Best window valances

Add a splash of color or a little needed texture with one of the best window valances.

best window valances
white window valance over dark wood window frame
(Image credit: Valea Home)

Inexpensive touches to rooms often leave the biggest impression. Today's best window valances can add a pop of color to match an accent wall, a layer of texture, or a pattern that pulls the entire room together. Window valances can be used alone or in combination with other window treatments. Ready to upgrade your windows? These are some of the best window valances for your money.

Best overall

Sun Zero navy blue valance over ivory window frame

(Image credit: Sun Zero)

Sun Zero Barrows energy efficient valance

Reduces energy usage

Thermal and noise reduction technology in the Sun Zero Barrow valances keeps summer heat and winter chill out while adding a burst of color.

Pros:

  • Available in 19 colors
  • Reduces energy loss
  • Affordable
  • Washable
  • Beautiful construction

Cons:

  • Wrinkle during washing

Sprinkle a new color tone in any room and save money with the Sun Zero Barrow, an energy-efficient valance. Beautifully constructed and with built-in rod pockets, the Barrow reduces energy costs and noise by up to 25 percent. These are a tad longer than traditional panel valances because they also block unwanted light and enhance privacy. Available in 18 stunning colors, the Barrow valances work on their own in any room or when paired with other window treatments.

Best sheer

sheer ivory lacy valance over white window frame

(Image credit: No. 918)

No. 918 Alison floral lace sheer valance

Classic lace adds elegance

The intricate lacework of the No. 918 Alison lace sheer valance gives an elegant yet simple touch to rooms.

Pros:

  • Available in ivory and white
  • Delicate lace pattern
  • Filters light gently
  • Rod pocket design
  • Matching curtains available

Cons:

  • May be too delicate for washing machine

Lace is timeless. The intricate patterns of the No. 918 Alison floral sheer valances add layers of texture and refinement to living spaces without taking away from the overall theme or centerpiece of the room. Available in white or ivory, these valances gently filter light without darkening the room. The rod pocket design allows for quick hanging on standard curtain rods, and these are pairable with No. 918's matching lace curtains, though they're stunning as standalone valances as well.

Best rustic

burlap-colored rustic valance over dark wood window

(Image credit: Valea Home)

Valea Home natural tan valance

Handsome and rustic

Charmingly rustic in appearance, Valea Home's natural tan valances add character without becoming a focal point.

Pros:

  • Soft fabric
  • Well-made
  • Charming rustic look
  • Easy to hang
  • Never wrinkles

Cons:

  • Not machine washable

The natural tan of the Valea Home window valances gives off burlap vibes, making them a good fit for more rustic rooms. Be it a den, a cabin, or a country-themed living room or kitchen, the rough-looking burlap-like material provides just enough texture to blend in anywhere. Rod pocket installation is quick, and high fives all around to Valea Home for making sure these never wrinkle, even after washing.

Best scalloped

bright red scalloped window valance over window

(Image credit: Deconova)

Deconovo blackout scalloped valance

The pop of color you need

Deconovo's blackout scalloped valances come in 18 colors and add contemporary chic to any window.

Pros:

  • 18 color choices
  • Block light
  • Rod pocket fittings
  • Gorgeous colors
  • Elegant-looking satin binding

Cons:

  • Best hand-washed

If it's color and style you want, turn to Deconovo. The contemporary scalloped valances come in 18 bold colors. Add flair, complement your wall colors and throw pillows, or blend the room with these all-polyester window valances. Rod pocket designs allow for quick work of hanging. When you want a new look for old windows while blocking the harsh sun, give Deconovo a try.

Best pattern

medallion print window valance

(Image credit: DriftAway)

DriftAway Bella medallion valance

A coastal print that's easy to care for

DriftAway's Bella is a medallion pattern valance in soft coastal colors that gives a soothing look to rooms.

Pros:

  • Wrinkle-free fabric
  • Subtle tones
  • Easy to hang
  • Rod pocket design
  • Excellent craftsmanship

Cons:

  • Pricier than other options

If you love the sea, you'll adore the aquas and grays in the DriftAway Bella valances. With a modern, toned-down medallion print scattered about, these are the window valances you want to compliment colors in a room and pull off any look. The three-inch rod pockets allow for easy installation, and the valances clean up in a machine set to a cold and gentle cycle. Best of all, these low-maintenance valances remain wrinkle-free through the washing and drying process.

Bottom line

Why you can trust Real Homes Our expert reviewers spend hours testing and comparing products and services so you can choose the best for you. Find out more about how we test.

The smallest of touches, like window valances or accent pillows, completely change a room's look and feel. And because the investment in window valances is low, you can switch it up whenever you like with different patterns and colors. Much cheaper than repainting a whole room, wouldn't you say?

The best window valances today come from Sun Zero. We love the Barrow model for its ability to keep heat inside during the winter and out in the summer. Energy-efficient and noise dampening, the Barrow valances are beautiful, affordable, and a nice addition to any room.

If a pop of color is what your room needs, look to Deconovo scalloped valances. They block the sun, come in 18 fun colors, and hang in minutes.

Jodi Owan works behind a camera and a keyboard.