The Do's and Don'ts of Hanging Curtains for a Polished Look

1. Hanging Curtains Too Low

One common mistake is hanging curtains too low or at the wrong height. This is something many of us might have done without even realizing it.

You want to avoid this because hanging curtains too low not only looks unattractive but also makes the room appear smaller.

To enhance the look, hang your curtains closer to the ceiling rather than right above the window.

This draws the eye upwards, making the room feel larger and more airy.

Opt for floor-to-ceiling curtains to achieve this effect.

2. Choosing a Rod That’s Too Narrow

Another mistake to avoid is using a curtain rod that isn’t wide enough. Many people think the rod should match the exact length of the window, but that's not the case.

If the rod is the same length as the window, the curtains will hang in front of the window when opened, blocking light and making the window look smaller.

Instead, choose a rod that extends at least six to ten inches on either side of the window.

This way, when the curtains are open, they will be pushed to the sides of the wall, making the window appear larger and allowing more natural light in.

3. Hanging Short Curtains

Hanging short curtains is another common mistake that should be avoided.

Short curtains simply do not look good and can make a room appear less elegant. Instead, go for longer curtains that reach all the way to the floor.

There are several ways to hang longer curtains, including:

• The Kiss: The curtain just barely touches the floor, creating a sleek, professional look. Measure from the hanging point to the floor to get this right.

• The Float: The curtain hangs slightly above the floor, giving the illusion of floating. This look is also very sophisticated.

• The Puddle: The curtain extends onto the floor, creating a small puddle of fabric. This is ideal for creating a romantic or luxurious vibe but be cautious not to overdo it, as excessive puddling can look messy.

Totally avoid hanging short curtains as they will never make a space look aesthetic.

4. Avoiding Wimpy Fabric

When selecting curtains, avoid thin or flimsy fabrics that feel cheap, especially for large windows.

Instead, choose heavier, thicker fabrics that add a sense of luxury and fullness to the room. To create a fuller look, opt for curtains that are wider than your window.

Ideally, the width of the curtain panels should be twice the length of the window. This creates lovely pleats and waves, adding a more opulent feel.

5. Using a Weak Rod

Lastly, avoid using a weak curtain rod or wire that can’t support the weight of your curtains.

A sagging rod or wire looks unprofessional and can ruin the appearance of your curtains.

Make sure your rod is sturdy enough to hold your curtains straight without any sagging.

6. Not Ironing Curtains Before Hanging

Before you hang your curtains, don’t forget to iron them.

Wrinkled curtains can look sloppy and detract from the overall appearance.

Once you’ve invested in beautiful window treatments, taking the time to iron them ensures they look their best.

So, those are some essential do's and don'ts when it comes to hanging your curtains. I hope you found these tips helpful! If you have any additional suggestions, feel free to leave them in the comments below—I’d love to hear from you.