In the bedroom of my first apartment, I was lucky enough to have a large, double-hung window that overlooked the city below me. As much as I loved the view, I knew I needed something to hang in front – a set of curtains to decorate the space and provide some level of privacy. I initially wanted a long, billowing style, but I was met with one concern – the radiator beneath the window.
Back then, I thought any curtain idea that could shield the unattractive look of a large and clunky radiator was a good one. But should curtains hang in front of a radiator? And would that affect radiator efficiency, or worse, become a safety hazard? These were the questions I asked myself back then, and because I didn't know where to find the answers, I left my window as it was.
Years later, and now that I have a network of connections in the interiors industry, I have the answers to those exact questions. Read on to find out what design experts have to say about the common curtain-over-radiator predicament.
Should Curtains Hang Over Radiators?
Should your curtains or drapes hang in front of the radiator? In most instances, no. However, there are lots of factors to consider.
'Having lived in New York City apartments for over twenty years – each with radiator heating – I can confidently say: never let drapery panels touch the radiator or the exposed pipe leading up to it!' interior designer Darci Hether explains.
Depending on the type of radiator in your home or apartment, hanging curtains in front of it can become a fire hazard – so avoid hanging anything on top or placing anything in front of it.
However, according to design consultant and curtain design specialist Matthias Silverton, the answer is a bit more nuanced when dealing with hot water heating – which is what most homes and apartments with radiators have. In that case, it comes down to efficiency, textile durability, and aesthetics.
'Covering the radiator acts like a barrier, funneling heat straight up the back of the curtain and onto the cold window glass behind,' Matthias explains.
Raymond Yang, Founder of Deconovo, adds to Matthias's sentiment, explaining that 'when curtains fully cover a radiator, heat is trapped behind the fabric, making the room feel cooler and forcing the radiator to work harder.' By covering a radiator with curtains, you're blocking heat from entering the room – leaving you cold and your utility bill heightened.
Not only that, but curtains that hang in front of a heat source are subject to significant discoloration, depending on their material. 'The constant heat can damage the fabric, cause discoloration, and shorten the life of the textile,' Darci tells me.
Can Curtains Hang Over Radiators?
That being said, it's not always a bad idea to hang curtains over radiators. 'If there’s a properly vented radiator cover that extends in front of the unit, you can safely hang drapery panels outside of that footprint – but proceed with caution,' Darci tells me. 'Be mindful of airflow: heavy, floor-length panels can still trap heat and make your heating less efficient.'
Layering window treatments can also be a solution to the curtains-over-radiators issue. Consider styling a window with Roman shades and long curtains that are held back by hooks. The Roman shade can provide privacy while the long curtains deliver aesthetic appeal. When the radiator is on, tuck them back, and when it's off, let them flow freely.
So, while there are some instances in which curtains can hang over radiators, it's more often than not considered a curtain mistake to avoid. Sure, long curtains might give you that dramatic, billowing effect, but with potential safety hazards, efficiency issues, and textile durability matters in question, it's best to forgo long curtains styles on windows with radiators underneath.
What Coverings Are Best for Windows With Radiators Beneath?
Now that we know that long curtains aren't ideal for windows with radiators underneath, which types of window treatment ideas are better?
'We would recommend using shorter curtains that end just above the radiator or installing the curtain rod slightly wider so that the panels can open completely to the sides and expose the radiator,' Raymond tells me. For short curtains, Raymond suggests hanging them about an inch or two above the radiator to ensure that they don't touch its surface. 'This length prevents heat buildup and protects the fabric's color and finish,' he explains.
Like Raymond, Darci also recommends going wide. 'When possible, I like to mount the hardware a bit wider and higher than the window so panels can frame the opening beautifully without interfering with the radiator,' she says. 'You get the look of full drapery – and the warmth – without the risk or wear.'
But if you want to completely put your mind at ease, you can always forgo curtains completely and solely rely on blinds to cover your radiator-stricken windows. As Raymond tells me, styles like Roman shades, roller blinds, or bamboo shades 'allow full heat circulation above the radiator.'
Shop Window Styling Essentials
Whether you have a radiator under the window or not, these window styling essentials can help you make the most of the windows in your home. Shop them, below.
Made from 100% cotton and designed with elegant blue and beige stripes, these curtains are a stylish choice that radiate coastal charm. Since they're blackout curtains, they'd make for a great bedroom curtain idea to restrict unwanted light from entering your space.
From their cotton fabrication to their delicate, floral design, this set of curtains is a stylish and elegant window covering choice. These curtains can gracefully filter light into a room while simultaneously creating privacy indoors. Plus, the valence detail at the top adds to this style's vintage charm.
Want to avoid the issue of curtains touching a below-window radiator all together? Just mount Roman shades, instead. Although they might not give you the long, billowing look of curtains, they can be just as elegant, like this textured taupe style from Target.
In order to hang curtains in front of any window, you need curtain rings. This set of seven is designed with clips that can attach to the top of the curtain or be removed to act as hooks – depending on the style of your curtains. With their brass finish, these rings are like jewelry for your windows.
If you have your mind is set on incorporating long curtains in front of a window with a radiator underneath, consider mounting hooks to the wall to hold the curtains back while the radiator is on. This set of two is stylish by design – they can hold back your curtains and look good while doing so.
Arguably the most important feature when hanging curtains is the curtain rod. You'll want something strong and durable of course, but it doesn't hurt when your curtain rod is stylish, too. This one is timeless by design with its smooth, aged brass finish.
Now you know: it's best to refrain from hanging curtains over radiators – for the safety of your home, the efficiency of your heating system, and the look of your curtains.
Next time you need to measure for curtains, take into account the radiator beneath your window and allow enough space for heat to flow freely.
