We Tested the Best Thermal Curtains for Easy Energy Efficiency

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Winter Essentials On Sale Now

Our Best Bang pick, the Deconovo Thermal Insulated Blackout Curtain, is an even better deal right now starting at just $16.37 per panel (27% off). These budget-friendly curtains are triple layered for excellent insulation and light-blocking, plus they’re machine washable for super-easy upkeep.

Even the highest-rated windows present an opportunity for air to infiltrate the home, but thermal curtains offer an extra layer of insulation that can help make a home more energy efficient. But with so many kinds available, selecting energy-efficient yet stylish curtains can be a challenge. We tested all of the curtains below for several days, noting their ability to insulate, block light, and hold up to general wear and tear.  

After testing, we found Best Home Fashion Thermal Blackout Curtains to be best at insulating, while also blocking light and being easy to clean. 

We also spoke with an HVAC pro and design expert to get their take what thermal curtains can do and how to select the right ones for the walls in your home. This guide reviews the results of our tests and the most important features to consider so you can choose from the best thermal curtains available. 

1. BEST OVERALL: Best Home Fashion Wide Basic Thermal Blackout Curtain
2. RUNNER-UP: Nicetown Triple-Weave Noise-Reducing Thermal Curtain 
3. BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: Deconovo Thermal Insulated Blackout Curtain
4. UPGRADE PICK: Bodulf Cross-Linen Thermal Blackout Curtains
5. BEST PATTERNED: HLC.ME Paris Paisley Blackout Grommet Curtain Panels
6. BEST TEXTURED: Abihail Burlap Weave Thermal Extreme Blackout Curtain 
7. BEST COLOR SELECTION: BGment Thermal Blackout Curtains for Bedroom
8. BEST NOISE REDUCTION: House of Hampton Dora Max Blackout Curtain Panel
9. BEST VELVET: Dreaming Casa Darkening Thermal Velvet Curtains
10. BEST FOR OUTDOORS: Nicetown Triple-Weave Outdoor Blackout Curtains 
11. BEST FOR KIDS: H.Versailtex Blackout Star Thermal Curtains for Kids

Our Top Picks

With so many different types of thermal curtains on the market, making a decision on which to buy can be challenging. The following list breaks down some of the best options in various categories. Each of the curtains on this list was tested for at least 5 days, with their thermal-control, light-blocking, and noise-control abilities at the forefront of the testing process.

Best Overall

Best Home Fashion Wide Basic Thermal Blackout Curtain

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Product Specs 

• Dimension options: 54 to 132 inches long by 40 to 100 inches wide
• Material: Polyester
• Number of colors: Numerous; varies by size and retailer

What We Like

• Excellent light blocking
• Multiple colors in deep, rich hues
• Machine-washable fabric for easy upkeep

What We Don’t Like

• Fabric creases can be difficult to remove
• Back of curtain displays the curtain color

With its high insulating and light-blocking qualities, this thermal curtain from Best Home Fashion adds an extra layer of insulation to windows while contributing to the room’s aesthetics. It features triple-weave polyester construction that includes a layer of black yarn, keeping out up to 99 percent of light (the darker color choices are most effective) and 100 percent of ultraviolet (UV) rays, helping to keep the home warm in the winter and cool in the summer.

Each panel features attractive antique bronze grommets that are 1.6 inches in diameter. These panels come in lengths between 54 to 132 inches and widths from 40 to 100 inches. With dozens of colors available (options vary by size and retailer), there is sure to be an option that matches your home’s decor. These curtains are machine washable, making them easy to maintain.

The curtains did an excellent job of insulating and blocking light. We tested the extra-wide curtain panel in burgundy. The dark, rich color kept nearly all light out, and the thick fabric draped well. The only downside to these is that the curtain’s back is the same color as the front. Those who like uniform curtain colors from the exterior of their home will need a second neutral layer to face the street.

Get the Best Home Fashion thermal curtains at Amazon, The Home Depot, or Best Home Fashion.

