How to Choose Window Air Conditioner Side Curtains | A Guide

Hi there! I'm James, owner of Dolcewe.com. We've made custom curtains for over 10 years. Today I want to talk about window AC side curtains. These simple items can save you money and make your home look better.

Most window AC units leave gaps on the sides. This lets cool air escape and hot air come in. Good side curtains fix this problem.

I'll share what I've learned from helping thousands of customers find the right solution.

Understanding Window Unit Curtains

So, what exactly are window unit curtains? They're special fabric panels or insulation pieces that you put around your window AC unit. Their main job is to make your bulky AC look nice and blend in with the rest of your room's decor.

But that's not all they do! Window unit curtains also help your AC work more efficiently.

How? By creating an insulating barrier around the unit with conditioning side panels with frame, they prevent the cool air from escaping and the hot air from getting in. This means your AC doesn't have to work as hard, saving you money on your energy bills!

Here are a few more reasons why window unit curtains are awesome:

• They reduce noise from the AC unit, making your room quieter and more peaceful.

• Some curtains can block out sunlight, which is great for bedrooms when you want to sleep in.

• They provide a bit of privacy by covering the window area around the AC.

See? Window unit curtains are like superheroes for your window AC – they make it look good and perform better at the same time!

Types of Window AC Side Panels in 2025

When it comes to window unit curtains, you've got two main options: regular curtains or special window AC side panel made just for window ACs. Let's take a closer look!

You have several options for side panels:

At Dolcewe.com, we make custom fabric and insulated side curtains. Our customers love that they can match their room decor.

Regular Air Conditioner Curtain

One way to cover up your window AC is by using regular curtains. You can find these at most home stores in all kinds of fun colors and patterns.

The key is to measure your window and AC carefully to make sure the curtains fit properly.

Tip: Go for lightweight, breathable fabrics so the airflow from your AC isn't blocked.

While regular curtains can definitely make your AC look better, there are a few downsides:

• They might not insulate as well as special side panels

• It can be tricky to open/close them with the AC in the way, especially when considering accordion filler curtain adjustments.

• You may need to get creative with how you hang them

Window Air Conditioner Side Panels

These specially made-panels are designed to work hand-in-hand with your window AC unit. They're usually made of insulating materials like vinyl or foam.

The great things about side panels are:

• They insulate really well to boost your AC's performance, acting as a great air conditioner cover.

• They reduce noise from the unit

• They create a neat, built-in look around the AC

The only catch is that side panels have to be the right size to fit your specific AC model. So measure carefully! Some units may not be compatible.

Benefits of Using Window AC Unit Curtains

No matter which type you choose, window unit curtains come with some awesome benefits:

Improved Looks

Let's be honest, those bulky ACs aren't the cutest. Curtains hide that awkward look and blend it into your room's style.

Better Efficiency

Curtains and side panels insulate the AC to prevent cool air leaks. That means it doesn't have to work as hard to keep you comfy! This can cut your cooling costs by up to 25%. Think about what you could do with that extra money!

Light Control

If you use them in a bedroom, curtains let you block out sunlight for better sleep.

More Privacy 

With curtains covering the window area, nosy neighbors have less chance of peeking in.

So don't let that unsightly AC unit cramp your style. Cover it up with some snazzy curtains or side panels!

How to Measure for Window AC Side Curtains

Getting the right measurements is key. Here's a simple guide:

Step 1: Remove any current side panels.

Step 2: Measure the height from the window sill to the top of the opening.

Step 3: Measure the width from the AC unit to the window frame on both sides.

Step 4: Add 1 inch to each measurement for overlap.

Write these numbers down right away. Many people forget them quickly!

Common mistakes include:

• Not measuring both sides (they're often different)
• Forgetting to measure height
• Not adding extra for overlap

Do you need help with measurements? Send us a photo of your window AC. We can guide you through the process.

Choosing the Right Air Conditioner Unit Curtains

Picking out the perfect window unit curtains is super important to get that stylish yet functional look. Here are some key things to keep in mind:

Curtain Considerations

Size

You'll want to measure your window and AC unit very carefully. Curtains that are too small will look silly, and too big can block airflow.

Get out that measuring tape to measure for a room air conditioner!

Style

The fun part is picking curtain styles that fit your room's vibes. Sheer, solid color? Bold patterns? Blackout for bedrooms? Think about how to complement your existing decor.

