We independently evaluate all of our recommendations. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Shopping Gardening Reviews Outdoor Product Reviews The 12 Best Outdoor Curtains of 2024 For Added Privacy, Shade, and Style These outdoor curtains can be added to your pergola or porch. By L. Daniela Alvarez L. Daniela Alvarez L. Daniela Alvarez is a contributing writer for Better Homes & Gardens with three years of experience specifically writing lifestyle content and product reviews for a variety of publications. Learn about BHG's Editorial Process and Rachel Dube Updated on February 27, 2024 Fact checked by Emily Estep Fact checked by Emily Estep Emily Estep is a plant biologist and journalist who has worked for a variety of online news and media outlets, writing about and editing topics that range from film and beauty to science and the automobile industry. Her plant biology degree has a focus on sustainable agriculture, and she's an expert on growing your own food, environmental sciences, and all topics relating to houseplants. Learn about BHG's Fact Checking Process In This Article View All In This Article Our Top Picks Reviews Key Terms to Know The Bottom Line What To Know Before Shopping Your Questions, Answered Who We Are Photo: Better Homes & Gardens / Marcus Millan Spending time under your pergola, on your deck, or the porch during the summer can feel like the ultimate luxury. To make sure you feel completely comfortable, being protected from harsh UV rays, high winds, and loud noises is essential, however, outdoor curtains are a great solution. “Outdoor curtains lend an indoor feel to an outdoor space, making your patio or porch a seamless extension of your living area,” says Wendy Wang, owner of F&J Outdoor. “They blur the line between interior and exterior, creating a harmonious interaction between the inside and outside of a home, really rounding up that cohesive and homely feel.” To find the best outdoor curtains, we spent hours researching top-rated products while considering them based on their size, material, installation, care, and other factors. In addition to Wang, we also consulted Chantelle Hartman Malarkey, an interior designer and lifestyle expert; Camille Styles, a design expert; and Ben Harvey, founder and CEO of Patio Productions, for expert insight on what to look for when shopping for outdoor curtains to make your patio space a relaxing sanctuary. What We Researched Size: We considered the range of sizes each curtain came in, opting for ones that offered a variety of options.Material: We looked for outdoor curtains made from different materials to help you find the right look. Some are sheer and let in light for an airy feel, while others completely block out the light to reduce heat and sun damage on furniture. Materials we liked included Olefin, Sunbrella, and Sun Zero for their durability in handling the outdoor elements best.Care: Outdoor curtains can get dirty when exposed to wind and rain, and require care. Most of the options we chose can be placed in the washing machine for easy cleaning. Key Terms to Know Grommets: These are eyelets or holes that are toward the top of the panels to pass the rods through for hanging the curtains.Pergola: An outdoor sitting area that is supported by columns or posts that typically has a roof that has crossbars, leaving the area open to the sky. Our Top Picks Best Overall: SALE Exclusive Home Cabana Curtain Panel at Amazon $45 $22 Jump to Review Best Budget: Bonzer Outdoor Curtains at Amazon $10 Jump to Review Best Floral: SALE Elrene Home Fashions Verena Sheer Floral Curtains at Amazon $40 $32 Jump to Review Best Blackout: Dream Art Waterproof Blackout Curtain at Amazon $43 Jump to Review Best for Pergolas: Elrene Home Fashions Carmen Sheer Curtain at Amazon $60 Jump to Review Best Sun Zero: Sun Zero Beacon Woven Curtain Panel at Amazon $79 Jump to Review Best Patterned: Nicetown Custom Waterproof Outdoor Curtains at Nicetown.com Jump to Review Best Velcro: Macochico Outdoor Blackout Curtains at Amazon $108 Jump to Review Best for Patios: Lordtex Sheer Outdoor Curtains at Amazon $36 Jump to Review Best Waterproof: RYB Home Outdoor Waterproof Curtains at Amazon $19 Jump to Review Best Overall Exclusive Home Cabana Curtain Panel PHOTO: Amazon $22 at Amazon $32 at Walmart $37 at Lowe's Why You Should Get It The water-resistant panels are sold in a set of two and are offered in a variety of sizes and colors. Keep in Mind They have to be spot-cleaned or hand washed. When browsing outdoor curtains, it may seem like you might have to choose between price, functionality, and quality. With the Exclusive Home Cabana Light Filtering Grommet Top Curtain Panel, you don’t have to compromise on anything, which makes it our top pick. We like that the curtains are offered in 19 colors to match every aesthetic and style, and seven sizes to fit a variety of pergolas and porches. We also like that they are made with a thick, UV- and water-resistant polyester fabric and rust-proof, stainless steel grommets which make them durable in any kind of weather. The solid fabric also provides excellent privacy and temperature regulation by filtering some natural light. Since these include two panels, they’re also a