
What are thermal curtain linings?
Thermal curtain linings are specially designed to help insulate windows and reduce heat transfer between the indoors and outdoors. They typically consist of fabric backed with an insulating layer, which would traditionally have acrylic or even Teflon woven into it to prevent heat loss. At one time, thermal linings might have added a certain stiffness to your curtains but today’s thermal lining fabrics are really soft, so you’d find it hard to tell the difference between those and normal curtain linings.

What is the best thermal curtain lining fabric?
Forget the stiff thermal linings of five years ago - today there’s an evolution of amazing fabrics coming forward. One of these is the new Superior Thermal Energy Reflecting lining fabric. This has a metallic side to it that reflects heat back into your home during the colder months, while still maintaining the feel and drape of a classic lining. It is extremely effective and has been proven to be 5 times more efficient at reducing heat loss.

Can thermal lining be used on any curtains?
This really depends on what look you want to go for. Thermal linings are great for eyelet curtains and wave curtains where you want to maintain that sleek, modern look. If you have a double pinch pleat or pencil pleat heading but you’re looking for fuller, more plush looking curtains, then it’s best to use interlining. Interlining is a traditional way to prevent heat loss, and involves sandwiching a middle lining in between your curtain fabric and the external lining.

Are fully lined curtains thermal?
A question we are often asked is ‘are fully lined curtains thermal’? The answer depends on the type of lining used. While standard linings can add some level of insulation, they don’t offer the same benefits as dedicated thermal curtain lining fabric. Interlining curtains, as explained above, can be very effective at preventing heat loss, but would not be suitable for all types of curtains or homes. We offer a range of blackout linings which add some thermal quality, but aren’t as effective as linings that are designed specifically to retain heat. Find out more in our blog on What is the best lining for curtains?

Are thermal curtain linings worth it?
As well as saving improving your home’s energy efficiency, thermal curtain linings have a number of other benefits:
- Reduced energy bills: By reducing heat loss, thermal curtains can lower heating bills in the winter.
- Improved wellbeing: They help maintain a consistent indoor temperature by reducing cold draughts and excessive heat.
- Noise reduction: The dense fabric can also help dampen outside noise, creating a quieter home environment.
- UV protection: Thermal linings can protect furniture and flooring from sun damage by blocking harmful UV rays.

Can you add thermal lining to curtains?
If you already own curtains and want to improve their insulation properties, you can easily add a thermal lining. There are a number of ways you can do this. You can pull out the existing lining and restitch a thermal lining in its place. Or you can do what many people do in the winter and attach a detachable thermal lining using loose lining heading tape and curtain hooks. Alternatively, you can bring your curtains to one of our Just Fabrics showrooms and we can help you. Adding your own thermal lining can help enhance the energy efficiency of your home without the cost of replacing your curtains.

Can you wash thermal lined curtains?
Maintaining your curtains properly ensures their longevity and effectiveness. One of the ways to maintain your thermal lined curtains is by washing them, but it’s important to note that not all fabric types can be washed. Some linings are machine washable, while others require dry cleaning. Always check the care label for specific instructions. If machine washing is possible, use a gentle cycle and air-dry to prevent damage to the thermal coating.

Choose thermal linings and save on energy costs!
If you’re looking to reduce your energy costs and improve your overall indoor comfort, thermal curtain linings could be the answer. To add thermal linings to your curtains, you need to first consider the curtains you already have and then think about the look and feel you want to achieve. For help with your thermal curtain lining, please speak to our expert team for one-to-one advice.