Material

For regular curtains around an AC, go for lightweight, breathable fabrics like cotton or linen. They'll allow that cool air to circulate while still looking fab.

Side Panel Considerations

Size

With side panels, sizing is crucial since they're made to fit snugly around your specific AC model. Measure both the length and width of your unit before ordering. A perfect fit is a must!

Material

These panels are usually made from sturdy insulators like vinyl or rigid foam. That's what gives you superior insulation to boost your AC's performance. Efficiency meets style!

No matter what you choose, proper sizing and picking the right materials will ensure your window unit curtains enhance your cooling setup and interior design perfectly. Staying cool has never looked better!

Installing Your New Side Curtains - Easy Steps

You don't need to be handy to install side curtains. Follow these steps:

Step 1: Clean the area around your AC unit.

Step 2: If using adhesive strips, apply them to the window frame.

Step 3: Attach the top of the curtain first.

Step 4: Pull the fabric tight and secure the sides.

Step 5: Check for any gaps and adjust as needed.

Most people finish installation in under 15 minutes. No special tools are needed!

Choosing the Right Material for Your AC Side Curtains

The material makes a big difference. Here's what works best:

Blackout fabric blocks light and adds insulation. It's great for bedrooms or hot climates.

Sheer fabric lets light through but still blocks bugs. Good for living rooms where you want light.

Insulated fabric has multiple layers. It saves the most energy and blocks the most noise. Properly insulated window treatments prevent hot outside air from heating up your home in the summer.

The U.S. Department of Energy says insulating window coverings can reduce heat gain by up to 33%! That means your AC won't have to work as hard to keep you cool and comfy.

Waterproof fabric works well in humid areas. It won't grow mold like standard curtains might.

Which is best for your home? Think about where your AC is located. Bedrooms do best with blackout or insulated options.

Creative Solutions for Disguising Window Units

Don't just hide that AC unit - get creative and make it part of your decor! Handy DIYers are coming up with all sorts of clever disguises:

• Build a custom window seat or cabinet to surround the unit

• Use freestanding shelves or plant stands to camouflage the sides

• Create a faux window Box with molding to blend the AC into the wall

Keeping Your Side Curtains in Good Shape

Good care makes your side curtains last longer:

Regular cleaning. Dust weekly with a cloth. Remove and wash fabric curtains every 3 months.

Check for damage. Look for tears or gaps each season. Fix small issues before they get worse.

Winter storage. If you remove your AC in winter, store the side curtains flat in a dry place.

Most of our customers report their side curtains lasting 3-5 years with proper care. That's a great return on investment!

Seasonal Tips for Window AC Side Curtains

Your needs change with the seasons:

Summer: Use insulated side curtains to keep maximum cool air in.

Spring/Fall: Lighter fabrics work well in mild weather.

Winter: If keeping the AC installed, use the most insulated option to prevent drafts.

Shop The Best Curtains For Your Air Conditioner Online at Dolcewe

Now that you know all about how awesome window unit curtains are, it's time to find the perfect ones for your home! Dolcewe has you covered with a huge selection of curtains and side panels designed specifically for window AC units.

Available in Various Styles, Fabrics, Colors, Patterns

No matter your design vibe, you'll find curtains to complement it at Dolcewe:

• Solid color curtains in contemporary hues

• Fun, printed patterns from florals to geometric

• Light-filtering sheer curtains for privacy

• Blackout curtains to block light in bedrooms

• Energy efficient insulated curtains and side panels

With fabrics ranging from lightweight linen to heavier velvet, there's an option for every climate and need.

Dress up your space with stylish grommets, tie backs, or rod pocket hanging styles too!

Custom Size for Perfect Fit from $26.99; Free Shipping $199; Get 10% Off Coupon Upon Registration

But the best part about shopping Dolcewe? You can get curtains custom-made to your exact window and AC dimensions, so they'll look flawless. Just measure carefully and select your ideal length and width.

Curtain panels start at just $26.99 for a custom-sized pair, with easy online ordering. And don't forget the perks:

• Free shipping on orders $199+

• Get a 10% off discount code when you register for emails

Say goodbye to unsightly window units and hello to cool efficiency meets beautiful design. Browse Dolcewe's window AC curtain collection now for the perfect finishing touch!