Window treatments compared
Every window covering trades off light, privacy and insulation differently. Use this chart to narrow down what fits each room, then combine layers for the best of both, like sheers behind curtains.
| Type | Light control | Privacy | Insulation | Good for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lined curtains | High | High | Medium | Bedrooms and living rooms; a soft, finished look |
| Sheer curtains | Low | Low | None | Softening light and glare while keeping the view |
| Blackout curtains | High | High | High | Bedrooms, nurseries, media rooms |
| Roller shades | Medium | Medium | Low | Simple, clean look; light-filtering or blackout |
| Roman shades | Medium | Medium | Medium | A tailored fabric look in kitchens and bedrooms |
| Cellular (honeycomb) shades | Medium | Medium | High | Drafty or very sunny windows; energy savings |
| Wood or faux-wood blinds | Medium | Medium | Low | Adjustable light; faux wood suits humid rooms |
| Vertical blinds | Medium | Medium | Low | Sliding glass doors and wide windows |
| Shutters | High | High | Medium | A permanent, adjustable option that adds value |
| Window film | Low | Low | Low | Glare, UV and daytime privacy without covering the view |
General guidance; performance depends on the fabric, fit and whether a product is light-filtering or blackout. Privacy at night needs an opaque layer: sheers and light-filtering shades can show silhouettes when lights are on inside. We don't recommend brands.
Before you choose
Choose cordless coverings in homes with young children.
Faux wood, vinyl and roller shades suit bathrooms and kitchens.
West- and south-facing rooms may need UV or heat control.
Tension rods and removable film avoid drilling.
Size your curtains with the curtain size calculator, or read choose window treatments and window cord safety.