Expert Advice on Curtain
Privacy, blackout, or coziness – curtains have many important functions that make us feel comfortable at home. Therefore, buying curtains is something you should take your time with. Color, cut, and pattern should be carefully considered to influence the room's ambiance according to your own preferences. Privacy and light levels can also be controlled with different degrees of transparency in the curtain fabric. In addition to the look, some practical aspects need to be considered, such as how the curtains will be mounted. For example, you will need to decide whether you want a curtain track or a rod. You will find answers to these and many other questions in our curtain guide!
Step 1: The level of transparency
Of course, you can also combine different curtain styles. A particularly popular option is to hang two blackout or opaque side curtains together with semi-transparent or transparent sheer curtains. This allows you to close the side panels in the evening while maintaining sufficient privacy during the day. Whatever your preference, there are virtually no limits to creative design ideas when combining curtains. For example, vibrant patterns on sheer curtains are shown off to even better effect when a solid-colored, opaque fabric runs along the side. At the same time, this combination has a calming effect on the room's atmosphere.
Different Levels of Transparency
Transparent
Sheer curtains are appealing because of their light transmission, creating a friendly, airy, and light atmosphere. Therefore, they are particularly well-suited for dark, small rooms. They primarily serve a decorative purpose and are available in a wide variety of colors and patterns.
Semi-transparent
Semi-transparent curtains, also known as in-between curtains, provide privacy during the day. Sunlight is reflected particularly well by light colors. Thus, semi-transparent curtains prevent prying eyes while still allowing sufficient light to pass through. Furthermore, they do not obstruct the view to the outside
Opaque
Opaque curtains offer ideal privacy when it's dark outside and bright inside. These are usually only drawn in the evening and cover roller shutters, blinds, or window panes. They also make unsightly window recesses disappear. This makes every room feel particularly cozy and inviting
Blackout
Anyone who wants absolute darkness to sleep in should opt for blackout curtains. These models are usually not only opaque but often also provide insulation against both heat and cold. Therefore, they are perfect for children's bedrooms or other bedrooms. Blackout curtains also offer 100% privacy
Step 2: The garment
Curtain mounting
Visible Loops
Loop curtains, which have sewn-on loops, can be threaded onto curtain rods just as quickly as the eyelet version. They are especially popular when you want to emphasize a curtain rod, as it is then not completely covered by the curtain.
With the help of loop gliders, curtains with loops can also be attached to curtain tracks.
Concealed Loops
Curtains with concealed loops usually have a sewn-in universal tape through which the curtain rod is threaded. The advantage of this type of curtain attachment is that the curtain rod disappears into a kind of "tunnel" within the fabric. This allows the curtain fabric and its design to take center stage. Incidentally, if the curtain also has a universal tape, it can be attached to a curtain track using the appropriate loop gliders
Ready-made curtains with combination tape
Many ready-made curtains come with a combination tape on the back. If you choose this type of curtain attachment, you'll need suitable gliders such as pleat gliders or roller gliders. These are attached to the combination tape and inserted into the curtain track with the sliding part. Intermediate stops and end stops prevent the tape from falling out when opening or closing the curtains, and also prevent the pleats or gathers from shifting unintentionally.
Step 3: The installation
Curtain Hanging
Curtain Rod
Decorative and uncomplicated at the same time: These qualities make the curtain rod a popular solution. With extendable models and various lengths, a rod adapts to all windows. It is also very versatile in terms of design: With elegant metal, versatile plastic, or natural wood, a variety of looks can be achieved. Variable finials provide the finishing touch. Curtain rods are suitable for numerous types of curtains:
- Tab top curtains with concealed & visible loops
- Ready-made curtains with combination tape
Curtain track
Curtain tracks are not only ideal for panel curtains – they are generally the optimal solution when there is little space between the window and ceiling. Unlike traditional rods, multi-track curtain tracks allow you to mount various curtains as desired. Tracks can be mounted on both walls and ceilings and, with suitable accessories, can be used for various types of curtains:
- Visible loops with loop gliders
- Loop scarves (with concealed and visible loops) that have a universal tape sewn in.
- Sliding curtains including panel carrier
- Ready-made curtains with combination tape and gliders, various
- Eyelet curtains only in combination with eyelet hooks
Which program is the right one to use for washing curtains?
The most important thing when washing curtains is using the right program. Normally, you should wash your curtains on the gentle or delicate cycle at a low temperature (30-40°C). However, always check the care label, as each material has its own specific requirements.
What spin speed is suitable for curtains?
To protect your curtains, a low spin speed is recommended. Between 400 and 600 revolutions per minute is ideal. Remove the curtains from the machine immediately after spinning. You can also spin them only briefly and hang them up while still slightly damp. Simply place a bucket or tub under the bottom so the water can drip off.
What do the symbols on the washing label tell me?
The symbols on the care label are your guide to proper curtain care. They provide information about the recommended washing temperature, spin speed, and drying method, as well as whether the curtains can be ironed or dry cleaned. Follow these instructions to keep your curtains looking beautiful for a long time.
Which washing program is best for white curtains?
For sparkling white curtains, choose the gentle cycle or delicate wash program at 30-40°C. Make sure not to wash colored textiles at the same time to prevent discoloration. Use a special detergent for white laundry for optimal results.
How do you wash curtains without wrinkles?
To get wrinkle-free curtains, wash them on a gentle cycle and spin them only lightly. Hang them up while still damp and gently smooth them with your hands. This way they dry without creases and look absolutely stunning. After drying, you can steam them if needed.
Can you wash curtains with regular washing powder?
Yes, you can wash curtains with regular washing powder. However, we recommend using a special detergent for white curtains and a color detergent for colored curtains. This will help keep the colors fresh and vibrant for longer.
Which washing symbol means do not spin?
A washing symbol with a crossed-out spin cycle means that the curtains should not be spun. In this case, you should carefully drip-dry them and hang them up while still dripping wet so they can dry gently.
What spin speed is best?
The ideal spin speed for curtains is between 400 and 600 revolutions per minute. This is gentle on the fabric while still effectively removing excess water.
Does "easy care" mean spin cycles?
The easy-care program usually includes a gentle spin cycle. Here, the spin speed is automatically reduced to protect delicate fabrics. Always check the care label to ensure the program is suitable for your curtains.