YoKii Room-Darkening Floral-Print Valance Kitchen Curtain, 52×18-Inch

Window valances get installed at the tops of windows and can be combined with blinds, shades, drapes or used on their own. They are often used with curtain rods and have built-in pockets that allow them to slide over them. This makes it essential to purchase valances with pockets that fit over the curtain rod you plan to use. Many people find valances they love and then buy the rods.

Most valances are mounted on the outsides of window frames, but some are inside-mounted for a more streamlined look. The material can be sheer or light-filtering (semi-sheer), but you may want to opt for opaque valances (blackout) that do not let in any light. Valances also hide the hardware from other window treatments (especially blinds) and can help keep the light out.

The most common size for a window in a home is 24 inches wide and 36 inches long, but yours could be different. To determine a window size, measure the side of the rough opening. This opening is the measurement you get for the inside of one side of your window’s frame to the other and will also tell you what length your curtain rod has to be. The valance length will be longer most of the time because it gets gathered on the rod.

Some valances come with accents like pull-up ties, matching small tier curtains for the bottom of the window and so forth. If you choose the latter, you will need to install a second, lower curtain rod for them. Instead of rod pockets, some valances tie onto the rods or have built-in grommets that slide over them.

• When showing valance measurements, some manufacturers use the letter “H” for height instead of “L” for length.
• Double-hung windows are generally sized from 24 to 48 inches wide and 36 to 72 inches long.
• Bay windows range from 3 feet 6 inches to 10 feet 6 inches wide and 3 feet 6 inches to 10 feet 6 inches long. You can accent bay windows with valances, but you will need three or more.
• Cotton valances stand up to stretching and warping, but you may have to iron them. Cotton blends have other materials like rayon or polyester, while twill and duck cotton are medium-weight and heavier than regular, thin cotton fabrics.
• Jacquard fabric valances have patterns woven into either cotton or polyester.
• Other valance materials include microfiber and linen; if hanging these window treatments in kitchens or bathrooms, avoid delicate fabrics like silk that can’t be machine washed.
• Some valances are machine washable, and others are not. Always read the manufacturer’s label before washing your valances because you won’t want to ruin them.