Runner-Up

Nicetown Triple-Weave Noise-Reducing Thermal Curtain

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Product Specs 

• Dimension options: 40 to 120 inches long by 29 to 55 inches wide
• Material: Polyester blend
• Number of colors: Numerous; varies by size

What We Like

• Many sizes to choose from
• Good noise reduction
• Extensive color options

What We Don’t Like

• Colors can fade in constant, direct sunlight

This set of thermal curtains from Nicetown features insulating layers with a black yarn layer sandwiched between two microfiber layers. They provide protection against winter cold and summer heat while reducing noise and blocking up to 99 percent of sunlight.

These curtains feature 1.6-inch grommets, making them suitable for most standard curtain rods. A selection of over 30 solid colors makes them ideal for a variety of styles. And, with sizes ranging from 40 inches long by 29 inches wide to 120 inches long by 55 inches wide, they’ll fit virtually any window. Their machine-washable fabric makes them easy to clean, though getting wrinkles out can take some work.

During testing, we found the triple-layer design effective at hiding the inner black thread layer. However, we also found that the manufacturer’s claim of 99 percent light blocking was a bit of an exaggeration. While they did a good job of blocking out light and heat, we’d put the percentage closer to between 75 and 80. They also dampened some noise but were not entirely noise blocking.

Get the Nicetown noise-reducing thermal curtains at Amazon.

Best Bang for the Buck

Deconovo Thermal Insulated Blackout Curtain

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Product Specs 

• Dimension options: 45 to 108 inches long by 42 to 100 inches wide
• Material: Polyester
• Number of colors: Numerous; varies by size and retailer

What We Like

• Affordable compared to similar options
• Triple-layered for increased insulation and light blocking
• Machine-washable fabric

What We Don’t Like

• Cheaper materials may not last as long

Window treatments don’t have to be expensive, as these thermal curtains from Deconovo prove. These energy-saving insulated curtains feature three layers of fabric for maximum blackout and insulation quality, cutting those energy bills without demanding you invest a lot of money up front.

These curtains include standard 1.6-inch grommets and are available in 18 sizes, ranging from 45 to 108 inches long by 42 to 100 inches wide. With over 30 colors to choose from (selection varies by size and retailer), there are plenty of options to match home decor. Cleaning the Deconovo curtains is easy: Just throw them in the washing machine on a cold, gentle cycle.

The Deconovo curtains look similar to the other curtains tested—even those that cost a lot more. They block out 75 to 80 percent of light and a similar amount of heat. The fabric doesn’t have quite the heft of some of the other curtains on the list, but they’re a great option for those on a budget. Keep in mind that the price is for a single curtain only—double the price to purchase a pair.

Get the Deconovo thermal curtains at Amazon, Deconovo, or Walmart.

Upgrade Pick

Bodulf Cross-Linen Thermal Blackout Curtains

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Product Specs 

• Dimension options: 84 to 120 inches long by 50 inches wide
• Material: Polyester
• Number of colors: 8

What We Like

• High-quality material looks like linen
• Heavy material with excellent drape
• Excellent light blocking and noticeable thermal control

What We Don’t Like

• Comes in limited sizes
• Dry-clean only

Those who want an understated luxe look will appreciate the Bodulf cross-linen curtains, designed to look similar to expensive linen. Unlike traditional stiff polyester, the weight and thickness of these curtains allow them to drape beautifully—they even feel like high-end linen.

These curtains, sold as single panels, have a rod pocket, tabs, and a hook belt, offering a wide range of hanging options. Their white foam backing offers thermal control, lighting blocking, and sound absorption. Plus, the white backing creates a uniform window experience on the home’s exterior. Offered in only four sizes that range from 84 inches long by 50 inches wide to 120 inches long by 50 inches wide, these curtains might not fit every window. However, they come in multiple colors, ranging from neutrals to rich black or indigo, that are likely to please most.

During testing, the Bodulf curtains offered excellent light blocking and thermal control. They dampened some sound, but they didn’t bring it down as much as some of the thicker curtains. Of the curtains we tested, these stood out for their balance of performance and appearance. We didn’t love that they’re dry-clean only, but to maintain the curtain’s stunning appearance, it’s worth it.

What our tester says: “These curtains felt the most high-end of any that I tested. They draped beautifully,” —-Stacey L. Nash, Product Reviews tester and writer

Get the Bodulf thermal curtains at Wayfair.

