Look, I get it. You’re standing in your kitchen, staring at that awkward window above your sink, wondering why it feels so… naked. Maybe you’ve got neighbors who can see right into your dish-washing domain, or perhaps the morning sun is blinding you while you’re trying to make coffee. Either way, that window needs some love, and I’m here to help you figure it out.
Kitchen sink windows are tricky little beasts. They need to handle splashes, grease, humidity, and still look cute while doing it. No pressure, right? 🙂 But here’s the thing—the right curtain can completely transform your kitchen vibe, and I’ve got 20 ideas that’ll make you actually excited about window treatments. Yeah, I didn’t think that was possible either.
Classic Café Curtains: The Old Reliable
Do you know what’s always in style? curtains for cafés. By only covering the lower portion of your window, these bad boys provide privacy while allowing an abundance of natural light to enter from above.
Last year, I put these in my own kitchen, and to be honest? Game changer. You’re not cooking in a cave, but you’re also not doing dishes in your pajamas, so you get the best of both worlds. Additionally, because you can simply throw them in the laundry every few weeks, they are incredibly simple to clean.
| Image | Product | Details | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
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Pinch Pleated Cream Linen Kitchen | Pinch Pleated Cream Linen Kitchen Curtain 24 Inch Length 2 Panel Set Modern Neutral Short Cafe Curtains with Hooks Light Filtering Semi Sheer Small Window Treatment Tiers for Basement 30×24 2 FT Ivory |
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Mocoloo 33 Farmhouse Sink – 33 | Mocoloo 33 Farmhouse Sink – 33 x 22 Inch Stainless Steel Undermount Kitchen Sink Workstation Ledge 16 Gauge Single Bowl Deep Basin Handmade Apron Front Farm Style Sinks |
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Why café curtains work:
- Perfect balance of privacy and light
- Super easy to install with a tension rod
- Hundreds of patterns to match any kitchen style
- Won’t get soaked when you’re scrubbing pots
Linen Panels: The Fancy Minimalist
Do you want to appear as though you hired a designer for your home? The solution is linen curtains. Your entire kitchen seems more expensive because of their effortlessly stylish style.
What I adore about linen is that it has texture without being overly ornate. Whether your kitchen is modern, farmhouse, or somewhere in between, the fabric catches light beautifully. Just so you know, for the area above the sink, stick to lighter hues like white, cream, or soft gray. In a room where you want lightness, darker linens may feel heavy.
| Feature | Benefit | Maintenance |
|---|---|---|
| Natural texture | Adds visual interest | Machine washable (gentle cycle) |
| Light filtering | Soft, diffused sunlight | May need occasional ironing |
| Versatile style | Works with any décor | Avoid harsh chemicals |
Gingham Checks: Hello, Cottage Core
Gingham curtains should be on your radar if you’re even slightly drawn to that warm, farmhouse style. If you understand what I mean, they’re cute without being cutesy.
I’ve seen these work in both traditional and surprisingly modern kitchens. The key is choosing the right scale—smaller checks for contemporary spaces, larger ones for classic country kitchens. Red and white gingham screams vintage diner (in a good way), while navy or gray gingham feels way more sophisticated.
Roman Shades: When You Mean Business
Have you ever wondered why Roman shades are so popular among designers? Since they are essentially the sophisticated, adult cousin of ordinary curtains. When you want them out of the way, they fold up neatly, and when they’re down, they appear purposeful.
These are particularly useful if the area surrounding your sink is small. No curtain rods taking up counter space, no fabric bunching on the sides. Only crisp lines and important style cues. In my opinion, cordless models are more stylish and safer, making them worth the additional cost.
Sheer White Panels: Let There Be Light
There are times when all you want are sheer curtains that are hardly there. When you want a little privacy without sacrificing any natural light, white sheers are ideal.
Once, I put these in a rental where the kitchen window was facing a brick wall. Without darkening the room, the sheers softened the view. When they get splattered—which is inevitable because it’s a kitchen sink—they’re also incredibly inexpensive to replace.
