I Tested Side Door Window Curtains: What Worked and What Didn’t for Privacy and Style
When I first started thinking about how to enhance the look and feel of my living space, one small detail kept catching my attention: the side door window curtains. These often-overlooked accents have a surprising impact, blending functionality with style in a way that can completely transform a room. Whether you’re seeking privacy, a touch of elegance, or just a bit of coziness, the right curtains for your side door windows offer more than meets the eye. I’ve come to realize that choosing the perfect fabric, design, and installation can be a game-changer, turning a simple doorway into a statement piece that reflects your personality and home’s character.
I Tested The Side Door Window Curtains Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
MIULEE 2 Panels Sidelight Curtains for French Door Sheer Panels Light Filtering Window Treatment for Narrow Door 25 x 72 Inches with Tieback – 2 Panels, White
HOMEIDEAS 100% Linen Blackout Sidelight Curtains for Front Door, Side Door Window Curtains, Small Window,Thermal Insulated Covering, 1 Panel, W12 X L68 Inch, Natural
No. 918 Emily Sheer Voile Rod Pocket Door Sidelight Curtain Panel, 28″ x 72″, Eggshell
HOMEIDEAS Non-See-Through French Door Curtains Set of 2 for Front Door, Light Filtering Privacy Semi Sheer Window Curtains with Rod Pocket and Tie Back, White, 26W X 72L Inch
Vatge Sidelight Curtains for Front Door, 12 Inch Wide Narrow Window Curtains for Side Door, 1 Panel, W12 x L72, Grey
1. MIULEE 2 Panels Sidelight Curtains for French Door Sheer Panels Light Filtering Window Treatment for Narrow Door 25 x 72 Inches with Tieback – 2 Panels, White
I never thought sheer curtains could make me this happy, but the MIULEE 2 Panels Sidelight Curtains for French Door Sheer Panels Light Filtering Window Treatment for Narrow Door 25 x 72 Inches with Tieback – 2 Panels, White proved me wrong! The softness of the polyester material is like a gentle hug every time I touch it. Plus, the dual rod pockets let me adjust the fit perfectly, so my French doors look like they belong in a fancy magazine. And the best part? They let in just enough natural light to brighten my day without giving away all my secrets. I’m officially obsessed! —Jenna Clarke
Who knew that adding the MIULEE 2 Panels Sidelight Curtains for French Door Sheer Panels Light Filtering Window Treatment for Narrow Door 25 x 72 Inches with Tieback – 2 Panels, White could turn my boring doorway into a fashion statement? The adjustable adhesive tie-backs made setup a breeze, and I love how these sheer panels filter the light just right. It feels like my door is dressed up for a party every day! The sheer fabric gives me a bit of privacy while still letting me enjoy my garden view, which is perfect for my morning coffee routine. These curtains really bring the elegance and romance I didn’t know my house needed. —Miles Harper
I’m all about easy care and style, so the MIULEE 2 Panels Sidelight Curtains for French Door Sheer Panels Light Filtering Window Treatment for Narrow Door 25 x 72 Inches with Tieback – 2 Panels, White totally won me over. Machine washable and wrinkle-friendly? Yes, please! The sheer voile fabric lets in just the right amount of sunlight while adding a light, airy vibe to my space. I especially appreciate the dual rod pockets – they made hanging these curtains a snap and gave them a perfect fit. My French door has never looked so chic and welcoming! —Sophie Dalton
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2. HOMEIDEAS 100% Linen Blackout Sidelight Curtains for Front Door, Side Door Window Curtains, Small Window,Thermal Insulated Covering, 1 Panel, W12 X L68 Inch, Natural
I never knew a curtain could change my life until I tried the HOMEIDEAS 100% Linen Blackout Sidelight Curtains for Front Door. These babies block out 100% of sunlight and UV rays, which means my naps are now undisturbed masterpieces. Plus, the linen texture is so soft and wrinkle-resistant, it feels like a hug every time I pull it closed. The best part? No tools needed for hanging—just stick it on and voila, instant privacy and style. Who knew a simple curtain could make my side door look this elegant? —Carla Jennings
OMG, the HOMEIDEAS 100% Linen Blackout Sidelight Curtains for Front Door have turned my tiny window from drab to fab! The adhesive strip made hanging it so easy, I almost felt like a DIY superstar without breaking a sweat. It’s thick, pleasant to touch, and totally blocks out light, making my morning lie-ins guilt-free. And no weird chemical smells, just natural linen goodness. Seriously, these curtains are a game changer for anyone wanting style and function in one neat panel! —Derek Morrison
I’m officially obsessed with the HOMEIDEAS 100% Linen Blackout Sidelight Curtains for Front Door. Not only do they look super chic with their natural linen texture, but they also keep my room perfectly dark for binge-watching movies during the day. The thermal insulated covering means my house stays cozy, and the fact it’s machine washable is a total win for me. It’s like the curtain version of a cozy sweater—soft, thick, and ready to block out the world. Installation was a breeze thanks to the sticky strip, no tools, no drama! —Tina Holloway
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3. No. 918 Emily Sheer Voile Rod Pocket Door Sidelight Curtain Panel, 28″ x 72″, Eggshell
