Buying curtains shouldn’t feel overwhelming. You want something that looks good, blocks out light when you need it, and doesn’t break the bank. But scroll through options online or walk into a shop, and suddenly you’re faced with pleats, linings, header styles, and fabric weights you’ve never heard of.

The UK’s curtain market is expected to grow to 128 million square metres by 2035, with the market value projected to reach £706 million. People are investing more in curtains because they’ve realised the benefits go beyond just aesthetics.

Here’s the truth: choosing curtains is straightforward once you know what actually matters. You don’t need an interior design qualification. You just need clear information about what works for your windows, your room, and your lifestyle.

This guide covers everything from measuring your windows properly to picking fabrics that’ll last. By the end, you’ll know exactly what to look for, and you’ll feel confident ordering curtains that transform your space.

In this section:

Why Choose Curtains Over Blinds?
What Types of Curtains Are Available?
How Do You Choose the Right Fabric for Curtains?
What Curtain Linings Do You Need?
How Do You Measure for Curtains?
ow Do You Choose the Right Curtain Pole or Track?
How Much Do Curtains Cost?
Should You Buy Ready-Made or Made-to-Measure Curtains?
How Do You Hang Curtains Properly?
How Do You Care for Curtains?
What’s Better for Different Rooms?
Frequently Asked Questions About Curtains
Sources and References
Final Thoughts on Choosing Curtains

Why Choose Curtains Over Blinds?

Curtains and blinds both do the job, but they do it differently. Curtains bring something to a room that blinds just can’t match.

Warmth and texture make the difference. Curtains add softness to hard surfaces. They make rooms feel cosier, especially in bedrooms and living rooms where you spend time relaxing. Blinds are practical, but they’re clinical. Curtains have personality.

Sound insulation is a big plus. Heavy curtain fabric absorbs sound. If you live on a busy road or in a flat with thin walls, thick curtains help dampen noise. Blinds do nothing for acoustics.

Better insulation saves money. Curtains, especially lined or thermal curtains, create a barrier between your windows and your room. They trap warm air in winter and keep hot air out in summer. The difference on your heating bill adds up over time.

According to the Energy Saving Trust, about 18-20% of heat loss in a home happens through windows, even with double glazing. Research from the University of Salford shows that drawing curtains at dusk can reduce heat loss by 15-17%. Upgrade to proper thermal curtains and you can reduce heat loss by up to 25%, potentially saving £50 to £150 on heating costs each year.

Design flexibility gives you options. Curtains come in endless fabrics, patterns, and colours. You can match them to your decor, make them a statement piece, or keep them neutral. With blinds, you’re limited to what’s available in each style.

They’re easier to change. Want to update your room’s look? Swap your curtains. It’s cheaper and simpler than replacing furniture or repainting. Curtains give you flexibility without commitment.

The downsides? Curtains take up more space than blinds. They need more maintenance. And if you’ve got kids or pets, they can get grubby faster. But if you want a room that feels finished and inviting, curtains deliver.

What Types of Curtains Are Available?

Curtains come in more styles than most people realise. Each type suits different needs and spaces.

Ready-Made Curtains

Ready-made curtains are exactly what they sound like. Pre-made, standard sizes, ready to hang.

You’ll find them in most home shops and online. They’re cheap, quick, and easy. If your windows are standard sizes, ready-made curtains work fine.

The catch? Limited size options. If your windows are too wide, too tall, or an awkward shape, ready-made curtains won’t fit properly. They might be too short, leaving gaps at the bottom. Or too narrow, leaving your windows partly exposed.

Quality varies wildly too. Budget ready-made curtains often use thin fabric that doesn’t drape well. They fade faster and wear out quicker than made-to-measure options.

Made-to-Measure Curtains

Made-to-measure curtains are cut specifically for your windows. You pick the fabric, the lining, the header style, and the exact dimensions.

They cost more upfront, but they fit perfectly. No gaps, no weird lengths, no compromises. And because you’re choosing better-quality fabrics, they last longer.

If you’ve got unusual window sizes, bay windows, or tall ceilings, made-to-measure is the way to go. The investment pays off in how they look and how long they last.

Blackout Curtains

Blackout curtains have a special lining that blocks light completely. They’re perfect for bedrooms, nurseries, or any room where you need darkness.

