooms or media rooms.
TIP: Layer curtains over blinds or shades to block even more light.
For versatility, window blinds can often be a top choice, as you can open and close them as needed, and adjust how much light filters through. Traditional vinyl mini blinds are a functional choice, but consider faux wood or bamboo for an elevated look. Look for vertical window blinds for sliding doors that exit onto patios or porches. Be sure to measure carefully for optimal fit.
TIP: Cordless blinds provide added safety around children or pets.
Shades operate similarly to blinds as they can be raised and lowered easily with a corded or cordless pulley system and either roll or fold as they are adjusted. Window shades come in a variety of materials including fabric or bamboo and can either be sheer or built to block out natural lighting. Shades can often be easier to clean and come in a wider variety of styles compared to blinds.
TIP: Look for indoor/outdoor shades to add privacy and sun protection to a sunroom or porch.
While they don’t entirely cover your window, valances have long been a favored window treatment option. Their versatility allows them to be used alone or alongside shades, blinds, or drapes to frame a window and come in a variety of styles to suit any space. Consider a valance for window-paned doors, kitchen windows, or to add a fun touch to kids rooms. When hanging a valance along with curtains, the valance length should be 1/5 or 1/6 of the drapery length, so an 84-inch drapery would take a valance length of about 14 to 17 inches.
TIP: Use valance curtains to hide blind or drapery hardware for a sleek look.
At Hayneedle, you'll find curtains, blinds, shades, and valances to suit any space in your home. Shop by type, color, material, and more to find the perfect fit, no matter your budget.