The short answer is, yes. In the UK, hotel curtains must meet strict fire safety standards, typically under BS 5867, to reduce the risk of fire and protect guests. That’s why most commercial hotels use fire-retardant (FR) or inherently fire-retardant fabrics to stay compliant.
Why fire safety matters in hotel curtains
Hotels are busy places where safety standards are non-negotiable. Soft furnishings, especially curtains, can pose a serious fire risk if they are not manufactured correctly.
Curtains sit close to windows, radiators, lighting and electrical fittings. In the event of a fire, non-compliant fabrics can ignite quickly and allow flames to spread. Fire-retardant curtains are designed to slow this process, giving people more time to evacuate and helping to limit damage.
Because of this, UK regulations require hotels and other commercial spaces to use fabrics that meet recognised fire safety standards.
What regulations apply to hotel curtains in the UK?
The main standard for curtains in commercial settings is BS 5867. This British Standard outlines how fabrics must perform when exposed to flame.
There are different parts to the standard, but for hotels, the most relevant is:
- BS 5867 Part 2 Type B or Type C
- Type B offers a good level of flame resistance
- Type C provides a higher level of protection, often used in more demanding environments
In practice, most hotels will choose fabrics that meet or exceed these requirements to ensure compliance and peace of mind.
It’s also important to note that the hotel owners’ responsibility doesn’t just sit with the fabric. The finished curtain, including linings and interlinings, must meet the standard as a complete product.
What are fire-retardant curtains?
Fire-retardant curtains are made using fabrics that resist ignition and slow the spread of flames. There are two main types:
1. Inherently fire-retardant (IFR) fabrics
These are manufactured with flame-resistant fibres built into the material itself. The protection does not wash out or fade over time.
2. Treated fire-retardant fabrics
These fabrics are chemically treated to achieve fire resistance. While effective, they may require re-treatment after cleaning, depending on the fabric.
For hotels, inherently fire-retardant fabrics are often preferred due to their durability and long-term reliability.
Do all areas in a hotel need fire-retardant curtains?
In most cases, yes. Fire-retardant curtains are typically required in:
- Guest bedrooms
- Reception areas
- Corridors and communal spaces
- Conference and function rooms
Any area used by guests or staff should meet fire safety standards. Even in smaller boutique hotels or serviced apartments, compliance is still essential.
What happens if curtains are not compliant?
Using non-compliant curtains can lead to serious consequences:
- Failure to meet fire regulations
- Insurance issues or invalid claims
- Legal liability in the event of an incident
- Risks to the safety of guests and your reputation
Whether you’re a hotel owner, designer or contractor, working with a trusted supplier is the simplest way to avoid these risks.
How we ensure compliance at Drapes UK
At Drapes UK, we work closely with the trade to supply curtains and blinds that meet the demands of commercial environments, including hotels.
We’ve been manufacturing soft furnishings since 1986, and we understand the importance of getting both safety and quality right.
When it comes to fire-retardant curtains, we:
- Use fabrics that meet relevant British Standards
- Ensure the finished product, not just the fabric, is compliant
- Offer guidance on suitable materials for different environments
- Work with both supplied fabrics and our own extensive ranges
Because everything is made in our UK workroom by skilled professionals, we can maintain consistent quality and ensure every order meets the required specifications.
Made-to-measure curtains for a range of projects
Hotels rarely use off-the-shelf solutions. Every room, window and design scheme is different. That’s why made-to-measure curtains are the standard in the hospitality sector.
We manufacture a full range of:
- Made to measure curtains
- Roman blinds
- Roller, Venetian, vertical and laminated blinds
- Pelmets and headboards
- Cushions and accessories
All products are tailored to your exact requirements, whether you’re fitting out a boutique hotel or a large multi-room development.
Flexible options for hotel designers
One of the biggest challenges in hotel design is balancing creativity with compliance. We make that easier.
You’re not limited to a single book of fabrics when working with us. We offer:
- A wide range of fabrics suitable for commercial use
- The option to supply your own fabric
- Sourcing fabrics through our network of trusted suppliers
If you already have a design scheme or specific fabric in mind, we can work with it. If not, we can help you source something suitable that meets both aesthetic and fire safety requirements.
This flexibility allows designers and contractors to deliver exactly what their clients want, without compromising on safety.
Fast lead times and reliable deliveries
We know hotel projects often run on tight schedules. Delays can be costly.
That’s why we focus on:
- Fast, reliable lead times
- UK-based manufacturing for better control
- Careful packaging for protection in transit
Our curtains are delivered hooked and pulled up to size, which makes installation straightforward and saves time on site.
We also offer a UK-wide installation service, giving you a complete solution from manufacture to fitting.
Choosing the right hotel curtain supplier
Fire safety is just one part of the equation. A good hotel curtain supplier should also offer:
- Proven experience in commercial projects
- Consistent product quality
- Flexible manufacturing options
- Reliable lead times
- Ongoing support
At Drapes UK, we combine all of these with over 35 years of industry experience. We work with retailers, designers, and contractors across the UK, helping them deliver high-quality, compliant soft furnishings for hotels.
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