Curtains in Singapore remain a popular choice for homeowners, but blinds offer a modern alternative that works well in certain spaces. While both serve the same purpose—controlling light, providing privacy, and enhancing interior aesthetics—they differ in functionality, maintenance, and cost.
The right choice depends on the home’s design, how much light control is needed, and the level of upkeep a homeowner is willing to manage. Some rooms may benefit more from the softness of curtains, while others require the sleek and structured look of blinds. This guide compares both options to help homeowners make an informed decision.
Aesthetic Appeal and Design Flexibility
Both curtains and blinds come in a variety of styles, but they create different visual effects within a space.
- Curtains offer a softer, more traditional look, making them ideal for bedrooms and living rooms. They add warmth and texture, especially when layered with sheer and blackout options.
- Blinds provide a minimalist, streamlined appearance that complements modern and industrial interiors. Available in materials like wood, aluminium, and PVC, they create a clean and structured effect.
For homeowners who prefer a balance between functionality and style, custom curtains allow more personalisation in terms of fabric, length, and design.
Light Control and Privacy
One of the key differences between curtains and blinds is how they manage natural light.
- Curtains – Blackout or dim-out fabrics block external light completely, making them ideal for bedrooms and home theatres. Sheer curtains, on the other hand, soften daylight while maintaining some level of privacy.
- Blinds – Adjustable slats allow precise control over light levels. Homeowners can tilt them slightly to let in light while maintaining privacy, making them a great choice for kitchens and offices.
For those who need flexible lighting solutions, layered curtain designs offer a combination of sheer and blackout options for day and night use.
Maintenance and Durability
Both curtains and blinds require different levels of care to maintain their appearance and functionality over time.
- Curtains need regular washing or dry cleaning, depending on the fabric. Light materials like cotton and polyester are easy to machine wash, while heavier drapes such as velvet require professional cleaning.
- Blinds are easier to maintain, requiring only occasional dusting or wiping with a damp cloth. However, some materials, like wood, can be prone to warping in humid conditions.
Since the country’s climate can affect fabric longevity, it’s important to choose curtains made from moisture-resistant materials to prevent mould and mildew buildup.
Space and Installation Considerations
The amount of space available and the ease of installation also influence whether curtains or blinds are the better choice.
- Curtains – Require more space due to their draping, which can make small rooms feel crowded. They also need curtain rods or tracks, which must be properly mounted. Long or heavy fabrics, such as velvet or blackout curtains, may require reinforced brackets to support their weight. Floor-length curtains should be measured precisely to prevent excess fabric from dragging, while shorter designs may work better in compact spaces.
- Blinds – Fit neatly within window frames, making them ideal for compact spaces. They can be installed as roller, Venetian, or vertical styles, depending on the window size. Unlike curtains, which extend beyond the window, blinds provide a sleeker, space-saving alternative. However, some options, like wooden blinds, may require additional wall support due to their weight, making professional installation necessary for stability.
- Motorized curtains – A practical alternative for large floor-to-ceiling windows, offering remote or voice-controlled adjustments. When installing motorized options, ensuring the track system is properly aligned is essential to avoid uneven movement or operational issues over time. Misalignment can cause unnecessary strain on the motor, leading to faster wear and tear.
For homes with large floor-to-ceiling windows, motorized curtains can be a practical alternative to traditional options, allowing remote or voice-controlled adjustments.
Cost Comparison: Which Option is More Budget-Friendly?
Curtains
Curtains in Singapore can range widely in price depending on fabric type, length, and whether they’re ready-made or custom-made.
- Ready-made Curtains (Standard Fabrics like Polyester and cotton): For a typical window, ready-made curtains usually cost between SGD 30 to SGD 100 per panel for standard fabrics. These are common in many homes, particularly in less formal spaces like living rooms or bedrooms.
