When it comes to window treatments, the terminology can get a little confusing. Is it a protective coating for windows or a process like treating wood? Is that referring to the ways to fix broken windows? You get the picture.
A broad category of products that are designed to block, reduce, or better manage light coming in through the windows, while also providing varying levels of privacy, are referred to as window treatments. They can be a part of the décor of a home. All of the above can be accomplished by curtains and drapes.
Despite being used interchangeably, curtains and drapes are not the same thing. The difference between curtains and drapes is important.
There are similarities between curtains and drapes.
One of the reasons for the confusion is that curtains and drapes have a lot in common.
Both panels are made of fabric.
It was used to cover windows.
Usually sold in pairs.
Hang from a rod.
There are differences between curtains and drapes.
There are differences between curtains and drapes.
There are curtains.
It is available in any length.
Made from more casual materials. The curtains are usually made with lace, muslin, or voile.
It is easier to buy off the rack with a wide range of sizes, styles, colors, patterns, and materials.
Natural light can be let into a room by using light-colored curtains.
There are drapes.
Hang from the top of a window, all the way to the ground.
They are made from higher-end fabrics that make them feel more formal and luxurious.
You can come with a lining that is different levels of thickness.
More often than curtains are custom-made.
Thick, lined drapes are best for blocking out natural light and also for reducing noise in a room.
Why it matters.
It didn't matter if we paid attention or not, back when most shopping was done in person, you had the chance to touch fabrics and ask questions in real time. It means that the product descriptions and labels indicating whether window treatments are curtains or drapes are more important now that a lot more shopping is done online.
Understanding the difference between curtains and drapes will allow you to make more informed decisions about your home's decor and energy usage. Heavy drapes can help reduce energy costs. If you choose curtains or drapes based on the amount of natural light they allow into a room, you can cut down on the amount of hours you need to rely on artificial light.
