Why Are Curtains So Expensive? (Find Out Now!)
You don’t have to hang curtains in your home. But some people prefer the added privacy that comes with decorative window treatments. So, why are curtains so expensive? And is there any way to shade your windows without breaking the bank?
Curtains are expensive for several reasons. For one, they feature fabrics that resist fading in direct sunlight. For two, manufacturers spend a lot of time making attractive patterns for all window sizes. Plus, the material quality, drop length, and design also affect the final price.
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Are Curtains Worth It?
Hanging curtains can make your house feel more like home. Window treatments add a touch of flair to an otherwise dull space. And they also ensure your privacy because they cover holes. So, even if you have blinds already, blackout curtains can help keep prying eyes at bay.
Furthermore, attractive blinds and curtains can increase the value of your home. That’s especially true if you’re a landlord who rents temporary rooms. Tenants want to feel cozy when they walk into a new space. And modern window treatments can create an inviting atmosphere that feels sophisticated and secluded.
DID YOU KNOW: Drapes are more prevalent in open concept homes than blinds or other window treatments. Meanwhile, homes with open floor plans sell for up to 15% more than homes with sectional layouts.
How Much Should I Spend on Curtains?
The price of buying new curtains for your home can vary. But because manufacturers compete with one another, you can usually find a good deal at your local department store. Wait for sales or use coupons to save more money. And consider different types of curtains to determine the most affordable kind.
Curtain costs can depend on several things, so try to keep your budget flexible. These are the factors that affect the price:
- Materials
- Design
- Pattern
- Details
- Drop LengthÂ
- Labor
- Brand
- Packaging
- Accessories
- Customization
- Retailer
Expect to spend anywhere from $10 per panel to more than $200 each. Curtains are so expensive because you only buy them once or twice. People usually swap their old curtains for new ones until they’ve had theirs for years.
NOTE: The current average is around $50-$70 per curtain, but that price depends on the retailer.
How Do You Choose the Best Curtains for Your Home?
- Measure the Dimensions: Find out how long and wide your windows are. Then, look for blinds and curtains that fit the space. Remember, your drapes don’t have to touch the floor to look good and provide privacy.
- Coordinate the Colors: Choose window treatments with colors and patterns that match your existing decor.
- Compare Prices: Don’t settle on the first blinds and curtains you find. And try not to get stuck on one particular design. Be open-minded and look for a specific aesthetic over design, brand, or material.
Picking the perfect curtains isn’t supposed to be complicated. But you can always look at home magazines for inspiration. Or ask an interior designer to help you decide. Either way, don’t leave visible windows bare unless you want the neighbors to look inside.
Are Blackout Curtains More Expensive?
Blackout curtains not only offer privacy for your home, but they also shade the room on sunny days. However, not everyone appreciates their power. But blackout drapes can be more expensive because of the extra amenities. So, weigh the pros and cons first.
You can use blackout shades and pair them with sheer curtains. That way, you have two layers of protection between you and the sun. Pull the sheers when you want more light. Then cover the window with the blackout drape if you’re going to darken the space.
Do Curtains Increase Home Value?
Drapery is all about personal taste. So, many homeowners disagree on what looks good and what doesn’t. And that means your window treatments should remain neutral if you plan to sell your house soon.
Most homebuyers remove the existing window treatments shortly after they purchase the property. Thus, your hard work and good taste go out the window at closing. Curtains don’t necessarily increase the value of your home. But they can be a hot selling point if you don’t have central air or updated HVAC.
DID YOU KNOW: You can steam clean your drapes to keep them looking and smelling fresh for longer. And you don’t even have to take them down to get them clean.
How Do You Take Care of Expensive Curtains?
Buying window treatments for your home is an investment. You can expect to spend a few hundred dollars to dress each room, and that’s if you find sales and discounts. So, you want to keep your curtains clean for as long as possible because having to buy replacements can be expensive.
Follow these three simple steps to maintain costly window treatments for longer:
Step 1: Watch for Dust on Your Drapes
Don’t let too much dust settle on your window treatments. Brush them off once or twice per month to keep airborne debris at bay. And look for signs of damage while you’re at it. Now is an excellent time to determine whether your drapes still work in the room.
Step 2: Protect Drapes from Direct Sunlight
You don’t want your curtains to fade in the sun. They’ll no longer match the decor, and they’ll look dingy after the pattern disappears. So, flip curtains around if you can. Or add a sheer panel underneath to create a shield against the harsh UV rays.
Step 3: Wash According to the Instructions
All curtains come with care instructions on the tag. Pay close attention to what the label says. That maintenance information will tell you how to wash, dry, and remove wrinkles from your curtains. If you ignore it, you could destroy the fabric.
If you have to iron your drapes, double-check the heat setting first. Or take your drapes to the dry cleaners for professional cleaning. And remember, hot water can damage the material. But so can harsh chemicals and scrubbing. So, never put your curtains in the washing machine unless otherwise stated on the tag.
NOTE: Your curtains could fade or shrink if you put them into the washing machine or dryer.
Are Curtains Outdated?
Although some homeowners prefer to leave their windows bare, curtains are not out of style. However, certain window treatment types might be. It depends on the layout of your home and how much privacy you require in it. So, don’t be afraid to customize each space to suit your needs.
Related Questions
Should You Have the Same Curtains in Every Room?
Consistency is a good idea whenever decorating multiple spaces. But you don’t have to hang the same curtains in every room. That’s because the drapes that fit your kitchen might not look good in the bedrooms. So, choose a particular style and maintain that aesthetic throughout the house.
Is It Better to Have Curtains or Blinds?
You can choose between blinds or curtains for the windows in your home. However, each one has pros and cons. For example, blinds can help shield the room from light and ensure better privacy. But they don’t always protect the same as full window treatments do, and some people think they look cheap.Meanwhile, curtains are more expensive than blinds. Yet, they look great in virtually any space. And they can provide better light and heat control as well. So, consider the pros and cons first. Then think about combining elements for a tailored style.
Are You Supposed to Leave Curtains When You Sell a House?
Most homebuyers expect to keep the window treatments when they buy a house. So, you should expect to leave them behind when you sell. And while you may have spent a fortune hanging blinds and curtains in every room, you can’t always add that cost to the asking price. Talk to your real estate agent for more information.
Do You Need Curtain Installation Services?
Get free, zero-commitment quotes from pro contractors near you.
Boost Your Style with Beautiful Curtains
Why are curtains so expensive? It’s because they can turn a dull room into a relaxing oasis. Whether you’re decorating a kitchen, bathroom, or bedroom, the best drapes make the perfect accessory. Plus, costly curtains can help increase the resale value of your home in some cases.
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Tiffany Nichols specializes in aesthetics, design, marketing, and manufacturing. She's a copywriter and editor for several home renovation companies in the U.S. and works alongside some of the biggest names in the industry. Her hobbies include architecture, art, mental health, and fashion.
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