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What is a curtain return?

A curtain return is an extra fixed section at the end of a curtain, held by its own hook, that carries the fabric back to the wall. It hides the gap between the end of the track and the wall, so less light comes down the side and you don't see behind the curtain.

Without a return, the curtain stops at the end of the track and there's a visible gap between the fabric and the wall, which lets light down the side and shows whatever is behind the curtain.

The return section is fixed. It doesn't travel with the rest of the curtain when it opens.

Where returns can go

Returns can only be added on single extended or room side track positions. The bracket arrangement has to put the track far enough off the wall for the fabric to come back to it.

Uneven ends are normal

Because the return is fixed, the stacking configuration decides where you get one. A centre open curtain returns at both outer ends. A one way stack returns on the stack side only, so one end goes back to the wall and the moving end doesn't.

If you're expecting both ends to look the same, ask your retailer how your curtain stacks. An uneven return is a normal consequence of a one way stack, not something that got missed.

This answer is general information. For your own windows, your retailer's advice and your order with them come first.

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