Curtains do far more than cover a window. They help control light, improve privacy, keep rooms warmer, and bring your décor together. The right pair can make a room feel brighter, cosier, or more spacious without the cost of a full renovation.
If you're looking for a quick and affordable way to update your home, ready-made curtains are one of the easiest changes you can make. They are available in a wide range of colours, fabrics, patterns, and standard UK sizes, making it simple to find a style that suits your space.
Whether you're furnishing your first home, refreshing your living room, or replacing worn curtains, this guide will help you choose with confidence. You'll learn about the different curtain styles, fabrics, measurements, and practical features that matter when buying ready-made curtains in the UK.
Why Choose Ready-Made Curtains?
Ready-made curtains have become a popular choice across the UK because they combine convenience with value for money. Instead of waiting weeks for custom-made window coverings, you can choose a pair that's ready to hang as soon as it arrives.
For most standard UK windows, ready-made curtains offer everything you need without the higher cost of bespoke products.
Some of the biggest advantages include:
- Affordable compared with made-to-measure curtains
- Available in standard UK sizes
- Easy to install
- Wide choice of fabrics and colours
- Suitable for modern and traditional homes
- Ideal for renters and homeowners
- Perfect for seasonal home updates
If you enjoy updating your décor from time to time, ready-made curtains make it easy to change the look of a room without replacing everything else.
How to Choose the Right Ready-Made Curtains
Buying curtains isn't only about picking your favourite colour. A few practical decisions can make a big difference in how they look and perform every day.
Think About the Room
Each room has different needs, so it's worth considering how you'll use the space before choosing a fabric or style.
Living Room Curtains
The living room is often the busiest room in the house. You'll usually want curtains that allow natural daylight while still providing privacy during the evening.
Popular choices include:
- Linen curtains
- Cotton curtains
- Velvet curtains for a more luxurious look
Neutral shades such as beige, cream, soft grey, and taupe continue to be popular in UK homes because they work with almost any colour scheme.
Bedroom Curtains
Bedrooms benefit from curtains that help create a darker, quieter space.
Many homeowners choose blackout ready-made curtains because they:
- Block early morning sunlight
- Improve sleep quality
- Increase privacy
- Help keep bedrooms warmer during winter
This is especially useful during the long summer evenings and early sunrises experienced across the UK.
Internal Linking Opportunity: Blackout Curtains
Dining Room Curtains
Dining rooms often suit richer fabrics and elegant heading styles. Velvet, jacquard, or textured woven fabrics can make the space feel more welcoming while adding a touch of sophistication.
Home Office Curtains
Working from home has become much more common. Curtains that soften sunlight without making the room too dark can reduce screen glare while keeping the space comfortable throughout the day.
Light-filtering fabrics are often the best option.
Popular Types of Ready-Made Curtains
The heading style affects how your curtains hang and the overall appearance of the room. Here are the most popular options available in the UK.
Eyelet Curtains
Eyelet curtains remain one of the best-selling curtain styles in Britain.
They feature metal rings stitched into the top of the curtain, allowing them to slide directly onto a curtain pole.
They are popular because they:
- Hang in smooth, even folds
- Are quick to install
- Open and close easily
- Suit modern interiors
Eyelet curtains work particularly well in living rooms, bedrooms, dining rooms, and new-build homes where clean lines are preferred.
Internal Linking Opportunity: Eyelet Curtains
Pencil Pleat Curtains
Pencil pleat curtains have remained a favourite for decades.
The tightly gathered heading creates small pleats that suit both traditional and contemporary interiors.
Benefits include:
- Compatible with curtain tracks and poles
- Timeless appearance
- Available in almost every fabric
- Suitable for every room
If you're unsure which heading style to choose, pencil pleat curtains are a safe and versatile option.
Internal Linking Opportunity: Pencil Pleat Curtains
Goblet Pleat Curtains
Goblet pleat curtains create a more decorative finish.
Their structured folds resemble the shape of a goblet, giving windows a classic and elegant appearance.
These curtains work especially well in:
- Period properties
- Formal living rooms
- Large bay windows
- Homes with traditional décor
Although slightly more decorative, they still pair beautifully with modern furniture when balanced with simple colours.
Tab Top Curtains
Tab top curtains have fabric loops instead of rings or hooks.
The curtain pole slides through these loops to create a relaxed appearance.
They are ideal for:
- Cottage-style homes
- Farmhouse interiors
- Guest bedrooms
- Casual living spaces
Many people choose tab top curtains because they create a softer, less structured finish.
Single Panel Curtains
Single panel curtains are becoming increasingly popular in modern homes.
Instead of two curtain panels meeting in the middle, one wide panel slides to one side.
