Choosing the Right Replacement Curtains for Your Camper

After countless nights sleeping in your trusty old camper, those faded curtains probably aren't providing much privacy or light filtering anymore. Upgrading to new replacement curtains can completely transform the interior feel of your RV. The right curtains not only look nice but also help insulate your camper and control lighting and views. With so many fabric choices, styles, and hardware options available, selecting replacement camper curtains that perfectly suit your needs requires careful thought.

Take Accurate Measurements of Your Camper Windows

The first step toward finding the perfect new curtains is to precisely measure each window opening. Having accurate width, length, and depth measurements is crucial for properly customizing replacements. Begin by using a steel tape measure to quantify the exact window dimensions. Note the window's shape as well. Account for any surrounding moldings or trim that may impact the measurements. For optimal privacy, light blocking, and insulation, most RV experts recommend choosing curtains that are about 2 inches wider and longer than the actual window frame. This extra fabric allows for optimal overlap between curtain panels.

Tools You'll Need

• Steel tape measure
• Pencil and paper for noting measurements
• Step stool or ladder for hard-to-reach windows
• Clips or pins to temporarily hold curtains in place

Don't just measure the windows themselves either. Make sure to assess the depth allowance needed for any curtain rods or hanging hardware within the window alcove as well. Having all of your exact camper window measurements will ensure that the replacement curtains you order or have custom made will fit perfectly right out of the package.

Measure Carefully for Optimal Fit

When measuring camper windows, be sure to quantify both the actual window pane dimensions along with depth and height restrictions imposed by surrounding cabinetry or wall moldings. Accounting for these potential fit limitations ahead of time prevents having to return ill-fitting replacement curtains that don't properly suit the unique contours of your RV.

Measure each window section separately rather than assuming uniform sizes. Windows often vary in shape and size depending upon placement within the camper. Meticulously measuring each opening ensures getting custom curtains tailored to match your exact window specifications.

Select Durable, Purposeful Fabrics

Once you have all the critical camper window measurements noted, the next step is choosing replacement curtain fabrics that will meet your privacy, light filtering, and insulation needs while also being durable enough to handle life on the road. Consider when and where you primarily go camping. Do you need thick, insulating fabrics for cold weather excursions? Or maybe breezy, cooling materials for beach and lakeside destinations are more practical. Factor in how much light filtering is necessary as well. Optically opaque blackout curtains provide maximum darkness for sleeping, while translucent panels still allow some visibility.

Choose Fabrics Carefully

Think about how prone to spills and stains the new camper curtains may be based upon proximity to kitchen areas or dining spaces. Prioritize stain resistant textiles in high traffic zones. Also assess the curtain headings and hems. Do you prefer simple rod pockets, grommets, back tabs, or velcro fasteners? Opt for heavy duty polyester blends over more delicate sheers to ensure durability during transport. When selecting fabrics, obtain samples to get a better sense of color, texture, feel, and quality first.

Featured Fabric Recommendations

• Polyester/cotton blends
• Olefin or acrylic coated materials
• Canvas tarps
• Water repellant nylons
• Sunbrella brand all weather textiles

Weigh Various Camper Curtain Styles

Standard tier curtains certainly suffice for covering basic camper windows. But numerous specialty curtain types also exist to transform RVs into more stylish and functional private escapes. Consider installing romantic cafe curtains for smaller kitchenette windows. These decorative valence styles add a pop of color while still allowing outward views. For extra sleeping privacy, choose residential style curtains in solid colors or bold prints. Want to section off space? Try bright patterned room dividers. With so many curtain varieties to pick from, mix and match different looks until you achieve your perfect aesthetic.

Stylish & Functional Curtain Options

• Tier curtains
• Cafe curtains
• Roman shades
• Blackout curtains
• Thermal insulated
• Light filtering
• Patterned sheers

Don't overlook useful specialty curtains either. Install cordless cellular shades on larger windshields and skylights to control light and heat transmission without cluttering the dashboard. For the bedroom, choose blackout curtains backed with plush fur for added insulation. Utilize sturdy canvas clear divider curtains to section off bunk beds or create a changing area. The options are endless!

Mount New Curtains Properly

Installing replacement RV curtains properly ensures they function optimally for years to come. Carefully follow the specific hardware and mounting guidelines provided for the new curtains. Consider having a second set of hands help for larger windshield curtain wraps that require simultaneously holding panels flush and taut from multiple angles during mounting. For most tier curtain setups, simple tension curtain rods work well, just securely anchor the end brackets first before clipping up the drapes.

Installation Tips & Tricks

• Fill any existing hardware holes with putty first
• Use flathead screws on frames to avoid snagging curtains
• Leave ample overlap space between panels
• Check alignments as you go to ensure even spacing

The most common RV curtain mounting mistake is failing to accurately gauge spacing from the start. Haphazard measurements lead to irregular overlapping and asymmetric curtain alignments once everything is hung. Carefully plotting curtain placements first prevents miscalculations. In the end, your new curtains should completely cover each window and gracefully drape to the floor without awkward bunching or gaps.

Maintain and Extend the Life of Your Camper Curtains

Investing in durable, quality replacement curtains makes revitalizing faded camper interiors simple. But don't stop caring for the curtains once they go up. Regular maintenance keeps window treatments looking their best for years beyond that initial installation glow. For starters, immediately spot treat any spills or stains to prevent permanent damage. Routinely vacuum curtain panels using low suction to remove dust and debris. Every few trips, gently wash fabrics if they appear dingy or dull. Just be sure to thoroughly line dry all curtains before rehanging to prevent mold growth.

• Spot clean spills promptly
• Vacuum with low suction as needed
• Wash gently in cold water annually
• Line dry or tumble dry on low setting
• Assess hardware clips and rods periodically

Don't let small problems go either. Snagged curtain headings and loose hardware can accelerate wear. Routinely check all anchors, rings, snaps, and velcro strips. Tighten any loose fasteners promptly. Repair minor snags immediately to thwart larger Runs. Addressing minor issues as they pop up keeps replacement curtains functional and fabulous for enjoying countless future camping adventures ahead!