What is Vertiver Curtains

Vetiver curtains, also widely known as Khus curtains in India, are a traditional and eco-friendly way to naturally cool homes, particularly during hot summer months. They are gaining renewed popularity as a sustainable alternative to energy-intensive cooling appliances like air conditioners and coolers.

Here's a breakdown of what vetiver curtains are and their benefits:

What are Vetiver Curtains?

  • They are made from dried vetiver (khus) grass roots, which are known for their natural cooling and aromatic properties.

  • The grass is woven into mats or screens that can be hung in windows, doorways, or balconies.

How do they work?

  • Evaporative Cooling: The primary mechanism is evaporative cooling. When the vetiver curtains are moistened (by sprinkling water on them), as dry hot air passes through the wet grass, the water evaporates, absorbing heat from the air and leading to a cooling effect.

  • Air Filtration: Vetiver fibers can also act as natural air filters, trapping dust particles and allowing cleaner air to pass through.

Key Benefits:

  • Natural Cooling: Provides a significant reduction in indoor temperature, especially effective in dry climates.

  • Eco-Friendly and Sustainable: Made from a natural, biodegradable, and renewable resource, making them a great choice for environmentally conscious individuals. They are energy-efficient as they don't consume electricity.

  • Aromatherapy: Vetiver roots have a distinctive woody, sweet, and earthy fragrance that is known for its calming and relaxing effects, reducing stress and adding a pleasant aroma to your home.

  • Air Purification: Helps filter dust and other particles from the air, contributing to better indoor air quality.

  • Insect Repellent: The natural aroma of vetiver is also said to repel insects like mosquitoes.

  • Aesthetic Appeal: They offer a natural, rustic, and earthy charm that can complement various decor styles, from traditional to contemporary.

  • Cost-Effective: Generally more affordable than air conditioners or air coolers, both in initial purchase and running costs.

Limitations:

  • Effectiveness in Dry Climates: They work best in dry heat, as their cooling relies on evaporation. Their effectiveness is reduced in highly humid conditions.

  • Requires Regular Watering: To maintain the cooling effect, the curtains need to be kept wet by sprinkling water on them multiple times a day. However Khusplaza.co has devloped a autocooling system that sprinkles water in a time interval to mantain cooling.

  • Less Cooling than AC: While effective, they may not provide the same level of intense cooling as an air conditioner, especially in extremely hot conditions. They are often used in conjunction with fans for better airflow and hence reduce electricity bill.

  • Seasonal Use: They are primarily useful during hot summer months and may not be practical for other seasons.

Where to Buy in India :

Vetiver curtains are widely available in India, especially during the summer. You can find them from:

  • Online Retailers: Websites like Khusplaza .com offer a variety of sizes and types of vetiver curtains. 

  • Local Markets: In cities of india too, there are traditional artisans and sellers who specialize in making and selling Khus curtains and mats. As per search results, "Meher Aromatics" in Balangir, Odisha, is a manufacturer and supplier of Khus curtains and mats, and they deliver all over India. Local inquiries in Bhubaneswar would likely reveal direct sellers, as there have been discussions on Reddit about purchasing them there.

Maintenance:

  • Keep them regularly moistened for optimal cooling.

  • When not in use (e.g., during monsoon or winter), ensure they are thoroughly dried and stored to prevent mold or mildew.