7 curtain hacks for a warmer home this winter – these low-cost insulation tips will help your window treatments keep heat in, and cold out

In winter, finding ways to keep a house cozy can often feel like an almost impossible task.

From radiators to log-burners, solutions are often expensive and, failing that, ineffective – particularly if you live in an older, or high-ceiling home. But, what if you could increase the insulation of your space, without breaking the bank?

Here, HVAC experts explain how to use your curtain ideas to keep your home toasty, without increasing your energy bills.

Curtain hacks for a warmer winter

1. Choose heavier fabrics

Just like clothing, opting for heavier fabrics for your living room curtain ideas or bedroom curtain ideas will help keep your home warmer.

Al Fouz, owner of Abaco Air Experts in Jacksonville, explains, 'To keep your home warmer in winter, opt for heavier fabrics like velvet or wool for your curtains.

'I've seen how even clients in less frigid climates benefit from these materials. They serve as insulating barriers, much like how properly maintained HVAC united preserve indoor temperature.'

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

2. Use magnetic strips or wooden pelmets

While you may consider pelmets a dated window treatment to avoid, they are an effective way to keep your home cozy. And, if you are really opposed to them, Malak Bellajdel, interior designer and current consultant for Metal Plex, who was recognized as one of Interior Design Magazine's '30 Under 30 Top Designers' in 2023, suggests magnetic strips.

She says, 'On those windy days where your curtains blow slightly, and where the heat floats away, you can use magnetic strips (such as the Blackout Blind Accessory 12 Pair Magnetic Closure with Adhesive for Blackout Curtains available at Amazon) along the top edge of your curtains to stick them to metal window frames.

'For wooden frames, using a simple wooden pelmet works wonders.'

3. Add curtain reflectors

Curtain reflectors work by reflecting your indoor heat back into the room, helping to keep warm air inside, rather than letting it be lost through the window.

Francis Kaspar, HVAC technician at The Chill Brothers, explains, 'They can be a game-changer, especially for older windows that might not be doing their fair share for insulation. Just attach them to your existing curtains, and you're all set.'

For this, Kaspar recommends the Warm Window Insulated Fabric available at The Warm Company, as 'it can keep up to 95% of heat from slipping out the window.'

4. Consider window insulation

HVAC expert Fouz recommends considering window insulation to help your curtains do their job better this winter.

He says, 'For those conscious about air quality, consider window treatments that integrate eco-friendly materials.' This not only helps to cut energy bills, but is also a great way to be sustainable at home.

HVAC expert Kaspar recommends the 3M Indoor Window Insulation available at Amazon, 'A bit of a bonus tip – it goes on your windows and works wonders when paired with thick curtains. This combo will block drafts and save energy!'

5. Layer your curtains

We love layering in interior design, and layering your large window curtain ideas not only looks great, it's practical and affordable, too.

Colin Matei, owner and president of Clean Air Heating & Cooling, says, 'Layering curtains is a practical method that adds not just to the aesthetic but also improves the thermal barrier.

'I recommend a doubled-up approach where a sheer curtain is combined with a heavier thermal layer. This traps air between the layers and acts as an insulating pocket.'

6. Choose longer curtains

Wondering how long curtains should be? Well, if it's warmth you're after, opt for longer, says interior designer Bellajdel.

She says, 'Let your curtains lightly touch the floor or even puddle slightly. Go for two to three inches longer than needed and just make sure they're not so long they become a tripping hazard.'

Conquer how to measure for curtains, and purchase ones with some extra length. This can reduce heat loss by up to 40%, and trap any drafts which may come through the window.

Caulk, such as the GE Momentive Performance Materials GE286 Advanced Silicone 2 Kitchen & Bath Sealant available at Amazon, can also be used to seal gaps in windows and stop cold air leaks. Just make sure you know the places you shouldn't caulk around windows before getting started – basically any moving parts.

7. Add thermal insulated lining

If you don't want to splurge on any new modern curtain ideas, HVAC expert Kaspar suggests insulated liners, instead. He says, 'Insulated liners clip right onto the back of your current curtains. They're like a secret later that works to trap heat inside.'

Kaspar recommends the Thermalogic Ultimate Thermal Energy Saving Blackout Window Curtain Liner available at Amazon, which fits with all curtain styles, as they are, 'simple to install, add weight, and are great at keeping rooms toasty.'

FAQs

Does keeping curtains closed keep heat in during winter?

Simply keeping your curtains closed in winter is a great way to keep your house warm without turning up the heat, helping you to save money at home.

High-quality curtains can reduce heat loss by up to 40%, particularly if they are floor length. Keeping thermal curtains closed will also increase their efficacy.

Still looking for ways to keep a poorly insulated house warm? Why not try using window film or heaters to keep your home feeling comfortable and cozy.