Best Patterned

HLC.ME Paris Paisley Blackout Grommet Curtain Panels

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Product Specs 

• Dimension options: 54 to 96 inches long by 50 inches wide
• Material: Polyester
• Number of colors: 5

What We Like

• Attractive paisley-patterned design
• Great for saving on energy costs
• Filters 60 percent of light and dampens sound

What We Don’t Like

• Lighter colors tend to fade over time

With its diverse and rich collection of paisley patterns, the HLC.ME curtains add flair and visual interest. HLC.ME’s curtains use triple-weave polyester fabric to insulate windows, saving up to 30 percent on energy costs.

The HLC.ME curtains are machine washable and dryer-friendly on a low setting. The panels are all 50 inches wide and come in lengths ranging from 54 inches to 96 inches, allowing you to achieve looks ranging from tailored to elegant. Each set comes with two panels.

During testing, these curtains filtered out about 60 percent of light and a similar amount of sound. In artificial light, the muted colors almost look faded. When light shines through these curtains, the silver light-blocking panel gives the paisley pattern a silvery cast. They’re a great option if you love the pattern, but compared to the other options we tested, they’re not the most effective at controlling temperature or light.

Get the HLC.ME thermal curtains at Amazon, Walmart, or HLC.ME.

Best Textured

Abihail Burlap Weave Thermal Extreme Blackout Curtain

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The name of these curtains include the word “extreme,” which proved apt based on our testing.

Product Specs 

• Dimension options: 63 to 96 inches long by 52 inches wide
• Material: Polyester
• Number of colors: 4

What We Like

• Thick fabric and lining keep out nearly all light
• Noticeably regulates temperature and sound
• Machine-washable fabric with a detailed but subtle weave

What We Don’t Like

• May have a few loose threads upon opening
• Tend to wrinkle easily

Advertised as 100 percent light blocking, these curtains from Abihail lived up to their claim. They also did an excellent job maintaining the room temperature, and while they didn’t completely block out sound, there was a distinct dampening effect.

The Abihail curtains are only available in three sizes, ranging from 63 to 96 inches long by 52 inches wide, but if there’s a size to match your window, you won’t be disappointed. With a 1.5-inch-diameter grommet, they fit most standard curtain rods. The burlap weave texture of their polyester rayon blend adds to the richness and detail of a room without overwhelming your overall decor.

In addition to their performance, we also liked how easily these curtains washed. They arrived stiff, with noticeable wrinkles and a few loose threads that needed clipping. They relaxed somewhat after washing and drying, but they were still a bit stiff rather than drapey and had to be hung immediately to prevent new wrinkles from appearing.

Get the Abihail thermal curtains at Wayfair.

Best Color Selection

BGment Thermal Blackout Curtains for Bedroom

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Product Specs 

• Dimension options: 45 to 120 inches long by 38 to 70 inches wide
• Material: Polyester
• Number of colors: 30

What We Like

• Multiple sizes available with a great range of colors
• Simple, solid color choices work well in most homes
• Can be lightly ironed to eliminate wrinkles

What We Don’t Like

• No neutral backing fabric

With 30 colors to choose from, these thermal curtains from BGment have style options to suit most rooms. They feature a triple-weave design of polyester microfiber and black yarn to insulate in both the summer and winter while remaining soft to the touch. During testing, we found that those three layers also muffle outside noises while blocking between 80 and 95 percent of light, facilitating some sleeping in on the weekends.

Each panel uses 1.6-inch silver grommets, making them compatible with most standard rods. These curtains are easy to maintain, too. Simply throw them in the washing machine on the gentle cycle with cold water and tumble dry on low. BGment thermal curtains come in sizes ranging from 45 inches to 120 inches long by 38 to 70 inches wide, though all sizes may not be available in all colors. Each set includes two curtain panels.

The wide color selection includes bold, deep colors that hold up to sunlight. However, the curtains don’t have a neutral backing, so they’re the same color from the outside of the house as they are on the inside.

Get the BGment thermal curtains at Amazon or Walmart.

