The terms 'curtains' and 'drapes' are often used interchangeably, however they are actually two different types of window treatments. But what exactly are the differences between them? In this guide we're breaking down everything drapes vs. curtains, from how to choose the right one for your home to new knowledge and styling advice.

Drapes vs. Curtains

What is the difference between drapes and curtains? To start, curtains are sold in pairs or by panel and are installed over blinds or shades. They hang from curtain rods, extend to the windowsill or floor and are typically made from lighter fabrics, but can be room darkening or even blackout. Drapes on the other hand are made from thicker fabrics and are lined to block out more light. They're also more formal in aesthetic and extend to, or sometimes gather at the floor.

How to Choose the Right Window Treatment

Along with providing privacy, drapes and curtains also control the amount of light in a room, help insulate the room, and complement your home’s style.

Curtain and Drape Types

Single Panel Curtain:As the name states, single panel curtains are made of one piece of fabric. These are great for sliding glass doors.

Panel Pair: These curtains come in matching pairs, allowing you to hang the two pieces of fabric on either side of the window. This design allows you to let in as much light as you want.

Window Scarf: Designed more for decoration, window scarves don’t block out any light, instead they're draped over the curtain rod. They can be hung alone or paired with panel pair curtains. They can be either windowsill length or extend down to the floor.

Light Filtration

Sheer: Sheer curtains offer the least amount of privacy but allow the most amount of light to come through your windows. You can see through the fabric but it does help to reduce some glare on TVs and furniture. This style is a light and breezy addition to any room.

Semi-Sheer: Slightly less see-through than sheer curtains, these offer more privacy but are best paired with blinds or shades.

Room Darkening: This style reduces the amount of light coming in from the window, but some light may still seep around the sides.

Blackout: Great for bedrooms, blackout curtains reduce almost all light, provide privacy, reduce noise pollution, and help insulate a room.

Header Types

Pinch Pleat: This header style has a permanently gathered look. Pieces of fabric are sewn together at the top to form pleats. Depending on the design, pinch-pleat curtains can be hung with a rod pocket, clip rings, or drapery hooks.

Tab Top: As the name states, tab top headers feature loops (or tabs) of fabric at the top where the rod is thread through. With this type of header, curtains typically lie flatter and have the least amount of gathering.

Eyelet: A more modern option, eyelet curtains have an circular opening at the top for the curtain rod to slide through. This header style keeps the curtain rod exposed.

Slot Top: More traditional and formal in style, slot top headers completely cover the rod. This style works best with curtains that aren't opened often or are left open with tiebacks.

Features

Thermal Curtains: Thermal curtains feature a layer of acrylic foam that helps insulate windows. They share similar qualities to blackout curtains, as they also reduce noise pollution and block out sunlight.

Soundproof Curtains: Fall asleep faster with soundproof curtains or drapes. While the curtains will not block 100% of sound, it will reduce noise pollution from the street (especially helpful if you live in a busy city).