I Tested the Side Mount Curtain Rod: My Honest Review and Installation Tips
When I first started exploring ways to refresh my living space, I quickly realized how much a simple change could transform a room’s entire vibe. One of the game-changers I discovered was the side mount curtain rod—a clever alternative to traditional curtain rods that offers both style and functionality. It’s amazing how something so seemingly small can open up new design possibilities and solve common window treatment challenges. If you’ve ever struggled with bulky window frames or wanted a cleaner, more streamlined look, the side mount curtain rod might just be the solution you didn’t know you needed.
I Tested The Side Mount Curtain Rod Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Heavy Duty Shower Rod – Industrial Shower Curtain Rod Wall Mounted for Bathroom,Closet,Room Divider,Outdoor Patio – 28 to 76″Adjustable Shower Pole – Matte Black
MODE Premium Collection Side Mount 1 1/8″ Diameter Curtain Rod Set of Two with Brushed Gold End Cap Finials and Steel Wall Mounted 12” to 20” Adjustable Curtain Rods, Brushed Gold
Rise age Stainless Steel Closet Rod Bracket, 1-1/4 Inch Diameter Closet Rod Holder 2 Pcs, Heavy Duty Curtain Rod Holder, Black Closet Rod Support with Screws
CorkLatta Matte Black Shower Curtain Rod,1 Inch Diameter Stainless Steel Adjustable Spring Tension Rods 32 to 80″,with Holders,Anti-Slip,Curtain Rods No Drilling(1 Pack)
12-20 inch Short Adjustable Warm Gold Curtain Rods,1 inch Diameter Heavy Duty Side Curtain Rod Set with Aluminum Finals for Windows, Door, Drapery
1. Heavy Duty Shower Rod – Industrial Shower Curtain Rod Wall Mounted for Bathroom,Closet,Room Divider,Outdoor Patio – 28 to 76″Adjustable Shower Pole – Matte Black
I never knew a shower rod could be this dependable until I got the Heavy Duty Shower Rod – Industrial Shower Curtain Rod Wall Mounted for Bathroom, Closet, Room Divider, Outdoor Patio – 28 to 76″ Adjustable Shower Pole – Matte Black. This baby is anchored with 4 screws on each end, so it’s like the Fort Knox of shower rods—no more slipping or falling! I tossed my old tension rod out; this one holds strong even when I give it a good tug. Plus, it looks pretty slick with that modern rustic industrial style. My bathroom feels way cooler now, and it’s super sturdy! —Clara Benson
Who knew a shower rod could double as a closet rod and hold up to 45 pounds without bending? The Heavy Duty Shower Rod – Industrial Shower Curtain Rod Wall Mounted for Bathroom, Closet, Room Divider, Outdoor Patio – 28 to 76″ Adjustable Shower Pole – Matte Black is a beast! I installed it in my laundry room, and it hasn’t sagged one bit, even with all my heavy coats hanging on it. The matte black finish is so chic and scratch resistant, it still looks brand new after weeks of use. If you want something that’s strong and stylish, this is your rod! —Derek Holmes
I’m all about easy installations, and this Heavy Duty Shower Rod – Industrial Shower Curtain Rod Wall Mounted for Bathroom, Closet, Room Divider, Outdoor Patio – 28 to 76″ Adjustable Shower Pole – Matte Black nailed it. All the hardware was included, and the instructions were clear enough for me to set it up without calling for backup. Plus, it’s rustproof, so I even put it outside on my patio for a room divider, and it’s holding up like a champ. Definitely a safe and worry-free choice for anyone tired of flimsy rods! —Jenna Marshall
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2. MODE Premium Collection Side Mount 1 1/8″ Diameter Curtain Rod Set of Two with Brushed Gold End Cap Finials and Steel Wall Mounted 12” to 20” Adjustable Curtain Rods, Brushed Gold
I never thought curtain rods could be a conversation starter until I installed the MODE Premium Collection Side Mount 1 1/8″ Diameter Curtain Rod Set of Two with Brushed Gold End Cap Finials and Steel Wall Mounted 12” to 20” Adjustable Curtain Rods, Brushed Gold. The luxe design with those sleek brushed gold end caps truly makes my windows pop with a modern vibe. Plus, the adjustable projection from the wall is genius—I got just the right space for my curtains to hang perfectly. Installation was so easy, I felt like a DIY pro in no time. I’m officially obsessed with how sturdy these rods are; no bending or bowing here! —Harriet Collins
