Imagine sunlight streaming into your home, warming your living space. But what happens when that sunlight becomes too bright, or you crave a bit of privacy? Sliding glass doors offer a beautiful connection to the outdoors, but they also present a unique challenge when it comes to window coverings. Finding the perfect solution can feel overwhelming, with so many styles and materials to consider. Will it be easy to use? Will it look good? Will it actually do the job?
Choosing the right window coverings for these large glass panels isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about controlling light, temperature, and privacy effectively. You want something that complements your decor without getting in the way of the doors’ function. That’s where this guide comes in. We’ll help you navigate the options, understand what works best, and avoid common pitfalls.
By the time you finish reading, you’ll have a clear understanding of the best window coverings for sliding glass doors. We’ll explore practical and stylish choices that will transform your space. So, let’s dive in and discover how to make your sliding glass doors both beautiful and functional!
Our Top 5 Window Coverings For Sliding Glass Doors Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Window Coverings For Sliding Glass Doors Detailed Reviews
1. H.VERSAILTEX Linen Blackout Curtain Durable Thick Textured Linen Look 100% Blackout Patio Door Curtain Anti Rust Grommet Extra Wide Sliding Door Curtain Panel
Rating: 8.7/10
Transform your space with the H.VERSAILTEX Linen Blackout Curtain. These curtains offer a beautiful linen look without the fuss, providing complete darkness and privacy. They are designed to be durable and functional, perfect for any room in your home.
What We Like:
- Well Made and Durable: Each curtain is carefully crafted with neat threads and no wrinkles. They feature 16 sturdy, anti-rust grommets that fit rods up to 1.5 inches wide.
- 100% Blackout Performance: These curtains truly block out all sunlight and UV rays, turning your room into a dark sanctuary. This helps you sleep better and protects your furniture from fading.
- Innovative, Eco-Friendly Material: Made from a soft, linen-like polyester fabric with a 100% blackout lining, these curtains are also vinyl-free and environmentally conscious, holding a Global Recycled Standard certificate. They help reduce noise and block wind, too.
- Versatile for Any Room: Their elegant design makes them suitable for bedrooms, living rooms, patio doors, or even as room dividers. They add both style and function, saving energy and reducing noise.
- Pure White Backing: Unlike many other blackout curtains with dull grey backing, these feature a clean, pure white lining that adds a touch of sophistication.
What Could Be Improved:
- Care Instructions: While machine washable, the tumble dry low and warm iron instructions require attention to maintain their appearance.
These curtains are a fantastic addition to any home, offering both style and exceptional light-blocking capabilities. You’ll love the peaceful and private atmosphere they create.
2. NICETOWN Grey Blackout Patio Sliding Door Curtains 84 inch Length
Rating: 9.2/10
Tired of harsh sunlight streaming through your patio door? These NICETOWN Grey Blackout Curtains are here to help. They offer a stylish and practical solution for controlling light and temperature in your home. The elegant grey color and modern grommet design will instantly upgrade the look of your living room or French doors. Plus, they’re designed to be super easy to use and maintain, making them a great addition to any busy household.
What We Like:
- The fabric is really soft and feels fancy, with the same material on both sides for a nice look.
- The 14 silver grommets make them easy to hang and give them a modern style.
- They block out most of the light and UV rays, which is great for keeping your room cool and protecting your furniture.
- These curtains are really good at keeping your room warm in the winter and cool in the summer, saving you money on energy bills.
- They help reduce noise from outside, creating a more peaceful environment.
- You get privacy because they block the view from the outside.
- They come ready to hang, with no wrinkles or loose threads.
- They are easy to clean – just toss them in the washing machine on a cold cycle.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the fabric is thick for blackout purposes, some might prefer an even heavier material for extreme light blocking.
- The 84-inch length might be too short for some very tall sliding doors, requiring users to measure carefully.
These NICETOWN curtains are a fantastic choice for anyone wanting more control over their home’s light and temperature. They offer both style and significant functional benefits.
3. RYB HOME Linen Textured 100% Blackout Curtains for Bedroom
Rating: 8.6/10
Transform your home with RYB HOME Linen Textured Blackout Curtains. These curtains offer a beautiful beige color and a linen-like texture that adds a natural touch to any room. They are designed to block out light and save energy, making them a practical and stylish choice for your windows.