Shift workers who sleep during the day swear by them. Parents with young children who wake up at sunrise love them. And if you’ve got streetlights shining through your windows at night, blackout curtains solve the problem.

They also help with insulation. That thick lining keeps heat in during winter and blocks hot sun in summer.

The only downside is they’re heavier than standard curtains, so you need a sturdy curtain pole that can handle the weight.

Thermal Curtains

Thermal curtains are designed to insulate. They’ve got a special lining that traps air between the curtain and the window.

These are brilliant for draughty old windows or rooms that are always too cold. They keep warmth in, which means your heating doesn’t have to work as hard.

Studies show that thermal curtains can reduce heat loss by up to 25% in winter and reduce solar gain by 33% in summer. That’s a significant improvement, especially if you’ve got single-glazed windows or older properties with gaps around the frames.

Some thermal curtains also block light, but not all of them. If you need both insulation and darkness, look for thermal blackout curtains. If you’re specifically focused on keeping your home cool during hot months, our guide to choosing the best curtains for summer covers lightweight fabrics and UV-resistant options.

Sheer Curtains

Sheer curtains are lightweight and translucent. They let light through while giving you a bit of privacy during the day.

They work well in living rooms, kitchens, or any room where you want natural light but don’t want neighbours looking in. At night, though, they don’t offer much privacy. If you can see shadows from outside, you’ll want to pair them with heavier curtains or blinds.

Sheer curtains are often used for layering. Hang them behind thicker curtains to create a softer look and give you more control over light and privacy.

Eyelet Curtains

Eyelet curtains have metal rings along the top that slide directly onto the curtain pole. They’re modern, sleek, and easy to open and close.

The eyelets create even, rounded pleats when the curtains are drawn. They look clean and contemporary, which works well in bedrooms, living rooms, and home offices.

Eyelet curtains tend to be heavier because the metal rings add weight. Make sure your pole is strong enough to support them.

Pencil Pleat Curtains

Pencil pleat curtains gather at the top into tight, narrow folds. They’re a classic style that works in traditional and modern homes.

They hang from hooks on a curtain track or pole. The pleats give them a fuller look, which works well if you want curtains that feel substantial without being too heavy.

Pencil pleat is the most common curtain style in the UK. It’s versatile, affordable, and suits most window types.

Tab Top Curtains

Tab top curtains have fabric loops along the top that thread onto the curtain pole. They’re casual and relaxed, perfect for kitchens, bathrooms, or children’s rooms.

They’re easy to hang and slide along the pole smoothly. The downside is they don’t close as neatly as eyelet or pencil pleat curtains, so there’s often a small gap in the middle.

Pinch Pleat Curtains

Pinch pleat curtains have groups of pleats pinched together at regular intervals. They’re more formal and tailored than pencil pleat.

These work beautifully in dining rooms, living rooms, or anywhere you want a polished look. They’re often used with heavier fabrics like velvet or lined cotton.

Pinch pleat curtains usually hang from a track with hooks, and they need more fabric than other styles to create the pleats. That makes them pricier, but the result is worth it if you’re after a high-end look.

How Do You Choose the Right Fabric for Curtains?

Fabric affects everything: how your curtains look, how they hang, how they perform, and how long they last.

Cotton Curtains

Cotton is the workhorse of curtain fabrics. It’s natural, breathable, and easy to work with.

Cotton curtains drape well and come in every colour and pattern imaginable. They’re great for living rooms, bedrooms, and dining rooms where you want something that feels fresh and clean.

Pure cotton can fade in direct sunlight, so if your windows get blasted by sun all day, look for cotton blends or fabrics with UV protection. Cotton also wrinkles easily, so you might need to iron or steam them occasionally.

Linen Curtains

Linen has that relaxed, natural look that’s popular in modern and coastal interiors. It’s breathable, durable, and gets softer with age.

Linen curtains let some light through even when closed, so they’re better for living rooms and kitchens than bedrooms. If you need darkness, line them with blackout fabric.

Linen wrinkles like mad. That’s part of its charm, but if you’re someone who wants crisp, perfectly smooth curtains, linen will drive you nuts.

Velvet Curtains

Velvet is luxurious, heavy, and dramatic. It blocks light naturally, even without a blackout lining.

Velvet curtains work brilliantly in bedrooms, home cinemas, or formal living rooms. They add richness and depth to a space.

