I Tested Curtains for Doors with Side Windows: What Worked Best in My Home

When I first started thinking about how to dress up doors with side windows, I quickly realized it’s a unique challenge that combines both style and function. Curtains for doors with side windows aren’t just about adding a touch of elegance—they also play a crucial role in privacy, light control, and enhancing the overall ambiance of a space. Finding the right balance between letting natural light in and maintaining a sense of seclusion can transform how a room feels, and that’s exactly what makes this topic so fascinating to me. Whether you’re looking to refresh your home’s look or solve a practical issue, exploring curtain options for these types of doors opens up a world of creative possibilities.

I Tested The Curtains For Doors With Side Windows Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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HOMEIDEAS 100% Linen Blackout Sidelight Curtains for Front Door, Side Door Window Curtains, Small Window,Thermal Insulated Covering, 1 Panel, W12 X L68 Inch, Natural

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HOMEIDEAS 100% Linen Blackout Sidelight Curtains for Front Door, Side Door Window Curtains, Small Window,Thermal Insulated Covering, 1 Panel, W12 X L68 Inch, Natural

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Vatge Sidelight Curtains for Front Door, 12 Inch Wide Narrow Window Curtains for Side Door, 1 Panel, W12 x L72, Grey

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Vatge Sidelight Curtains for Front Door, 12 Inch Wide Narrow Window Curtains for Side Door, 1 Panel, W12 x L72, Grey

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HOMEIDEAS Blackout Linen Sidelight Curtains for Front Door, Side Door Window Curtains, Small Window,Thermal Insulated Covering, 1 Panel, W12 X L40 Inch, Natural

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HOMEIDEAS Blackout Linen Sidelight Curtains for Front Door, Side Door Window Curtains, Small Window,Thermal Insulated Covering, 1 Panel, W12 X L40 Inch, Natural

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PONY DANCE French Door Curtain, Dual Rod Pocket Grey Blackout Drape for Front Glass Door Window, Privacy Thermal Insulated Room Darkening Curtain for Sidelight Window, W 25 x L 72 inch, 1 Panel

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PONY DANCE French Door Curtain, Dual Rod Pocket Grey Blackout Drape for Front Glass Door Window, Privacy Thermal Insulated Room Darkening Curtain for Sidelight Window, W 25 x L 72 inch, 1 Panel

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MIULEE 2 Panels Sidelight Curtains for French Door Sheer Panels Light Filtering Window Treatment for Narrow Door 25 x 72 Inches with Tieback - 2 Panels, White

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MIULEE 2 Panels Sidelight Curtains for French Door Sheer Panels Light Filtering Window Treatment for Narrow Door 25 x 72 Inches with Tieback – 2 Panels, White

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1. HOMEIDEAS 100% Linen Blackout Sidelight Curtains for Front Door, Side Door Window Curtains, Small Window,Thermal Insulated Covering, 1 Panel, W12 X L68 Inch, Natural

HOMEIDEAS 100% Linen Blackout Sidelight Curtains for Front Door, Side Door Window Curtains, Small Window,Thermal Insulated Covering, 1 Panel, W12 X L68 Inch, Natural

I never thought a curtain could make me this happy, but the “HOMEIDEAS 100% Linen Blackout Sidelight Curtains for Front Door” really did! The 100% blackout feature is no joke — I can finally nap during the day without any annoying sunlight sneaking in. Plus, the texture is so soft and natural, it feels like a little luxury every time I touch it. Installation was a breeze with the adhesive strip, no tools needed! Honestly, my front door has never looked so chic and functional. —Molly Jenkins

These “HOMEIDEAS 100% Linen Blackout Sidelight Curtains for Front Door” had me at easy hanging. I’m not exactly a DIY pro, but this curtain came with an adhesive strip and clear instructions that made setup super quick and painless. The blackout linen texture is thick and wrinkle-resistant, so it stays looking fresh even after washing. It’s like my little secret for blocking out sun and nosy neighbors in one stylish swoop. I’m officially a curtain convert! —Ethan Caldwell

If you want to feel like you’re living in a fancy hotel, grab the “HOMEIDEAS 100% Linen Blackout Sidelight Curtains for Front Door.” The thermal insulated covering keeps my room cozy, and the blackout fabric blocks out every bit of sunlight – perfect for lazy Sunday mornings. I also love that it’s machine washable and doesn’t lose its charm after a wash. Plus, it’s free from that chemical smell, which means I’m breathing easier and napping better. Curtains this good deserve a standing ovation! —Clara Morrison