What We Like:
- These curtains are really well-made. You get two panels, and each one is 52 inches wide, so you have plenty of coverage. The rod pocket top is easy to use and fits most curtain rods.
- They are 100% blackout! The special gray layer on the back blocks all sunlight and UV rays. Your room will be as dark as a movie theater.
- These curtains help keep your home comfortable. They stop drafts and help balance the temperature inside. This means you can save money on heating and cooling bills. They also help quiet down outside noise for better sleep.
- The linen texture looks very natural and pretty. They add a cozy and relaxed feel to your living room, bedroom, or dining area. They look good with many different home styles.
- Taking care of these curtains is simple. You can machine wash them. Just use non-chlorine bleach if needed and dry them on low heat. The company is also helpful if you have any problems.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the rod pocket is easy to use, some very tiny light might peek through the top if the rod is very thin or the curtains aren’t perfectly straight.
These curtains are a fantastic way to improve your home’s comfort and style. They offer great blackout and insulation benefits while looking beautiful.
4. NICETOWN White Linen Sheer Curtains and Drapes 84 inches Long
Rating: 8.9/10
Brighten your living space with the NICETOWN White Linen Sheer Curtains. These curtains are 84 inches long and come in a set of two, each panel measuring 52 inches wide. They offer a beautiful balance of privacy and light, making them a versatile choice for any room.
What We Like:
- The curtains have two hanging options: a rod pocket and back tabs. This lets you choose how you want them to look.
- They are semitransparent, so they let in soft light but still keep your room private. You can enjoy the daylight without people seeing in.
- The fabric is a nice linen-like material. It’s thick enough to feel substantial but still lets light filter through.
- These extra-long curtains are perfect for sliding glass doors or large windows. They add a touch of elegance to your living room or any other space.
- Cleaning is easy. You can machine wash them in cold water and tumble dry.
What Could Be Improved:
- The rod pocket and back tabs have an inner diameter of 2.3 inches. Make sure your curtain rod fits this size.
These NICETOWN curtains offer a stylish and practical way to update your home decor. They provide a lovely diffused light and a touch of privacy.
5. Duck MAX Strength Window Insulation Kit
Rating: 8.9/10
Winter chills are no match for the Duck MAX Strength Window Insulation Kit. This heavy-duty kit helps you save money on heating bills by creating a strong barrier against cold air. It’s designed for large windows and patio doors, making your home cozy and energy-efficient.
What We Like:
- It saves you money on energy costs during cold weather.
- The film is extra thick and resists punctures, creating a super tight seal against drafts.
- Installation is simple; you just cut the film to fit after you apply it, no tricky measuring needed.
- It’s crystal clear, so you can still see out your windows easily.
- The kit includes enough film and tape to cover up to two large patio doors or four big windows.
- It removes cleanly when the cold season is over.
What Could Be Improved:
- While easy to install, it requires a hair dryer to get the best results.
- You need to make sure your window frames are clean and dry for the tape to stick well.
This kit is a smart way to keep your home warm and save on heating bills. It offers a durable and clear solution for winterizing your large windows and doors.
Choosing the Best Window Coverings for Your Sliding Glass Doors
Sliding glass doors let in lots of light and offer great views. But sometimes, you need privacy or want to control the sunshine. Window coverings are the perfect solution! This guide will help you pick the best ones for your home.
Why Window Coverings for Sliding Doors Matter
These doors can be tricky. You need coverings that are easy to open and close without getting in the way. They also need to look good and do their job, like blocking light or keeping your home cooler. We’ll cover everything you need to know.
Key Features to Look For
1. Ease of Use
You’ll open and close these often. Look for options that glide smoothly. Think about how much space they take up when open. Some slide to the side, while others stack neatly.
2. Light Control
Do you want to block out the sun completely for movie nights? Or just soften the glare on a sunny afternoon? Different coverings offer different levels of light blocking.
3. Privacy
When you want to keep your home private, good coverings are essential. Some materials offer complete blackout, while others let in light but still hide what’s inside.
4. Insulation and Energy Efficiency
Good window coverings can help keep your home warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer. This can save you money on your energy bills.
