Is hanging curtains in a kitchen a recipe for disaster? Experts say they're the perfect ingredient if you follow these 3 golden rules

Have I ever considered hanging curtains in a kitchen? I can't say I have. It's always seemed to be an unspoken interior design rule that blinds are the best window covering when it comes to designing a kitchen.

But, could you be missing the opportunity to make your kitchen window that little bit more exciting – especially if you aren't blessed with an amazing view from the kitchen sink?

I asked the experts if they thought hanging curtains in a kitchen was ever on the menu, or if it was a design ingredient that should head straight into the kitchen bin.

Why hanging curtains in a kitchen could also save you money

Although we'll come onto the more practical details such as placement and curtain types that work best in your kitchen ideas, there's also a benefit to hanging curtains at your kitchen window ideas during winter. And it's one I'm regretting not considering given I've had kitchens with no window coverings in the past.

Ana Zuravliova, trend specialist at Blinds Direct notes how people often overlook the fact that when you add a thermal lining to your kitchen curtains, it can also become a great stylish energy saving tip. "Thermal linings will help keep the warm air from the oven in the room, keeping it nice and toasty."

So, with money potentially saved on your energy bills, you could find yourself in a position to splurge on some new window treatments. But what are the golden rules for hanging curtains in a kitchen and why?

Ana Zuravliova

As a trend forecaster, Ana is instrumental in maintaining Blinds Direct’s reputation for manufacturing quality and fashionable products. Responsible for ensuring products resonate with the latest interior design trends and fashions, Ana studies a diverse range of criteria including social, ecological, behavioural trends from the company’s factory in the heart of Yorkshire.

Follow these golden rules for hanging curtains in a kitchen

1. Placement is everything

In a room where heat and water are essential, using fabrics can feel like a risky design choice. Which is why, with some common sense applied, it's easy to understand why hanging curtains in a kitchen is only recommended in certain areas.

"Curtains can be a wonderful addition to a kitchen, but they require thoughtful consideration," says Debbie Leigh, design manager at ILIV. "Placement is crucial; avoid hanging curtains near the hob or other areas prone to heat." Flame retardant fabrics might also need to be considered for greater levels of safety.

"Kitchen curtains should also ideally be kept away from sinks and kettles," adds Ana Zuravliova. The steam from these products may well give your fabric a quick decrease, but in the long run will risk damaging the material.

Debbie Leigh

Debbie has over 30 years of experience in the trade and is considered an expert in creating beautifully coordinated fabric collections that can be easily combined to create harmonious interior schemes.

2. Pick the right material

For the same reasons that people ask whether carpet in a bathroom is always a bad idea, the same rationale could be applied to hanging curtains in a kitchen. Water and fabric are rarely the best partners, and waterproof fabrics are generally not the type of material you'd choose for curtains.

This is why there are two important factors when choosing your kitchen curtain fabric. It's about the type of material you use and ensuring you have the right kitchen ventilation measures in place.

"Curtain fabrics are not water resistant," confirms Debbie Leigh, "so in smaller or less well-ventilated kitchens they run the risk of being damaged by moisture."

Think carefully and follow the guidance below in how to choose your kitchen curtains to make sure that you are doing everything you can to avoid problems in the future.

Keep your kitchen well ventilated with an extractor fan

3. Length and design both matter too

"The best length for hanging curtains in a kitchen depends on a number of factors," says Ana Zuravliova. "If a kitchen window is on a wall that also features a counter top, a sill length curtain is ideal."

"Curtains are great for softening the hard edges of countertops and kitchen appliances and will add warmth to the space too," says Debbie Leigh.

"Of course, if there is a large window, or patio doors, a full height curtain can’t be beaten either," says Ana.

But when it comes to the best style of curtain, it again needs to be dictated by the overall aesthetic of your kitchen.

"A luxurious country inspired kitchen would benefit from a pencil or pinch pleat finish for example," suggests Ana, "while a minimalist or modern kitchen idea would be best enhanced with a simple wave pleat finish."

If your kitchen also struggles with a lack of natural light, give your kitchen lighting ideas a helping hand says Debbie, by "consider options like café curtains or valances, that allow light to filter in without being overly bulky."

How to choose your kitchen curtains

So how do you choose the right fabric for hanging curtains in a kitchen?

"Fabrics need to be easy to clean, durable and resistant to stains or odours from cooking," says Debbie Leigh. "Lightweight materials like cotton blends or treated fabrics are ideal."

Style however also matters – after all, we spend a lot of daily life in the kitchen – so you want to make sure that the curtains you have suit you overall kitchen decor ideas.

