Best Curtains for Sliding Glass Doors: Sizes, Fabrics & Styles

Looking for the best curtains for sliding glass doors? Whether you have a large patio entrance, balcony doors or floor to ceiling glass panels, choosing the right curtains can make a big difference to your home's comfort, privacy and appearance. Sliding glass doors are a beautiful feature in many Australian homes. They bring in natural light, connect indoor and outdoor living spaces, and help rooms feel more spacious. However, they can also create challenges with glare, heat, privacy and furniture placement.

Unlike standard windows, sliding doors need curtains that are wide enough to cover large glass areas, easy to move aside and practical for everyday access. In this guide, we'll explain how to choose curtains for sliding glass doors, including the best fabrics, curtain heading styles, sizes and measuring tips. We'll also introduce suitable ready made options from Wonderland Store to help you find curtains that complement your home.

1. What Are the Best Curtains for Sliding Glass Doors?

The best curtains for sliding doors depend on how you use the space.

If your doors open onto a garden or patio, you might prefer lightweight curtains that allow natural light into the room. If the doors face a neighbouring property or receive strong afternoon sunlight, blockout curtains may be more suitable.

Here is a quick comparison.

Our recommendation: For most living rooms, layered sheer and blockout curtains provide a versatile combination of soft daylight, privacy and strong light control when needed. For sliding doors in bedrooms or media rooms, consider blackout curtains with enough width to minimise gaps around the glass.

2. How to Measure Curtains for Sliding Glass Doors

One of the biggest mistakes when buying curtains for sliding glass doors is choosing panels that are too narrow. Because sliding doors are typically wider than standard windows, purchasing curtains based only on the glass width can result in insufficient coverage or a flat, stretched appearance.

Step 1: Measure the Width of Your Sliding Door

Use a measuring tape to determine the full width of the door opening, including its frame. For example, your sliding door might measure 240 cm wide. For better coverage and a balanced appearance, your curtain rod or track should usually extend beyond both sides of the door where space allows.

This also gives curtains room to stack to the sides when opened.

Step 2: Calculate the Curtain Width

Curtains generally look better when there is sufficient fabric to create natural folds. A useful starting point for many ready made curtain styles is approximately 1.5 to 2 times the total curtain rod or track width.

For example, if your curtain track measures 240 cm:

• 1.5 times fullness = 360 cm total flat curtain width
• 2 times fullness = 480 cm total flat curtain width

Two curtain panels measuring 240 cm wide each would provide 480 cm of combined flat fabric width. The exact amount of fullness depends on your preferred appearance, heading style and curtain design. Pleated curtains may have different finished width requirements.

Step 3: Measure the Curtain Drop

Curtain drop refers to the vertical length of the curtain. Measure from the appropriate hanging point on your rod or track down to the desired finishing position. For sliding glass doors, floor length curtains are often the most attractive option. For a practical finish, many homeowners choose curtains that stop approximately 1–2 cm above the floor. This can make opening and closing the curtains easier and reduce fabric dragging. Remember that eyelet, pencil pleat and pinch pleat headings have different measurement requirements.

Sliding Glass Door Curtain Size Guide

Here is an illustrative guide to help you estimate curtain widths.

These are examples, not fixed product sizing rules. Always check the actual curtain specifications, heading style and installation requirements before ordering.

Shopping tip: Wonderland Store offers selected curtain styles with individual panel widths of 140 cm, 180 cm, 240 cm and 300 cm, making it possible to accommodate a variety of large glass door openings.

Explore Curtains in Different Sizes at Wonderland Store

3. Sheer Curtains for Sliding Glass Doors: Best for Natural Light

If your sliding doors overlook a garden, balcony or outdoor entertaining area, sheer curtains can be an attractive choice. Their lightweight fabric allows natural light to filter into your home while softening the appearance of large glass panels.

Why Choose Sheer Curtains?

Create a bright, airy atmosphere

Sheer curtains diffuse strong daylight without making the room feel completely closed off.

Add daytime privacy

They can make it harder for people outside to see into your living space during the day, although privacy depends on lighting conditions.

Complement large glass doors

Floor length sheer curtains can create a soft, elegant finish, particularly when installed close to ceiling height.

Suit modern Australian homes

Neutral sheers pair well with timber flooring, minimalist furniture and open plan living spaces.

Are Sheer Curtains Private at Night?

Not completely. When the lights are on indoors and it is dark outside, sheer curtains may allow people to see into the room. For stronger evening privacy, combine sheer curtains with blockout curtains or suitable blinds.