great value. If you’re looking for a way to add simple elegance and functionality to your patio, these outdoor curtains are the ones for you. Product Details: Size: from 54 x 63 inches | Material: Polyester | Number of Panels Included: Two Best Budget Bonzer Outdoor Curtains PHOTO: Amazon $10 at Amazon Why You Should Get It They’re opaque, offering an added privacy level. Keep in Mind They’re sold individually, so you may have to purchase a few depending on your space. If you’re looking for some outdoor curtains to provide you with shade and privacy without investing much, we recommend the Bonzer Outdoor Curtains. The curtain is less expensive than other options and offers plenty of the same benefits for your outdoor space. These outdoor curtains are made of durable and waterproof polyester fabric and have rust-proof grommets with a 1.6-inch diameter, so they can easily accommodate your curtain rod. They are also opaque, which ensures privacy and keeps sunlight out. We also like that they’re available in more than a dozen colors and sizes to fit any style. They’re also machine washable, but you can spot-clean them or use a hose on a low setting. Just keep in mind that each panel is sold individually, so you’ll need to purchase a few depending on your space. Product Details: Size: from 54 x 84 inches | Material: Polyester | Number of Panels Included: One Best Floral Elrene Home Fashions Verena Sheer Floral Curtains PHOTO: Amazon $32 at Amazon View on Jcpenney.com $49 at Belk.com Why You Should Get It The design is delicate and whimsical, but the fabric is durable and protective. Keep in Mind They’re quite sheer, so they’re not ideal if you want to block sunlight. If you’re looking to match your outdoor curtains to the vibe of your garden’s pergola, floral outdoor curtains are the perfect whimsical touch. We love the Elrene Home Fashions Verena Sheer Floral Curtains since they’re available in three delicate designs and sizes, offer UV ray protection, and are fade-resistant and water-repellent. The outdoor curtains make for a great addition to any patio, terrace, porch, or even anywhere inside your home to give it a soft touch and airy elegance. Even though these outdoor curtains are a bit on the sheer side to let some brightness in, it’s a minimal downside considering their excellent quality, beautiful design, and easy care and maintenance. Product Details: Size: from 52 x 84 inches | Material: Polyester | Number of Panels Included: One Best Blackout Dream Art Waterproof Blackout Curtain PHOTO: Amazon $43 at Amazon $33 at Walmart Why You Should Get It They completely darken a room and can be used indoors or outdoors. Keep in Mind The side suction cups may not be too reliable. If you love being outside during the summer but don’t love being in the sun, then blackout curtains are a must for your patio. The Dream Art Grommet Top Waterproof Blackout Curtain completely darkens whatever space you’re in, regardless of the curtain’s color, so you can get some privacy and shade. Whether you’re on your porch or under a pergola, these blackout curtains protect you from the sun and water, allowing you to enjoy the outdoors in peace. We also like that they’re available in several colors and sizes, and you have the option to purchase a single panel or a set of two. Each panel comes with small suction cups that are meant to stick to the wall, though they may not be the most reliable way to install the curtains. Inside or outside, these are an excellent option for anyone who wants blackout curtains that are machine washable and durable for any season. Product Details: Size: from 54 x 84 inches | Material: Polyester | Number of Panels Included: One or Two Best for Pergolas Elrene Home Fashions Carmen Sheer Curtain PHOTO: Amazon $53 at Amazon $33 at Walmart View on Jcpenney.com Why You Should Get It It has extra width to fit large pergolas. Keep in Mind They’re offered in fewer sizes and colors than other styles. We chose the Elrene Home Fashions Carmen Sheer Extra-Wide Curtain as the best curtains for pergolas since they have extra width to give your pergola, gazebo, or porch that extra coverage and protection it needs. We love that these outdoor curtains have a semi-sheer, flowy look, but the fabric is thick enough to repel water, prevent fading, and offer some UV ray protection. Although these are only available in three shades and sizes, and the material can feel a little bit thin for particularly windy areas, we still think these are an effective outdoor curtain set for pergolas and other similar outdoor structures. They drape gracefully and add style to turn your outdoor space into a breezy oasis. Product Details: Size: from 114 x 84 inches | Material: Polyester | Number of Panels Included: One Best Sun Zero Sun Zero Beacon Woven Curtain Panel PHOTO: Amazon $79 at Amazon $61 at Walmart $30 at Lowe's Why You Should Get It The curtains are fade-resistant and water-resistant, so they can stand up to sun rays and other weather. Keep in Mind Each panel is sold individually and offered in a more limited selection of colors and sizes. The Sun Zero Beacon Woven UV Protectant Energy Efficient Curtain Panel is ideal if you want a durable option that’ll block the sunlight. The material is