Buying Guide for the Best Curtains For Patio Doors
When choosing curtains for patio doors, it's important to think about both functionality and style. Patio doors often connect your indoor and outdoor spaces, so curtains should provide privacy and light control while also complementing your home's decor. The right curtains can also help with energy efficiency and make it easy to access your patio. Before buying, measure your doors carefully and think about how often you'll be opening and closing the curtains.Fabric TypeFabric type refers to the material the curtains are made from. This is important because it affects how much light comes through, how much privacy you get, and how easy the curtains are to care for. Sheer fabrics let in a lot of light but offer less privacy, while heavier fabrics block more light and provide more privacy. Consider lighter fabrics if you want lots of natural light and a breezy feel, but go with heavier fabrics for better privacy or to help keep your home warmer or cooler. Think about your main needs—do you value brightness, privacy, or insulation most?
Length and WidthLength and width refer to the size of the curtains. This spec is important so the curtains fully cover your patio doors and look good. Curtains come in different lengths—some just cover the doors, while others hang all the way to the floor for a more elegant look. The width should be at least double the width of your door for a gathered, full appearance when closed. If you're not sure, measure your door and think about whether you want the curtains to just cover the glass or extend beyond it for extra coverage and style.
Light ControlLight control is about how much sunlight the curtains let through. Some people want blackout curtains that block almost all light, which is good for bedrooms or if the patio door faces strong sunlight. Others might want curtains that filter light, softening the sun but still letting some brightness in. Decide how much light control you need based on the direction your patio faces and your comfort with direct sunlight—choose blackout, light-filtering, or sheer options as needed.
Privacy LevelPrivacy level is how much the curtains prevent people from seeing inside your home. If your patio door faces a neighbor or a busy area, you may want a higher privacy level with heavier, opaque fabric. For a more private setting, sheer curtains could be enough. Your privacy needs should guide your pick—more privacy means choosing thicker or layered curtains, while less concern about privacy allows for lighter choices.
Curtain Header StyleCurtain header style refers to how the curtains attach to the rod, such as grommet tops, rod pockets, or pinch pleats. This affects both the look and how easy it is to open or close the curtains. Grommet tops and eyelets are easy to slide and modern in appearance, while rod pockets have a cleaner line but can be harder to move. If you plan to open and close the curtains a lot, pick a style that slides easily.
Ease of MaintenanceEase of maintenance is about how simple it is to clean the curtains. Curtains near patio doors can get dirty from outdoor dust or frequent use, so look for materials that are machine washable or easy to spot clean. If you don’t want the hassle of dry cleaning, avoid delicate fabrics. Think about your lifestyle—families with kids or pets may want more durable, washable fabrics.