How To Keep Curtains Together And Closed

Are you trying to increase the level of privacy in your home and need some ideas on how to keep your curtains closed? Well, you've come to the right place. We've done the research to bring you this guide explaining multiple ways to achieve proper window privacy successfully.

1. Hook and Loop Tape
2. Curtain Magnets
3. Clothespins or Clips
4. Buttons
5. Safety Pins
6. Decorative Pins
7. Furniture
8. Sew a Tie
9. Switch Curtains

You're probably wondering which methods are the easiest to apply or the least hassle to open back up when desired. Keep reading to learn all about these different options and how to use them to your advantage.

When To Keep Your Curtains Closed?

Your home is your most private space, and it's where you allow yourself to be the most vulnerable. If you live close to your neighbors, you will need to keep your most private spaces safe from exposure. Bedrooms and bathrooms are typically the most critical areas to keep hidden.

Another good reason to keep your curtains pulled tight is to help conserve heat near drafty windows in the winter or cool your home by blocking sunlight in the summer. If you like to sleep late on weekends or work a night shift, keeping the curtains closed in your bedroom can help you sleep better when the sun is up.

What Is The Best Type Of Curtain To Block Sunlight Or Create Privacy?

Blackout curtains are the best type of curtain to prevent sunlight from entering the room, making them the perfect solution if blocking the light is your main concern. If you're more worried about privacy, then any solid fabric that you can't see through will work fine, so avoid sheer curtains unless you plan to do layers. Blackout curtains are an excellent option for both purposes, ensuring both privacy and darkness.

NICETOWN Blackout Curtains

These blackout curtains are available in a wide variety of different colors, and they come in a set of two panels.

Click here to see these curtains on Amazon.

Hook And Loop Tape

Using hook and loop tape, or velcro, on the edges of the curtains where the two panels meet will ensure perfect closure without a gap. Make sure to apply the hook and loop tape in multiple places up the length of the curtain, such as the top, middle, and bottom of the window. Hook and loop fasteners are available in sew-on or adhesive varieties. 

MYUREN Sew on Hook and Loop Fastener

This sew-on hook and loop tape is perfect for keeping curtains together, and it's easy to apply with or without a sewing machine.

Click here to see this tape on Amazon.

Curtain Magnets

Curtain magnets can be sewn into the hem of your curtains to create a clasp that will keep your drapes securely closed. You will want to place several magnets along the edges where the curtains meet, from the top to the bottom of the panels. Some curtains come with these magnets already sewn in, removing some of the work for you.

LOVIMAG Strong Disc Magnets

These magnets are perfect for use with curtains. They will work sewn-in or as a surface fastener since they are strong enough to magnetize through multiple layers of fabric.

Click here to see these magnets on Amazon.

Clothespins Or Clips

Using clothespins or a chip clip is an easy way to create a seal with items you probably already have around the house. Clip the two panels together on the side facing your home for a quick and easy seal. You may need to use several clips to keep the entire length of the curtains shut.

DECORA 100 Piece Colorful Clothespins

Using decorative clothespins or clothespins that are a similar color to the curtains will help class the look up a bit.

Click here to see these adorable clothespins on Amazon.

Buttons

Find some buttons that blend in with your curtains and sew a few along the edge of one panel. Create buttonholes with scissors and a simple stitch job on the other panel. This is an attractive and simple way to prevent a gap in your curtains.

How To Sew A Buttonhole

While sewing buttons onto fabric is pretty simple, not everyone knows how to sew a buttonhole, but it's not too difficult. If you aren't sure how to sew a buttonhole but are interested in using this method, this video will help you.

Safety Pins

Safety pins are another great way to keep your curtains closed with household items. Overlap the edges of the two panels where they meet in the center, then insert several pins lengthwise, perpendicularly along the edge to get a good seal. This method can be a little more time-consuming to undo when you decide you want to open the curtains and let some natural light in.

KINBOM Colored Safety Pins

Find safety pins in a similar shade as your curtains to help them blend in and reduce their visibility. These pins come in a variety of colors.

Click here to check out these safety pins on Amazon.

Decorative Lapel Pins

Use decorative lapel pins to keep your curtains drawn and add some decoration and personality to the space. Pins with stud-type backs can be used by overlapping the curtains where they meet and pinning them together with the stud clasp. Since these types of pins are available in many colors, patterns, and designs, there's something available for everyone.

Live Laugh Love Enamel Pin

This pin is fun to incorporate some of your own personality into your practical decor. 

Click here to check out this pin on Amazon.

Furniture

You can use furniture to weigh down and hold curtains in place. Hold the curtain taught while pushing the furniture tight against the wall to pin it in place. This method works well as a temporary fix but tends to lose effectiveness over time and may need to be adjusted. You will also need to be careful not to scratch or scuff the wall when pushing the furniture against it.

Sew A Tie

Sew a thin strip of matching fabric to the center edges of the panels that you can use to tie them together. This method will also require thoughtful placement of the strips to ensure there are no gaps and that the strips match up evenly on both panels. This method is more effective for privacy than light blocking because slight gaps can occur between the ties.

Marcoon Sewing Kit

This sewing kit is a great starter kit that contains everything you will need to attach ties to your curtains by hand. 

Click here to take a look at this kit on Amazon.

Switch Curtains

If you are deeply concerned about privacy or want to block the light completely, consider switching to a single, larger blackout panel. Using a single curtain covering the entire window will ensure that no gaps are blocking the view and the light. You can still dress the drapery up by adding things like layered sheer panels or drapery scarves.

WPM WORLD PRODUCTS MART Sheer Curtain Scarf

This drapery scarf is a great solution to dress up single panel curtain schemes, and it comes in a variety of colors to meet the needs of your home decor.

Click here to check out this scarf on Amazon.

How To Keep Curtains Closed On The Sides?

Using a curtain rod that curves out from the wall will help stop light from leaking in on the sides. If changing curtain rods isn't an option, you can use things like magnets for this too, but some will need to be secured to the wall or trim. Closing curtains on the sides is primarily done to prevent light since it won't affect privacy.

Amazon Basics Blackout Curtain Rod

This curtain rod is ideal for blocking light on the sides of your window. The curve allows the curtain to wrap around the side, preventing light leaks.

Click here to see this curtain rod on Amazon.

In Conclusion

Now that you know all the best ways to create a safe room and block sunlight, you're ready to determine which method will work best to keep them closed. Consider which concern is your highest priority and make decisions from there. Have fun redecorating and enjoy your privacy!

Now that you're done, you may want to check out these related articles.

If you want to make sure you get your curtains in the right length, read our article "How Long Should Curtains Hang Below Window Sill?"

If you're getting ready to hang new curtains, read our article "How To Hang Curtains Without A Drill – 3 Practical Methods!".