Curtain over the bed - what is it for?

A curtain over a bed is called a canopy, which is a sheet of lightweight fabric attached to the bedposts or suspended from a cornice. The use of canopies is rooted in history, which is why it is associated with royal chambers. However, this detail has safely reached our days. In the bedroom, where there is a bed with a weightless canopy, a gentle, calm and romantic atmosphere reigns.

The curtain for the bed serves to protect the sleeper from drafts, insects, light, prying eyes (for example, if the bed is located in the living room or studio apartment), and also gives a feeling of comfort and security. A bed with a curtain allows you to organize a personal space where you can take a nap, relax or read a book in seclusion.

It is also appropriate to hang this element above the bed in the children's room - it will give the child comfort and pleasant dreams. Light tulle, suspended from the bed, visually softens the strict geometric shapes of cabinet furniture.

The canopy is also an additional element of the interior decor of the room, especially if it is decorated in a classic or historical style. The curtain for the bed is sold separately in specialized stores, it is also possible to buy a finished bed already with it.

The main advantages of the curtain over the bed:

  1. Interior design addition. The canopy is a truly beautiful textile product, and the peculiar way of attaching it (light throws, cascades, jabot, drapery, tiebacks of different lengths) will give the room a unique style.
  2. The best solution for a studio apartment. The use of a fabric curtain is appropriate in an apartment where there is no clear division of space.
  3. Rational filling of space. In uncomfortable spacious bedrooms with high ceilings, it is advisable to install a bed with a draped canopy, as it can visually reduce the room, filling it with comfort.
  4. Sun protection. If the windows face the East and in the morning bright sunlight hits the eyes, the curtain will reliably protect the sleeper from them.

To maintain the presentable appearance of this product, it is necessary to regularly clean up the room, otherwise the canopy bed loses its attractiveness against the background of disorder.

Disadvantages of curtains over the bed:

  1. Regular cleaning required. Since dust accumulates in the folds of the fabric, it is necessary to wash the curtain every 1-2 months, especially if there are allergy sufferers and small children in the house.
  2. Not suitable for small bedrooms with low ceilings. In a small room, a bed with a curtain creates a feeling of clutter.
  3. The combination with other interior items is important. The canopy should be in harmony with the carpet, bed, bedspread and pillows. It is often difficult to achieve such a result on your own, so the help of designers may be required.

The canopy made of dense fabric can be cleaned of dust with a vacuum cleaner by setting the gentle suction mode.

Types of canopies

There are the following ways to attach the curtain over the bed:


If the bed is located in the corner of the room, then it is better to use an arc-shaped canopy frame.

Material selection

The curtain closing the bed is made of any material, however, its type affects the appearance of the interior. For the bedroom, it is better to use light fabrics (tulle, natural silk, chiffon, organza, veil). These fabrics provide good access to air, and also decorate the interior, bringing lightness and serenity to it. Heavy fabrics (jacquard, tapestry, velvet), placed above the bed, are able to emphasize the status and refined taste of the owner. In winter, a curtain made of dense material will ensure the safety of heat near the bed. It is important to fasten such curtains to strong supports; a frame with vertical massive racks is ideal.

Heavy fabrics fit well into the interior of a room decorated in a classic style, and light ones in an oriental style.

Regardless of the type of material, the canopy should be in harmony with other elements of the interior, especially with curtains. When placing it, it is important to consider the ceiling height, type, design, layout and size of the room. Various decorative elements (tassels, fringes, frills) will allow to emphasize the uniqueness of the style of the bedroom.

The curtain blocking the bed has a more decorative function, so it is usually used as a room decoration. Canopies are used not only for decorating a sleeping bed, but also for summer verandas, gazebos, and banquet halls. It is not difficult to sew it yourself with little sewing skills, but it is easier to buy a finished product in a specialized store.