How To Hang Curtains Over Vertical Blinds?

Choosing the Right Hanging Method

Not all methods work for all blinds. Here's how to figure out which setup is best for you:

No-Drill Solutions (Renter-Approved)

1. NoNo Brackets

• Clamp onto existing vertical blind headrail

• No tools needed, fully removable

• Best for medium-weight curtains

• Inside and outside mount versions available

2. Tension Rods

• Fit inside the window frame

• Great for sheer or light panels

• Can slip if overloaded

3. Kwik-Hang Brackets

• Tap into wood trim (no screws or drills)

• Support up to 20 lbs

• Only works with wooden frames

4. Drapery Hooks into Blind Clips

• Remove slats and hook curtains directly into blind clips

• Genius if you want curtains to function like blinds

• Limited compatibility, but renter gold when it works

Traditional Methods (Homeowner-Friendly)

• Wall-mounted brackets above and beyond the window frame (for heavier curtains)

• Ceiling-mounted curtain tracks for that sleek, modern, floor-to-ceiling look

• Built-in blind channels if your blinds came with hook-ready tracks

Measuring & Prepping: Get It Right the First Time

Don’t eyeball this part. It’s worth getting your measurements tight so your curtains hang clean and your hardware clears the blinds.

You’ll Need:

• Tape measure

• Pencil

• Level

• Step ladder (trust us)

Measure width:

• Take the full width of your blind headrail

• Add 8–12 inches for curtain rod extension on each side

Measure height:

• For floor-length curtains, measure from 4–6 inches above the blind to 1/2 inch off the floor

• For puddled curtains, add 2–4 inches

• For sill-length curtains, stop just below the sill

Mounting your curtain rod higher and wider makes your window (and room) look bigger. Optical illusions are underrated.

Step-by-Step Installation Instructions

Let’s break it down by method:

NoNo Brackets

1. Remove any plastic headrail valance

2. Slide brackets onto the headrail (tighten with screwdriver if needed)

3. Insert your curtain rod

4. Hang your curtains

5. Adjust as needed

Tension Rods

1. Measure inside width of the window frame

2. Extend tension rod slightly past that measurement

3. Place rod above the blind track, inside the frame

4. Twist to secure, then hang curtains

Wall-Mounted Brackets

1. Mark bracket positions 4–6 inches above blind header

2. Use a level to align

3. Drill and install wall anchors (unless hitting studs)

4. Secure brackets and hang your rod + curtains

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Mounting too low: makes windows look squat

• Curtain panels too narrow: leads to limp, flat folds

• Forgetting to check clearance: blinds and curtains need breathing room

• Uneven brackets: always use a level

Hardware & Fabric Considerations

Curtain Rod Tips:

• Diameter: 1 to 1.5 inches usually works best

• Length: should extend 3–6 inches beyond window on both sides

• Clearance: at least 3–4 inches from the wall to clear blinds

Curtain Fabric Tips:

• Lightweight: sheers, cotton, linen blends – great for airflow

• Medium: poly blends, duck cloth – solid light filtration

• Heavy: velvet, blackout – great for insulation, but need strong rods

In Florida, UV resistance matters. Choose fabrics that handle sun well or back them with a protective lining.

Styling Tips: Curtains Over Vertical Blinds Ideas

Curtains + blinds can look layered and luxe, not cluttered. 

Here’s how:

For Drama:

• Mount high and wide

• Go full-length or puddled

• Choose bold colors or patterns

For Subtle Elegance:

• Match curtain color to walls for a seamless look

• Layer sheer panels under heavier drapes

• Use neutral vertical blinds with textured curtains

For Rentals:

• Use removable panels or seasonal curtains

• Add holdbacks for a clean open look

• Tie sheers in summer, swap for blackout in winter

Maintenance & Long-Term Tips

Cleaning:

• Vacuum curtains regularly

• Follow fabric washing instructions

• Wipe blinds weekly with microfiber cloth

Hardware Check-Up:

• Tighten rods or brackets every few months

• For no-drill setups, test tension and adjust as needed

Sun Protection:

• Rotate curtains for even fading

• Use UV spray or protective backing if needed

Smart Home Compatibility: Curtains + Motorized Blinds

Got motorized blinds? Here's what to know:

• Never attach curtains to motorized blind tracks

• Use separate rods mounted above the system

• Consider motorized curtains for fully automated control

• Smart systems like Somfy work with voice and app controls