You know that small window right above the sink? The one you look through every time you are doing dishes and rinsing vegetables?

It is funny how something so small can make the whole kitchen feel unfinished. The truth is this little spot comes with its own set of problems, you want privacy, but also need light. 

That’s why in this article I am going to break down exactly what works best over a kitchen sink window from classic curtains to modern alternatives. 

Let’s jump into it!

What is the Best Window Covering for Over a Kitchen Sink?

If you want something that works practically and looks good, then cafe curtains are the easiest choice for a kitchen sink.

They hang halfway down the window, so you will still get plenty of light while covering just enough for privacy. Moreover they are short – which means less fabric hanging near water, grease, and soap splashes.

Another option that works really well is simple valance. They cover only the top part of the window and leave the rest open, which keeps things feeling light and airy.

And if you prefer something more modern then you can consider roller blinds and roman shades. Roller blinds can tuck up and stay out of the way.

Roman shades offer more texture and style if you want something to feel a little more custom.

Related: How to Decorate Kitchen Countertop?

What is the Modern Alternative to Curtains?

The best modern alternative to curtains are roller blinds, bamboo shades, and forested window films.

These options work because they give you a clean, minimalist look and still solve the basic problem, privacy, light control, and are easy to maintain.

If you want something simple and functional then roller blinds are perfect. You can pull them down when you need and roll them up to keep the window fully open.

Bamboo shades are great if you want a soft, natural look that feels warm and stylish. These shades filter light perfectly without making the kitchen feel dark and heavy. 

And if you want to skip fabric altogether, then frosted window film is a smart choice. Because it will give you privacy and also soften the light without blocking it completely. 

How can I Dress My Kitchen Window Without Curtains?

You can use frosted window film, install a small shelf for plants and decor, and maybe you can choose modern blinds like bamboo and roller shades to dress your kitchen window without curtains.

Frosted and textured window film is one of the easiest solutions if you want to skip curtains. It provides privacy, softens harsh sunlight, and adds a clean, modern look without fabric.

If you install a small shelf under the window it will dress your window perfectly. You can place a few small pitted herbs, decorative jars, and pretty kitchen accessories. 

Bamboo blinds and roller shades also work well if you want to skip traditional curtains. They do not look like the traditional curtains, but they still help you to control light and privacy.

Soft Roman Shade

Roman shades work well when you want privacy without giving up style. This soft fabric shade keeps things looking casual and cozy and still block harsh light during the brightest parts of the day.

Relaxed Tie-Up Style

You can start with something light and relaxed to soften a bold window frame like this one. A tie-up curtain can add a casual touch while it also lets in plenty of light above the sink.

You can try this if you have a kitchen with dark frames and strong contrast, because it will balance out shape lines with soft fabric.

Cheerful Valance for Light

If you add a bright valance it is an easy way to bring in color without blocking the sunlight. 

This playful curtain style works especially well in older and more retro kitchens where you want a lighthearted touch above the sink.

Simple Fabric for Softness

There is something perfect about soft, neutral fabric over a kitchen sink. This kind of simple window treatment will keep things calm and fresh, and still give you control over how much light comes through.

It is ideal for larger windows where you want privacy but still need plenty of natural light during the day.

Related: 22 Italian Style Kitchen Decor Ideas

Dark Shade for Contrast

Sometimes contrast is exactly what a kitchen window needs. If you use dark fabric like this it will break up bright walls and add a little structure to the space above your sink.

If you want the window to feel grounded and not get lost in an all-white kitchen then this is the perfect solution for you.

Soft Neutrals for Warmth

A little softness goes a long way when your kitchen has a lot of clean lines and harsh surfaces.

Light neutral fabric like this one can add warmth without feeling heavy and cluttered. You should choose fabric with texture to bring in subtle interest without overpowering the window and sink area.

Gingham Valance for Charm

Nothing soft a kitchen window like a classic gingham valance. This little detail can bring instant charm, especially in a traditional and farmhouse kitchen.

It is best kept short to frame the window and do not block the view and light. You can use a simple rod and lightweight cotton fabric to make this idea easy to hang.

Cafe Curtains for Privacy

A little privacy goes a long way in a busy kitchen, and cafe curtains do the job perfectly.

They cover just enough to block unwanted views and still keep the upper window open for natural light. 

You should consider light fabric and soft neutral to keep the space feel airy and inviting without visual weight. 

Clean Lines for Simplicity

Sometimes simplicity is the smartest choice. A structured fabric shade like this one can keep the window feeling neat without stealing attention from the natural view.

This idea works best in kitchens where you want the window to feel open most of the time but still have the option to soften light when you need.

Sheer Panels for Soft Light

A little sheer fabric can change how light filters into your kitchen. These soft panels are perfect if you want to keep the space feel bright and still want to add a hint of privacy.

They work well in kitchens with classic and vintage details, especially when paired with warm metal hardware.

Light Layers for Balance

There is something about soft layers that can balance a bold window frame perfectly. 

A light neutral fabric here softens the contrast of black trim and brings a warmth to space above the sink.

You just have to keep the fabric slightly textured so it can add depth without overwhelming the simplicity of the design.

Playful Pop with Color

Many times a little color is all you need to bring life to a small kitchen window. Just like this bright valance adds a cheerful touch and still keeps the space light and open above the sink.

It will work best in kitchens with eclectic and playful styles where you want the window to feel fun, not formal.

Ribbon Details for Charm

A little ribbon detail can turn a simple curtain into something with extra character. These tie-up panels can bring softness to tall, narrow windows and add charm above the sink.

It is perfect to try in kitchens with narrow windows where you want to soft the hard edges.

Plaid for a Cozy Touch

Most of the time all it takes is a bit of pattern to warm up a kitchen window. Soft plaid fabric like this can add charm without overpowering the space, and make it perfect for a country style kitchen.

You have to keep the curtains short and light to allow plenty of natural light over the sink.

Sheer Layers for Softness

When you want privacy without losing light, sheer layered fabric is the best option for you. 

If you try this layout it will soften the view above the sink and still let in enough natural light to keep the kitchen open and bright. 

Simple Shade for Clean Look

A clean, simple shade can finish off a kitchen window without too much attention. This tailored style works best when you want to keep your space look neat and uncluttered above the sink.

It is ideal for kitchens with light, neutral cabinets where subtle texture makes the biggest impact.

Patterned Panels for Personality

A patterned curtain can bring warmth and personality to the space above your sink. 

You can use this type of floral fabric to add a cozy, lived-in feel that is perfect for kitchens with a vintage charm and holiday decor.

Checks for a Cozy Look

There is something about checks patterns that make a space feel warm and inviting. 

You can add short cafe panels to bring a charm, homey touch to the window above the sink without blocking too much light.

You can try this if you have a cottage, farmhouse, and vintage-style kitchen. You have to keep the fabric soft and hang with simple rings for a relaxed, everyday feel.