“There is nothing better than outdoor curtains to soften a space and create an incredible ambiance for an afternoon or evening on your patio,” says Chantelle Hartman Malarkey, an interior designer, and lifestyle expert. “A set of outdoor curtains can create dreamy diffused sunlight and protect against harsh UV rays, rainstorms, or wind.” To find the best outdoor curtains, we researched a variety of picks, keeping in mind the size, material, and number of panels included. We also consulted Chantelle Hartman Malarkey, an interior designer and lifestyle expert, and Camille Styles, a design expert. Overall, the best outdoor curtains are the Frontgate Resort Collection Outdoor Curtain Stripe Panels. They can be easily incorporated into both indoor and outdoor spaces and require minimal effort to put together. In addition, they are composed of a durable material and are resistant to UV rays, fading, stains, and weather conditions. Here are the best outdoor curtains. Keep In Mind: The panel is expensive and doesn’t include all the necessary parts needed to hang them. If you’re looking for a striped design, the best outdoor curtains are this pick from Frontgate. They’re made from an acrylic material that’s solution-dyed with Sunbrella, meaning they’re resistant to fading, stains, and mildew, along with harmful weather conditions, so they’ll last you year after year. In addition, the fabric is Jacquard-woven, which makes them a bit different from all the other striped outdoor curtain options out there. They also come with grommets for easy hanging, however, keep in mind they do require separate purchases of a curtain rod and corner connector to set them up in your space. While the material is pretty resistant to stains, the curtains may be spot cleaned with mild soap and warm water, if you encounter any accidental mishaps. Price at time of publish: $209 Size: From 84 x 50 inches | Material: Sunbrella solution-dyed acrylic | Number of Panels Included: One Keep In Mind: It has fewer color choices in comparison to other options. The Pro Space Outdoor Privacy WaterProof Window Curtains will fit seamlessly into any indoor or outdoor decor style. Not only are they great for blocking light but can also help protect your front porch, pergola, cabana, covered patio, or indoor living spaces from brutal heat or potential furniture fading. Since it’s machine washable, it can be easily cleaned if you encounter any spills or stains. Simply throw in the washing machine with a temperature below 86 degrees and use a mild detergent to clean. Made with a UV-resistant, waterproof material, they’re durable and made to repel water, so they’ll withstand tough weather conditions. However, it may not be as strong as other options in getting through tough snow or wind storms, so keep that in mind depending on where you live. Price at time of publish: $30 Size: From 84 x 50 inches | Material: Polyester | Number of Panels Included: One Keep In Mind: They’re only offered in a floral pattern that may not suit everyone’s style. Although Commonwealth’s Botanical Outdoor Curtains aren’t a typical choice for an outdoor space, their vibrant floral pattern will brighten up any outdoor area. Created with a fade-resistant and UV-protected fabric, the curtains will last you year after year and keep your indoor and outdoor furniture protected in the process. The curtain is resistant to mildew to help protect them from getting ruined prematurely and is created with a water repellent to add an extra layer of protection against mold—and ensure that rain storms or snow won’t ruin the fabric. The material can also be washed easily; simply throw it in the washing machine and hang it dry when they get dirty or need a good cleaning. Plus, they’re designed with stainless steel silver metal grommets to help prevent them from getting rusted. These grommets also help make the curtains easy to hang, remove, and glide open and closed smoothly. Price at time of publish: $38 Size: From 84 x 54 inches | Material: Polyester | Number of Panels Included: One Keep In Mind: They may wrinkle in the packaging and need to be ironed. If you’re searching for a way to block the sun in your outdoor space, the best outdoor curtains are this blackout set by Dream Art. They’ll completely darken your indoor room or outdoor gazebo, providing some privacy and relief from the sunshine. The set includes two panels that are machine washable, meaning you just need a bit of mild detergent to get them squeaky clean. They’re also created with a fade-resistant, durable polyester material that’s waterproof, so you won’t have to worry about them getting ruined from any weather mishaps. Plus, the curtains are built with rust-proof grommets, ensuring that you don’t need to replace