Apartment balcony curtain ideas: the main tips for your decor

Balcony curtains are a type of window décor accessory that is specifically designed for use on balconies or outdoor living spaces.

They are usually made from lightweight, weather-resistant materials such as polyester, nylon, or PVC and are used to provide privacy from neighbor’s view, shade, and protection from the elements.

Balcony curtains may come in various styles, colors, and sizes to suit different balcony designs and personal preferences.

Some may also be designed with features such as tiebacks, grommets, or hooks for easy installation and maintenance.

apartment balcony curtain ideas

Why is it better to add curtains to your balcony?

There are several reasons why adding curtains to your balcony can be beneficial:

Privacy. They can provide you with privacy by blocking the view from the outside.

This is especially important if you live in a densely populated area or have neighbors who can easily see your balcony.

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Sunlight control. This can be particularly useful if you want to enjoy the outdoors without being exposed to too much sun or if you want to protect your outdoor furniture and potted plants from fading or damage caused by prolonged exposure to sunlight.

Temperature control. Outdoor curtains can also help you control the temperature on your balcony.

During hot summer months, outdoor curtains can be drawn to block out the sun and keep your balcony cool.

In colder months, curtains can be closed to trap heat and keep your balcony warm.

Style and decor. Indoor curtains can add a touch of style and personality to your balcony.

They come in a variety of colors, patterns, and materials, so you can choose ones that match your decor and personal style.

Overall, adding curtains to your balcony can enhance your outdoor living space, provide privacy, and improve your comfort level.

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What is important for you to consider before hanging balcony curtains?

Here are some general things to consider before hanging balcony curtains:

Purpose. Determine the purpose of hanging curtains.

Is it to block sunlight, provide privacy, or add an aesthetic touch to the balcony?

This will help you choose the right type of curtains.

Size. Measure the size of the balcony and the length of curtains to ensure that the curtains will fit properly and not be too long or short.

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Material. Consider the type of material that the balcony curtains are made of before hanging curtains.

Outdoor curtains should be made of weather-resistant materials that can withstand rain, wind, and sunlight.

Hanging mechanism. Consider the type of hanging mechanism for the apartment balcony curtains.

There are different ways to hang balcony curtains, such as using a curtain rod, hooks, or clips.

Choose the mechanism that works best for your circumstances before hanging curtains.

Style. Choose a style that matches your taste and complements the overall decor of your balcony before hanging curtains.

Safety. Ensure that the apartment balcony curtains are hung securely and won’t fall or pose a safety hazard to people or pets using the balcony.

Local regulations. Check if any local regulations or building codes prohibit the hanging of apartment balcony curtains or require specific types of curtains or hanging mechanisms.

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Type of balcony curtains

Now let’s analyze the main type of balcony curtains and select the better one.

Bamboo curtains

Bamboo outdoor curtains are made from natural bamboo materials and are a popular choice for home decor.

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Features

Come in a variety of colors and patterns to suit different interior design styles.

Bamboo shades can be used as indoor and outdoor curtains.

Provide privacy and shade while still allowing some natural light to enter the room.

Pros
  • Eco-friendly and sustainable. Bamboo is a fast-growing plant that requires fewer resources than other materials like wood.

  • Easy to install and maintain. It may serve you for at least a few years.

  • Aesthetic appeal. Bamboo shades can add a natural, exotic, and calming touch to any room’s decor.

  • Affordable. Compared to other window treatments like blinds or drapes, bamboo curtains are relatively affordable.

Cons
  • Durability. Although bamboo is a durable material, it can be susceptible to water damage and fading over time, especially when exposed to direct sunlight or rain.

  • Limited light control. While bamboo curtains do allow some natural light to enter the room, they do not offer complete light control like blinds or drapes.

  • Cleaning. Cleaning bamboo curtains can be challenging since they are made from natural materials that may be damaged by water or harsh cleaning products.

Opaque/Weatherproof curtains

Opaque or weatherproof curtains are designed to block out light and protect against the elements.

Here are some features, pros, and cons of weatherproof curtains for an apartment balcony.

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Features

Made from materials that are fade-resistant, and resistant to moisture and mildew, such as vinyl or polyester. It may serve you for at least a few years.

Typically feature a waterproof coating or finish that helps to repel water and prevent damage from moisture on the balcony railing and floor.

Can come in a variety of colors and patterns, even with a colorful straight line to match your decor.

Often feature a blackout lining to block out light and provide privacy.

Pros
  • Provide privacy and block-out light, making them ideal for an uncovered balcony where you need to control the amount of light that enters.

  • Protect against the elements, including rain, wind, and snow, making them a great choice for outdoor spaces and apartment balcony.

  • Easy to clean and maintain, as they can be wiped down with a damp cloth or cleaned with a mild detergent.

  • Durable and long-lasting, as they are designed to withstand exposure to the elements.

Cons
  • Can be more expensive than traditional curtains, as they are made from specialized materials.

  • May be heavier and more difficult to hang than traditional curtains, especially if they are made from vinyl or another heavy material.

  • May not provide as much insulation as other types of curtains, as they are designed primarily to block out light and protect against the elements rather than provide insulation from heat or cold.

  • Overall, opaque or weatherproof curtains can be a great choice for anyone looking to block out light or protect against the elements.

Canvas curtains

They are a type of window treatment made from heavy-duty canvas fabric.

They offer a unique and rustic look to any room and can provide numerous benefits as well as some drawbacks.

