When investing in made-to-measure curtains, the lining you choose is just as important as the fabric itself. The right lining can transform your curtains from simple window dressings into functional elements that regulate temperature, block light, and even reduce energy bills. This guide explores the three main types of curtain linings—standard, thermal, and blackout—to help you make an informed choice for your home.
Standard Lining: The Classic Choice
Standard lining is the traditional option that provides basic functionality for your curtains. This lightweight yet durable material creates a more finished appearance while offering several key benefits:
Benefits of Standard Lining:
- Enhanced drape: Adds weight and structure, allowing curtains to hang beautifully
- Improved privacy: Provides a basic layer of privacy without complete opacity
- Fabric protection: Shields your main curtain fabric from sun damage and fading
- Cost-effective: The most affordable lining option for those on a budget
Standard lining works beautifully in living areas and dining rooms where complete darkness or significant insulation isn't required. It's the perfect choice when you're looking for a balance between aesthetics and basic functionality.
Thermal Lining: Energy Efficiency Meets Comfort
Thermal lining features a special coating or additional layer designed to provide insulation properties that keep your home warmer in winter and cooler in summer.
Benefits of Thermal Lining:
- Energy savings: Can reduce heating costs by preventing warm air from escaping through windows
- Temperature regulation: Helps maintain consistent room temperatures year-round
- Moderate light blocking: Provides more light reduction than standard lining but not complete darkness
- Noise reduction: Offers some sound dampening qualities, especially helpful for street-facing rooms
Thermal linings are ideal for homes in areas with extreme temperatures or for rooms with large windows that let in drafts. They're particularly effective in living rooms, conservatories, and bedrooms where you want comfort without complete darkness.
Blackout Lining: Total Light Control
Blackout lining features multiple layers of tightly woven fabric with special coatings designed to block virtually all light from entering a room.
Benefits of Blackout Lining:
- Complete darkness: Blocks 99-100% of external light, creating ideal sleeping conditions
- Temperature control: Provides excellent insulation properties similar to thermal lining
- Enhanced privacy: Ensures maximum privacy, even at night with internal lights on
- Sound dampening: Offers improved acoustic properties, reducing external noise
- Energy efficiency: Helps keep rooms cooler in summer and warmer in winter
Blackout linings are perfect for bedrooms, nurseries, home cinemas, and shift workers' homes. They're also an excellent choice for south or west-facing rooms that receive intense afternoon sunlight.
Making Your Selection: Factors to Consider
When choosing between standard, thermal, and blackout linings, consider:
- Room function: What activities take place in the room? Sleeping areas benefit most from blackout lining.
- Window orientation: South and west-facing windows receive more direct sunlight and heat.
- Local climate: Extreme temperatures may necessitate thermal or blackout options.
- Budget considerations: Standard linings cost less initially but may not provide the energy savings of premium options.
- Aesthetic requirements: Some linings may affect how the curtains hang and look - For example blackout lining can stiffen the curtain fabric and change the way it hangs.
The Interlined Option: Ultimate Luxury
For those seeking the absolute pinnacle of curtain quality, interlining—a layer of flannel-like material placed between the main fabric and lining—creates a sumptuous, luxurious drape while combining the benefits of both thermal and sound insulation.
This premium option adds significant body to curtains, creating the plush, high-end appearance often seen in stately homes and luxury hotels.
In Conclusion…
Making the right lining choice transforms not just your curtains, but the entire room's comfort, functionality, and energy efficiency. Whether you prioritise light blocking, temperature control, or basic functionality, there's a lining option perfect for your needs.