Whether you are choosing window treatments for your new home, or are looking to replace old and tired curtains, figuring out what works best can be challenging. And while figuring out the design elements of your living spaces can feel daunting, the kitchen offers additional safety and practically factors to think of as well.
If you are in the market to buy new window treatments for your kitchen, here are a few things you should consider.
Safety First
Unless you have a fireplace, kitchens may be the only room in which you have to consider open flames and flammability. Flame-Retardant fabrics do exist and can easily be made into window treatments. However, if your window is above a stove, it is probably a good idea to consider a more structured window treatment. Or possibly, no treatment at all.
Cleaning Your Curtains
Unlike most rooms in your house, kitchens will see a lot of grime, odors, and splattered oils. Even if your window is not in the splash zone, kitchen curtains will need to be cleaned regularly. Choosing simple fabrics and components that can easily be taken down, laundered, and re-hung are your best option. If you are anticipating having to do an excessive amount of cleaning, you might consider a window treatment that you can simply wipe down like vinyl blinds or cellular shades.
Size and Location of Windows
The type of windows in your kitchen along with their sun exposure are major determining factors when it comes to choosing the right window covering for your space. If you have one tiny window, chances are you are not going to want to cover it with something heavy as it will block out your only natural light. Spend some time observing the light in your kitchen without any treatments before deciding on what works best. Once you get to know the light patterns, you will be able to figure out what you need.
What Goes With Your Decor
Kitchens are often the easiest rooms to decorate, and usually the most fun. Whether you have decided on a color scheme or theme for your kitchen, figuring out what window treatment will enhance your decor while remaining functional can be challenging. It might be best to let your window treatments to the heavy lifting when it comes to design as choosing busy patterns can often hide wayward stains.
No Window Treatments At All
With all the considerations that go into choosing kitchen curtains, it might be worth considering forgoing window treatments completely. While living spaces and bedrooms can feel bare without draperies or blinds, the kitchen is one of the few rooms in your home where decor is optional. Additionally, while you might seek privacy and shade in other rooms, kitchens are often the heart of a home and benefit from being warm and sunny.
The kitchen can be the hardest working room in your home. Make sure you consider all of its functions before deciding on window treatments. When you are ready, or if you have additional question, we are here at The Blinds Side to help!