You've just moved into your first apartment. The furniture is all in place; you just need a few decorative touches and some curtains. Since your kitchen windows are rather small, you've opted for short café curtains. This way, you're protected from prying eyes while still being able to look out and admire your garden. Here you'll find information on the differences between various types of narrow window curtains and other helpful tips on care and installation:

Café curtains: space-saving privacy screens that can be adjusted

Café curtains, also known as net curtains, are short curtains that only cover part of the window. They are attached directly to the glass, unlike traditional curtains and drapes which hang over the window. The fabric is threaded onto a rod that attaches to two hooks on the window frame. This makes café curtains particularly suitable for windows that don't conform to standard dimensions, as you can adjust the size and shape as needed. They also have the advantage that you don't have to move them aside when you open the window to ventilate the room. Because the fabric only covers part of the window, they provide privacy while still allowing you to see outside.

Material, design and transparency: These are the things you should pay attention to

Window curtains come in various styles. They differ primarily in material, design, and transparency. The following overview explains the individual purchasing criteria and their respective advantages.

Material: Cotton or synthetic fibers

Short curtains made of cotton are particularly tear-resistant and durable. The natural fibers absorb moisture well and feel very pleasant to the touch. Synthetic fibers such as polyester are especially easy to care for. Curtains made of this material are quite dimensionally stable and wrinkle very little. Furthermore, the fabric doesn't get dirty as easily and retains its color even in strong sunlight. The slightly shimmering texture often found on small polyester curtains is particularly attractive.

Transparency: opaque, semi-transparent, or fully transparent

Transparency depends primarily on how much light you want to let in. Transparent curtains appear very light and airy, while opaque curtains seem heavier. Generally speaking, the thicker the fabric, the less light it lets into the room, but the more privacy it offers.

Design: solid color, with motifs or embroidered

There are many design options. Plain-colored cafe curtains look very simple and go perfectly with a modern style. Versions with prints and patterns such as vines or floral ornaments are suitable for a playful look, and delicate embroidery on sheer fabrics emphasizes a romantic style.

Five tips: taking correct measurements and easy assembly

Café curtains should be hung straight and securely on the window. Choosing the right size is also important. Read on to find out what to consider when installing and measuring.

1. Measure the width of the window precisely using a tape measure .
2. If you want to hang the window curtain in pleats or waves, you should multiply the width in centimeters by 2.5. If, on the other hand, you want the fabric to hang flat, the curtain width should match the width of the window.
3. Follow the included instructions. Here you will find a detailed description and information on compatible accessories.
4. Clamp the rod onto which the curtain will be hung into the window frame on the right and left sides. You can usually attach the fabric beforehand using loops.
5. If your new window curtain has adhesive hooks, attach them to the left and right sides of the frame. Make sure they hang at the same height and that the surface is clean and free of dust and grease. Then you can hang the rod.

Cleaning net curtains: Tips for proper care

Of course, your café curtains look their best when they're freshly washed and wrinkle-free. Regular cleaning is important, as things can easily splash onto them in the kitchen, for example. You'll find tips on how to clean your café curtains below.

• Sort the window curtains into white and colored laundry before washing.
• To avoid damaging the delicate fabric, you should wash them in the washing machine on a gentle cycle at 30°C .
• It's best to avoid using the dryer and hang the curtains up while still damp. This way, they will settle back into their natural drape and retain their folds.
• Also, pay attention to the care instructions on the product label.

Conclusion: Café curtains are both decoration and privacy screen in one.

With café curtains, you can not only decorate your windows, they also provide good privacy. Here's a summary of which models are suitable for your rooms:

• Kitchen: A sheer curtain with delicate embroidery or floral patterns is suitable for the kitchen window. It still lets in enough light for cooking and working.
• Bedroom: Opaque café curtains are suitable for the bedroom. Models in dark, solid colors are particularly attractive and have a calming effect.
• Bathroom: Opaque models with wave patterns in delicate pastel shades are a good fit for the bathroom. They create a fresh and airy atmosphere.
• Children's room: In the children's room, you can decorate the windows with colorful, semi-transparent window curtains with playful children's motifs.

FAQs: 

What are net curtains?

Café curtains are short curtains that cover only a third to half of the window. They are both decorative and a practical form of privacy and sun protection.

How long are net curtains?

Café curtains are typically about 30 to 60 cm long. The length you need should depend on the height of your window.

How do I correctly measure the right size for my café curtains?

To determine the correct width for your curtain, you need to measure the width of the window. If you want the curtain to have pleats, multiply the result by 2.5. When choosing the length of the curtain, consider which part of the window it will cover.

Where do I hang my net curtains?

You can attach your net curtains to the top or middle of the window frame, depending on whether you want privacy at the top or bottom of the window.

How can I attach net curtains?

To hang your café curtains, you'll need a curtain rod . There are models to choose from that you can clamp, glue, or screw firmly to the window frame .

How should I wash net curtains?

You can wash your cafe curtains in the washing machine. Choose a gentle cycle, set the temperature to 30°C, and use a mild detergent. Always check the care label for instructions as well. Hang your curtains to dry, as they would wrinkle too much in the dryer.