Why Layering Works: The Warmth Behind Blinds + Curtains

Layering traps air. A blind close to the glass and curtains over the front create still air pockets. Air is a natural insulator, so heat moves out more slowly. Good edges also stop draughts sneaking round frames. Close both layers at dusk and you lock in evening warmth without touching the thermostat.

Thermal fabrics and interlinings add insulation. Blackout controls light first; some blackout backings also insulate, but not all. Focus on thermal where heat retention matters. Read our guide on the energy saving benefits of modern blinds. Layering pays off most on single‑glazed panes, older sash, bays, patio doors and north‑facing rooms. The tighter the fit, the warmer the result.

Choose the Right Thermal Blind for Your Window and Room

For warmth, pick blinds that hold air and sit close to the frame. Interlined Roman blinds look plush and insulate well. Thermal or blackout rollers with a cassette reduce top gaps. Pleated or cellular blinds excel because their honeycomb pockets trap heat. Perfect Fit cellular blinds clip to uPVC frames for a neat, draught‑reduced seal.

Choose dimout for living areas where soft light is welcome. Use blackout in bedrooms for darkness and extra warmth. Solar‑reflective backings help on bright, south‑facing windows. Recess windows suit tight‑fit rollers, Romans or pleated. French and patio doors work well with Perfect Fit cellular. For a classic look with real warmth, explore our Roman blinds and see our Perfect Fit blinds a complete guide for UK homes.

Pick Interlined Curtains That Properly Seal the Edges

Thermal interlining adds a plush layer between the face fabric and lining. It bulks the curtain, traps air and makes the room feel cosier. In bedrooms, add blackout lining for better sleep and a small extra boost to warmth. Learn more in how thermal interlining can improve energy efficiency.

Tracks with overlap masters seal the centre better than poles. If using a pole, add returns that bring fabric back to the wall to close side gaps. Size matters: allow 2x–2.5x fullness, extend 15–20 cm beyond each side, add 10–15 cm above, and drop to “kiss” the floor. Best Blinds cuts and sews to size for a tidy, draught‑reducing fit.

This image was generated with AI and may not always represent the product or service exactly.

Measure Once, Stay Warm Twice: Blinds and Curtains Together

Decide recess or face‑fit for the blind first. A recess fit is neat and discreet. A face‑fit blind sized slightly wider and taller can cover the frame and reduce leakage. If recess fitting, check the guidance on how much smaller should inside blinds be than the window before you measure.

Then plan the curtains. Extend 15–20 cm beyond each side for proper overlap and add returns to the wall. Set the drop to skim the floor so cold air cannot creep underneath. Fix the track or pole 10–15 cm above the frame to trap rising warm air. For bays and sash, specialist tracks and face‑fit blinds usually give the snuggest result. Book a free home visit if in doubt.

The Fitting Order: Simple, Step-by-Step

Prepare first. Check for pipes and cables. Mark level lines. Use the right fixings for brick, concrete lintels or plasterboard. Fit blind brackets securely and square, then hang and test the blind so it closes cleanly with minimal side gaps.

Next, fit the track or pole wider and higher than the frame. Add return brackets so fabric wraps back towards the wall. Steam or lightly press interlined curtains before hanging. Let them settle, then train the pleats. Best Blinds fitters handle all fixings safely, leave no mess, and make sure everything runs smoothly.

Seal the Gaps: Small Upgrades That Make a Big Difference

Reduce top leaks with a cassette or pelmet on roller blinds. Side channels can limit side gaps on blackout or thermal rollers. For curtains, deeper returns, interlining and weighted hems help the fabric hug the wall and floor, cutting draughts along the edges.

For doors and large glazing, keep operation effortless so you use the layers daily. Perfect Fit cellular blinds glide with the door and are great for regular use. Day & Night or Dual Shade blinds offer flexible light and privacy. Pair any of these with interlined curtains on a smooth track for warm evenings without fuss.

This image was generated with AI and may not always represent the product or service exactly.

Room-by-Room Layering Ideas (With Quick Wins)

Victorian bays and sash windows: use a face‑fit thermal roller or a snug interlined Roman to cover woodwork, then a curved or bent track with interlined curtains. This combination gives a classic look and reduces draughts around beading and cords.

Bedrooms and nurseries: blackout roller or Roman plus interlined blackout curtains for darker, warmer nights. Add child‑safe controls. Kitchens, bathrooms and lofts: choose moisture‑resistant cellular/pleated or Perfect Fit for easy cleaning, then add washable interlined curtains where humidity allows. For rooflights, fit a dedicated skylight blind first, then dress the space with lightweight curtains if you have room.

Made-to-Measure vs Ready-Made: Warmth, Fit and Value

Precision saves energy. Made‑to‑measure blinds and curtains reduce edge gaps, which means fewer draughts and a cosier room. Ready‑made options often leave light slivers and cold spots around the frame.

On a budget, prioritise thermal fabrics, interlining and accurate sizing over premium patterns. The comfort return shows up on winter bills. With Best Blinds you get honest pricing, competitive quotes and tidy installation, all backed by a family team who care about the finish.

Care, Safety and Seasonal Checks

Vacuum interlined curtains gently with a soft brush to lift dust without flattening the pile. Spot clean blinds as per fabric care guidance. Open layers on sunny days to warm the room; close both at dusk to keep the heat in. Keep frames dry and ventilated to protect linings.

Child safety comes first. Use breakaway chains, safety cleats or cordless systems. Motorisation makes daily closing easy and consistent; see do motorised blinds have to be plugged in for options that suit bedrooms and nurseries.

How Best Blinds Helps: From Free Home Visit to Cosy Nights In

We make it easy. Book a free home visit and we will assess draughts, measure precisely and bring fabrics, linings and hardware to compare in your light. You get a clear, competitive quote and realistic lead times for winter.

Our fitters install neatly, check safe operation and share simple care tips. Ready to warm up your windows? Contact us for friendly advice, or ask about pairing blinds and interlined curtains for your room.

FAQs

Will blackout curtains keep my room warmer?

Blackout linings control light first, but many also add a modest thermal boost. For best warmth, choose blackout plus a thermal interlining.

Should the blind go inside the recess when layering?

For a discreet look, fit the blind inside the recess and curtains outside. If the frame is draughty, a face‑fit blind sized wider can cover gaps better.

What’s the best option for draughty sash windows?

Use a face‑fit thermal roller or interlined Roman to cover the frame, then interlined curtains on a track with returns. This seals edges and reduces rattles.

Can I add thermal interlining to my existing curtains?

Yes. We can re‑line many curtains with thermal interlining and adjust the drop and returns. The result looks fuller and feels warmer.

Are motorised blinds worth it for energy saving?

They help you close blinds at the right times, every day, which improves warmth. Timers and sensors can automate routines for consistent comfort.