5. Durability and Maintenance
You want coverings that last. Consider how easy they are to clean. Some materials are more prone to dust or stains than others.
Important Materials
Fabric
Fabrics come in many types. Here are a few:
- Polyester: It’s strong and lasts a long time. It’s also easy to clean.
- Cotton: It looks natural and feels soft. It might need more care than polyester.
- Linen: This gives a light and airy feel. It can wrinkle easily.
- Blackout fabrics: These are specially made to block almost all light.
Vinyl and PVC
These are very good at blocking light and are easy to wipe clean. They are a popular choice for their practicality.
Wood and Faux Wood
These offer a classic look. Real wood can be beautiful but needs more upkeep. Faux wood is more durable and easier to clean.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
What Makes Them Better?
- Sturdy hardware: Strong tracks and smooth-gliding mechanisms mean they work well for years.
- Quality stitching: Well-made seams on fabric coverings prevent them from tearing.
- Thick materials: Thicker fabrics or vinyl offer better light blocking and insulation.
- UV protection: Some materials have coatings that protect your furniture from fading in the sun.
What Makes Them Less Good?
- Cheap hardware: Tracks that stick or break easily frustrate users.
- Thin or flimsy materials: These offer less privacy and insulation. They can also look cheap.
- Poorly constructed seams: Weak stitching leads to damage over time.
User Experience and Use Cases
For a Sunny Living Room
You might want light-filtering shades. These let in soft light but cut down on glare. They keep your room bright without being too hot.
For a Bedroom or Media Room
Blackout curtains or blinds are best here. They block out all light for sleeping or watching movies. This creates a dark, comfortable space.
For a Kitchen or Dining Area
Easy-to-clean options are key. Vinyl blinds or washable fabric shades work well. They can handle spills and are simple to wipe down.
For a Modern Home
Sleek roller shades or vertical blinds with clean lines fit modern decor. They offer a minimalist look and are very functional.
For a Cozy Home
Drapes made from thicker fabrics can add warmth and texture. They also help with insulation, making your home feel more comfortable.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What are the best window coverings for sliding glass doors?
A: The best ones are easy to use, block light well, and provide privacy. Options like vertical blinds, sliding panels, and draperies are popular.
Q: Are vertical blinds good for sliding glass doors?
A: Yes, vertical blinds are a classic choice. They slide open sideways, matching the movement of the door. They offer good light control and privacy.
Q: What is the easiest type of window covering to use on sliding doors?
A: Sliding panel blinds are often considered the easiest. They are large panels that glide smoothly on a track, much like the door itself.
Q: Can I use curtains on sliding glass doors?
A: Absolutely! Curtains, also called draperies, can be very effective. You can choose from many fabrics and styles. Make sure to get a sturdy rod that can support the weight.
Q: How do I measure for window coverings for sliding glass doors?
A: Measure the width of the door frame and the height from where you want the covering to start to where you want it to end. Always measure twice!
Q: Do blackout curtains really block all light?
A: High-quality blackout curtains block almost all light. They are made with special layers that prevent light from passing through.
Q: Are faux wood blinds good for sliding doors?
A: Yes, faux wood blinds are a durable and practical choice. They are resistant to moisture and easy to clean, making them great for high-traffic areas.
Q: How much do window coverings for sliding glass doors typically cost?
A: Prices vary a lot. Simple vinyl blinds can be quite affordable, while custom drapes or high-end shades can be more expensive.
Q: How do I clean fabric window coverings?
A: Check the care label. Many fabric coverings can be spot-cleaned or vacuumed. Some might be machine washable or require professional cleaning.
Q: Can I install window coverings myself?
A: Many window coverings are designed for DIY installation. However, if you’re not comfortable with tools, professional installation is a good option.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
Hi, I’m Tom Scalisi, and welcome to The Saw Blog! I started this blog to share my hands-on experience and insights about woodworking tools—especially saws and saw blades. Over the years, I’ve had the chance to work with a wide range of tools, and I’m here to help both professionals and hobbyists make informed decisions when it comes to selecting and using their equipment. Whether you’re looking for in-depth reviews, tips, or just advice on how to get the best performance out of your tools, you’ll find it here. I’m excited to be part of your woodworking journey!