The weight means you need a strong curtain pole. And velvet attracts dust, so you’ll need to vacuum or brush them regularly to keep them looking good.

Polyester Curtains

Polyester is cheap, durable, and low-maintenance. It resists fading, doesn’t wrinkle much, and is easy to wash.

Budget-friendly curtains are usually polyester or a polyester blend. They’re practical for kitchens, bathrooms, or rental properties where you don’t want to spend much.

Pure polyester can look a bit cheap and doesn’t drape as beautifully as natural fabrics. But blends of polyester and cotton or linen give you durability without sacrificing quality.

Silk Curtains

Silk is elegant, lightweight, and has a natural sheen that catches the light beautifully.

Real silk curtains are expensive and high-maintenance. They fade in sunlight, so you need to line them. They’re delicate, so dry cleaning is usually required.

Faux silk (often polyester) gives you the look without the price tag or the hassle. It’s a smart choice if you want that luxurious appearance without the upkeep.

Wool Curtains

Wool is naturally insulating, fire-resistant, and durable. Wool curtains are chunky and textured, perfect for country cottages or period properties.

They’re brilliant for keeping rooms warm in winter. Wool also absorbs sound, which is handy in noisy homes.

The downside? Wool attracts moths. You’ll need to check them regularly and use moth deterrents if you go for wool curtains.

What Curtain Linings Do You Need?

Linings aren’t just about blocking light. They protect your curtains from sun damage, improve insulation, and make curtains hang better.

Standard Lining

Standard cotton lining adds body to curtains and protects the main fabric from fading. It doesn’t block light completely, but it reduces glare and gives you some privacy.

Most mid-range curtains come with standard lining as default. It’s a sensible choice for living rooms, dining rooms, and kitchens.

Blackout Lining

Blackout lining blocks light completely. It’s thicker and heavier than standard lining, which also improves insulation.

If you need darkness for sleeping, blackout lining is essential. It also works well in home cinemas or rooms with bright streetlights outside.

Thermal Lining

Thermal lining is designed to trap heat. It creates an insulating barrier between your window and your room.

These are worth the investment if you’ve got old windows that let draughts in or rooms that are always freezing. Curtains with proper blackout lining can reduce heat loss by 30% over double-glazed windows, according to thermal performance testing. Thermal lining can cut heating costs noticeably over time.

Interlining

Interlining is an extra layer of padding between the curtain fabric and the lining. It makes curtains feel luxurious, hang beautifully, and provides excellent insulation and soundproofing.

Interlined curtains are heavy and expensive, but they’re the gold standard for high-end homes. They’re worth it if you want curtains that feel and look truly special.

How Do You Measure for Curtains?

Get your measurements wrong, and your curtains will either be too short, too narrow, or pool awkwardly on the floor. Measuring properly takes five minutes and saves you from costly mistakes.

Measuring Width

Curtains should be wider than your window. How much wider depends on the look you want.

For a standard look: Multiply your window width by 1.5 to 2. So if your window is 120cm wide, you want 180cm to 240cm of curtain fabric. This gives you enough fullness for the curtains to gather nicely when closed.

For a fuller, more luxurious look: Multiply by 2.5 or even 3. This creates deeper pleats and a richer appearance.

For a flat, minimalist look: Multiply by 1.5 or less. This works for modern, streamlined spaces where you want curtains that hang straight.

Measure from the outer edge of your curtain pole or track, not the window frame. Curtains should cover the entire pole when drawn.

Bay windows require special attention. If you’ve got bay windows, measuring gets trickier because of the angles. Our guide to choosing curtains for bay windows covers the specific techniques you’ll need for getting accurate measurements around angles and curves.

Measuring Length

Length depends on where you want your curtains to finish.

Floor-length curtains are the most common. Measure from the top of your pole or track to the floor, then subtract 1cm so the curtains don’t drag. This gives you a clean finish that just kisses the floor.

Sill-length curtains finish at the windowsill. Measure from the top of the pole to the sill. These work in kitchens, bathrooms, or rooms with radiators under the window.

Below-sill curtains hang 10-15cm below the sill. This looks more polished than sill-length and prevents draughts from sneaking in around the bottom.

Puddle curtains deliberately pool on the floor. They’re dramatic and luxurious but impractical. Dust and dirt collect in the puddled fabric, and they’re a tripping hazard.

