How to Hang Curtains in Your Rental Apartment in 8 Ways
Looking for creative, damage-free solutions on how to hang curtains in an apartment? Whether you’re decorating your first rental or simply updating your space, there are plenty of renter-friendly methods to achieve stylish and functional window treatments. From tension rods to Kwik-Hang brackets, these ideas ensure you won’t lose your deposit while elevating your home’s aesthetics.
8 Ways to Hang Curtains in an Apartment
Check out these hassle-free ways to hang curtains in an apartment without drilling or damaging walls!
1. For Wooden Frames: Kwik-Hang
Finding stylish, durable window treatments that don’t require drilling is hard. Luckily, Kwik-Hang curtain rod brackets were designed with the best of both worlds in mind.
Simply tap them into the top of the window trim, and you’re ready to hang your curtains—no screws or drill needed. With five color options, you can select one that matches the rest of your apartment decor.
Kwik-Hang brackets can hold up to twenty pounds, are reusable, and easily removable. Plus, at $12.99 for a pair, you get a simple, beautiful, and affordable solution.
Tip: To ensure maximum stability, make sure your window trim is clean and dry before installing Kwik-Hang brackets. This prevents slipping or uneven placement.
2. For Lightweight Curtains: Command Hooks
If you have lightweight curtains, Command Hooks can be a perfect solution. They’re affordable, easy to apply, and come in various shapes and sizes. Larger hooks can hold up a rod, while smaller ones are good for holding curtains with clips.
Remember to watch the weight of what you’re hanging, as the hooks will fall off if overloaded. Check the package to see how much weight your hooks can hold (usually no more than five pounds).
Tip: Always follow the instructions for proper adhesion. For best results, clean the wall surface with rubbing alcohol and let it dry completely before applying the hooks.
3. For Cafe Curtains or Small Windows: Tension or Twist-and-Fit Rods
Tension rods and twist-and-fit rods are great for hanging lightweight or cafe curtains. Both options are adjustable and require no tools:
- Tension Rods: These rods fit tightly between two walls, a window or door frame and have rubber tips on both ends to minimize scraping or damage. They come in various colors and sizes to match your style and support the curtain weight.
- Twist & Fit Rods: These work similarly but are usually sturdier. They’re simple to install and come in styles for light to medium-weight curtains. More expensive models, like Ella by Kenney , can support layered curtains.
Tip: Measure your window frame carefully before purchasing a tension rod to ensure a snug fit and avoid slipping. Additionally, once installed, test the rod's tension periodically to ensure it remains secure, especially if handling heavier curtains.
4. For Shades: Redi
Redi shades are an easy, customizable solution for renters. All you need is thirty seconds and a push of a button to lock them in place. Available in a variety of colors, styles and fabrics, they allow you to control light and privacy without tools or damage.
However, they come with a higher price tag, starting at $23 for a 36"W x 72"H window. Also, if you’re looking for a more elegant or sophisticated option, Redi shades might feel a bit too simple.
For a more polished look, consider layering Redi shades with curtain panels for added style and functionality.
5. For French Doors: Suction Cup Hooks or Over-the-Door Hooks
French doors pose a unique challenge, but suction cup hooks or over-the-door hooks provide easy, renter-friendly solutions.
- Suction Cup Hooks: Perfect for lightweight curtains, these hooks stick directly to the glass without causing damage. Just make sure to clean the glass surface with soapy water and dry it thoroughly before applying them to improve their grip.
- Over-the-Door Hooks: These slip over the top of the door and can support heavier curtains. Look for adjustable options to ensure a snug fit. We recommend using foam padding on over-the-door hooks to prevent scratches or dents on the door surface.
Read more: How to Hang Curtains on French Doors
6. For Room Divider: Curtain Stand
If you need a room divider or want to hang curtains where no windows exist, curtain stands are a fantastic solution. These freestanding units come in several types to suit different needs and don’t require any drilling or mounting.
- Standard Curtain Stands: Perfect for lightweight or decorative curtains, these are adjustable in height and width, making them versatile for various spaces.
- Heavy-Duty Curtain Stands: Designed to support thicker or heavier curtains, these models often come with reinforced frames and larger bases for added stability.
- Portable Partition Stands: Ideal for temporary setups, these stands are easy to move and pack away when not in use.
They’re portable, reusable, and can support a range of curtain weights depending on the type selected.
Tip: Opt for a weighted base or add stylish weights to the stand’s base for increased stability, especially in high-traffic areas. For extra flexibility, consider stands with extendable poles to adjust the height as needed.
7. For Over Blinds: NoNo Brackets
NoNo brackets are a smart way to hang curtains over existing blinds without removing or damaging them. These brackets slide into place at the top of the blind’s headrail and provide support for curtain rods.
They’re sturdy enough to hold medium-weight curtains and are perfect for maintaining privacy while adding a decorative touch.
Tip: Choose curtains that complement the existing blinds for a cohesive look. Sheer or light-filtering curtains work especially well with blinds.
8. For Metal Frames: Magnetic Curtain Rods
Metal frames, like those on steel windows or doors, work wonderfully with magnetic curtain rods. These rods attach securely to the frame using strong magnets, eliminating the need for screws or adhesives.
They’re available in various styles and sizes and can hold light to medium-weight curtains.
Tip: Ensure the metal frame is clean and flat to maximize the magnetic hold. Avoid hanging heavy or thick curtains that might overpower the magnets.