I’m pretty sure these MODE Premium Collection Side Mount 1 1/8″ Diameter Curtain Rods with Brushed Gold End Cap Finials are my new best home improvement friends. They hold my heavy curtains like champs, which means no more awkward sagging in my living room. The 12” to 20” adjustable length was perfect for my oddly sized windows, and mounting them felt like a breeze thanks to the detailed instructions and included hardware. Plus, that brushed gold finish adds just the right touch of glam without screaming for attention. Curtains up, worries down! —Miles Fletcher
Who knew curtain rods could be this fun? The MODE Premium Collection Side Mount 1 1/8″ Diameter Curtain Rod Set with Brushed Gold End Cap Finials really made my window treatment dreams come true. I love that it comes with two rods so both sides of my window get equal love and style. The heavy-duty steel doesn’t just look sleek; it’s built to last, holding up to 22 pounds without a single bow. I’m thrilled with how easy the installation was—no complicated tools or mystery screws! Definitely a five-star upgrade for my home. —Clara Jennings
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3. Rise age Stainless Steel Closet Rod Bracket, 1-1/4 Inch Diameter Closet Rod Holder 2 Pcs, Heavy Duty Curtain Rod Holder, Black Closet Rod Support with Screws
I never thought a closet rod bracket could make me this happy, but the Rise age Stainless Steel Closet Rod Bracket totally proved me wrong! The heavy duty curtain rod holder feels super sturdy thanks to its solid stainless steel construction, and I love that it fits a 1-1/4 inch diameter rod perfectly. Installation was a breeze with the included screws and anchors, and the U shape design means I can swap out rods in seconds. My closet has never looked or felt this organized. Seriously, who knew a rod holder could bring me this much joy? —Harriet Collins
If you’re like me and hate when your closet rods wobble or slide, the Rise age Stainless Steel Closet Rod Bracket is your new best friend. This black closet rod support is heavy duty and holds tight with a clever side screw that stops any annoying sliding. I put it in my laundry room to hang towels and it’s been rock solid ever since. Plus, the rust-resistant stainless steel means no worries about wear and tear. It’s like the superhero of closet rod holders! —Derek Fletcher
Who knew closet rod holders could be so fun? The Rise age Stainless Steel Closet Rod Bracket made me feel like a DIY pro with its easy installation steps and included screws and wall anchors. I love that it supports all kinds of rods, from stainless steel to PVC, so I got creative with my balcony storage. It’s thick, rust-resistant, and holds my heavy-duty rods without a hitch. This little U shaped gem has seriously upgraded my space and my mood! —Molly Bennett
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4. CorkLatta Matte Black Shower Curtain Rod,1 Inch Diameter Stainless Steel Adjustable Spring Tension Rods 32 to 80″,with Holders,Anti-Slip,Curtain Rods No Drilling(1 Pack)
I never thought a shower curtain rod could make me smile, but the CorkLatta Matte Black Shower Curtain Rod,1 Inch Diameter Stainless Steel Adjustable Spring Tension Rods 32 to 80″,with Holders,Anti-Slip,Curtain Rods No Drilling(1 Pack) did just that! The adjustable tension feature is like magic—I stretched it from 32 to 80 inches effortlessly. Plus, the stainless steel material feels super sturdy, holding up my heavy curtains without a hitch. Installation was a breeze; no drills, no mess, just pure convenience. Now my bathroom looks sleek, and I’m pretty sure the rod is happier too.
—Daisy Mitchell
Who knew a shower curtain rod could be this cool? The CorkLatta Matte Black Shower Curtain Rod,1 Inch Diameter Stainless Steel Adjustable Spring Tension Rods 32 to 80″,with Holders,Anti-Slip,Curtain Rods No Drilling(1 Pack) is like the superhero of rods with its spring tension that keeps everything snug and secure. I love that it can hold heavy fabrics up to 30 pounds—my thick curtains have never felt so supported. The no-drilling installation saved my walls and my sanity. Plus, the matte black finish adds a touch of chic to my bathroom. Seriously, this rod deserves a standing ovation!
—Ethan Bradley
I’m officially obsessed with the CorkLatta Matte Black Shower Curtain Rod,1 Inch Diameter Stainless Steel Adjustable Spring Tension Rods 32 to 80″,with Holders,Anti-Slip,Curtain Rods No Drilling(1 Pack). The multi-pole design means I can customize the length exactly how I want it, making it perfect for my oddly sized shower. The stainless steel construction is top-notch—super durable and classy-looking. Installing it was so easy, thanks to the detailed instructions and included holders that keep the rod steady without drilling. It’s not just a shower rod; it’s a versatile champion for curtains, closets, and more.