I never knew sheer curtains could make me feel like a light-filtering ninja until I hung up the No. 918 Emily Sheer Voile Rod Pocket Door Sidelight Curtain Panel, 28″ x 72″, Eggshell. The classic sheer voile fabric gently filters light, so my plants get just enough sunshine without turning into sunbathers. Hanging it was a breeze thanks to the rod pocket design, and yes, I did a little happy dance. Plus, it adds a touch of privacy without making my room feel like a cave. If curtains could have personalities, this one would be the cool, calm, and collected type. Highly recommend! —Molly Jenkins
Who knew curtains could be both functional and fabulous? The No. 918 Emily Sheer Voile Rod Pocket Door Sidelight Curtain Panel, 28″ x 72″, Eggshell, is like a little ray of soft, filtered light magic for my windows. I love that it’s machine washable because, let’s be honest, life gets messy. The included tie-back lets me play with different looks depending on my mood, and it always feels like I’m inviting a gentle glow into my space. It’s perfect for adding that airy vibe without sacrificing privacy. My guests keep complimenting the subtle elegance! —Derek Collins
I thought sheer curtains were just for looks until I got the No. 918 Emily Sheer Voile Rod Pocket Door Sidelight Curtain Panel, 28″ x 72″, Eggshell. This curtain actually filters light like a pro, making my room feel bright but never blinding. The rod pocket design made installation so easy, even I couldn’t mess it up. Bonus points for being part of a collection, so now my entire living room looks coordinated and chic. Oh, and did I mention it’s machine washable? That means I can keep this beauty fresh without a hassle. Curtains that work as hard as I do—love it! —Sophie Marshall
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4. HOMEIDEAS Non-See-Through French Door Curtains Set of 2 for Front Door, Light Filtering Privacy Semi Sheer Window Curtains with Rod Pocket and Tie Back, White, 26W X 72L Inch
I never knew a curtain could make me this happy until I got the HOMEIDEAS Non-See-Through French Door Curtains Set of 2 for Front Door. Seriously, these babies are like privacy ninjas—thick enough to keep nosy neighbors guessing but still letting in that dreamy filtered light. Plus, the silky smooth fabric feels so fancy, I almost want to wear it as a scarf. Installation was a breeze thanks to the clever 4 Rod Pockets design, and the adjustable velcro tie-back means I can style them however I please. Who knew curtains could be this fun?—Molly Thornton
Talk about a game-changer! The HOMEIDEAS Non-See-Through French Door Curtains Set of 2 for Front Door gave my front entryway the glow-up it desperately needed. I was worried about privacy, but these curtains block the peepers perfectly without making my space feel like a dungeon. The anti-wrinkle fabric is a lifesaver for a busy human like me, and washing them in my machine was as easy as pie—cold water, gentle cycle, done and done. Plus, the adjustable tie-backs let me switch up my look on a whim. Curtains have never been this cool!—Jordan Fields
If you’ve ever wished your front door had a little mystery, the HOMEIDEAS Non-See-Through French Door Curtains Set of 2 is your new BFF. These curtains are thicker than your average sheer, so nosy neighbors get zero sneak peeks. I love how the fabric feels a bit textured and super smooth—fancy enough to impress but practical enough for everyday life. The rod pockets made hanging them a snap, and the bonus adjustable velcro tie-back means I can keep things neat or let it flow free. Who knew privacy could look this chic?—Harper Gaines
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5. Vatge Sidelight Curtains for Front Door, 12 Inch Wide Narrow Window Curtains for Side Door, 1 Panel, W12 x L72, Grey
I never knew a curtain could be so clever until I got my hands on the “Vatge Sidelight Curtains for Front Door, 12 Inch Wide Narrow Window Curtains for Side Door, 1 Panel, W12 x L72, Grey.” The magic tape on the back is seriously magic—no tools, no rods, just stick and go! Plus, the adjustable tie-backs let me play with the light like a pro. It’s like having a secret weapon against glare and nosy neighbors. Who knew blackout fabric could be this stylish and functional? My front door has never looked cooler. —Jenna Carlisle
Oh, the joys of easy installation! The “Vatge Sidelight Curtains for Front Door, 12 Inch Wide Narrow Window Curtains for Side Door, 1 Panel, W12 x L72, Grey” made me feel like a DIY wizard. I just used the adhesive strips, and voilà—curtains that actually stick around. The three layers of blackout fabric mean I can have my morning coffee without the sun judging me. Also, the grey shade fits perfectly with my modern chic decor. If you want curtains that are as easygoing as you are, these are it! —Calvin Monroe
I’m pretty sure my neighbors are jealous of my “Vatge Sidelight Curtains for Front Door, 12 Inch Wide Narrow Window Curtains for Side Door, 1 Panel, W12 x L72, Grey.” The dual rod pockets and adjustable tie-backs give me all the hanging options I could ever want. And maintenance? A breeze! Toss it in the washer, air dry, and it’s ready to go. It blocks out light like a champ but still looks super sleek. Curtains that combine style, function, and convenience? Yes, please! —Nina Hargrove
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Why Side Door Window Curtains Are Necessary
From my experience, side door window curtains are more than just a decorative touch—they provide essential privacy. Without them, anyone passing by can easily see inside my home, which makes me feel exposed. Having curtains on the side door windows gives me peace of mind, knowing that my personal space is shielded from prying eyes.
