Saving Money on Window Treatments

One of the first things Karyn Bosnak did upon moving into her NYC apartment was to purchase (charge) expensive window treatments. Since I moved nine times between college and my current home, I feel somewhat qualified in telling you not to spend a lot of money on window treatments for an apartment, especially if you don’t plan on staying more than a couple of years. The curtains I purchased for one apartment were seldom compatible with the next apartment because the windows were never the same size.

How can you do to save money on window treatments?
1. Window treatments should not be the first purchase you make upon moving. Get your bearings in your new place before spending money on furnishings. Plus, if you’re just starting out, you probably don’t have a lot of discretionary cash left after paying for the move.

2. If the lack of window treatments really bothers you; the morning sunlight is blinding or you need privacy, hang a sheet or blanket over the window during the interim.

3. If you have the opportunity, ask the previous tenants if you can buy their window treatments or if you are lucky they may just leave them behind. If they aren’t totally hideous make due.

4. Look for bargains. Try the JC Penny Outlet Store, or the clearance section of JC Penney’s store. If you hurry you might be able to snag a deal at Linens N’ Things which is going out of business.

5. Use a neutral colored sheet as a curtain. If you can sew use sheets as cheap material and make your own.

6. Be creative. The curtains in the photo were purchased from JC Penney’s and are held in place with tacks and rubber bands.