Curtains and saving energy: tips for a warm winter

When it's freezing outside, it's not just the heating that determines comfort – the right curtains do too. Dense fabrics, clever installation, and a multi-layered combination noticeably retain heat in the room, reduce drafts, and help lower heating costs.

Why curtains help save energy

Windows are thermally vulnerable in winter: Heat escapes through the glass, cold air flows in around the edges, and the temperature difference creates drafts. Curtains add an additional layer of insulation and airflow.

• Density & Weight: Heavy, tightly woven fabrics with a high g/m² value slow down heat loss.
• Air cushion: A silent air space is created between the fabric and the window, which insulates.
• Surface effect: Voluminous materials (e.g. velvet) bind air and reduce convection.

Remember: The denser the fabric and the larger the covered area (top, sides, bottom), the better the effect.

The right choice of fabric: warm, dense, functional

Recommended winter qualities

• Velvet / Velour : High density, elegant drape, very good heat retention.
• Thermal & blackout fabrics : Multi-layer constructions with coatings or lining.
• Molton/flannel lining : Brushed, voluminous backing increases the insulating effect.

Important criteria

• Surface weight (g/m²): The higher, the better the insulation.
• Fabric density: Tightly woven fabrics retain air movement.
• Light control: Bedroom: Blackout; Living room: Dim-out or Thermo for softer light.

Layering: think in layers – save all year round

1. Outer layer (tight & warm): Heavy thermal or velvet curtains keep out the cold. Tip: Thermal curtains.
2. Inner layer (light & light-diffusing): A fine voile or inbetween provides brightness and privacy during the day.

Extra tip: A separate thermal lining (button-on/glued-in layer) increases winter performance and can be removed in spring.

Assembly that really seals

• Ceiling height: Rail or rod as close to the ceiling as possible – less gap, less heat loss.
• Extra wide: extend 15–25 cm beyond the window opening on each side, reducing lateral drafts.
• Ground contact: Let the curtain rest 2–3 cm on the ground (“break”); this slows down cold air on the ground.
• Shaped/U-shaped rails: In niches, they bring the curtain closer to the wall and window.
• Side sealing: Sealing profiles, frame strips or magnetic/velcro solutions minimize edge gaps.
• Upper panel (pelmets): Reduces the chimney effect upwards.

Measurement & folds: how the curtain fits optimally

• Width: window width + at least 30-50 cm of fabric.
• Height: Measure from ceiling to floor; allow 2–3 cm for overlying space.
• Fold allowance: 2.0–2.5 times for volume and better insulation.
• Hanging: eyelets, curtain tape, pleated tape or concealed gliders – the main thing is that they are tight and have few gaps.

Fast low-budget measures

• Thermal liner: Hang additional lining layer behind existing curtains.
• Draught excluder: Fabric roll on door thresholds blocks cold drafts.
• Velcro/magnetic strips: Fix the fabric edges to the side of the wall.
• Window seals: Replace old rubber seals, close gaps.

Care & winter routine

• Daily use: Open during the day (use the sun), close at dusk (keep warm).
• Choose easy-care: Machine-washable, crease-resistant qualities retain volume and drape.
• Keep fresh: Shake and air regularly, reduce dust.
• Gentle cleaning: Low temperatures, suitable program, gentle ironing.

Room examples: stylish implementation

Living room

Velvet in natural or stone tones, ceiling-high, extra-wide, with a light in-between effect. Warm lighting, wood, wool carpet – comfort plus efficiency.

bedroom

Blackout thermal fabric in a calm color tone, maximum edge overhang and tight bottom finish for restful sleep.

Home office

Dim-out or dense twill in muted colors; side fastening to prevent drafts and allow for concentrated work.

Checklist: Your winter curtain project

• Tightly woven, heavy fabric (e.g. velvet, thermal, blackout)
• Layering: dense outer layer + light inner layer
• Ceiling-high installation, extra wide, floor break
• Minimize side & top column (panel, bars)
• Fold allowance 2.0–2.5 times
• Easy-care & machine washable
• Winter routine: Use the sun, close windows in the evening