find out the difference of opinion between curtains and mantle , plus choose the windowpane intervention that ’s well - suited for your space .

drape and curtains are two populartypes of window treatmentsthat add style and concealment to any room , as well as light and temperature ascendency . While both window discussion serve the same basic purpose , drape vs. mantle are not exchangeable . Each has its unique features . Both number in multiple sizes , styles , pattern , coloring material , and material to check your need , style , and budget . roll in the hay which one to choose will depend on many agent , include the amount of light filtration , privacy , and insularity you favour .

( L ) Nathan Schroder , ( R ) Julie Soefer

Living room with drapes and bathroom with curtains

Credit:(L) Nathan Schroder, (R) Julie Soefer

6 Things to Consider When Deciding Between Drapes vs. Curtains

1. Fabric

One of the principal differences between drape vs. curtains is the case of material used . pall are generally made from compact fabrics , such as velvet , silk , or damask , and they are usually run along .   These fabric add a more conventional , sumptuous looking and experience to a way , and the lining pop the question an extra layer of detachment and spark - blocking . They lend a sense of subdued elegance informal dining room , populate rooms , or bedrooms . cloth choices for drapes are limitless and can be pleated , whole , textured , or pattern .

Meanwhile , drapery tend to bemade from sheer fabrics , such as cotton , linen , gauze , or polyester . These fabrics add a more casual , relaxed seem to a way . They are ideal for kitchens , bathroom , or family rooms , where more airflow and visible light are hope .

2. Length and Fullness

Another deviation between drape vs. curtain is their length and comprehensiveness . Drapes are typically floor - distance or longer . They pee-pee on the floor to create an elegant , flowing expression that blocks out light and allow greater insulation .

curtain generally cover window just up to the sill orextend a few inch below it . This shorter , less voluminous face gives the room a casual , blowy charm and lets in more illumination and air . However , there is no standard distance for mantle ; they may also be floor distance if trust .

3. Functionality

The functionality of drape and curtain can also differ . drape are considered the better choice for privacy , occlude light and noiseand providing insulation . This is because the weight unit and length of drape and their facing help them fall closer to the window , so there are fewer gaps for light and atmosphere to figure , make them perfect for bedrooms or meeting rooms .

Curtains are idealistic for rooms where the opposition is a precedency . If you want natural light and a easy breeze , the lighter framework of curtains is what you need .

4. Hanging and Supports

Drapes and curtains have similar installation requirements . They are both made up of fabric venire that can be string up with rods and rings , cringle , cornice , or fabric sleeve . However , drape typically require more fleshy - duty rods and bracket to support their length , weight , and richness . More ornate , ornamental designs may be used if a stately , graceful look is postulate .

On the other hand , curtains require less ironware . They can also be hung on lightweight cord ortension rod . The designs for drapery rods are often round-eyed and informal .

5. Cleaning and Maintenance

The cleanup and maintenance ask for drapes vs. curtains may take issue . Due to the heavier fabric and liner , drapes are normally professionally cleaned or dry - clean , which make pall the more expensive and high - maintenance pick . Even if you clean them at home , drapes are more challenging to remove from the pole . They also occupy a lot of infinite in a washing machine and dryer and , thus , use more Georgia home boy , water , and energy .

When it come to cleanup , curtains are easier to take away and make for a light laundry load than drapes . So , curtains are a honest choice if you want tobe more eco - friendlyand save on utilities .

6. Cost

Another factor to reckon is thecost of drapes vs. drapery . drape are ordinarily more expensive than curtain . They tend to be made from higher - end fabrics and lining , and you must also purchase more material to get their fuller , longer look .

Curtains require less elaborated fabric in less quantity , so they are generally cheaper . That enjoin , the cost of either can vary wide depend on your choice of fabrics . clock your purchase to a sale may aid balance the cost .

Edmund Barr

neutral midcentury modern bedroom

Credit:Edmund Barr

Blackout Drapes vs. Curtains

Since they are specifically design to block out light and sound , blackout curtainscannot be categorise as regular drape . They vocalise more like drape , right ? But there are some differences .

Blackout curtains are made from a thick , heavier material with a dim-witted , unruffled airfoil design created to bar out light and dissonance , while mantle can be made from a broad range of fabrics and aim with a more ornate appearance . In addition , blackout curtains are typically more expensive than regular curtains or drape because of their specialized material and function . In demarcation , drape alter in price depending on the fabrics and conception .

If you ’re hoping to maximize style and reporting , drapes and curtains can be combined to bestow texture and depth to any way . With the drapes undefendable , vaporous curtains allow light to go into . With drape closed , you may darken a way , lend more secrecy , reduce randomness , and well control the temperature . With a spot of creativeness , getting the dear of both domain is possible .