Common Measuring Mistakes

Not accounting for the pole height. Measure from the top of the pole, not from the rings or hooks. Those add length.

Forgetting about shrinkage. Some fabrics shrink when washed. If you’re buying washable curtains, ask about shrinkage and add a few centimetres to be safe.

Measuring just once. Always measure in at least three places: left, centre, and right for width; top, middle, and bottom for length. Windows aren’t always perfectly square.

Not considering pattern repeats. If you’re choosing patterned curtains, the pattern might not line up perfectly if your measurements fall between repeats. Made-to-measure companies account for this, but it’s something to check.

How Do You Choose the Right Curtain Pole or Track?

Your curtains need something to hang from. Poles and tracks do the same job but look and function differently.

Curtain Poles

Curtain poles sit in front of your window on brackets. They’re decorative and functional.

Poles work well with eyelet, tab top, and ring-topped curtains. You can see the pole, so it becomes part of your room’s design. Choose finishes that match your other hardware (door handles, light fittings, etc.).

Poles come in different materials:

Metal poles (steel, brass, chrome) are strong and modern. They handle heavy curtains easily.

Wooden poles add warmth and work well in traditional or country-style homes. They’re sturdy but can warp in very humid rooms like bathrooms.

Plastic poles are cheap and lightweight. They’re fine for light curtains but won’t support anything heavy.

Curtain Tracks

Curtain tracks sit inside or behind your window frame. They’re functional rather than decorative, but they’re smooth and easy to operate.

Tracks work best with pencil pleat or pinch pleat curtains that hang from hooks. They’re the standard choice in the UK, especially in older homes.

Tracks are less visible than poles, which can be good if you want your curtains to be the focus. They’re also better for bay windows or corners where poles would be awkward.

What Size Pole or Track Do You Need?

Your pole or track should extend 15-20cm beyond each side of your window frame. This lets you pull the curtains fully back so they don’t block any of the window when open.

For bay windows, you’ll need a flexible track that curves around the angles. Poles don’t work for bays unless you use multiple poles with corner connectors.

How Much Do Curtains Cost?

Curtain prices vary wildly depending on size, fabric, and whether they’re ready-made or custom.

Budget-Friendly Options

You can find ready-made curtains for £15 to £40 per pair in standard sizes. They’re usually polyester, lightly lined, and available in limited colours.

These work fine for rentals or rooms where you’re not fussed about perfect fit or luxury. They’ll last a few years before fading or wearing out.

Mid-Range Options

Most people spend £60 to £150 per pair for ready-made curtains or £100 to £250 for made-to-measure. At this level, you get better fabrics (cotton, cotton blends, heavier polyester), proper linings, and more size options.

These curtains should last 5 to 10 years with reasonable care. They look good, perform well, and don’t cost the earth.

High-End Options

Luxury made-to-measure curtains with premium fabrics (linen, velvet, silk) and interlining can run £300 to £800+ per pair, depending on size and complexity.

You’re paying for quality materials, expert craftsmanship, and curtains that’ll last 15+ years. If you’re staying in your home long-term and want something truly special, this investment makes sense.

What Affects the Price?

Fabric: Natural fibres cost more than synthetics. Velvet and silk are pricier than cotton or polyester.

Lining: Blackout and thermal linings add £20 to £50 per pair. Interlining adds even more.

Size: Bigger windows need more fabric. Made-to-measure for large windows or unusual shapes costs significantly more than standard sizes.

Header style: Complex pleats like pinch pleat or goblet pleat require more fabric and labour than simple pencil pleat or eyelet.

Installation: Professional fitting costs £40 to £80 per window on average. Some made-to-measure companies include fitting in the price.

Should You Buy Ready-Made or Made-to-Measure Curtains?

This depends on your windows, your budget, and how particular you are about fit.

When Ready-Made Works

Ready-made curtains are fine if:

Your windows are standard sizes (common widths like 117cm, 168cm, or 228cm)
You’re on a tight budget
You need curtains quickly
You’re renting and don’t want to invest much
The room isn’t a priority space (spare bedroom, utility room)

Just make sure you measure carefully and check the drop (length) matches your needs. Most ready-made curtains come in standard drops like 137cm, 183cm, or 228cm.