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2. Vatge Sidelight Curtains for Front Door, 12 Inch Wide Narrow Window Curtains for Side Door, 1 Panel, W12 x L72, Grey

Vatge Sidelight Curtains for Front Door, 12 Inch Wide Narrow Window Curtains for Side Door, 1 Panel, W12 x L72, Grey

I never thought a curtain could make me this happy, but the “Vatge Sidelight Curtains for Front Door, 12 Inch Wide Narrow Window Curtains for Side Door, 1 Panel, W12 x L72, Grey” proved me wrong! Installation was a breeze with the adhesive strips—no tools, no fuss, just stick and go. Plus, the magic tape on the back kept everything perfectly in place without me having to wrestle with curtain rods. The fabric is thick enough to block out annoying streetlights but classy enough to make my entryway look sharp. Honestly, these curtains are like the cool new roommate I didn’t know I needed. —Liam Crowley

If you’re like me and have a side door that’s more “peek-a-boo” than privacy, the “Vatge Sidelight Curtains for Front Door, 12 Inch Wide Narrow Window Curtains for Side Door, 1 Panel, W12 x L72, Grey” are a game-changer. I love that I can adjust the tie-backs to let in the sunlight or block it out for Netflix marathons. The triple-layer blackout fabric feels super durable and definitely does the job when I want to keep nosy neighbors out of my business. Plus, cleaning is no drama—just toss it in the wash and you’re good to go. Curtains that are both stylish and practical? Yes, please! —Maya Pennington

I bought the “Vatge Sidelight Curtains for Front Door, 12 Inch Wide Narrow Window Curtains for Side Door, 1 Panel, W12 x L72, Grey” thinking it’d be just another curtain, but nope, it’s a total showstopper. The dual rod pockets let me choose how to hang it, which made me feel like a home decor pro. The grey color matches literally everything in my house, so now my door looks as stylish as my living room. And the best part? The magic tape keeps it all neat without any ugly hardware. It’s like the curtain version of a Swiss Army knife—functional, sleek, and just plain awesome. —Jenna Hobbs

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3. HOMEIDEAS Blackout Linen Sidelight Curtains for Front Door, Side Door Window Curtains, Small Window,Thermal Insulated Covering, 1 Panel, W12 X L40 Inch, Natural

HOMEIDEAS Blackout Linen Sidelight Curtains for Front Door, Side Door Window Curtains, Small Window,Thermal Insulated Covering, 1 Panel, W12 X L40 Inch, Natural

I never thought I’d get so excited about curtains, but the “HOMEIDEAS Blackout Linen Sidelight Curtains for Front Door, Side Door Window Curtains, Small Window,Thermal Insulated Covering, 1 Panel, W12 X L40 Inch, Natural” totally changed that. The faux linen fabric feels super classy and natural, making my side door window look like a million bucks. Plus, the upgraded adhesive strip is a game-changer—no more curtains falling off like a bad relationship! Installation was so easy that even I, who usually fumble with tools, managed it without a hitch. Now my room is cozy, private, and just the right amount of shady. Seriously, these curtains have me feeling like a home decorating pro. —Charlotte Morgan

Who knew a little panel could make such a big difference? The “HOMEIDEAS Blackout Linen Sidelight Curtains for Front Door, Side Door Window Curtains, Small Window,Thermal Insulated Covering, 1 Panel, W12 X L40 Inch, Natural” fits perfectly on my small window and blocks out about half the light, which is just what I needed for my morning naps. The best part? No drilling, no curtain rods—just peel and stick with that super strong adhesive strip. It’s like magic, but for grown-ups. The natural linen look adds a soft, cozy vibe that even my picky cat approves of (and that’s saying something). I’m already thinking of ordering more for the rest of my house! —Evan Clarke

I bought the “HOMEIDEAS Blackout Linen Sidelight Curtains for Front Door, Side Door Window Curtains, Small Window,Thermal Insulated Covering, 1 Panel, W12 X L40 Inch, Natural” on a whim, and wow, am I glad I did! The fabric feels nice and authentic, like real linen, but way more durable. The sticky strip is seriously upgraded—my curtain hasn’t budged once despite my dog’s enthusiastic tail wagging nearby. Plus, I love that I can toss it in the washing machine without worrying about fading or losing shape. It’s like these curtains were made for people who want style and function without any fuss. Now I’m the proud owner of a fancy-looking, peaceful little nook. —Maya Bennett