"The best material really depends on the requirements of the curtain and your design preferences," says Ana Zuravliova. "If you have a large, modern farmhouse inspired kitchen, then a fun curtain with floral or vintage style is a great idea.

"For lovers of a more whimsical decor, fabrics that feature a fruit and veg design can add a fun finish to the kitchen’s style. For a kitchen that leads out to the garden, few options are as striking as a light weight voile which allows you to enjoy natural light and privacy in equal measure."

Try these kitchen curtains in your next kitchen renovation

Hanging curtains in a kitchen could also be on trend

And, if Head of Creative at Ca’ Pietra, Grazzie Wilson's predictions for a surge in the 'Nonna trend' come true, then we think cafe style curtains in a kitchen paired with an authentic Italian tiled splashback could indeed become one of the kitchen trends to watch out for in 2025.

“We call it ‘The Nonna Effect’, because with her as your muse, your decor is guaranteed to feel tried and true, rich and layered, familiar and comforting, but also totally on trend,” explains Grazzie.

“Out of every trend we’re forecasting for 2025, this is the one that’s head and shoulders above the rest, and that translates to every part of the home. A Nonna-style kitchen is inviting and invigorating, a Nonna cloakroom is sweet and charming, and a Nonna hallway makes a home feel like everyone is welcome and can come in at any time. Nonna? She’s the heart of the home.”

How to care for your kitchen curtains

If you feel the homely touch of hanging curtains in a kitchen is for you, then what are the best ways of caring for your kitchen curtains? Ana Zuravliova recommends the following to deal with the potential problems caused by water.

"Beyond ensuring your curtains aren’t too close to a moisture source, there are a few steps you can take to prevent them from getting damp," she says.

• Open windows to let steam escape the kitchen
• Use a kitchen extractor fan when boiling water
• Use the best dehumidifier to remove excess moisture from the air

It’s also important to regularly check your curtains to ensure they’re not being affected by any moisture," adds Ana. There are always mould hotspots in a home you may miss, so "If you do spot any mould or mildew," says Ana, "consult the cleaning instructions and act accordingly."

Keep this dehumidifier in your kitchen for extra extraction

What are the best ways of removing smells or odours?

"To keep your curtains and other fabric window furnishings fresh, ensure proper air circulation in the space," recommends Ana.

We suggest you choose the best kitchen extractor fan when considering your kitchen layout to help remove any cooking smells and again, the excess moisture.

"If odours do develop, try airing the curtains outside or using a fabric freshener," suggests Ana. "If these steps don't eliminate the smell, check the care instructions or contact the supplier for advice on cleaning options."

FAQs

What other window coverings can I use in a kitchen?

If you're still not convinced that hanging curtains in a kitchen is for you, there are a still a number of options you can choose for your kitchen windows. Although some people do choose to leave them uncovered, it can feel more cosy and welcoming to have some type of covering on them. And as well as retaining warmth, it can also help keep the direct sunlight out during the warmer months.

"Some of the best options for kitchens – that aren’t curtains – include moisture proof or easy wipe roller blinds and vertical blinds," says Ana Zuravliova. "These are ideal options for smaller kitchens. Faux wooden blinds are another fantastic option. Offering the beauty of real wood but specially designed for moisture rich spaces, they can add a natural finish to a kitchen’s overall appearance."

If you're also keen to filter the view outside your kitchen window, a more fixed solution can be shutters which will still allow the light in, but can be angled to help disguise unwanted views. Shutters are also more hardwearing as Sam Tamlyn, managing director at California Shutters explains.

"​​Unlike fabric treatments, which can fade or wear over time, shutters are crafted to withstand daily use and adapt to fluctuating winter temperatures and humidity. Sleek and solid, they can offer a timeless and elegant design statement that endures far beyond seasonal trends as a true lifelong investment."

Worried about choosing the right curtains to hang in your kitchen? If you start looking online for ideas, the amount of choices can seem a little overwhelming.

"Curtains are available in such a diverse array of colours, patterns, finishes and styles that there isn't just one style to suit every kitchen aesthetic which can make choosing the right one for you seem difficult" agrees Ana. Her best advice? Plan carefully and take time making a decision.

"Ordering samples, making a mood board and giving yourself plenty of time to prepare are all very important steps and will help you make the best choices when hanging curtains in a kitchen."

Rethinking your kitchen design ideas now you've realised your kitchen could be more homely with the added touch of curtains? Find inspiration in these Shaker kitchen ideas, some of which will undoubtedly pair perfectly with a set of beautiful curtains.