When the heat becomes unbearable, the house turns into a thermal trap that's hard to escape. Fans, air conditioning, blinds down... we try everything to keep an acceptable temperature. Now, however, a homemade trick for curtains has come to light that's so simple it seems impossible that it works, yet it does.
This method has been reported by the French outlet Mouvement Métropole and has already gone viral on social media. The gesture it suggests doesn't require any investment, just a few seconds of your time, and an object everyone has at home. It's the so-called "clothespin trick," a surprising remedy that manages to reduce the amount of heat entering through the curtains.
The secret of the curtain to fight the heat
The technique consists of placing a simple clothespin at the top of the curtain, closing the gap that usually remains between the fabric and the rod. This small detail acts as a shield against the hot air that tends to seep inside. By doing this, the room becomes cooler and the environment stays more stable even during the hours of maximum sunlight.
The explanation lies in the way heat moves inside houses. When the sun hits the glass, it heats up and transmits that energy to the indoor air, raising the ambient temperature. Although curtains reduce some of the heat, the upper gaps let it through, which is where the clothespin makes a difference.
How to achieve effective insulation
It's all about where you place the clothespin. Ideally, you should attach it at the junction of the fabric with the rod or rail, which is where small gaps usually open up. For curtains with grommets, it's best to put it between two, and for those with tabs or gathers, right above the main fold.
The number of clothespins also matters, as it varies depending on the width of the window. In a small space, two or three are enough, while for medium windows, it's best to use four or five. For large windows, ideally, you should place six or more, spaced about 12 in. (30 cm) apart to ensure an even seal.
There are alternatives designed for those who prefer it to be less noticeable. One alternative option is to use double-sided adhesive tape, which is attached between the curtain and the rod or the wall and allows you to seal the space discreetly. This option is especially practical for lightweight fabrics that could be damaged by using clothespins.
A simple clothespin that changes the temperature of your home
The results that have been documented are remarkable; by applying this trick, the room temperature can drop between 3.6°F and 7.2°F (2 and 4°C). The difference is especially noticeable during periods of greatest sun exposure, between midday and the early afternoon hours. Factors such as the orientation of the window, the type of glass, and the size of the room influence the effectiveness, but in general, the thermal sensation improves significantly.
The curtain trick with clothespins has become an unexpected ally against the heat wave. It doesn't replace air conditioning or other cooling systems, but it helps you gain comfort in an economical and eco-friendly way. In a summer that has broken temperature records, it's no surprise that so many have tried it and declare themselves convinced of its usefulness.