Recommended Product: Blockout & Sheer Curtains Set

Wonderland Store offers a combined sheer and blockout curtain option, allowing homeowners to enjoy soft, filtered daylight and stronger coverage when required. Selected sizes include 140 cm, 180 cm, 240 cm and 300 cm widths, with 230 cm and 245 cm drop options. This makes the range worth considering for full length sliding doors and wide living room openings.

Shop Blockout & Sheer Curtains Set

4. Blockout Curtains for Sliding Doors: Best for Privacy and Sun Protection

Large sliding glass doors can allow significant sunlight into a room, especially during hot Australian summers. If your doors face west and receive intense afternoon sun, blockout curtains can help reduce direct sunlight and glare. They are particularly useful for living rooms with televisions, open plan dining areas and spaces where privacy is important.

Benefits of Triple Woven Blockout Curtains

• Reduce strong sunlight entering through glass doors.
• Provide privacy when completely closed.
• Help reduce glare on televisions and computer screens.
• Add a fabric layer that can contribute to thermal comfort.
• Create a stylish finish in bedrooms and living spaces.

Triple woven blockout fabric is often a practical choice if you want substantial room darkening without necessarily requiring completely opaque material.

Recommended Product: Triple Woven Blockout Eyelet Curtains

Wonderland Store's Triple Woven Blockout Eyelet Curtains feature three layer polyester construction and are advertised to reduce approximately 95–99% of sunlight, depending on colour. They are available in multiple widths, including 240 cm and 300 cm panels, with 160 cm and 230 cm drop options.

The eyelet heading is designed for compatible curtain rods, making it suitable for straightforward installations. These curtains may be a particularly good option for large patio doors where both light control and appearance matter.

Shop Triple Woven Blockout Eyelet Curtains

Important: This product is sold as one panel. Check the total quantity required for your sliding door.

5. Are Blackout Curtains Good for Sliding Glass Doors?

Yes. Blackout curtains can be particularly useful for sliding glass doors in bedrooms, media rooms and areas exposed to strong sunlight. The main advantage of 100% blackout fabric is that it is designed to prevent light from passing through the curtain material.

However, 100% blackout fabric does not guarantee a completely dark room.

Light may still enter through gaps above, below or around the sides of your curtains.

For better results:

• Choose curtains wide enough to overlap the door frame.
• Extend the curtain rod or track beyond the glass opening.
• Install the curtains high enough to minimise light gaps.
• Consider an appropriate track or overlapping centre closure.
• Make sure the panels close fully without leaving a large gap.

Recommended Product: 100% Blackout Microfiber Curtains

For customers who prioritise stronger light reduction, Wonderland Store's 100% Blackout Microfiber Eyelet Curtains feature an opaque backing and are designed for use on curtain rods. They can be a practical option for bedrooms with sliding balcony doors or living spaces where reducing daylight is important.

Shop 100% Blackout Microfiber Eyelet Curtains

6. Eyelet vs Pinch Pleat Curtains: Which Is Better for Sliding Doors?

The curtain heading style affects how your curtains hang, how they move and the overall appearance of the room. Two popular choices are eyelet and pinch pleat curtains.

Eyelet Curtains: Simple and Contemporary

Eyelet curtains have metal rings built into the heading and generally slide directly onto a compatible curtain rod. They are a practical choice for homeowners who prefer straightforward installation and a relaxed, modern appearance.

Best for:

• Casual living rooms
• Rental properties with suitable rods
• Modern apartments
• Customers looking for convenient installation

Eyelet curtains are especially attractive when combined with soft, floor length fabric.

Pinch Pleat Curtains: Elegant and Tailored

Pinch pleat curtains create neat, structured folds that offer a more formal finish. They can be particularly attractive across wide sliding doors, where consistent folds help create an organised appearance. Depending on the specific product, pinch pleat curtains may require curtain hooks and compatible tracks or rings.

Best for:

• Modern and contemporary homes
• Large living room windows
• Formal dining spaces
• Interiors where a tailored appearance is preferred

Recommended Product: Textured Linen Pinch Pleat Curtains

Wonderland Store's Textured Linen Pinch Pleat Curtains combine a natural looking textured finish with triple woven room darkening fabric. The collection includes light grey, light linen, dark grey and taupe options, with selected widths up to 300 cm and a 230 cm drop. These curtains can complement large glass doors in contemporary living rooms and neutral toned interiors.