also resistant to stains, fading, and water so you can have peace of mind knowing your curtains will stay in good condition, no matter the weather. These outdoor curtains have a mid-range level of light blocking, so you can still enjoy some brightness, but stay protected from UV rays. We like that rust-proof grommets fit curtain rods up to 1.5 inches and they have a simple maintenance routine—simply toss them in the washing machine on cold and tumble dry on low heat. Just keep in mind that each panel is sold individually and they’re offered in a more limited range of sizes and colors in comparison to other options. Product Details: Size: from 52 x 84 inches | Material: Linen and polyester | Number of Panels Included: One Best Patterned Nicetown Custom Waterproof Outdoor Curtains PHOTO: Nicetown View on Nicetown.com Why You Should Get It They are customizable and available in a variety of patterns. Keep in Mind They can only be hand washed. Most outdoor curtains are available in solid colors or simple patterns, but if your style is more maximalist, we recommend the Touch of Class Indoor Outdoor Curtains. These customizable curtains are available in six patterns (with a total of 18 color combinations), eight header types, and dozens of sizes 20 to 200 inches in height and width respectively. We especially love the palm leaf design that will give your outdoor space a serene, tropical vibe. Although they are made of polyester, much like other types of outdoor curtains, the brand recommends hand washing these to maintain their quality and functionality. Despite this higher maintenance care routine, we like that these outdoor curtains are room-darkening, water-resistant, and fade-resistant, which means they work not just in any weather, but in any space inside or outside your home. Product Details: Size: from 20 x 20 inches | Material: Polyester | Number of Panels Included: One Best Velcro Macochico Outdoor Blackout Curtains PHOTO: Amazon $108 at Amazon View on Macochico.com Why You Should Get It Both sides of the curtain are the same color and the velcro tabs make for easy installation and removal. Keep in Mind The panels are sold individually and are more expensive than some other similar options. For those who have a temporary space (like a vacation rental), or just want to change up your outdoor curtains for the summer, velcro curtains are a convenient option. We like the Macochico Velcro Tab Top Outdoor Curtains for their water resistance, UV ray protection, more than a dozen color and size options, and their velcro tab tops that make installation and removal a piece of cake. While other curtains typically have grommets, these curtains have velcro tabs so you never have to worry about rusting or using additional tools. Plus, we appreciate that both sides of the curtain are the same color, so the inside and outside of your porch or pergola can have matching styles. It’s also important to keep in mind that these curtain panels come individually, so you may need a few to dress up your space. Product Details: Size: From 52 x 84 inches | Material: Polyester blend | Number of Panels Included: One Best for Patios Lordtex Sheer Outdoor Curtains PHOTO: Amazon $36 at Amazon Why You Should Get It The set includes two panels that have a stylish linen look. Keep in Mind They’re sheer, so they’re not ideal for those who want extra privacy and protection. If you have a porch, roof deck, terrace, or just sliding doors that lead out to your patio, then you’ll love the Lordtex Sheer Outdoor Curtains. With their rustic burlap linen look, medium light filtration, water resistance, and simple care and maintenance, these are a top choice for outdoor curtains. The curtains are sold as a pair and are offered in six colors and seven sizes. It’s important to note that these are on the sheer side, so they’re not the best option for those looking for more privacy or sun protection. However, we think these will look great in any patio space and provide an ethereal, calming vibe. Product Details: Size: from 52 x 84 inches | Material: Polyester | Number of Panels Included: Two Best Waterproof RYB Home Outdoor Waterproof Curtains PHOTO: Amazon $19 at Amazon Why You Should Get It The material is both thermally insulating and waterproof. Keep in Mind They’re sold individually, so it can become expensive depending on which size you need. If you’re looking for durable outdoor curtains that can withstand the wet seasons, we recommend the RYB Home Outdoor Patio Waterproof Grommet Curtains. These outdoor curtains can handle thunderstorms and snow. Plus, they’re made of a triple-weave material to block heat and sunlight, which is great for protecting the furniture in your pergola or gazebo. We appreciate that these curtains are offered in multiple colors and sizes, so you can choose which one is best for your space. Plus, they’re machine washable which makes maintenance easy. Just keep in mind that each panel is sold individually and it can become expensive depending on which size you need. Product Details: Size: from 52 x 63 inches | Material: Not listed | Number of Panels Included: One Best Sheer RYB Home Linen Look Sheer Outdoor Curtains PHOTO: Amazon $26 at Amazon Why You Should Get It The set includes