- Custom-made Curtains (High-end Fabrics like Velvet, Silk, or Linen): Custom curtains are often more expensive, with costs ranging from SGD 120 to SGD 350 per panel. Custom designs allow for personalization in terms of fabric, length, and overall design, which can significantly affect the price. For large windows or a full set, this could amount to SGD 500 to SGD 2,500 depending on fabric and customization.
- Blackout Curtains: Popular for bedrooms or home theatres, blackout curtains typically cost around SGD 80 to SGD 200 per panel for standard sizes, with heavier, luxurious fabrics pushing the price higher.
Blinds
Blinds tend to be more affordable upfront, though premium or motorized options can bring up the cost. Here’s an overview of typical prices in Singapore:
- Roller Blinds (Fabric or PVC): Roller blinds are one of the most economical options, with prices starting at SGD 50 to SGD 150 per window for standard sizes. Basic fabric roller blinds are affordable, but high-end fabrics or customizations can increase the price.
- Venetian Blinds (Aluminium or PVC): These typically range from SGD 60 to SGD 180 per window. Premium aluminium or faux wood Venetian blinds might go as high as SGD 200 to SGD 400, especially for larger windows or custom sizes.
- Wooden Blinds: Wooden blinds are considered a premium option, and they usually cost between SGD 150 to SGD 350 per window, depending on the type of wood and the complexity of the design.
- Motorized Blinds: Motorized blinds are the highest-priced option. Prices for motorized roller blinds or Venetian blinds typically start at SGD 350 to SGD 700 per window and can go up to SGD 1,000 or more for larger or premium options.
Overall Cost Considerations
- Installation: In Singapore, installation costs vary depending on the type of window treatment. Professional installation of curtains can cost around SGD 50 to SGD 150 per window, while blinds typically range from SGD 80 to SGD 200 per window. Installation costs might also increase for large or complex installations, especially with motorized options.
- Maintenance: Curtains, especially fabric ones, may need regular washing or dry cleaning, which could cost anywhere from SGD 15 to SGD 50 per cleaning for standard curtains. Blinds require less frequent cleaning, usually just dusting or wiping with a damp cloth. Wooden blinds may need more specialized care to maintain their finish.
In general, blinds tend to be the more budget-friendly option if you’re on a tight budget, especially basic PVC or fabric roller blinds. On the other hand, if you’re looking for a more luxurious or personalized look, custom-made curtains will likely be more expensive, particularly with high-end materials or motorized options.
For those looking to furnish their windows affordably, budget-friendly curtain options provide stylish yet cost-effective solutions.
Which Rooms Are Best for Curtains or Blinds?
Each room in a home has different functional needs, which affect whether curtains or blinds are the better choice.
- Bedrooms – Blackout curtains are ideal for blocking light and ensuring restful sleep.
- Living rooms – Curtains create a cosy, inviting atmosphere, especially when layered with sheers.
- Kitchens – Blinds work best due to their moisture resistance and easy cleaning.
- Bathrooms – PVC or faux wood blinds handle humidity better than fabric curtains.
- Home offices – Blinds provide adjustable light control to reduce screen glare.
For homeowners who need a combination of both, dual-layered curtains allow for flexibility in lighting and privacy.
Energy Efficiency and Insulation
Window treatments also impact indoor temperature regulation, which can influence cooling costs.
- Curtains provide insulation by reducing heat transfer. Thick, lined fabrics help keep rooms cooler in hot weather and retain warmth in cooler months.
- Blinds allow better airflow but don’t insulate as well as curtains. However, honeycomb or thermal blinds improve energy efficiency by trapping air within their structure.
For those prioritizing energy savings, choosing the right curtain fabric can make a difference in insulation while maintaining style.
Final Thoughts
Choosing between curtains and blinds depends on the room’s function, aesthetic preferences, and maintenance considerations. Curtains offer softness, better insulation, and versatile layering options, while blinds provide a sleek, space-saving alternative with precise light control.
By considering factors such as cost, durability, and installation, homeowners can select the best window treatment for their space, ensuring both style and practicality.
