Curtain alternatives for those who prefer less fussy window treatments.

Some of us have a real aversion to curtains and are in the market for some clever curtain alternatives. I guess we remember the heavy drapes in our grandmother’s living room or have had a bad experience with curtains and cats. Curtains can also trap dust and other allergens and can just generally be a pain to clean. Then, there is the fact that some people just don’t like the aesthetics of curtains (count me in this camp). Ideally, it seems like going sans curtains be would a fantastic choice. The reality, though, is that curtains do serve a purpose. Curtains can help keep your home cooler and warmer–depending on the season. And since most of us don’t have the luxury of living in a penthouse or secluded in the woods in the middle of nowhere, we have neighbors that are too close for curtainless windows.

There may be other curtain alternatives that work to block out the sun and cold and give you some privacy, but fit in more with your aesthetic and aren’t as much of a pain to clean. Gone are the days where it was a given that we all would have curtains for our ticky-tacky houses. Thankfully, there is a world full of choice to fit our style and preferences for dressing up the windows in our homes.

7 Curtain Alternatives

1. Macrame “Curtains” – If you are into boho chic, consider making your own macrame curtains. This tutorial should get your started or visit Etsy to see what you can buy already made if you are looking for something a little less DIY.  Image via Knot Squared.

2. Indoor Shutters – If you are looking for a more permanent solution, consider indoor shutters. They may be costly, but they will add value to your home and are a fantastic way to keep out light and neighbors. Image via Windows by Melissa.

3. Laser Cut Wood Panels – Add decorative laser cut wood panels in front of windows to add decorative elements and privacy to your window. Etsy is a great place to look, as well as the Frank Lloyd Wright online store.

4. Window Film  – Static cling window films are a great alternative to curtains. They are easy to put up and remove, and they protect your privacy. Not to mention, they are super cool looking. Choose repeat patterns to films that are more decorative. Image via Mini Moderns.

5. Stained Glass – Repurpose salvaged stained glass pieces or work with a glass artist to add stained glass panels to your windows. Add both color and privacy. Image via Terraza Stained Glass.

6. Roman Shades – Roman shades are an excellent choice for those looking to forgo curtains. They are similar enough to curtains but have a lot more functionality and design. Image via Windows by Melissa.

Related on EcoSalon

11 Cabin Decor Ideas Perfect Enough to Recreate At Home
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Made in the Shades

Image via MUSTERLADEN

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Summer is just around the corner, and you know what that means: Barbeques, flip flops, day trips to the beach, and insufferable heat. Even as the mercury in the thermometer on my back porch rises a little bit every day, I open the windows and resist the urge to turn on the AC. But, the more my home begins to feel like a sauna, the occasional cool breeze doesn’t cut it anymore. Just when the temptation was about to get the better of me, I decided to see what greener alternatives there are for keeping my house cool.

You know that spare set of sheets you keep in the guest room? Soak them in ice cold water, wring them out and hang them in front of open windows. Okay, the decorator in you might object to this method, but the breeze that blows through will feel much cooler, guaranteed. On the same note, hang a clothesline outside and officially retire your dryer.

Face a few of your floor fans towards open windows to force out some of the warm air.

If you have opaque curtains, keep them closed as long as the sun is shining. Better yet, invest in solar screens. They deflect the sun’s rays and keep your home much cooler.

If you have tile or wood floors, remove any rugs.

This one’s pretty obvious for anybody with an ounce of eco-consciousness, but I’ll throw it in for good measure. Turn off electronics when you aren’t using them. Not only do they emit heat, but you’re wasting energy by leaving them on while idle.

Excess humidity is another element that can make a room feel hotter. Check out the best home dehumidifiers to help control excess humidity in your home.

For more useful tips, be sure to check out this article on MSN.

Image: ToastyKen

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