Shop Textured Linen Pinch Pleat Curtains

This style is sold as one flat panel per pack. Its pleats are formed using curtain hooks, which may need to be purchased separately.

7. How to Hang Curtains on Sliding Glass Doors

Choosing the right curtain is only part of the process. The installation should also allow the sliding door to open and close comfortably.

Mount the Curtain Rod or Track Above the Door

Mounting curtains higher than the glass opening can create the appearance of taller ceilings. Ensure enough clearance for curtain hardware and the door's operation.

Extend Curtains Beyond the Door Frame

A wider rod or track allows curtains to stack away from the glass when opened. This helps preserve natural light and makes it easier to access your patio or balcony.

Consider Which Side the Door Opens From

If your sliding door is used frequently, consider arranging the curtain panels so that they can be moved out of the way of the main opening. For example, where wall space permits, a curtain that stacks towards the fixed glass panel may provide more convenient access.

Choose Suitable Curtain Hardware

Wide, heavy curtains require adequately supported rods or tracks. Before purchasing, check compatibility with the curtain heading, fabric weight, and wall or ceiling structure. You may also find Wonderland Store's guide useful:

Curtain Rod vs Track vs Hooks: What to Know Before Buying

8. Best Curtain Colours for Large Sliding Glass Doors

The curtain colour you choose can change how large and bright your living area feels.

White and Light Linen

Ideal for bright, minimalist interiors.

These colours can create a spacious appearance and complement timber flooring, natural materials and neutral furniture.

Beige and Sand

Warm neutrals work particularly well in family living spaces. They soften large glass surfaces without adding a strong colour contrast.

Grey and Charcoal

Grey curtains complement contemporary interiors and can provide a sophisticated finish. Darker shades may also offer stronger light reduction in certain woven blockout fabrics.

Taupe

Taupe is a versatile choice for homeowners who want something warmer than grey but more understated than brown.

Design tip: For large sliding doors, floor length curtains in a neutral colour can help create a cohesive look without making the room feel visually crowded.

9. Common Mistakes to Avoid When Buying Sliding Door Curtains

Before ordering, check these common problems.

Mistake 1: Measuring Only the Glass

Measure the full door opening and your intended rod or track width, including any additional side coverage.

Mistake 2: Ordering Curtains Without Enough Fullness

Panels that barely cover the opening may look stretched and leave gaps. Allow sufficient combined curtain width for your desired style.

Mistake 3: Buying the Wrong Curtain Drop

A standard curtain length may not suit every sliding door. Measure from the actual hanging position rather than guessing from the door height.

Mistake 4: Forgetting About Everyday Access

Ensure that the curtain arrangement allows you to use the sliding door without constantly moving excessive fabric.

Mistake 5: Not Checking Panel Quantities

Some curtain products are sold individually, while others include two panels or a combination of sheers and blockout fabrics.

Always check the product description before purchasing.

Mistake 6: Choosing the Wrong Heading

Eyelet curtains usually require a suitable rod, while pleated curtains may need curtain hooks, rings or compatible tracks.

10. Frequently Asked Questions About Sliding Door Curtains

What type of curtains are best for sliding glass doors?

Sheer curtains are suitable for filtered daylight and a soft appearance, while blockout curtains offer stronger privacy and sunlight reduction. Layered sheer and blockout curtains are a versatile option for many living rooms.

How wide should curtains be for a sliding glass door?

For many ready made curtain styles, a combined flat fabric width of approximately 1.5 to 2 times the rod or track width is a useful starting point. Check the product's heading and sizing instructions before ordering.

Should sliding glass door curtains touch the floor?

Floor length curtains often provide the most polished appearance. For easy everyday movement, consider a finish approximately 1 to 2 cm above the floor.

Can I use regular curtains on sliding glass doors?

Yes, provided they offer sufficient width and drop, are compatible with the curtain hardware and do not interfere with the door's operation.

Are sheer curtains suitable for patio doors?

Yes. Sheer curtains can soften incoming daylight and complement patio doors. However, they generally do not provide complete privacy at night when indoor lights are on.

Which is better for sliding doors: eyelet or pinch pleat curtains?

Eyelet curtains are generally simpler to install on compatible rods. Pinch pleat curtains provide a more structured appearance but may require additional hardware. The better choice depends on your installation and styling preferences.

How do I keep my living room cooler with sliding glass doors?

Closing suitable blockout curtains during periods of strong sunlight can help reduce solar heat entering the room. External shading, suitable glazing and well fitted window coverings may provide additional benefits.