Cafe Curtains

The terms are often used interchangeably, but cafe curtains and tier curtains serve the same function: covering the lower portion of a window while leaving the top open for light. The main difference is in how they are sold. Tier curtains are sold in pairs of shorter panels that cover the bottom half. Cafe curtains are sometimes sold as single longer panels that can be mounted at any height on the lower window. In practice, both cover the lower window to provide seated privacy while letting daylight in from above.

The three standard cafe curtain lengths are 18 inches, 24 inches, and 36 inches. An 18-inch length covers roughly the bottom third of a standard kitchen window and works when you want most of the window open for light. A 24-inch length covers about the bottom half and is the most versatile size for kitchens and bathrooms. A 36-inch length provides more coverage and works on taller windows or when you want stronger seated privacy. If your window falls between these lengths, custom lengths are available — the maximum panel width for both standard and custom sizes is 55 inches.

The rod height depends on which length you choose and how much of the lower window you want covered. On a standard kitchen window about 48 inches tall, a rod mounted 24 inches from the top leaves the bottom 24 inches for the curtain, which pairs naturally with a 24-inch panel. For an 18-inch panel, mount the rod 30 inches from the top to keep the lower third covered. For a 36-inch panel, mount at 12 inches from the top for half-window coverage. Before installing, hold the panel at your planned height and check the coverage from both standing and seated positions.

Cafe curtains cover the lower portion of the window, which blocks the view from outside at seated eye level. This works well in kitchens, bathrooms, and breakfast nooks where people are sitting down. From a standing position outside, the upper window is still visible, so full privacy is not achieved. If you need complete privacy, pair cafe curtains with a valance or sheer panel on the upper half, or switch to full-length curtains for that specific window.

Yes. Cafe curtains are one of the most popular window treatments for bathrooms because they cover the lower window where privacy matters most while allowing steam and moisture to escape through the open upper portion. A 24-inch length works for most standard bathroom windows, while an 18-inch length suits smaller windows above sinks. Choose a washable fabric like cotton or polyester-cotton blend, since bathroom humidity requires frequent laundering. Avoid pure linen in bathrooms unless you are comfortable with more careful maintenance.

For the best gathered look, the total curtain width should be about 1.5 to 2 times the rod width. All panels are cut to a maximum width of 55 inches, which covers most single kitchen and bathroom windows on its own. On a narrow window under 30 inches wide, a single 55-inch panel gives ample fullness. On a standard window 30 to 36 inches wide, one 55-inch panel still works well with soft gathering. For windows wider than 55 inches, you will need two panels side by side — in that case, contact for a custom-width solution since standard panels max out at 55 inches.

Yes. A valance on the upper rod and cafe curtains on the lower rod is a classic combination that covers the full window while still allowing light through. The valance should be shorter than the gap between the two rods so there is no overlap. Choose a matching or complementary fabric for both pieces to create a coordinated look. This setup gives more privacy than cafe curtains alone while maintaining the bright, open feeling that half-window treatments provide.