Best Noise Reduction

House of Hampton Dora Max Blackout Curtain Panel

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Product Specs 

• Dimension options: 84 to 108 inches long by 50 inches wide
• Material: Polyester
• Number of colors: 5

What We Like

• Easy to machine wash and dry
• Heavy, thick, luxurious fabric
• Excellent sound, light, and noise blocking

What We Don’t Like

• Comes in limited sizes

For homes where outside noise is an issue, these House of Hampton curtains are a classy solution. Thick and heavy, the polyester fabric blocks noise, light, and heat from the bedroom, and the Jacquard pattern adds a touch of velvet for extra texture. During testing, these curtains muffled sounds and acted as an effective barrier that kept the bedroom completely dark until light barely peaked over the top near the rod.

Available in a handful of pleasing solid colors, we tested these curtains in silver. They featured a champagne-colored foam backing that provided additional thermal, light, and noise blocking as well as the unified exterior look we prefer. However, keep in mind that backing color varies by curtain color—certain colors may not present a neutral exterior appearance, requiring a second liner curtain.

The House of Hampton curtains come in three sizes—84 to 108 inches long by 50 inches wide—and feature built-in grommets that fit up to a 1.25-inch rod. Those sizes will fit many standard windows but could limit placement in some homes. Despite the high-end look of these curtains, they’re easy to machine wash. Plus, machine washing quickly took out wrinkles during the testing process.

Get the House of Hampton thermal curtains at Wayfair.

Best Velvet

Dreaming Casa Darkening Thermal Velvet Curtains

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Product Specs 

• Dimension options: 63 to 102 inches long by 42 to 100 inches wide
• Material: Velvet
• Number of colors: 12

What We Like

• 12 luxurious, rich color options
• Beautiful, heavy fabric with excellent drape and texture
• Easy to clean for a velvet curtain

What We Don’t Like

• Holds wrinkles, which can be difficult to remove

The Dreaming Casa velvet curtains look luxurious, drape beautifully, and add an intriguing touch to any room. They’re not quite as thermally insulated as most other curtains on our list, but they still help maintain room temperature better than the average curtain. Constructed of a single layer of unlined velvet, their efficacy regarding temperature control was about 75 percent. They blocked a similar percentage of light (they’re considered light filtering rather than blocking), with darker colors blocking better than light colors.

Despite those things, we loved these velvet curtains in testing. They have a 2-inch rod pocket and tabs and come in 20 sizes, offering options that accommodate most window sizes. Their heavy velvet fabric brings texture to the room while reducing light. They come in 12 rich colors, ranging from deep black and coffee to lighter hues of rose red or green.

As much as we liked these curtains, we did have issues with wrinkles. We washed them in cold water, hung them to dry, and even steamed them, but the velvet held its wrinkles. Velvet can be ruined with ironing, so expect a bit of a crinkled look.

Get the Dreaming Casa thermal curtains at Amazon.

Best for Outdoors

Nicetown Triple-Weave Outdoor Blackout Curtains

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Product Specs 

• Dimension options: 72 to 120 inches long by 52 to 140 inches wide
• Material: Polyester
• Number of colors: 14

What We Like

• Triple-layer fabric provides shade, wind protection, and privacy
• Wide range of color choices
• Heavy, waterproof fabric and water-resistant grommets hold up to weather

What We Don’t Like

• Color can fade over time if left up continually

A summertime alfresco dinner stays cool and comfortable with thermal-insulated outdoor curtains. These multilayered backyard curtains from Nicetown provide cooling shade while also giving you privacy from the neighbors. They feature a layer of high-density black yarn sandwiched between two layers of polyester to protect you from the sun’s damaging rays while also blocking wind.

Outdoor curtains wouldn’t be much good if they couldn’t endure the elements. These curtains are waterproof and include rustproof grommets. And when they get dirty, you can throw them in the washing machine to freshen them up. Available in 14 color options and a wide variety of sizes, these curtains will suit various patio sizes and styles.

We tested the Nicetown outdoor curtains in the 108-inch length. The length alone adds heft, but the fabric also makes these curtain panels heavier, which is exactly what you want outdoors. They do an excellent job of controlling light and resisting water damage, as long as you don’t leave them outside during a downpour. They’re sold as single panels with some sizes available as a set—simply measure your space and order accordingly.

Get the Nicetown outdoor thermal curtains at Amazon.

