Do Beaded Curtains Keep Flies Out?

Flies are always present, but they suddenly seem to be everywhere on summer days. Beaded curtains are commonly used throughout Europe in place of screen doors to keep flies out, but are they effective? We have done our research and gathered some relevant information for you.

Yes, beaded curtains keep flies out. Since they are made of plastic with closely spaced strands, flies mistake the spaces for a surface rather than an opening. The closer the strands, the more chance you have of keeping flies out of your house.

In this article, we will talk more about beaded curtains and how to keep flies out. We will help you answer the questions you have related to this topic. So continue reading for more insight.

Are Beaded Curtains Effective?

Beaded curtains are great decorations for your home. They can also serve as an alternative for screen doors and windows.

Beaded curtains may not be as effective as screens in keeping flies out, but they can still prevent flies and other insects from entering. Although the curtain strands sway, they tend to camouflage the gaps as a solid surface.

Since most insects are short-sighted, they are unable to focus and move freely. As a result, beaded curtains are like a barrier to them.

A technique to consider is to keep the strands close together. The closer they are, the harder it is for flies to enter.

How To Make Beaded Curtains

Beaded curtains can be purchased online and in physical stores. They are available in different colors, designs, and sizes. Some people prefer DIY curtains. They would rather use recyclable materials like unused CDs, bottles, and paper plates as beads for their curtains.

Here are the materials and steps you need to follow to make your own beaded curtains:

Materials Needed

• One curtain rod for each door and window
• Two brackets for each curtain rod
• Threads to support the beads
• Beads

Basis Steps

• Divide the curtain rod based on the size of the beads you have. The closer the strands, the better.
• Start making the strands with beads. Match the chosen color and design to its theme.
• Tie each strand to the curtain rod. The length of each strand depends on the size of the door or window.
• Screw the brackets to the wall properly to support the curtain rod.
• Now, you can place the curtain rod with a beaded curtain in the brackets. Make sure that the strands are not prone to get tangled as they can break easily.

Making beaded curtains can take up to 1-3 days depending on how big the curtains are. The project can be done in a day if two or more people are helping.

Beads Used For Beaded Curtains

When you're looking for beads for your DIY curtains, here are the options you can choose from:

1. Metallic/ Iridescent Glass/ Acrylic Beads

Beaded curtains that are made of metallic, iridescent glass, and acrylic beads will complement a bohemian-style room. This showcases creative, artistic expressions and unique fashion.

The most common colors are warm earthy colors with metallic and jewel tones.

See this hippie-boho beaded curtain on Amazon.

2. Wood/ Bamboo/ Seashells/ Acrylic Beads

Beads with different shapes and colors like orange, green, red, and blue are best for retro style. Most of these colors are made as door accents. Wood, bamboo, seashells, and acrylic beads are the most common type of beads used.

This style is the best fit for rooms that are inspired by decades from the 1920s to the 1980s.

Check out this wood-beaded curtain on Amazon.

3. Any Types Of Beads

For an eclectic style, any type of beaded curtain can work well. Just add a different texture and color of beads to create an accent and complement the style. The main goal of eclectic style is to create harmony and merge different styles and colors.

4. Thrifted Jewelry/ Bamboo Beads

Thrifted jewelry and bamboo beads are the best for a hipster-style room. Vintage and retro are the usual themes. This style is great for someone with quirky, creative, and very fashionable tastes.

Check out this macrame lace door string curtain on Amazon.

5. Shiny/ Sparkling/ Mirrored Beads

Beaded curtains made of shiny, sparkling, and mirrored beads with circle, square, hoop, and bubble shapes are best for the modern style. Mostly, it would showcase sleek and shiny surfaces. The walls are white, and it has only two to three colors.

Check out these string curtains on Amazon.

6. Bamboo/ Wooden Beads

Beaded curtains started in Asia and spread around the world. Bamboo and wood are best for Asian-style rooms. The style is usually eco-friendly. It focuses more on culture and traditions.

Check out these string curtains on Amazon.

7. Bamboo/ Wood/ Coconut shell/ Seashell Beads

Beaded curtains that are made of bamboo, wood, coconut shells, and seashells with blue or green colors are perfect for tropical or beach-inspired rooms. The same style as coastal decor, it uses bright colors of green, turquoise, pink, and yellow.

Check out this tropical sunset beaded curtain on Amazon.

How To Clean Beaded Curtains

Beaded curtains can twist, so you should be careful and ensure that you work in the same place. These are the materials to prepare and the steps to follow:

• Sponge
• Liquid detergent
• Two towels
• Spray bottle

1. Place a towel beneath and at the back of the beaded curtain to prevent water from spreading.
2. Add 2 cups of water and a few drops of liquid detergent to spray bottle and spray the beaded curtain freely.
3. Use a damp sponge and gently wipe the beads clean.
4. Let the curtain dry for a few hours.
5. Remove the towel after drying.

In Closing

Hanging beads above your windows and doors can keep flies out. It can help you enjoy the view outside and allows fresh air to pass through. Some people prefer screens for doors and windows to beaded curtains.

Opting for beaded curtains, however, can help you explore your creative side when you go DIY.

Here are other related posts you might want to read:

How Far Apart Should Hooks Be On Curtains?

How To Keep Outdoor Curtains From Sliding On Rod