them often. Price at time of publish: $40 Size: From 84 x 54 inches | Material: Polyester | Number of Panels Included: Two Keep In Mind: They’re only offered in a buffalo-check pattern, which may not suit everyone’s style. Even the prettiest of pergolas could use a bit of extra privacy, which is where these outdoor pergola curtains from Hiasan come into play. The buffalo-check design is great for a pergola, yet is also great for adding privacy and blocking the sunshine for your gazebo, deck, front porch, pavilion, or cabana. Since each curtain has eight weighted silver grommets, they’re easy to hang and move on the rod to get the perfect placement. In addition, the curtain’s polyester material is also treated with a special treatment to help protect them from getting damaged by thunderstorms or heavy rain. The set includes two panels, unlike many options that only include one. The curtains are offered eight color options, so it’s easy to find one that’ll match your space. Just keep in mind that it’s only offered in a plaid pattern that may not work with every outdoor decor style Price at time of publish: $39 Size: From 84 x 42 inches | Material: Polyester | Number of Panels Included: Two Keep In Mind: It only includes one panel, so you may have to purchase a few to get your desired coverage. Unlike most outdoor curtains, Sun Zero curtains are created with a durable yet lightweight linen material. It’s both fade and water resistant, which helps maintain the material, so you can get that effortless look that linen is known for. In addition, they provide ample light blocking with UPF (ultraviolet protection factor) 50+ UV protection that many other outdoor curtain options don’t have. While they are ideal for outdoor pergolas and gazebos, these curtains can be placed in practically any outdoor or indoor environment. Plus, they are built with a darkening technology that’ll block out unwanted light and enhance privacy wherever you place them. Just keep in mind that each package only includes one panel, so you may have to buy more than one depending on your space. Part of what makes this style one of the best outdoor curtains is it’s relatively easy to install and maintain. Simply machine wash it on cold in a gentle cycle and tumble dry on low heat if you run into any accidental stains. And, the panel is made with rust-proof grommets that can fit curtain rods up to a 1.5-inch diameter. Price at time of publish: $65 Size: From 84 x 52 inches | Material: Linen | Number of Panels Included: One Keep In Mind: It has limited color and sizing options, so it may not work in every space. Plus, they aren’t blackout curtains so it depends on your needs. If you’re aiming to enhance your neutral outdoor space with a pop of color, these geometric printed outdoor curtains from Elrene Home are the best outdoor curtains worth considering. They’re made from a polyester material that’s stain, fade, and water-resistant, so they’ll stay in good shape throughout the seasons. The panel is offered in four color choices and three lengths: 84, 95, and 108 inches. Each features a geometric pattern that’ll add a pop of color to your outdoor space. The curtain offers UV protection, which is an added bonus and can be used both indoors and outdoors. Better yet, they’re machine washable, created with stainless steel rust-proof grommets, and can be adjusted easily to create your desired natural light settings. Price at time of publish: $40 Size: From 84 x 50 inches | Material: Polyester | Number of Panels Included: One Keep In Mind: Only one panel is included and it’s more expensive than other similar styles. These Macochic outdoor curtains are the best outdoor curtains for a temporary space. Whether you’re renting a property or just want to change up the look of your outdoor space, this set of curtains features velcro tabs that’ll make them easy to install and remove. Instead of grommets, the panel features velcro tab tops that make them easy to remove without any additional tools. They’re also easy to care for and maintain—simply machine wash on cold on a gentle cycle and tumble dry on low. The curtain effectively blocks out sunlight, protects from UV rays, reduces noise, and insulates against sweltering summer heat, so it’s a great option for just about any outdoor space. It’s available in thirteen solid color options, so it’ll blend well with any other outdoor accessories you may already have. Just keep in mind that each panel is sold individually, so you may have to purchase a few to cover your space. Price at time of publish: $108 Size: From 84 x 52 inches | Material: Polyester | Number of Panels Included: One Keep In Mind: The panels are sold individually, so you’ll have to purchase a few. Created with an olefin