Journal · Expert advice
5 Best Curtain Fabrics for Australian Homes
Fabric choice affects how a curtain looks, how long it lasts and how well it performs in Sydney's climate. Here are the five fabrics our clients ask for most, and where each one works best.
The short version
Key takeaways
- Linen and linen blends are the most requested fabric across both Sway showrooms for their breathability and durability in Sydney's climate.
- Heavier, lined fabrics do more than block light: they reduce heat gain, which matters more as energy costs rise.
- Velvet suits formal or media rooms but needs a cooler spot away from constant direct sun.
- The right fabric depends on the room's aspect as much as the look you're after.
1. Linen and linen blends
Linen is the most requested fabric across both our showrooms, and for good reason. It's breathable, handles humidity well and has a relaxed, natural texture that suits coastal and contemporary homes alike. Linen blends add durability while keeping that same soft drape, making them a safe first choice for sheer curtains in living areas.
2. Heavier, lined fabrics for heat control
With energy costs rising, more homeowners are choosing curtains for their thermal performance, not just their look. A heavier, lined fabric on a north or west-facing window reduces heat gain in summer and heat loss in winter, which makes a real difference to comfort and cooling costs. This is where blockout and heavier dimout fabrics earn their place. If you're deciding between the two, our comparison of sheer curtains vs blockout curtains breaks down where each works best.
3. Cotton for a crisp, practical finish
Cotton curtains give a clean, structured look and take colour well, which makes them a good option if you want a bolder tone or pattern. They're practical for family rooms and hold their shape well over time.
4. Velvet for a formal or media room
Velvet adds weight, texture and a luxurious feel, and its density also helps with light blocking and sound dampening, useful in a media room or formal living space. It's best kept out of rooms with constant strong sun, since prolonged direct light can affect the pile over time.
5. Performance fabrics for high-use rooms
Performance fabrics are built to handle daily wear, sun exposure and humidity without losing their finish, which makes them a practical choice for busy family homes or rooms that get a lot of use. They're a good middle ground when you want durability without sacrificing the look of a natural fabric.
Choosing the right fabric for your room
The best fabric depends on the room's aspect, how much light it gets and what you actually need it to do: filter light, block it, or manage heat. Our team carries over 300 samples from leading Australian fabric houses, and seeing a fabric in your own light is the only reliable way to know how it'll look once it's up. Once you've chosen, our curtain care guide will help you keep it looking new for longer.
If you're not sure where to start, our consultants will talk you through the right fabric for each window in your home. Book a free measure and quote, or visit either of our Sydney showrooms to see and feel the full range in person.
Helpful details
Frequently asked questions
What is the best curtain fabric for hot Australian summers?
Are linen curtains good for humid climates?
Do heavier curtains actually reduce energy costs?
What curtain fabric is best for a media room?
How many fabric options does Sway Curtains offer?
Ready when you are
See it, feel it and find the right finish for your home.
Visit Belrose or Moore Park, or invite our team to your home for a complimentary measure and consultation.
