Buzz
The options for curtains and window treatments seem endless—should you choose heavy drapes to block out the cold, delicate sheers to let in the sunlight, or functional blinds for privacy? And even after you've selected the perfect curtains, another hurdle remains: installation.
Fortunately, this process becomes much easier if you're familiar with the basics. Knowing where to position your curtain rod, and measuring before you make any purchases, significantly increases your chances of achieving a stylish look you’ll love (and that will last). Here are some common mistakes people make when hanging curtains so you can steer clear of them and succeed from the start.
Ignoring Functionality
Curtains and window treatments aren't just for decoration—they serve practical purposes as well. While sheer curtains may look lovely in the bedroom, if you struggle with the morning sun waking you up, a blackout roller shade might be a better solution than a light, airy curtain. Before buying curtains, ask yourself these important questions:
- How much light do you wish to let in? You have a wide range of choices, from complete blackout drapes to delicate sheer curtains.
- Which room will the curtains be hung in, and how much sunlight does it receive? This question will help you pick the right color. For example, brightly colored curtains can fade quickly in a sun-drenched room, so a more neutral color might be a better option.
- Will you be frequently opening and closing the curtains? Grommet curtains are known for their ease of use and smooth operation.
- Will the curtains be helping with insulation against drafts? Opt for heavier drapes made from materials like velvet, tweed, or brocade.
Installing the Curtain Rod in the Wrong Location
Proper Height for the Curtain Rod
Many homeowners install curtain rod brackets directly above the window molding. However, designers recommend positioning the rods above and outside the window molding to make a small room appear larger. A good rule of thumb is to place the rod about halfway between the top of the window casing and the ceiling.
Determining the Right Width for the Curtain Rod
Make sure the curtain rod extends four to ten inches beyond the window on both sides. When you draw your curtains open, they should have ample space to hang on either side of the window. Allowing plenty of space will create the illusion of a wider window.
Purchasing Curtains with the Wrong Length and Width
Choosing the Right Curtain Length
Typically, you want the bottom of the curtains to just touch the floor. Too-short curtains are an obvious sign that you didn’t measure before shopping.
Not only is accurate pre-measurement important, but it’s also essential to measure from the correct spot. If you’re installing curtain brackets above and outside the window casing, make sure to measure from there, not from the top of the molding.
For a more luxurious look, consider purchasing drapes that are slightly longer and allow them to pool on the floor. Regardless of your choice, always make sure to double-check the measurements of the curtains you’re buying, whether in-store or online.
Curtain Width
As a general guideline, the width of your curtains should be one and a half to two times the width of your window. The curtain panels should extend a few inches past the window, covering part of the wall as well. Additionally, they should have some natural folds for a fuller appearance. For an even richer look, opt for more width.
Neglecting to Consider Curtain Maintenance Before Purchase
Washing Curtains
Before purchasing curtains, think about how easy it will be to maintain and clean the fabric. A machine-washable curtain will be hassle-free to care for (although you might want to use a lint roller to remove dust between washes). A dry clean-only curtain will require extra effort and cost to maintain. Heavier drapes may need a monthly vacuuming to eliminate dust and avoid trapping unwanted odors.
Ironing Curtains
Another important consideration before buying curtains: Check the care label to see if you can iron or steam them to smooth out wrinkles. You might also be able to get rid of wrinkles by washing them and promptly removing them from the dryer once the cycle finishes.
No matter which method you use, make sure to set aside 15 minutes to de-wrinkle your curtains before hanging them. After selecting the ideal curtains, you’ll want them to look flawless.
Choosing the Wrong Hardware
Your curtain rod should match the style of the curtains you've chosen. Light, airy curtains look great with a delicate rod, while heavier fabrics require a more robust rod, ideally made of metal or wood instead of plastic. (A common sign of a cheap curtain rod: it sags in the middle.) Tension rods are a great option for rental spaces. However, if you're able to drill holes in the wall, choose sturdy brackets to ensure the curtains stay up securely.
The knobs or decorative details at the ends of curtain rods (called finials) should also coordinate with the overall design of the room. If your furniture and shelving are made of metal or wood, consider choosing finials in the same material to maintain a cohesive look.