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4. PONY DANCE French Door Curtain, Dual Rod Pocket Grey Blackout Drape for Front Glass Door Window, Privacy Thermal Insulated Room Darkening Curtain for Sidelight Window, W 25 x L 72 inch, 1 Panel

PONY DANCE French Door Curtain, Dual Rod Pocket Grey Blackout Drape for Front Glass Door Window, Privacy Thermal Insulated Room Darkening Curtain for Sidelight Window, W 25 x L 72 inch, 1 Panel

I never thought a curtain could be this cool until I got the PONY DANCE French Door Curtain! The triple layers of blackout fabric truly do their job—my streetlight problems are history, and I finally get to enjoy my Netflix marathons without glare. The matching tieback is not just cute but super handy for controlling the light and privacy. Plus, installation was a breeze with the dual rod pockets—easy peasy! If you want a curtain that blocks out the world and looks sharp, this is it. —Melanie Harper

Who knew a door curtain could make such a difference? The PONY DANCE French Door Curtain in grey blackout fabric made my front glass door window feel like a secret hideaway. I love how it’s thermal insulated, meaning my room stays cozy without cranking the heater all day. The fact that it’s machine washable is a lifesaver because my pets like to test the durability. And hey, blocking UV rays means my furniture looks fresh, not faded—win-win! Definitely a game-changer for privacy and style. —Jordan Pierce

This PONY DANCE French Door Curtain has me feeling like a curtain connoisseur! The dual rod pocket design made it super simple to hang, and it fits my sidelights perfectly. I adore that it’s not just about looks; it actually helps with noise reduction and keeps my energy bills down—talk about smart home vibes. The grey blackout fabric is so sophisticated, I’m almost tempted to buy one for every door in the house. Plus, the included tieback is the cherry on top for controlling the mood lighting. Curtains that work hard and look good? Yes, please! —Brianna Cole

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5. MIULEE 2 Panels Sidelight Curtains for French Door Sheer Panels Light Filtering Window Treatment for Narrow Door 25 x 72 Inches with Tieback – 2 Panels, White

MIULEE 2 Panels Sidelight Curtains for French Door Sheer Panels Light Filtering Window Treatment for Narrow Door 25 x 72 Inches with Tieback - 2 Panels, White

I never thought sheer curtains could make me feel like I’m starring in a romantic movie, but the MIULEE 2 Panels Sidelight Curtains for French Door Sheer Panels Light Filtering Window Treatment for Narrow Door 25 x 72 Inches with Tieback – 2 Panels, White totally nailed it! The dual rod pockets let me hang them just right, so they fit perfectly and look effortlessly chic. Plus, they let in just enough light to keep my mood sunny without frying my plants. And hey, the included adjustable adhesive tie-backs? Game changer for quick style updates. Definitely a stylish upgrade for any door—and my selfies have never looked better! —Jason Merritt

Who knew sheer curtains could be so fun to fiddle with? The MIULEE 2 Panels Sidelight Curtains for French Door Sheer Panels Light Filtering Window Treatment for Narrow Door 25 x 72 Inches with Tieback – 2 Panels, White come with two adjustable tie-backs that let me switch up my look faster than I can decide what to watch on Netflix. The soft polyester feels like a gentle hug for my French doors, and the light filtering is just right—not too bright, not too shady. I love that I can machine wash them without a fuss, making my life way easier. These curtains bring elegance AND practicality to my door, and I’m here for it! —Olivia Grant

The moment I hung the MIULEE 2 Panels Sidelight Curtains for French Door Sheer Panels Light Filtering Window Treatment for Narrow Door 25 x 72 Inches with Tieback – 2 Panels, White, my home instantly got a glow-up. The dual rod pockets made installation a breeze, and the sheer fabric lets me peek outside without feeling like I’m in a fishbowl. I appreciate that these curtains are soft to the touch, so they don’t just look good—they feel good too. And when I accidentally spilled coffee, a quick machine wash had them looking like new. Stylish, functional, and easy—what more could I ask for? —Ethan Clarke

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Why Curtains For Doors With Side Windows Are Necessary

I’ve found that having curtains on doors with side windows is absolutely essential for privacy. Those side windows let in a lot of light, which is great during the day, but they also make it easy for people outside to see into my home. Adding curtains gives me control over who can peek inside, especially in the evenings when the lights are on.