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Features

Canvas fabric is thick and durable, making it an excellent choice for curtains that need to withstand wear and tear.

They come in a range of colors and styles, from neutral shades to bold prints, with built-in grommets and without them so there is something to suit every balcony floor design and balcony railings design.

Canvas curtains can be lined to improve insulation, which can help keep rooms cool in summer and warm in winter.

They can be easily customized to fit any window size, and can also be easily hemmed or trimmed to fit unique window shapes.

Pros
  • Canvas fabric is weather resistant and naturally resistant to mildew and mold, making it a great choice for humid or damp environments.

  • They are relatively easy to clean and maintain, as most canvas curtains can be machine-washed or spot cleaned.

Cons
  • They can be more expensive than other types of window dressing, especially if custom-made or lined.

  • They are heavy, which can make installation and hanging more difficult.

  • They may not be the best choice for small rooms or windows, as their thickness can make them appear bulky and take up valuable space.

  • They are not as sheer as other fabrics, which means they may not allow as much natural light to filter through.

Drop cloth curtains

Drop cloth curtains are made from heavy-duty canvas or cotton material, which is typically used as a protective covering during painting or construction work.

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Here are some of the features, pros, and cons of drop cloth curtains.

Features

Drop cloth curtains are made from durable and sturdy materials that can withstand wear and tear.

They come in various sizes, colors, and styles, making finding a set that matches your home decor easy.

They are easy to install and can be used in various types of windows and doors.

Pros
  • Drop cloth curtains are an affordable option for those who want to spruce up their home decor.

  • They have a rustic and natural look, which adds warmth and texture to any room.

  • They are versatile and can be used in various styles of home decor, from farmhouse to bohemian.

  • They provide excellent insulation, keeping your room warm in the winter and cool in the summer.

Cons
  • Drop cloth curtains can be stiff and difficult to drape, especially when they are new.

  • They may require washing or ironing before use, which can be time-consuming.

Hang curtains with curtain rods

You may hang curtains with curtain rods. It is a simple and effective way to add privacy and style to your outdoor space.

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Here are the steps you can follow to hang your curtains:

Measure your balcony. Measure the width and height of your balcony to determine the size of the curtains you need.

Choose your curtains and drapery rods. Select curtains and curtain rods that fit the measurements of your balcony.

Install the curtain rods. Use a level to ensure that the curtain rod is straight, then drill holes into the wall or ceiling where you want to hang the rods.

Use wall plugs and wall anchors to secure the drapery rods in place.

You must buy only high-quality wall plugs and wall anchors.

Hang them. Slide the balcony curtain onto the rods, making sure that the curtains are evenly spaced and hanging straight.

Adjust them as needed to achieve the desired look.

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Hang curtains without curtain rods

There are a few ways you can hang curtains without curtain rods. Here are some options:

Use command hooks. These hooks come in various sizes and can support different weights.

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Use tension rods. Tension rods are another alternative to curtain rods.

These rods fit between the two walls of a window or doorway and hold the curtains in place.

Use pipe or conduit. If you want a more industrial look, you can use a pipe or conduit as a curtain rod.

Simply cut the pipe or conduit to the length you need and attach it to the wall using brackets.

Use a curtain wire. Curtain wires are another option for hanging curtains without curtain rods.

These wires are attached to the wall using brackets and can be tightened to hold them in place.

You can also use clips to attach them to the wire.

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FAQ

Which curtains are best for the balcony?

When it comes to choosing curtains for a balcony, there are a few factors to consider, such as the amount of sunlight and wind exposure, privacy needs, and overall aesthetic preference.

I showed you the best options above and just want to add two:

Sheer curtains. Sheer curtains for a small space can add a touch of elegance to a balcony while still allowing light to filter through.

They are lightweight and can be hung using a rod or wire.

Roller shades. Roller shades for a small balcony can be a good option if you want more control over how much light enters the balcony.

They come in a variety of materials, from opaque to sheer, and can be raised or lowered as needed.

Ultimately, the best curtains for your balcony will depend on your specific needs and preferences.

How do you hang curtains on a balcony?

Hanging curtains on a balcony can be a great way to add privacy and style to your outdoor space.

Here are some steps you can follow to hang curtains on your balcony:

Measure your balcony.

Choose your curtains.

Install a curtain rod.

Hang them.

Secure the curtains.

By following these steps, you should be able to successfully hang curtains on your balcony and create a stylish and functional outdoor space.

Conclusion

Balcony curtains can be a great addition to your outdoor space, as they offer privacy, and shade, and can help to block out unwanted sunlight or wind.

They can also add a decorative touch to your balcony and enhance the overall aesthetic of your apartment.

When choosing balcony curtains, it’s important to consider the size and shape of your balcony, as well as the surrounding environment.

You’ll want to choose curtains that fit well and can withstand the elements, such as wind, rain, and sun exposure.

There are many different types of balcony curtains available, including outdoor-grade fabric curtains, bamboo or reed curtains, and even metal or wood slat curtains.

Each type has its own unique benefits and drawbacks, so it’s important to do your research and choose the option that best fits your needs and preferences.

Overall, apartment balcony curtains can be a great way to enhance your outdoor space and make it more functional and comfortable.

Just be sure to choose the right type of curtains and install them properly to ensure they provide the desired benefits.

Read More: 14 Cozy Balcony Ideas

Jessica Kane

I’m interested in interior design, and especially solutions for small spaces. My motto is “small is beautiful”. I studied urban design at University and now work in urban planning.

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