How to Pick the Best Curtains for Summer?

When temperatures rise, curtains can do more than just frame a beautiful view—they help cool your home, reduce glare, and create a light, airy atmosphere. Choosing the right curtains for summer is all about finding that sweet spot between function and style. With more cooling and heat-blocking curtain options now available, it’s easier than ever to keep your space comfortable and fresh all season long.

Here’s how to choose summer curtains that beat the heat while complementing your décor—with practical tips and product picks to help you find the best fit for every room.

Why You Need Summer-Specific Curtains

Not all curtains are made with summer in mind. As the weather warms up, your window treatments can play a big role in how your home looks and feels.

• Reduce indoor temperatures – Summer curtains, especially those with thermal or blackout properties, help block heat from entering your space, keeping rooms cooler without overworking your fan or AC.
• Lower energy bills – The best thermal or heat-blocking curtains help maintain a stable indoor temperature by reducing heat gain. This means less energy is used for cooling and lower utility costs over time.
• Block harsh sunlight – Intense midday sun can cause glare and fade your furniture. Summer blackout curtains or light-filtering options soften incoming light, protecting your space while keeping it bright and welcoming.
• Enhance summer décor – Swapping in summer curtains is an easy way to refresh a room. Lightweight fabrics and breezy colours instantly make your space feel more airy and summery.

Best Fabrics for Summer Curtains

Lightweight, breathable curtain materials help you stay cool while still giving your space that soft, finished look. Here are the best summer curtains to keep heat out:

• Linen – Naturally breathable and moisture-wicking. Linen curtains drape beautifully, add texture, and help keep rooms feeling light and airy, even on the hottest days.
• Cotton – Cotton curtains are soft, versatile, and easy to care for. They offer a casual, relaxed look and work well in living spaces and bedrooms.
• Sheer – Ideal for layered looks and can soften harsh sunlight without darkening the room. Sheer curtains let natural light flow in while gently diffusing glare.
• Blackout or thermal – Not just for winter, these curtains help block sunlight and reduce heat buildup. Thermal curtains for summer are lined to insulate against outdoor temperatures, keeping your rooms cooler and more comfortable throughout the day.

Features to Look For

Once you’ve chosen the right fabric, it’s time to focus on the features that make summer curtains even more effective. These extras can enhance comfort, convenience, and long-term performance:

• UV protection – Curtains with built-in UV protection help prevent fading on your floors and furniture, which is especially important in rooms that get full sun exposure.
• Thermal lining – A thermal lining adds an insulating layer that works in both summer and winter. In warmer months, it helps reflect heat away from your windows, making thermal curtains for summer a smart investment.
• Light-filtering vs. room-darkening – Decide how much light you want to let in. Light-filtering curtains create a soft glow and are ideal for shared spaces, while room-darkening or summer blackout curtains are better for bedrooms and media rooms.
• Easy to clean or machine washable – Warmer months often mean more dust, pollen, and humidity. Choose curtains that are easy to wash and maintain.

Room-by-Room Recommendations

Different rooms have different needs, especially in summer. Here’s how to choose the best curtains for summer based on where they’ll hang:

• Living room – Let the sunlight in while keeping glare out. Light-filtering or sheer curtains strike a nice balance, softening harsh rays while still brightening your space. They also add a breezy, elegant feel that suits open-concept or casual living areas.
• Bedroom – Prioritize sleep and comfort with blackout or thermal curtains. These help block early morning light and trap less heat, making your bedroom cooler and more restful.
• Summer house or cottage – Go for breezy fabrics like linen or cotton in pale hues, soft prints, or coastal-inspired styles. These lightweight options are easy to clean and instantly make the space feel relaxed and vacation-ready.

Bonus: Do Thermal Curtains Work in Summer?

Yes, thermal curtains for summer absolutely work. While they’re often marketed for winter, thermal curtains are just as useful for summer. These curtains work year-round by creating a barrier between your room and the window. In summer, they help:

• Reflect sunlight
• Reduce heat transfer
• Maintain cooler indoor temps

So, if you’re wondering, do curtains keep heat out? They do! Especially when they’re lined and made with insulating materials.

What to Avoid When Choosing Summer Curtains

Even the prettiest curtains can work against you in summer if they’re not suited for the season.

• Avoid heavy fabrics like velvet or thick polyester that trap heat and dust.
• Skip dark colours in sun-drenched rooms—they absorb heat.
• Watch for bulky layers unless you're using them strategically for insulation.
• Don’t forget versatility. Dual-purpose options like light-filtering + thermal curtains are great investments.

Ready to refresh your windows?

Explore our collection of ready-made curtains and custom window treatments to find your perfect summer match. Whether you're looking to cool down your bedroom, brighten a summer cottage, or upgrade your living room style, we've got options that combine comfort, function, and design.