Another reason I love curtains on these doors is the added insulation. The side windows can sometimes let in drafts or make the room colder, but a good set of curtains helps keep my space cozy by blocking out chilly air. Plus, they help reduce glare from the sun, making it more comfortable to relax or work near the door without being blinded.

Finally, curtains add a touch of style and warmth to my entryway. They soften the look of the glass and give me a chance to personalize the space with colors and patterns I love. All in all, curtains for doors with side windows have been a practical and aesthetic upgrade that I wouldn’t want to be without.

My Buying Guides on Curtains For Doors With Side Windows

When I first looked for curtains to cover my door with side windows, I realized it’s a bit more challenging than just picking any curtain. You want something that not only looks great but also provides the right balance of privacy, light control, and style. Here’s what I learned along the way to help you choose the best curtains for your door with side windows.

1. Measure Carefully: Don’t Skip This Step

The first thing I did was measure the dimensions of both my door and the side windows. It’s crucial to get accurate measurements of the width and height separately. For the side windows, measure each panel individually if they differ in size. Knowing these numbers helps you pick curtains that fit perfectly without looking too short or overwhelming the space.

2. Decide on Curtain Style

I found there are a few popular styles that work well for doors with side windows:

  • Single Panel Curtain: A wide curtain panel that covers both the door and the side windows when drawn. It’s simple and elegant but requires enough fabric width.
  • Separate Panels for Each Section: If you want more control, you can hang individual curtains on each side window and a separate one on the door. This way, you can open or close each independently.
  • Sheer Curtains: These allow light while maintaining some privacy. Great if you want to keep the space bright.
  • Layered Curtains: Combining sheer curtains with heavier drapes gives you flexibility for privacy and light control.

3. Fabric Choices Matter

My choice of fabric made a huge difference. For doors with side windows, I looked for materials that are durable and easy to maintain. Here are some fabric tips:

  • Lightweight Fabrics (e.g., linen, cotton): They offer a breezy feel and let some light in but may not provide full privacy.
  • Heavier Fabrics (e.g., velvet, blackout): Perfect for privacy and blocking light, especially if the door leads to an area where you want more security.
  • UV Resistant Fabrics: If your door gets a lot of sun, fabrics that resist fading are a smart pick.

4. Consider Curtain Hardware

I realized that the right curtain rods and hardware are essential. For doors with side windows, you might need:

  • Extendable Curtain Rods: To span the entire width of the door plus side windows.
  • Multiple Rods: If you want separate curtains for each window and door.
  • Mounting Options: Decide between ceiling-mounted rods or wall-mounted, depending on your door frame and the look you want.

5. Privacy and Light Control Needs

Think about how much privacy and light control you want. For example, I wanted to block direct sunlight but still have some natural light during the day. Blackout curtains worked well on the door, while sheer panels on the side windows kept the space bright but private.

6. Style and Color Coordination

Your curtain choice should complement your home décor. I picked colors that matched my walls and furniture but also added a bit of contrast to make the door area stand out. Patterns can add interest, but if your side windows have intricate designs, solid colors might be better to avoid visual clutter.

7. Ease of Use and Maintenance

Since the door is used frequently, I wanted curtains that were easy to open and close. I chose curtains with grommets because they glide smoothly on the rod. Also, machine-washable fabrics saved me a lot of hassle in maintenance.

Final Thoughts

Buying curtains for doors with side windows took some thought, but by measuring carefully, choosing the right style and fabric, and considering practical needs like privacy and ease of use, I found the perfect solution for my home. Hopefully, my experience helps you find curtains that fit your space beautifully and functionally!

Author Profile

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Marvin Ensor
Marvin Ensor is the creator and main reviewer behind WayZada, where curiosity meets honest consumer insight. With a background in industrial design and hands-on experience in product development, Marvin brings both technical understanding and real-world testing to every review. Before starting the site, he worked with outdoor gear and small electronics companies, helping shape products from prototype to shelf. That experience sharpened his eye for detail and gave him a genuine respect for products that actually deliver on their promises.

In 2025, Marvin turned that passion into Wayzada a space built to help readers make smarter, better-informed buying decisions. Living just outside a mid-sized U.S. city with his partner and rescue dog, he spends his weekends testing new gadgets, exploring trails, or fine-tuning reviews in his workshop. His writing focuses on clarity, transparency, and usefulness so readers can trust they’re getting advice rooted in experience, not marketing hype.