When Made-to-Measure Is Worth It

Made-to-measure curtains are worth the extra cost if:

Your windows are unusually tall, wide, or narrow
You’ve got bay windows, arched windows, or awkward shapes
You want specific fabrics, patterns, or linings
You’re investing in rooms you use daily (bedroom, living room)
You want curtains that fit perfectly with no gaps
You’re staying in your home long-term

The price difference isn’t as huge as you’d think, especially when you factor in how much longer made-to-measure curtains last.

How Do You Hang Curtains Properly?

Hanging curtains isn’t complicated, but getting it right makes a massive difference to how they look.

Pole Height Matters

Hang your curtain pole 10-15cm above the window frame. This makes your window look taller and your ceilings look higher.

If you’ve got high ceilings, you can go even higher, but don’t hang the pole so high that there’s a weird gap between the top of the curtain and the window.

Pole Width Matters Too

Your pole should stick out 15-20cm past each side of the window frame. This lets you pull the curtains fully back to maximise natural light.

If you’ve got two windows close together, you can use one long pole across both. This makes the wall look more balanced.

Use the Right Brackets

Brackets need to support the weight of your curtains. Heavy velvet or interlined curtains need sturdy brackets, or they’ll sag in the middle.

If your pole is longer than 180cm, use a centre bracket for extra support.

What Tools Do You Need?

Drill with masonry or wood bits (depending on your walls)
Spirit level
Tape measure
Pencil
Screwdriver
Wall plugs and screws (usually included with poles)
Stepladder

How Long Does It Take?

Hanging a curtain pole takes 20 to 40 minutes per window if you’re comfortable with DIY. Tracks are quicker if you’re mounting them inside the window frame.

If you’re not confident drilling into walls, especially if you’ve got plasterboard or you’re worried about hitting pipes or wires, hire someone. It’s not expensive, and it’s better than making holes in the wrong places. For detailed guidance on choosing and working with a professional curtain fitter, including what to look for in terms of experience, pricing transparency, and service guarantees, check our guide to choosing a professional curtain fitter.

How Do You Care for Curtains?

Curtains collect dust, absorb smells, and fade over time. A bit of regular maintenance keeps them looking good for years.

Regular Cleaning

Vacuum them monthly. Use your vacuum’s upholstery attachment to remove dust. Start at the top and work down. This prevents dust settling in and keeps the fabric fresh.

Shake them out occasionally. Take your curtains outside and give them a good shake. This gets rid of surface dust and helps them hang better.

Washing Curtains

Check the care label before washing. Many curtains are machine washable, but some need dry cleaning.

Machine washable curtains:

Remove hooks and weights
Wash on a gentle cycle with mild detergent
Don’t overload the machine; curtains need space to move
Rehang while still damp to avoid wrinkles

Dry clean only curtains:

Don’t risk washing them yourself
Take them to a professional cleaner
Velvet, silk, and lined curtains usually need dry cleaning

Dealing with Sun Damage

Curtains fade over time, especially if they’re in south-facing windows. You can’t prevent it completely, but you can slow it down.

Use lining. Lined curtains fade slower than unlined ones.

Rotate them. If you’ve got two sets of curtains in the same fabric, swap them between rooms every year or so. This evens out the fading.

Close them during peak sun. If you’re not home during the day, close your curtains. This protects both the curtains and your furniture from UV damage.

How Often Should You Replace Curtains?

Budget curtains last 3 to 5 years before they look tired. Mid-range curtains last 7 to 10 years. High-quality made-to-measure curtains can last 15+ years if you care for them properly.

Signs it’s time to replace them:

Fabric is faded or discoloured
Seams are coming apart
Lining is torn or damaged
They don’t block light anymore (blackout lining has degraded)
They smell musty even after cleaning

What’s Better for Different Rooms?

Not all curtains work equally well everywhere. Here’s what makes sense in each room.

Bedroom Curtains

You want darkness, insulation, and privacy here. Blackout curtains are the obvious choice, but you can also use thick fabrics like velvet or heavy cotton with blackout lining.

Thermal lining is worth it in bedrooms. It keeps you warmer in winter and blocks hot morning sun in summer. For more guidance on choosing curtains specifically for winter warmth, check our guide on the best winter curtains, which covers fabric choices and thermal performance in detail.

Go for floor-length curtains. They look more substantial and provide better insulation than sill-length.