They're often used for:
- Narrow windows
- Home offices
- Studio apartments
- Minimalist interiors
This style creates a clean, contemporary look while using less fabric.
Choosing the Best Curtain Fabric
Fabric affects how your curtains hang, how much light enters the room, and how much insulation they provide. Here are the most common options.
Velvet Curtains
Velvet curtains bring warmth and texture to any room.
They are particularly popular in UK homes because the heavier fabric also provides extra insulation during colder months.
Advantages include:
- Excellent heat retention
- Better light control
- Luxurious appearance
- Rich texture
- Great for bedrooms and living rooms
Deep navy, emerald green, charcoal, and warm beige remain popular velvet curtain colours.
Blackout Curtains
Blackout curtains include a specially designed lining that blocks most outside light.
They're an excellent choice if you:
- Work night shifts
- Have young children
- Live on a busy road
- Want better sleep
Many blackout curtains also help reduce outside noise and improve energy efficiency.
Linen Curtains
Linen curtains create a bright and airy atmosphere.
Their relaxed texture works particularly well in Scandinavian, coastal, and contemporary interiors.
Benefits include:
- Natural appearance
- Soft drape
- Allows gentle daylight
- Timeless style
Linen is especially suitable for living rooms, dining rooms, and garden-facing spaces where you want to make the most of natural light.
Cotton Curtains
Cotton remains one of the most practical curtain fabrics available.
It's easy to care for, affordable, and available in hundreds of colours and designs.
Cotton curtains suit:
- Bedrooms
- Living rooms
- Children's bedrooms
- Home offices
They're also a good choice if you like changing your décor regularly because they offer excellent value for money.
Thermal Curtains
With energy costs remaining an important concern for many UK households, thermal curtains have become increasingly popular.
These curtains include insulating layers that help reduce heat loss through windows.
Benefits include:
- Improved energy efficiency
- Reduced draughts
- Better indoor comfort
- Lower heating costs during colder months
Older homes with larger windows often benefit the most from thermal curtains.
Matching Curtains with Your Interior Style
Curtains should work with the rest of your room rather than compete with it.
If your décor is modern, simple fabrics in neutral shades usually create the cleanest finish.
Traditional homes often suit richer textures like velvet together with pencil pleat or goblet pleat headings.
Minimalist interiors work well with white, stone, oatmeal, and soft grey curtains, while bold interiors can comfortably carry floral prints, geometric patterns, or deep jewel tones.
If you're unsure, neutral curtains are usually the safest investment because they continue to work even when you redecorate.
Standard Ready-Made Curtain Sizes in the UK
One of the biggest advantages of ready-made curtains is that they are available in standard UK sizes, making it easy to find a suitable fit for most homes.
Curtain sizes are shown as:
Width × Drop (Length)
For example:
- 117cm × 137cm
- 168cm × 183cm
- 228cm × 229cm
The first number is the curtain width, while the second is the curtain drop.
Always check the product description before buying, as measurements usually refer to each curtain in the pair rather than the combined width.
How to Measure for Ready-Made Curtains
Getting the measurements right is just as important as choosing the fabric. Curtains that are too short or too narrow can make an otherwise beautiful room look unfinished.
The good news is that measuring is straightforward.
Measuring Curtain Width
Start by measuring your curtain pole or curtain track, not the window itself.
To create full, attractive folds, your curtains should have a combined width that is around 1.5 to 2 times the width of the pole or track.
For example:
- Curtain pole width: 150cm
- Recommended total curtain width: 225cm to 300cm
Extra fullness gives the curtains a softer, more luxurious appearance when closed.
Measuring Curtain Drop
The curtain drop is measured from the top of the curtain heading to the bottom edge.
Install your curtain pole before taking measurements so you know exactly where the curtains will hang.
There are three popular curtain lengths.
Sill-Length Curtains
These finish just above the windowsill.
Best suited for:
- Kitchens
- Utility rooms
- Bathrooms
- Small windows
They provide a neat appearance while keeping fabric away from worktops and radiators.
Below-Sill Curtains
These extend around 15 to 25 centimetres below the sill.
A practical choice for:
- Bedrooms
- Home offices
- Children's rooms
They create a softer finish without reaching the floor.
Floor-Length Curtains
Floor-length curtains remain the most popular option for living areas.
They suit:
- Living rooms
- Dining rooms
- Master bedrooms
- Bay windows
Aim to leave a gap of around 1 to 2 centimetres above the floor for a clean finish.
Many interior designers recommend floor-length curtains because they make ceilings appear higher and rooms feel larger.
Choosing the Right Curtain Colour
Colour has a huge impact on the atmosphere of a room.
Think about how much natural light your room receives before making your choice.
Light Colours
Cream, ivory, white, oatmeal and soft grey curtains help reflect natural light.
