How To Hang Curtains In A Rental Apartment [4 Methods]

Customizing your rental apartment with nice curtains is an easy way to make your new space feel like home, but what to do about potential damage to the walls? Customizing your space without causing destruction is easier than it sounds. We did the research and came up with a few different methods of hanging curtains that won't leave a trace once it's time to move out. 

To successfully hang curtains in your apartment without leaving any damage to the walls, try any of these methods:

• Spring tension curtain rod
• Large command hooks
• NoNo brackets
• Simple Fit shades

We know it seems difficult, but there's no need to fret. Hanging curtains in your new apartment doesn't have to require power tools – or even a hammer! Keep reading to learn our favorite tips and tricks that will leave you and your landlord equally happy. 

Can You Hang Stuff Up In Apartments?

This depends on your landlord and your lease's specifics, but generally, renters are not permitted to drill or nail any holes in their walls at the risk of losing a portion of their security deposit. This means that renters often have to find ways to decorate that don't require nails or screws. 

For light objects like picture frames and wall art, double-sided mounting tape will do the trick. When it comes to heavier objects like shelves, light fixtures, and curtain rods, you'll need something a little more robust. 

Check out this Scotch Extremely Strong Mounting Tape on Amazon. 

How To Hang Curtains In A Rental Apartment

First thing's first – before you go looking for alternative hanging methods, check if your apartment already has brackets installed above the windows. Since most people will want to hang curtains in their home, some landlords will give you the necessary means to do so with no questions asked. 

If you have no such luck and your apartment is not equipped with brackets already installed, there's no need to worry. Keep reading for some of our favorite apartment hacks.

Check out this article for more decorating tips: 'What Curtains Go With A Grey Couch?'

Try A Spring Tension Rod

Tension rods are one of the most popular drill-free methods to hang curtains for a reason. They're inexpensive, easy to install, and look just as professional as drill-in curtain rods. A spring tension will sit snugly in your window frame without the need for any screws or nails. 

To install, simply hold the rod where you want it and twist the bar until it expands into the window frame. That's it! Most spring tension rods also expand quite a few inches, allowing them to fit in different sized windows. 

Check out this Amazon Basics Spring Tension Rod on Amazon. 

Can Command Hooks Hold A Curtain Rod?

Anybody who has ever lived in an apartment knows that command hooks are every renter's saving grace – but did you know they can even be used to hang your curtains? As long as your curtain rod is lightweight, large, or extra-large, command hooks are perfect for the job. You can even find metal hooks with different finishes to match the aesthetic of your curtains. 

Just hang one hook on either side of your window, and voilà, your curtain rod will fit perfectly. For some extra style points, make sure your curtain rod's finish matches that of your hooks. 

Check out these Command Forever Classic Metal Hook in size Large on Amazon. 

NoNo Brackets Are The Perfect Solution

If your apartment came equipped with blinds (vertical or horizontal) but no curtain rods, you must invest in some NoNo brackets. These handy brackets are adjustable and will clip right to your blinds, so there's no need to damage the walls whatsoever. They work just as well and are just as sturdy as the real thing, no tools necessary. Seriously, it's a game-changer. 

Check out these NoNo Brackets For Inside Mounted Curtain Rods on Amazon. 

Buy Simple Fit Paper Shades

If you don't want to go through the trouble of fitting blinds and curtains over your windows, paper shades are the way to go. These shades are opaque, so very little light shines through, and the sleek design will look beautiful in any home. Plus, they are infinitely adjustable! Simply cut the shades to the right length and stick to install. 

Check out these Changeshade Pleated Paper Blackout Shades on Amazon.

What Type Of Curtains Should You Get?

Now that you know the best methods to hang curtains with no damage to your walls, it's time for the fun part: picking the perfect curtains! We've come up with a comprehensive list of the best curtains you can buy based on your home and your needs. Keep reading for some awesome ideas!

Check out this article to learn more about styling your home with curtains: 'Do Living Room Windows Need Curtains?'

Blackout Curtains

If you work nights or just like to sleep in late, blackout curtains are 100% necessary to keep the sunshine out of your bedroom in the early hours of the morning. Trust us; it really makes a difference! 

To really keep your room pitch black even in the middle of the day, we suggest investing in a wrap-around curtain rod as well. This will ensure that light doesn't sneak in from around the sides of your shades. 

Check out these Rutterllow Room Darkening Blackout Curtains on Amazon. 

Sheer Curtains

For all the early birds out there, sheer curtains are the way to go. Not only do they look beautiful in any home, but they let the perfect amount of light in to wake you up at the crack of dawn gently. Plus, sheer curtains are delicate enough that you can keep them closed all day long for a diffused, soft light, even in the middle of the day. 

Check out these Sheer White Curtain Panels on Amazon. 

Graphic Print Curtains

Let your curtains double as art by opting for something graphic and colorful. Match the rest of your home with a color-coordinated set, or go for an oddball art-house vibe by purposefully mismatching patterns. Either way, this is a fun option that will allow you to show off your own personal style. 

Check out these Lunarable Graphic Curtains with Tribal Arrows on Amazon. 

Can You Hang Curtains Over Blinds?

Not only can you, but you absolutely should hang curtains over your blinds. Most apartments will already have plain white blinds installed. This is just enough for some basic privacy, but it isn't the best look, especially if you want your space to be warm and homey. 

Hanging curtains over your blinds really is the best way to go. For a hassle-free installation, try NoNo brackets that we've mentioned above or any of our other favorite methods of hanging curtains without damaging your walls. 

The Perfect Curtains Are Out There Somewhere

Now that you know four different methods of hanging curtains that are easy, cost-effective, and damage-free, you can spend your time finding the perfect curtains for your new rental. Whether you choose Command hooks, a tension rod, NoNo brackets, or Simple Fit shades, your curtains are sure to last as long as your lease. Happy decorating!