You've certainly heard of blockout and thermal curtain linings, but what's the difference between them? In this post, we will discuss the various lining options so that you can make an informed choice when selecting living room curtains for your house.

But first, why line your curtains?

Windows play an essential part in maintaining the temperature in your home; therefore, cover them properly. Lined curtains form a thermal insulation barrier that helps keep your house warm and cozy.

Thermal lining

The thermal curtain lining consists of a single layer (or pass) of coated acrylic suede. It provides a thermal barrier, enhancing energy efficiency and keeping your area warmer. It is vital to note that, due to the fabric's structure, some light will still enter the room. Another thing to be aware of is that this fabric has a tendency to 'dust' at times, which can be inconvenient when particles accumulate behind your curtains and on your sills.

Blackouts lining

Blackout curtain lining comes in a variety of styles. We've described three major fabric types below.

1. Silicone-coated

Silicone blackout lining is one of the market's newer items, with three layers of silicone protecting it from the sun and moisture. This fabric has excellent blockout capabilities, and because it is thicker, it absorbs heat more effectively than thermal lining. Unlike an acrylic suede lining, it will not generate or retain any stray dust. Another benefit is that the silicone on the liner's back can be easily removed with a damp cloth, allowing for easy spot cleaning.

1. Dimout/triple weave

The second type of blackout lining is known as 'dimout,' also known as triple weave lining. This fabric is woven rather than coated, so it feels softer and thicker. However, keep in mind that the weave allows a little amount of light to get through, which is why the fabric is referred to as 'dimout' rather than 'blackout'. Again, the three-layer design makes it a more energy-efficient option than traditional thermal lining.

1. Blackout lining: coated acrylic suede

The third blackout liner is three-layered (or three-pass) acrylic suede. This fabric's triple layers, like those of other blackout linings, allow it to retain more heat and block out more light than a thermal lining. However, like thermal lining, it produces dust, making it a less desirable option because it naturally rubs off with time.

The verdict: which is best?

Don't be deceived by the name 'thermal lining'; if you want better heat retention in your home, a three-pass blockout lining is your best option. Consider this: if you were going to the snow, you'd wear three layers of clothing instead of one, so why wouldn't you do the same with your windows?