two panels and curtain tie-backs. Plus, each panel has a linen-like feel. Keep in Mind The color selection is more limited than some other options. Sheer outdoor curtains are the ultimate way to soften your outdoor space and give it an effortless yet elegant touch. Our favorites are the RYB Home linen Look Sheer Outdoor Curtains. The set of curtains includes two panels as well as two curtain tie-backs, so you can easily set the curtains aside if you need to. These semi-sheer outdoor curtains are made from a lightweight fabric that mimics the look and feel of linen but is water-repellent and mildew-resistant and filters out only some of the light. While the subtle texture may seem delicate, these outdoor curtains are machine washable and can be used both indoors and outdoors. These outdoor curtains are available in seven sizes, five colors for the grommet-style header, and in white for the looped tab tops. If you want to prioritize giving your patio that airy and elegant ambiance over plenty of privacy and coverage, then these sheer outdoor curtains are a must-have for you. Product Details: Size: from 52 x 63 inches | Material: Not listed | Number of Panels Included: Two Best Noise-Reducing Diva En Camino Dec Outdoor Patio Curtains PHOTO: Amazon $30 at Amazon Why You Should Get It They offer protection from heat, noise, and water. Keep in Mind They are not completely blackout. Hosting parties and barbecues means plenty of loud noises, so having a designated peaceful spot around your home can be a lifesaver. The Diva En Camino Des Outdoor Patio Curtains are perfect for reducing noise so you can have a quiet escape in your pergola or on your porch. The curtains are made with three layers of fabric and are also blackout, waterproof, and thermal insulating so you can keep the sun and heat out. Additionally, they are machine washable and available in 14 colors and 15 sizes. Just keep in mind that these curtains are not completely blackout, and the level of light reduction depends on the color you choose. Product Details: Size: from 52 x 63 inches | Material: Polyester | Number of Panels Included: Two The Bottom Line Our top overall pick for the best outdoor curtains is the Exclusive Home Cabana Light Filtering Grommet Top Curtain Panel for its durable and protective fabric, and UV ray and water resistance. 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. Installation Installation and care are two pivotal aspects to consider as they directly impact the aesthetics, durability, and functionality of the curtains. According to Wang, “the proper installation ensures maximum privacy, sunshade, and wind protection without damaging the curtain or the structure it’s connected to over time.” Harvey suggests always checking your measurements so you don’t end up with not enough panels or panels that are too short or too long. “I highly recommend buying only one or two at a time from a place with a good return policy so you can be sure you like the material and the look of the curtains and that they fit well in the space you want them,” he says. Care It may seem like outdoor curtains don’t require the same level of care as indoor curtains, but with dirt, water, and other outdoor debris, it’s important to give them some maintenance so they can last you for several seasons. “Most outdoor curtains are designed to be low-maintenance, but periodic cleaning to remove stains and mildew helps to maintain their fresh look and prolong their life,” says Wang. Additionally, Harvey suggests taking your outdoor curtains down during the winter months if you live in a colder climate to help them last even longer. Your Questions, Answered How should you weigh down outdoor curtains? To weigh 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. How much do curtains cost? The cost of outdoor curtains can vary significantly based on factors like material, size, design, and brand. Wangs says you are likely to find single panels for as low as $15, but more custom, high-quality, or designer options can be more than $100 per panel. According to Harvey, most outdoor curtain sets of two usually range between $30 and $50. It’s important to consider your budget before purchasing since your outdoor space will almost always require more than one panel. How long will outdoor curtains last? The lifespan of outdoor curtains will depend on “their quality, usage, and the environmental conditions they are subjected to,” says Wang. With proper care and maintenance, both she and Harvey say high-quality outdoor curtains can last between three and five years. Who We Are L. Daniela Alvarez is a contributing writer for Better Homes & Gardens with three years of experience specifically writing lifestyle content and product reviews for a variety of publications; and Rachel Dube, is a freelance writer for Better Homes & Gardens. For this article, they spent several hours researching the best outdoor curtains and reading customer reviews. They also consulted Chantelle Hartman Malarkey, interior designer and lifestyle expert; Camille Styles, a design expert; Wendy Wang, owner of F&J Outdoor; and Ben Harvey, founder and CEO of Patio Productions. Was this page helpful? Thanks for your feedback! Tell us why! Other Submit