Sheer curtain wins:
- Maximum light penetration
- Softens harsh sunlight
- Budget-friendly option
- Creates an airy, open feeling
Valances: Short, Sweet, and Strategic
The bangs of window treatments are valances; when they work, they really do work. These only cover the upper part of your window, adding flair without obstructing light or your view.
You can find valances in literally every style imaginable. Scalloped edges for traditional kitchens, straight panels for modern spaces, ruffled for farmhouse vibes. They’re also super practical above a sink because they stay completely out of the splash zone.
Tier Curtains: The Two-Level Approach
The best features of valances and café curtains are combined in tier curtains. The top half is covered by a valance, and the bottom half is covered by a bottom tier. Without the full coverage, it’s the whole package.
Kitchens with character—think of older homes with vintage charm—are a great fit for this style. You can experiment with patterns and add dimension with the layered look. Go matchy-matchy if that’s your style, or combine patterned tiers with a solid valance.
Bamboo Shades: Natural Texture Heaven
Do you want to add some natural texture? Shades made of bamboo or woven wood provide warmth and interest without coming across as overly forced.
If there are many hard surfaces in your kitchen, such as cabinets and countertops, these are essential. Additionally, bamboo naturally withstands moisture better than ordinary fabric, making it a great choice for the sink area. They produce these exquisite patterns on your countertops by skillfully filtering light.
Vintage Feedsack Fabric: One-of-a-Kind Charm
All right, listen to me. For good reason, vintage feedsack curtains are currently in style. You won’t find the most incredible prints and colors anywhere else but on these old flour and feed sacks.
I scored some at an antique market and had them made into curtains—instant conversation starter. Every piece is unique, and there’s something really cool about using fabric that’s 70+ years old. Just make sure to line them since the fabric can be thin.
Scandinavian Simplicity: Less is More
Basically, the Scandinavian philosophy when it comes to kitchen curtains is to keep things light, simple, and functional. Imagine simple, clean lines on white or cream linen.
If you like a minimalist look where everything has a purpose, this style is for you. Just high-quality fabric doing its job, without any ruffles or patterns. Does it make you happy? It’s the Marie Kondo of curtain choices. Indeed. What else does it do? The point is that it’s not.
Bold Patterns: Make a Statement
Why be cautious? Your kitchen window can become the room’s focal point with boldly patterned curtains. Big flowers, geometric designs, or even tropical leaves, if you’re feeling daring, are what we’re talking about.
In my opinion, this is your opportunity to have fun if your kitchen is primarily neutral. Without having to replace the cabinets or paint the walls, a colorful curtain over the sink adds personality. You’ll be looking at the pattern while doing the dishes, so make sure you like it. A great deal.
Lace Panels: Vintage Romance
Lace curtains might sound like your grandma’s house, but modern lace designs are having a serious comeback. The key is choosing contemporary patterns and keeping everything else simple.
I saw these in a friend’s kitchen recently—white lace panels with a modern geometric pattern. They filtered light beautifully and added this romantic, soft quality to the space. Perfect if you want privacy but still want to see outside during the day.
No-Sew Curtains: For the Craft-Challenged
Real talk: not everyone owns a sewing machine or wants to deal with hemming. No-sew curtain options are your best friend. Fabric glue, iron-on hem tape, or even curtain clips can create custom curtains in an afternoon.
I’ve made several sets this way, and honestly? No one can tell. You can use any fabric you want—vintage tablecloths, clearance fabric, even tea towels for small windows. The possibilities are endless, and your secret is safe with me.
No-sew methods:
- Fabric glue (surprisingly strong)
- Iron-on hem tape (quick and easy)
- Curtain clips (no hemming needed)
- Tension rods (no drilling required)
Colorful Solids: Pop of Personality
Sometimes all you need is a solid-colored curtain in the appropriate shade. Colors like mustard yellow, deep teal, and terracotta can drastically alter the vibe of your kitchen.
| Image | Product | Details | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
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jinchan Striped Linen Kitchen Curtai | jinchan Striped Linen Kitchen Curtains 30 Inches Tier Curtains Farmhouse Modern Cafe Style Small Window Treatments Airy Light Filtering Rod Pocket for Living Room Bathroom 2 Panels Taupe Grey |
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ooden Spoons, 6 Pieces 9 Inch W | Wooden Spoons, 6 Pieces 9 Inch Wood Soup Spoons for Eating Mixing Stirring, Wood Spoon with Japanese Style Kitchen Utensil |
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People, color psychology is real. Green adds a sense of nature, blue is soothing (great if cooking stresses you out), and yellow makes spaces feel happy (great for morning coffee). Just stay away from anything too gloomy unless you don’t mind a moodier kitchen setting.