They're ideal if you want to:
- Make a small room feel bigger
- Brighten darker spaces
- Create a fresh, modern look
These colours work particularly well in flats, smaller homes and north-facing rooms.
Dark Colours
Charcoal, navy, forest green and deep burgundy create a warm, cosy atmosphere.
They're perfect for:
- Large living rooms
- Media rooms
- Bedrooms
- Traditional interiors
Darker curtains can also make a room feel more intimate during autumn and winter.
Patterned Curtains
Patterns add personality without needing to repaint a room.
Popular designs include:
- Floral prints
- Botanical patterns
- Stripes
- Geometric designs
- Textured weaves
If your furniture and walls are fairly neutral, patterned curtains can become an attractive focal point.
If your room already includes bold wallpaper or colourful furniture, plain curtains usually create a better balance.
Why Thermal and Blackout Curtains Are Worth Considering
Many people buy curtains for appearance alone, but the right lining can improve comfort throughout the year.
Better Energy Efficiency
Windows are one of the biggest sources of heat loss in UK homes.
Thermal-lined curtains help reduce this by creating an extra layer of insulation.
Benefits include:
- Less heat escaping during winter
- Cooler rooms in summer
- Lower energy bills
- Reduced draughts
This is especially useful in older homes with single glazing or large bay windows.
Improved Sleep
Blackout curtains are designed to block outside light.
They are particularly useful for:
- Children's bedrooms
- Shift workers
- Homes near street lighting
- East-facing bedrooms
Combined with thermal lining, blackout curtains offer excellent comfort all year round.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Buying Ready-Made Curtains
A few simple mistakes can leave even expensive curtains looking disappointing.
Here are some of the most common ones.
Choosing Curtains That Are Too Narrow
Curtains need enough fabric to create soft folds.
If they only just cover the window, they'll appear flat and stretched.
Always allow enough width for fullness.
Measuring the Window Instead of the Curtain Pole
Many people measure the glass area rather than the curtain pole.
This usually results in curtains that are too small.
Measure the pole or track every time.
Ignoring the Curtain Heading
Not every heading works with every pole or track.
Before buying, check that your chosen heading style is compatible with your existing fittings.
Picking Style Over Function
Think about how you'll use the room.
A sheer linen curtain might look beautiful in a bedroom, but it won't provide the same privacy or darkness as a blackout curtain.
Choose a fabric that matches the room's purpose.
Looking After Your Ready-Made Curtains
With proper care, quality curtains can look great for many years.
Here are a few simple maintenance tips.
- Vacuum curtains regularly using a soft brush attachment.
- Follow the washing instructions on the care label.
- Steam or iron curtains if recommended.
- Open and close them gently to reduce wear.
- Keep heavier curtains away from damp walls.
Well-maintained curtains stay fresher, hold their colour for longer and continue to hang beautifully.
Final Thoughts
Ready-made curtains are one of the easiest ways to refresh your home without taking on a major decorating project. They combine style, practicality and affordability, making them suitable for almost every room.
Whether you're looking for elegant velvet curtains for a formal living room, blackout curtains for a better night's sleep or lightweight linen curtains to brighten your home, there's a ready-made option to suit your needs.
Before placing your order, remember to:
- Measure your curtain pole carefully.
- Choose the right heading style.
- Select a fabric that suits the room.
- Think about insulation and light control.
- Pick colours that complement your décor.
Taking a little extra time now will help you enjoy beautiful curtains for years to come.
Find the Perfect Ready-Made Curtains for Your Home
At Imperial Rooms, you'll find a carefully selected range of ready-made curtains designed for modern and traditional UK homes. From stylish eyelet curtains and timeless pencil pleat designs to luxurious velvet, blackout and thermal curtains, there's something to suit every room and budget.
Browse our collection today and give your home a fresh new look with curtains that combine quality, style and everyday practicality.
FAQs
Are ready-made curtains better than made-to-measure curtains?
Ready-made curtains are an excellent choice for standard UK windows. They are more affordable, available immediately and come in a wide range of styles. Made-to-measure curtains are better suited to unusually shaped or oversized windows.
What are the best ready-made curtains for bedrooms?
Blackout curtains are one of the best options for bedrooms because they reduce outside light, improve privacy and help create better sleeping conditions.
Which curtain fabric lasts the longest?
Velvet, quality cotton and polyester blends are all durable choices when properly cared for. The best fabric depends on the room and how often the curtains are used.
Should curtains touch the floor?
In most living rooms and bedrooms, floor-length curtains create the most elegant finish. They also help make ceilings appear higher.
Do thermal curtains really save energy?
Yes. Thermal curtains provide an extra layer of insulation that can reduce heat loss through windows. While they won't replace good insulation, they can help improve comfort and reduce heating costs.