material, these Parasol outdoor curtains are versatile for either indoor or outdoor spaces and are one of the best outdoor curtains for patios. Since the olefin material is fade, weather, and water-resistant, they’re great for adding privacy and blocking intense sunlight. However, the simple design and linen-like look won’t take away the ambiance of your outdoor space, like some other alternatives. The curtain is easy to set up and can be put into your space in a matter of minutes. The panel, which is sold individually, is made with rust-proof grommets that can withstand a variety of weather conditions. Plus, it’s machine washable, so it’s easy to maintain over time. Price at time of publish: $66 Size: From 84 x 52 inches | Material: Olefin | Number of Panels Included: One Keep In Mind: It’s a blackout curtain, so it depends on your preferences. If you’re looking for curtains that’ll last you through a heavy season of rain, the best outdoor curtain to consider is this pick from RYB Home. Made with waterproof fabric that can withstand rainwater, snow, and thunderstorms, the durable curtain is ideal for those living in an area that experiences a variety of weather. The curtain is thermally insulating, so it can block almost all sunlight from coming in. It can also repel summer heat and winter cold, which protects your furniture and gives you the ability to use your patio, gazebo, or another outdoor spot all year round. Upon hanging them up, they’ll add a sense of separation and privacy to help you keep your space to yourself. Plus, they can be used in indoor or outdoor rooms, so they’re a great pick if you know you’ll only need them for a certain time during the summer or winter. Price at time of publish: $29 Size: From 72 x 52 inches | Material: Not listed | Number of Panels Included: One
What To Know About Outdoor Curtains Before Shopping
Size
To determine the best outdoor curtain size for your space, you’ll want to measure the space you plan to hang them in from top to bottom. From there, you can also decide what type of look you’re going for, whether it be a more dramatic oversized look or a polished option that fits in the space. According to Malarkey, if your measurements are in between, you should always round up.
Material
When it comes to outdoor curtains, Olefin, Sunbrella, and Sun Zero are common materials. Each offers its own benefits, however they’re all durable options that’ll be able to withstand the outdoor elements without worry. “Olefin is popular when it comes to outdoor curtains, as it’s easier to clean, is UV resistant, and also cost-effective,” says Styles. Sunbrella is a great option as it’s designed for the outdoors. The performance fabric is resistant to fading and UV rays, as well as mold and mildew. They’re also breathable and offer you sun protection, which is ideal if you plan to spend a lot of time in your outdoor space. Sun Zero is one of the best outdoor curtain materials if you want a truly shaded area. The blackout material will block the sun, keeping you cool while you lounge.
Number of Panels Included
Overall, it depends on the space and width that you are trying to fill. Just keep in mind that many outdoor curtains only arrive with one panel, so you should make sure to read the fine print ahead of purchasing and get as many as you’ll need.
Your Questions, Answered
How should you weigh down outdoor curtains?
To weight down your outdoor curtains, Styles advises going for sewn-in liners or bottom weights to guarantee that your curtains hang beautifully. “The sturdier the fabric, the easier it is to keep it in place,” she says.
How do you install outdoor curtains?
Overall, how you install outdoor curtains depends on the type of curtains you are hanging. Typically, curtains will either have metal grommets that slide onto a rod or velcro hooks that you’ll have to connect yourself. “You can use a curtain rod, which is easily assembled or, if you are able, professionals can add curtain grooves or option for curtain pull downs,” Malarkey says.
Where can you use outdoor curtains?
Outdoor curtains can be used anywhere as long as there’s a place to install a rod and attach them. Plus, many styles may even work indoors between seasons as well. “On a pergola, a gazebo, patio, deck, balcony, or any spot that you want to turn into your own personal outdoor sanctuary,” Styles says.
Who We Are
This story was written by Rachel Dube, a freelance writer for Better Homes & Gardens. To find the best outdoor curtains, she consulted Chantelle Hartman Malarkey, an interior designer and lifestyle expert, and Camille Styles, a design expert. She also considered factors like size, material, and the number of panels included to help find the best outdoor curtains for every space.
