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Short answer
Outdoor curtains need fabric that resists fading and dries quickly, such as solution-dyed acrylic, on rust-proof hardware such as stainless steel or aluminium. Add tie-backs or bottom ties so they don't flap in wind, keep hems off wet ground, and take curtains down or tie them up in storms. Indoor curtain fabric fades and grows mildew quickly outdoors.
Which fabric works outdoors?
Solution-dyed acrylic is coloured through the fibre before it is spun, so it holds its colour in strong sun, and it dries quickly after rain. In the JOTEX OUTDOOR range, BREEZE is a lighter 260 gsm quality whose listed uses include shades, and BRISA and SHORE are lighter multi-purpose plains; heavier PATIO is made for seating. See Outdoor Fabric: Solution-Dyed Acrylic.
Good to know
Outdoor fabric resists water and mildew better than indoor fabric, but it is not waterproof. Let it dry fully before tying it up or storing it.
What hardware do outdoor curtains need?
- Rust-proof rods or wires: stainless steel, aluminium or powder-coated metal.
- Stainless or plastic rings and eyelets; ordinary metal rusts and stains the fabric.
- Tie-backs at each post, and ties or weights at the hem to stop flapping. See Curtain Tie-Backs and Holdbacks.
- Simple headings: tab top, rod pocket or eyelet slide easily on outdoor rods. See Tab Top and Rod Pocket Curtains.
How do you deal with wind and rain?
- Tie curtains back to the posts when not in use, and before storms.
- Keep hems off the ground, ending a few centimetres above decks and paving.
- Let them dry fully before gathering them up.
- Take them down for long wet spells and store them dry. See Rainy Season Care.
Watch out
Curtains act like sails in strong wind. Fix rods to the structure firmly, and never leave loose curtains out in a storm.
How do you clean outdoor curtains?
Brush off dirt, then sponge with mild soap and water, rinse and let them dry fully. Remove bird droppings and leaves promptly. For anything more, follow the care label. See Outdoor Shade Fabric and Balcony and Poolside Cushions.
JOTEX OUTDOOR fabrics
Solution-dyed fabrics in the JOTEX OUTDOOR range, updated from the catalogue. See the outdoor fabric page.
Browse outdoor fabric →
Frequently asked questions
What fabric is best for outdoor curtains?
Solution-dyed acrylic, which resists fading and dries quickly.
Can I use indoor curtains outside?
Not for long. Indoor fabric fades and grows mildew quickly outdoors.
How do I stop outdoor curtains blowing?
Use tie-backs at each post and ties or weights at the hem, and tie them up before storms.
Are outdoor curtains waterproof?
No. Outdoor fabric resists water and mildew but is not waterproof; let it dry fully after rain.
Curtain maker, upholsterer or designer?
Specifications are public on every collection page. JOTEX dealers can log in for live stock and pricing, and our team can send samples or open a dealer account.