Best for Kids

H.Versailtex Blackout Star Thermal Curtains for Kids

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Product Specs 

• Dimension options: 63 to 96 inches long by 40 to 52 inches wide
• Material: Polyester
• Number of colors: 5

What We Like

• Thick fabric blocks light, sound, and heat well
• Reflective stars create a whimsical, comforting environment
• Easy to clean and dry; washing also helps remove wrinkles

What We Don’t Like

• Limited sizes available
• Backing is not a neutral color

The fun and whimsy of a child’s room can spark their imagination, but it still needs to be conducive to a good night’s sleep. That’s where the H.Versailtex blackout curtains come into the picture. These star-themed curtains hint at a galaxy far, far away or a dreamy unicorn fantasy land, depending on the color. The light-blocking, heat-controlling, noise-reducing fabric also creates a dark, cool sleep environment.

Made of hypoallergenic polyester, these curtains are tough and functional but easy to keep clean. This is often a big factor in choosing kids’ curtains, which can take a beating from tiny hands. We washed them, which cleaned them and helped remove wrinkles—they looked as good as new. Testing also revealed the reflective nature of the silver stars. All it took was a night light to turn them into a gently sparkling window cover that was magical and comforting for the kids.

These curtains come in sizes that range from 63 to 96 inches long by 40 to 52 inches wide. There are only four sizes in total, which is a bit limiting. The other issue is they don’t have a neutral backing, which could make the house’s exterior look less uniform. However, for the price and performance, it’s hard to beat the H.Versailtex for a child’s room.

Get the H.Versailtex thermal curtains at Amazon.

Jump to Our Top Picks

How We Tested the Best Thermal Curtains

We installed all the curtains on our lists in bedrooms and evaluated each by an established set of guidelines. We tested their ability to block light, regulate temperature, and hold up to use and machine washing (if applicable). 

To test the curtains’ light-blocking abilities, we turned off daytime interior lights and scored how well the curtains prevented outdoor light from leaking in. To test thermal control, we compared room temperature several times daily with the curtains open versus closed. We also scored the curtains based on fabric quality, thickness, and drape, factors that influence how well the curtains wash and wear over time. We also washed the curtains according to the manufacturer’s instructions if applicable. 

What to Consider When Choosing Thermal Curtains

Although the fabric used to create thermal curtains is crucial to how well it insulates the windows in the home, you will also want to consider other factors, including size, noise reduction, and aesthetics.

Type

Thermal curtains are available as standard classic curtains as well as Roman shades, hobbled shades, balloon shades, and side-draw shades, to name a few. Thermal curtains consist of insulated padding sandwiched between material suspended by a curtain rod that prevents air from passing into the room from the window.

Side-drawn shades work best for large windows, French doors, and sliding-glass doors. Roman shades and hobbled shades open and close through this classic stacking style. Balloon shades function similarly but gather the fabric as they rise. Unlike conventional blinds, Roman and balloon shades feature thick padded material that works well for insulating.

Thermal curtains come in various sizes ranging in length from 45 to 132 inches and in width from 36 inches up to 52 inches. For the curtains to properly insulate, they should be large enough to cover the entire window casing.

Size

Beyond that, the size you want depends on the look you’re trying to achieve. For a traditional look, mount the curtain rod so that the curtain hangs from 6 inches above the top of the window frame to about 3 inches below the bottom. The curtains should also extend beyond either side of the window by 3 inches. For a more modern style, mount the rod as close to the ceiling as possible and allow the curtains to extend to about 1 inch above the floor or allow them to rest on the floor to create a puddled effect.

If you’re using blinds or shades, they must fit tightly inside the window casing to prevent air from leaking around the edges of the blinds.

Fabric

Like standard curtains, insulated curtains come in a wide variety of fabrics, including cotton, polyester, silk, microfiber, and even velvet. Polyester and microfiber are the most effective fabrics for thermal curtains, as they resist moisture, which can build up in the air trapped between the curtain and the windowpane.

Aesthetic

While insulated curtains may make you think of tacky window treatments found in cheap hotel rooms, they come in a wide variety of stylish colors and patterns. These curtains go beyond being functional, featuring attractive grommets and cuts that allow you to achieve traditional, modern, and classic looks.