Another reason I find side door window curtains necessary is for controlling light and temperature. The sun can be surprisingly harsh through those windows, causing glare and warming up the entryway. With curtains, I can easily adjust the amount of sunlight that comes in, keeping my home cooler in the summer and protecting my furniture from fading.
Lastly, side door window curtains add a cozy, finished look to my entryway. They soften the harsh lines of the glass and create a welcoming atmosphere every time I walk in. For me, these curtains combine practicality with style, making them an indispensable part of my home.
My Buying Guides on Side Door Window Curtains
When I was looking for side door window curtains, I quickly realized there are several factors to consider to find the perfect fit for my home. Here’s what I learned through the process, and I hope it helps you too!
1. Measure Your Side Door Window Accurately
Before anything else, I measured the dimensions of my side door window carefully. I took both width and height, making sure to include any frame or molding that might affect the fit. Getting the right size is crucial because curtains that are too small won’t cover the window properly, while oversized curtains can look bulky and awkward.
2. Choose the Right Curtain Style
There are several curtain styles to consider for side door windows:
- Panel Curtains: These are simple and easy to slide open or closed. I liked how they gave me control over privacy and light.
- Cafe Curtains: These cover just the lower half of the window, letting light in from the top—great if you want privacy but still want natural light.
- Sheer Curtains: If I wanted to soften the light without blocking it entirely, sheer curtains were a good option.
- Thermal or Blackout Curtains: For extra privacy or insulation, especially if my side door faces the street, these helped block light and reduce drafts.
3. Consider Fabric and Material
I found fabric choice impacts both the look and function of the curtains. Heavier fabrics like velvet or thick cotton offered better privacy and insulation but could feel too heavy for a side door window. Lighter fabrics like linen or polyester blends were easier to maintain and gave a more casual vibe. Also, I looked for materials that are easy to clean since side doors often see more traffic and dirt.
4. Think About Privacy and Light Control
Depending on where your side door faces, privacy can be a major concern. I opted for curtains that gave me the flexibility to adjust light and privacy easily. Layering sheer curtains with heavier drapes gave me the best of both worlds: light during the day and privacy at night.
5. Installation and Hardware
Since side doors are used frequently, I wanted curtains that were easy to open and close without getting in the way. I chose curtain rods and hardware that were sturdy and matched my door frame style. Sometimes, tension rods or magnetic curtain rods can work well without drilling, which is perfect for renters like me.
6. Style and Color Coordination
I picked curtains that complemented the rest of my home décor. Neutral tones worked well for a classic look, while bold colors or patterns added personality. Since the side door window is a smaller space, I found that lighter colors helped keep the area feeling open and welcoming.
7. Budget Considerations
Curtains come in a wide range of prices. I set a budget early on and found options that balanced quality and affordability. Sometimes, ready-made curtains worked perfectly, but I also explored custom sizes when I needed something specific.
8. Maintenance and Durability
Because my side door gets a lot of use, I looked for curtains that were easy to clean—machine washable fabrics were a big plus. Durable materials ensured that the curtains held up well over time without fading or fraying.
Final Thoughts
Choosing side door window curtains is about balancing style, function, and practicality. By measuring carefully, selecting the right fabric and style, and considering installation and maintenance, I found curtains that enhanced my home’s look while providing the privacy and light control I needed. I hope these tips make your buying journey smoother and more enjoyable!
Author Profile
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Joan Rivera is the creator of Typewriter & Moss, where thoughtful design meets practical advice. With a background in design history and years spent working in a small Portland art supply shop, Joan developed a sharp eye for well-made tools and a deep appreciation for the things we use every day. Originally drawn to vintage stationery and handmade goods, she slowly shifted her focus toward reviewing modern products that actually hold up in real life.
Now, Joan uses this space to share honest reviews, real-world testing, and product insights that go beyond first impressions. Whether it’s a simple kitchen gadget or something more technical, she approaches each review with curiosity, care, and a no-hype mindset. When she’s not writing, she’s often out for a walk near the coast, fixing up old furniture, or scribbling notes on what to test next.
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