Curtains are often overlooked in kitchens, but the right style can soften the space, improve insulation and bring a welcoming feel to the heart of your home. Because the kitchen is a high traffic, high moisture environment, choosing curtains for this room requires a slightly different approach than choosing them for a bedroom or living area.
With more than four decades of experience helping Mornington Peninsula homeowners dress their windows, we have seen what works in kitchens and what tends to struggle over time. This guide covers the most suitable curtain types, fabric considerations and styling ideas that keep your kitchen looking fresh and inviting.
Choose Fabrics That Can Handle the Space
Kitchens produce steam, heat and occasional splashes, so the fabric you choose is one of the most important decisions. Look for materials that are:
- Resistant to moisture
- Easy to clean or wash
- Less likely to hold cooking smells
- Strong enough for regular movement
Lightweight polyester blends, treated cottons and sheer fabrics generally perform well. Heavy drapes or thick linens may not suit areas close to sinks, cooktops or preparation zones, as they can absorb moisture more easily.
Which Curtain Styles Work Best in Kitchens
Sheer Curtains
Sheers are a popular choice for kitchens because they filter light beautifully while maintaining a sense of openness. They soften the room, reduce glare and work well with both modern and traditional designs. Sheers are especially effective in open plan kitchen and dining spaces.
Cafe Curtains
Cafe curtains sit halfway up the window and offer privacy without blocking natural light. They give the kitchen a relaxed, cosy feel and are ideal for cottage, coastal or country inspired homes. They also stay clear of splashes when placed above the sink.
Lightweight Pencil Pleat Curtains
Simple pencil pleats in a light, washable fabric can create a warm, homely feel in the kitchen. They work well on larger windows that need softening, and they drape neatly without looking heavy.
S-Fold Curtains in Easy Care Fabrics
S-Folds add a modern, structured look. When made in a light synthetic or treated fabric, they offer style without being difficult to maintain. They are best suited to windows away from direct cooking zones.
Consider How the Curtains Will Function
Kitchens do not always allow for long, flowing curtains, so think carefully about how you use the space around your windows.
Consider:
- Will the curtains sit near water or heat
- Do you need privacy or simply filtered light
- Is there enough space for the stack back
- What direction the window faces
- Whether the upper section of the room gets strong afternoon sun
Once these factors are clear, it becomes easier to choose a curtain that suits the room in both function and appearance.
Styling Ideas That Suit Peninsula Homes
Many Mornington Peninsula kitchens lean toward coastal, contemporary or relaxed modern styles. A few combinations that work well include:
- Sheer curtains in soft whites or natural tones for coastal homes
- Cafe curtains in cotton or lightweight blends for character filled cottages
- Simple S-Fold sheers paired with roller blinds in modern spaces
- Textured light filtering fabrics for warm, inviting kitchens
Curtains also provide an opportunity to soften hard surfaces like stone benchtops, stainless steel and tiled splashbacks, creating a more balanced and comfortable atmosphere.
The best kitchen curtains are those that complement your home while coping with the practical demands of everyday life. Choosing easy care fabrics and suitable styles helps ensure your curtains continue to look fresh, hang well and remain enjoyable to use over many years.