Why Do People Close Their Curtains During the Day? Privacy and More
People have a variety of reasons for closing their curtains during the day, ranging from temperature management to a sense of privacy. This article explores the common motivations behind this behavior, providing insights from different perspectives and experiences.
Temperature Management
The primary reason for closing curtains is often to regulate the temperature in the room. In the summer, closing curtains can help block harsh sunlight, which can make a room excessively hot and uncomfortable. Conversely, in the winter, keeping the curtains open allows sunlight to enter and help warm up the room, which is particularly useful when there is no air conditioning available.
For example, someone living in an old house without air conditioning, such as described by a resident of Oregon in the 1920s, may keep their cellular-style shades and curtains drawn to block direct sunlight during the hottest parts of the day. This reduces the need for excessive cooling and helps maintain a comfortable temperature in the room.
Privacy and Security
Privacy is another significant factor in curtain usage. Many individuals keep their curtains closed to maintain a sense of privacy, even on sunny days. This is especially true for those who live in areas with visible neighbors or public streets. For instance, someone living in a suburban area may keep curtains drawn on the side of the living room and bedroom that face the street, adding an extra layer of privacy and security.
A personal anecdote from a spouse illustrates this point further. There is a running battle between the couple over the necessary levels of privacy, leading to a compromise of having some windows "naked and not ashamed" and others with appropriate "fig leaves." This compromise allows for sunlight while still providing the desired level of privacy.
Community Relations and Personal Preferences
There are instances where closing curtains is also influenced by community dynamics and personal preferences. For example, an intern at a company described how her boss kept all windows tightly closed, creating a dark and depressing atmosphere, so that when she returned from a vacation, the change in environment led to increased productivity among her colleagues.
Others, like the person living in Oregon, mentioned that they keep certain curtains open for privacy and to allow sunlight into well-ventilated areas. This personal choice is heavily influenced by the local environment and the individual's desire for a certain level of exposure and isolation.
Conclusion
While temperature management is the primary reason many close their curtains during the day, privacy and personal preferences play a significant role in this behavior. Whether it's to stay cool, keep warm, or maintain a sense of privacy, the decision to close curtains is often a balance between practical concerns and personal comfort.