We interviewed Artem Kropovinsky, interior designer and founder of Arsight based in New York City, who gave us an insight on what to look for style-wise. “Go for textured and patterned drapes in bohemian space, while clean lines with neutral colors in a modern environment.” This expert advice can also be applied to regular curtains, so it’s a good tip to keep in mind when decorating a space.

Noise Reduction

The thick layers or multiple layers of material in an insulating curtain not only prevent heat loss in the home but also absorb sound waves. This works both ways, muting the sound of a neighbor’s barking dog or screaming children while also muffling loud music in the home. Thermal curtains can reduce the noise in the home by as much as 10 decibels.

Insulation

“In simple terms, thermal curtains help you keep the heat where you want it—inside or outside,” explains HVAC expert Jimmy Hiller, founder and president of Happy Hiller in Nashville, Tennessee. So how do thermal curtains achieve this?

They use multiple layers of material to insulate. The middle layer, which is the insulating layer, consists of a heat-resistant material such as foam, felt, thick cotton batting, or flannel. A thermal curtain should have at least two layers, although three is better. For maximum insulation in the summertime, they should also use blackout technology that eliminates up to 90 percent of light.

Whether talking about the insulation in a home’s walls or thermal curtains, insulation is measured using what’s known as R-value. The higher the R-value, the better the insulation qualities of the material. R-value generally ranges from 0, which is open air, to as high as 60, which is attic insulation. Windows also have an R-value. Single-pane windows have an R-value of 1, while Energy Star–rated windows typically have an R-value of 3. When properly installed, an insulated curtain can increase a window’s R-value to as high as 6.

Washing Machine vs. Dry-Clean Only

Some curtains are machine washable, making them easy to maintain. Many thermal curtains are even safe to dry in the dryer. Others require the trip to and expense of a dry cleaner. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for cleaning to avoid damaging thermal curtains.

The Advantages of Owning Thermal Curtains

There are a variety of benefits to owning thermal curtains. With their multiple layers of fabric, these curtains provide an extra layer of insulation for windows, saving money on utility bills.

The same triple-layer design that keeps cold air out and warm air in, or vice versa in the summertime, also does an excellent job of dampening outdoor noise, creating a more peaceful environment inside the home.

Thermal curtains do a great job of filtering out light. Darker-color curtains will actually block all sunlight, allowing you to sleep in on those sunny Sunday mornings. This dense material also provides maximum privacy for bedrooms.

• Thermal curtains insulate windows, saving energy.
• They do an excellent job of blocking sunlight.
• They dampen outside noise.
• Thermal curtains provide maximum privacy.

FAQs

If you’re wondering what makes thermal curtains work or how to hang them so they are effective, read below for answers to these questions and more.

Q. Are thermal curtains the same as blackout curtains?

Although thermal curtains will actually function as blackout curtains due to the multiple layers of fabric they use to insulate the window, there are differences between these two curtain types. Whereas both feature multiple layers of fabric, thermal curtains feature a thick backing for insulation and may include a synthetic lining that resists moisture.

Q. How do thermal curtains work?

Thermal curtains use a triple or double layer of fabric with a layer of thick batting. The material is made of either polyester or microfiber to resist moisture, while the batting serves as a barrier that prevents air from entering the home.

Q. Do thermal curtains keep cold out?

While thermal curtains may not entirely keep cold out, they do raise the insulation level of windows, trapping cold air between the window and the curtain and preventing it from entering the room.

Q. How do you hang thermal curtains?

To hang thermal curtains so they are effective, it’s important to use the right size. Make sure the curtains extend beyond the window casing on all sides to provide enough coverage to block the air that passes through the window from entering the room. It’s crucial to make sure the curtains hang close enough to the wall so that there is no gap between the curtains that would allow air to pass between the two. This may require you to mount the curtain rod closer to the wall.

Q. Can you wash thermal curtains?

Most thermal curtains are machine washable, using cold water and a gentle cycle. Some can even handle a trip through the dryer. Just make sure to read the manufacturer’s instructions regarding care before attempting to machine wash curtains.

Meet the Tester

Stacey L. Nash is a writer and product tester specializing in all things home and garden. Her reviews combine her professional research experience and her practical experience living on 12 acres of land with four kids and a DIY husband. She reviews everything from kitchen tools to cleaning products to bedding.

Additional research provided by Tony Carrick.

 

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