There are times when you’re stuck trying to figure out how to hang curtains without drilling holes into the wall. There are multiple ways you can install window treatments using methods that won’t damage your walls or leave behind unsightly holes. 

Try these nine easy, affordable, and damage-free ways to hang curtains without drilling. Many of these options are simple to install or DIY design yourself, with minimal effort, skill, or tools. So no matter your reason for not wanting to drill holes to hang curtains, one of these nine simple creative solutions would work for your situation. 

Temporary Command Strips or Hooks

The easiest way to hang curtains without drilling is to use temporary Command strips. These strips stick to the wall using a strong adhesive. To remove them, all you have to do is tug on the tab. These strips are also versatile enough to use for much of your home decor, including pictures, small shelves, and signs. 

For heavier curtain rods, check out Command’s metal hooks, designed explicitly for the purpose of window treatments. These brushed nickel hooks go great with many curtains. Or try DIY hanging other decorative hooks using two pieces of Command strips to secure them into place. And then place your curtain rod and curtains as usual.  

Tension Rods

Tension rods are perfect for traditional paned windows. These rods extend from one end of the frame to the other, using tension to keep them in place. Installation and removal are simple and won’t leave behind any damage. They operate much like shower curtain rods and can adjust in size to fit various sized windows.

Due to using tension to stay in place, this option is best for curtains that are light or sheer. Heavy curtains could cause the rod to slip. If you’re looking for an affordable, easy way to hang curtains without drilling, try this most popular choice.

Custom Compression Shades

If you don’t mind spending the money, you can invest in custom compression shades. This option consists of fabric shades that you can pull down or push up. In addition, you can choose from seven light filtering options, including translucent and blackout.

Redi Shade’s Artisan Cellular shades use Simple Fit installation, a compression system that expands to keep the shade in place. At the push of a button, you can have these shades put in place in seconds. 

The cordless design means these curtains are safe for pets and small children. And the operation is as simple as pulling the shade down or pushing up, where it will stay in place, no matter what position you want. 

Magnetic Curtain Rod

If you happen to have a metal door, you’ve got the perfect way to hang curtains over a door window without drilling into the door. You can also use these to attach to the top of windows with metal frames.

Magnetic curtain rods are a temporary curtain solution that connects to the metal via the magnet, creating a solid hold that won’t budge as you raise or lower drapes or shades. Don’t have metal windows or doors? Consider peel and stick magnets placed on the window frame so the rod can connect.

Stick On Curtain Rod

Stick-on curtain rods are an excellent choice for using traditional drapes or curtains without damaging the walls due to a sticky back. 

These rods can attach anywhere, allowing you to place them as high as needed to hang long curtains. You can also expand out past the window frame as far as you want. 

Twist and Fit Rods

Twist and fit curtain rods are also helpful for window treatments where you don’t want to drill or nail the rod into place. This type is also removable, without leaving damaged surfaces.

These rods are similar to tension rods in function. However, twist and fit rods have decorative ends that hold a curtain rod, allowing the curtain to sit over the window rather than inside the frame.

DIY a Curtain Frame

If none of these options appeal to you, try an unconventional method by hanging your curtains from a DIY curtain frame. This frame is portable and easy to move around and won’t leave any marks on your walls since it never touches them.

You can construct a curtain frame using an inexpensive PVC pipe. The great thing about DIY’ing a project is that you can customize it any way you like. Give your frame some color using spray paint. 

The durability of the PVC allows for versatility in the type of curtains you use, although heavy drapes or blinds wouldn’t be suitable. 

The curtain goes along the top piece of PVC, so there’s no need for a curtain rod. 

No-Drill Shades

If you’re looking for a window treatment that blocks light, but you aren’t looking for something decorative like curtains, try installing shades.

There are plenty of options that attach to the top of a window, allowing for complete light blocking. In addition, you can find options that use a compression system or have a type of adhesive strips to keep them in place.

Nails and Tiebacks

This last option will leave holes in your wall. However, it doesn’t require drilling. For this method, you secure the curtains in place on the wall without using a curtain rod. You also nail or stick the tiebacks onto the wall next to the window frame. 

While holding your curtain in place, use a hammer to tap a nail through the curtain and into the wall. For a functional curtain that blocks out the sun and opens to let light in, nail the curtain over the top of the window. Install tiebacks on both sides of the window for when you want the curtains open.

Conclusion

If you’re in a situation where you want to hang curtains without having to drill holes in the wall, you’re not screwed. We’ve given you nine easy and creative ways to install window treatments in your home without damaging your walls. Most of these methods do not require any tools or experience for installation.