Farmhouse Ticking Stripe: Classic Never Dies
Curtains with ticking stripes are one of those designs that complement practically any kitchen. The thin stripes have a timeless quality that will not look out of style in five years, and they add visual interest without being overly busy.
Black and white ticking is the classic choice, but navy, red, or gray stripes can be equally gorgeous. The vertical lines also make your window (and ceiling) appear taller—bonus points for small kitchens.
Macramé Panels: Boho Vibes Only
Why not hang it from your kitchen window if you’re into macramé? These gorgeous woven pieces let in plenty of light while adding a significant amount of texture and dimension.
These aren’t for everyone, I’ll be honest. They have a strong bohemian influence, so if your kitchen is sleek and contemporary, you might want to pass on this one. However, what if you have rattan accents and plants hanging everywhere? You’ll love this.
Burlap Beauty: Rustic Charm
Burlap curtains add a farmhouse, rustic vibe without breaking the bank. The natural color complements almost any color scheme, and the rough texture adds character.
Expert advice: use a lighter fabric to line your burlap curtains. In certain circumstances, unlined burlap may be too see-through and scratchy. They also hang better and last longer when lined. Believe me, I had to learn this lesson the hard way.
Colorful Gingham: Not Just for Picnics
Although we previously discussed traditional gingham, colorful gingham is also worth mentioning. For a retro kitchen, pink gingham? A kiss from the chef. Green gingham for a room with a garden theme? Excellent.
Gingham is lovely because it’s playful without being juvenile. It reads as classic even though it adds color and pattern. Without feeling strange, you can change the curtains seasonally, using pastels for spring and deeper hues for fall.
Embroidered Details: Handmade Touches
The handmade element that gives a kitchen a unique feel is added by embroidered curtains or curtains with embroidered trim. If you’re crafty, you can make these yourself or purchase them already made.
Even simple embroidered borders elevate plain curtains into something special. This is especially nice if you’ve got a collection of vintage dishes or other handmade items in your kitchen. Everything ties together in that “curated” way design magazines love.
Mix and Match: Break the Rules
Who says you have to have matching curtains? This is a crazy idea. An eclectic, collected-over-time look is far more intriguing than matchy-matchy décor. This can be achieved by combining patterns, textures, or even different curtain styles.
Pair a patterned valance with solid café curtains. Combine different vintage fabrics. Layer sheers under heavier curtains. The key is finding a common thread—similar colors, complementary patterns, or matching metal finishes on your hardware—so it looks intentional, not accidental.
Quick Installation Tips
Allow me to impart some useful advice before you dash off to measure your window. Take it seriously: measure twice, order once. Windows over kitchen sinks frequently have odd measurements or obstructions from faucets.
Consider these quick tips:
- Tension rods are your friend for rentals
- Mount rods higher and wider than the window frame for a grander look
- Leave at least 3-4 inches between your curtain and the faucet
- Choose machine-washable fabrics (you’ll thank me later)
- Keep extra fabric away from the stove if your sink is nearby
The Real Talk Conclusion
It’s not necessary for your kitchen sink window to be dull or difficult. When you’re knee-deep in soapy water, the right choice is whatever makes you happy, whether that’s bold with colorful patterns, trendy with macramé, or classic with café curtains.
Avoid overanalyzing it. Choose something that makes your kitchen feel more like your own, starting with the style that appeals to you and taking into account your functional needs (light, privacy, and ease of cleaning). If you decide you don’t like your choice after six months, keep in mind that curtains are much simpler to replace than cabinets. Not a huge deal. They are therefore a low-risk, high-reward décor option.
Now go make that window look amazing. Your dishes (and your neighbors) will thank you! :/