Ditch The Curtains And Blinds: Here's A No-Drill Solution To Cover Kitchen Windows

We may receive a commission on purchases made from links.

You want more privacy and style in your kitchen, but sometimes you can't just go drilling curtains and blinds into your walls (hello, not getting your security deposit back). However, there's another way to get the look and privacy you want. Roman shades attached to a tension rod are a no-drill solution to cover your kitchen windows. However, instead of just placing an exposed tension rod at the top and slapping a shade panel on top of it, certain Roman shade sets come with a tension rod cased inside a mount. This makes the whole thing appear to be drilled in, but with none of the mess or damage involved. 

Options like the Sulugood No Drill Roman Shades for Windows have this mounted tension rod. For the best fit, you measure the distance between the actual walls on each side of your kitchen window. This way, you can purchase the product at the correct width. Don't use the proportions of the glass panels on your window, or they could be too small. Next, remove the curtain panel so you can see the spring. Push the rod back partially and lodge it in your kitchen window frame. Then, use a wrench to turn the nut attached to the pole so it becomes tighter. Once secure, you can reattach the fabric to hide the entire frame, making the Roman shades appear to float effortlessly in the window. But best of all, no damage to the wall!

Not all Roman shades are created equal, especially for the kitchen. While bedroom window treatments might focus on blackout conditions for sleep, the privacy demands of a kitchen window are different. While you don't necessarily have to go with a completely sheer option, a light-filtering panel can provide style and privacy without entirely blocking the outside world. In addition, since you're going to be using the shades in a busy, wet space, fabrics that are easy to either rinse off or wipe off are also important. You don't want to stress about keeping your shades free of splatter from the sink or stove. You should also choose shades that match your existing vibe, like a gingham pattern for a country-inspired space or one with scalloped edges in a modern farmhouse kitchen. 

And, while these no-drill Roman shades are designed not to cause any damage to your window frames at all, there is still the risk of something minor happening during installation or adjustment. To avoid this happening, never just yank your shades away from the wall. Always use the included tools to make adjustments, so you don't undo the benefits of not having to drill. If you do scuff the wall, however, try using a Mr. Clean Magic Eraser or similar product to gently remove the marks.