Living Room Curtains

Living rooms are where curtains make the biggest visual impact. You’ve got more freedom here to choose fabrics and colours that match your style.

If your living room gets a lot of sun, lined curtains prevent glare on TV screens and protect your furniture from fading.

Consider layering sheer curtains with heavier ones. This gives you flexibility: sheers for daytime privacy with light, heavier curtains for evenings.

Kitchen Curtains

Kitchens get messy. Choose washable fabrics like cotton or polyester that can handle grease and steam.

Sill-length or below-sill curtains work better than floor-length. They’re out of the way and easier to keep clean.

Avoid heavy fabrics and intricate pleats. Simple tab top or eyelet curtains in light, washable fabric make the most sense.

Bathroom Curtains

Bathrooms need moisture-resistant fabrics. Polyester or polyester blends are your best bet. Cotton can develop mildew in humid bathrooms.

Café curtains (covering just the lower half of the window) give you privacy while letting in light from above.

Make sure they’re washable. Bathrooms get damp and steamy, so curtains need regular cleaning.

Dining Room Curtains

Dining rooms are often more formal. Heavier fabrics like velvet or lined linen work well here. Pinch pleat or pencil pleat styles add elegance.

If your dining room is only used occasionally, you can invest in higher-quality curtains without worrying about daily wear.

Floor-length curtains make the room feel more finished and grand.

Frequently Asked Questions About Curtains

Are curtains better than blinds?

It depends on your priorities. Curtains offer better insulation, soundproofing, and visual warmth. Blinds save space, are easier to clean, and give you more precise light control. Many people use both: blinds for function, curtains for style.

How wide should curtains be?

Aim for 1.5 to 2 times your window width for standard fullness, or 2.5 to 3 times for a more luxurious gathered look. Wider curtains drape better and block light more effectively when closed.

Should curtains touch the floor?

Floor-length curtains should just kiss the floor, hovering about 1cm above. This looks polished without dragging. Puddle curtains that pool on the floor are dramatic but impractical and collect dust.

Can you wash curtains in the washing machine?

Many curtains are machine washable, but check the care label. Unlined cotton or polyester curtains usually wash fine on gentle cycles. Lined, interlined, or delicate fabrics (silk, velvet) typically need dry cleaning.

How long do curtains last?

Budget curtains last 3-5 years. Mid-range curtains last 7-10 years. High-quality made-to-measure curtains can last 15+ years with proper care. Fading from sunlight is usually what prompts replacement.

What’s the difference between eyelet and pencil pleat curtains?

Eyelet curtains have metal rings along the top and slide directly onto the pole, creating even, rounded pleats. Pencil pleat curtains gather into tight, narrow folds and hang from hooks. Eyelet is more modern; pencil pleat is more traditional.

Do thermal curtains really work?

Yes. Research shows thermal curtains can reduce heat loss by up to 25% in winter and reduce solar heat gain by 33% in summer. The University of Salford found that drawing curtains at dusk reduces heat loss by 15-17%, with the Energy Saving Trust reporting that windows account for 18-20% of heat loss in UK homes.

For a typical UK home, thermal curtains could save £50-£150 annually on heating costs. The savings are even better if you’ve got old, single-glazed windows or draughty frames.

Should you line curtains?

Almost always. Lining protects the main fabric from sun damage, makes curtains hang better, improves privacy, and adds insulation. The only time you might skip lining is with sheer curtains meant to let light through.

Sources and References

This guide is based on research from authoritative UK and international sources:

Market Data:

Thermal Performance Research:

UK Building Thermal Insulation:

Grand View Research: UK Building Thermal Insulation Market Outlook

Additional Resources from Solar Sunshades:

All statistics and recommendations reflect current UK market conditions and are based on peer-reviewed research and industry data from 2024-2025.

Final Thoughts on Choosing Curtains

Buying curtains doesn’t need to be stressful. Work out what you need from each room (darkness, warmth, privacy, style), measure properly, and choose fabrics that fit your lifestyle.

Ready-made curtains work fine for standard windows on a budget. Made-to-measure is worth the investment for rooms you use daily or windows that aren’t standard sizes.

Don’t cheap out on bedrooms and living rooms where you spend most of your time. Good curtains improve how a room looks, feels, and functions.

Get your measurements right, pick fabrics that suit the room, and hang them properly. Do that, and your curtains will make your house feel more like home.