Curtains vs Blinds: Which One's Right for Your Space?
It’s a question we hear all the time: “Should I go with curtains or blinds?”
And fair enough. With so many styles, fabrics, and features available, figuring out what suits your space best can feel overwhelming.
If you're unsure where to start, here’s a straightforward comparison to help you choose what’s right for your home.
Why you might prefer curtains
They’re incredibly versatile
Curtains offer loads of flexibility when it comes to interior styling. You can easily change the look and feel of a room just by switching them out. From light sheers to rich, heavy fabrics like velvet, there's a curtain style for every season and every mood.
Great for insulation
Curtains do a solid job of helping regulate your indoor temperature. In winter, floor-length and lined curtains help keep the warmth in. In summer, they block out harsh sunlight and heat.
They help soften noise
Thicker curtain fabrics can help dampen sound, making them ideal for homes in busier areas. While they won’t soundproof a room, they can definitely reduce outside noise.
What to keep in mind:
- Cleaning can be a hassle
Curtains can attract dust and pet hair. Some fabrics may need dry cleaning, especially if they’re heavier. They’re not always the best choice for kitchens or bathrooms where moisture can lead to stains or mould. - They need more space
Curtains usually require extra room to hang and stack. In small rooms or tight spaces, they might make the area feel a bit crowded.
Why blinds might be a better fit
Excellent light control
Blinds are ideal if you want to control how much light enters the room. Whether it's roller blinds, Venetians, or shutters, you can adjust them to let in just the right amount of light without giving up your privacy.
Easy to clean
Most blinds are low maintenance. A quick dust or wipe is usually all it takes to keep them clean, which makes them great for high-use areas like kitchens, bathrooms, or rental properties.
Perfect for small spaces
Blinds are a great solution when space is tight. They sit neatly within the window frame, giving you more flexibility with your furniture layout and keeping things looking tidy.
Things to consider:
- Slatted blinds aren’t great for insulation
Heat can easily escape through the gaps between slats. If you’re looking for thermal efficiency, go for blockout or honeycomb blinds instead. - Some blinds let in light
While Venetian blinds are great for adjusting light levels, they won’t give you total darkness. If you’re a light-sensitive sleeper, a blockout option or a layered window treatment might work better.
Want the best of both?
Here’s the good news. You don’t have to pick just one.
Combining blinds and curtains gives you the benefits of both. Install blinds in areas where you need practical light control and easy cleaning. Use curtains in spaces where style, warmth, and softness are more important.
You can even layer both in one room. Think sheer curtains over a roller blind for softness and privacy, or blockout curtains layered with Venetians to help reduce heat and noise.
Need help deciding? We're here for that.
At Harrisons, we take the guesswork out of choosing window treatments. With our free in-home consultations across Australia, one of our experts will bring samples to you, walk you through the options, and help you find what suits your home best.
Book your free consultation today and start creating a home that works for you.