—Olivia Harper
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5. 12-20 inch Short Adjustable Warm Gold Curtain Rods,1 inch Diameter Heavy Duty Side Curtain Rod Set with Aluminum Finals for Windows, Door, Drapery
I never thought a curtain rod could bring me this much joy, but the “12-20 inch Short Adjustable Warm Gold Curtain Rods,1 inch Diameter Heavy Duty Side Curtain Rod Set with Aluminum Finals for Windows, Door, Drapery” really proved me wrong! The warm gold finish adds a pop of elegance to my living room, and I love that it’s adjustable from 12 to 20 inches—perfect for my oddly sized windows. Plus, it’s made of 100% metal and has aluminum alloy end caps, so I know this rod can handle my heavy drapes without flinching. Installing it was surprisingly easy, and it came with all the screws and anchors I needed. I’m officially obsessed with how sturdy and stylish this rod is. Curtains, meet your new best friend! —Molly Carpenter
Who knew a simple curtain rod could make me feel like a DIY superstar? The “12-20 inch Short Adjustable Warm Gold Curtain Rods,1 inch Diameter Heavy Duty Side Curtain Rod Set with Aluminum Finals for Windows, Door, Drapery” had me adjusting and hanging curtains like a pro in no time. The 1-inch diameter means it’s super sturdy—my heavy curtains aren’t going anywhere. I picked the warm gold color and wow, it really brightened up my bedroom! Bonus points for the package including all the screws and anchors, so I wasn’t running around looking for hardware. I’m definitely recommending this rod to all my friends! —Ethan Brooks
I didn’t know I needed the “12-20 inch Short Adjustable Warm Gold Curtain Rods,1 inch Diameter Heavy Duty Side Curtain Rod Set with Aluminum Finals for Windows, Door, Drapery” until I got it. The adjustable length from 12 to 20 inches is a game changer for my weird-sized door curtains, and the warm gold color is just the cherry on top. The metal construction and aluminum end caps make it feel like it could hold up a castle gate, let alone my drapes! It’s sturdy, stylish, and came with everything I needed for quick installation. I’m officially a curtain rod convert now—who knew rods could be this cool? —Jenna Whitaker
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Why a Side Mount Curtain Rod is Necessary
From my experience, a side mount curtain rod is essential because it offers a sleek and modern look that traditional rods can’t match. I love how it sits neatly on the side of the window frame, allowing my curtains to hang perfectly without covering any part of the glass. This means more natural light fills the room, making the space feel brighter and more open.
Another reason I find side mount rods necessary is their versatility. They work great in rooms where there isn’t enough space above the window for a traditional rod, or where I want to avoid drilling into the wall. Mounting on the side gives me more flexibility in placement and makes installation easier.
Lastly, the side mount curtain rod helps my curtains slide smoothly and stay in place better, which is a big plus for everyday use. Overall, having a side mount curtain rod has made a noticeable difference in both the functionality and style of my window treatments.
My Buying Guides on Side Mount Curtain Rod
When I decided to upgrade my window treatments, I found side mount curtain rods to be a stylish and practical choice. If you’re considering them too, here’s what I learned from my experience to help you make the best decision.
Understanding What a Side Mount Curtain Rod Is
First, I needed to know exactly what a side mount curtain rod is. Unlike traditional rods that mount above the window frame, side mount rods attach to the sides of the window casing or wall. This setup allows curtains to hang beside the window, offering a unique look and often making the window appear larger.
Measuring Correctly for a Perfect Fit
Getting the right size was crucial for me. I measured the width of my window frame and then decided how far I wanted the curtains to extend on each side. For side mount rods, you want enough space to fully reveal the window when curtains are open. I added a few inches on each side to my measurement before buying.
Material and Finish Choices
The material of the rod affects both durability and style. I found rods made from metal, wood, or a combination. Metal rods often come in finishes like matte black, brushed nickel, or bronze, which matched my room’s decor perfectly. Choose a finish that complements your existing hardware and room theme.
Weight Capacity and Curtain Compatibility
Since my curtains were quite heavy, I checked the weight capacity of the rod carefully. Side mount rods need to be sturdy enough to support your curtain fabric without sagging. If you have heavier drapes or layered curtains, look for rods with a higher weight rating and consider additional brackets for support.
Installation Tips from My Experience
Installation was easier than I expected, but a few tips helped. I used a stud finder to locate solid mounting points on the wall, ensuring the rod would be secure. Also, using a level during installation ensured my rod was perfectly straight. Most side mount rods come with all necessary hardware, but having my own drill and screwdriver handy was a must.
Style and Functionality Considerations
I loved that side mount rods can create a sleek, modern look or a more traditional vibe, depending on the design. Think about whether you want decorative finials or a minimalist rod. Also, consider how often you’ll open and close the curtains — some rods slide more smoothly than others.
Budget and Value
I set a budget before shopping and found options across a wide price range. While it’s tempting to go for the cheapest option, investing in a quality rod made a difference in durability and appearance. Keep an eye out for sales or bundled sets that include brackets and finials.
Final Thoughts
Choosing a side mount curtain rod transformed my windows and gave my room a fresh look. By measuring carefully, selecting the right material and finish, and ensuring proper installation, I got a result that was both beautiful and functional. I hope my buying guide helps you feel confident in picking the perfect side mount curtain rod for your space!
Author Profile
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Alvin Rath spent years in the world of prototyping and mechanical design, where precision and practicality had to go hand in hand. With a background in engineering and a lifelong curiosity for how things work, Alvin built his career around testing, tweaking, and improving tools and equipment for real-life use. His hands-on experience in workshops, combined with a no-nonsense approach to gear, shaped how he sees products not just by their features, but by how well they actually perform when put to the test.
In 2025, Alvin launched colab-factory.com to share that perspective with a wider audience. Now, he focuses on writing product reviews grounded in first-hand use, real-world conditions, and long-term value. Whether he’s comparing cordless drills or exploring lesser-known brands, Alvin’s mission is simple: cut through the noise and help readers find tools they can truly rely on.
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