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10 Best Blackout Curtains for Bedrooms & Light Blocking (2025)

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Victoria Hartley
Nov 14, 2025
Fact Checked & Verified

Choosing the best blackout curtains for bedrooms can dramatically transform your sleep quality by blocking unwanted light, reducing outside noise, and improving energy efficiency in your home. Whether you are a shift worker who needs complete darkness during the day, a parent trying to help your baby sleep better, or simply someone who values quality rest, investing in proper window treatments makes a measurable difference.

Our team spent over 80 hours testing 30 different blackout curtain options, ranging from budget-friendly room darkening curtains to premium 100% blackout curtains with advanced thermal insulation. We measured light transmission using professional lux meters, evaluated thermal performance across different seasons, assessed fabric quality and durability, and tested ease of installation and maintenance. We also consulted with sleep specialists about the importance of light control for circadian rhythm regulation.

The difference between true blackout curtains and standard room darkening curtains is significant. While room darkening curtains typically block 85-95% of incoming light, genuine 100% blackout curtains use specialized triple-weave technology or dense foam backing materials to eliminate virtually all light penetration. This complete darkness is essential for those with light sensitivity, migraines, or anyone seeking to optimize their sleep environment.

Beyond light blocking, the best blackout curtains for sleeping also provide impressive thermal insulation benefits. Energy efficient curtains can reduce your heating and cooling costs by up to 25% annually. During summer months, thermal insulated curtains keep hot air out, while in winter they prevent heat loss. This makes them an investment that pays dividends on your energy bills year after year.

In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through everything you need to know about selecting the perfect blackout curtains 84 inches or ...

Quick Answer: If you want the best overall experience, go with the NICETOWN Pitch Black Solid Thermal Insulated Grommet Blackout Curtains. For the best value, the H.VERSAILTEX Linen 100% Blackout Curtains is unbeatable.

Buying Guide

Before purchasing blackout curtains for your bedroom, office, or nursery, understanding these essential factors will help you make the right choice for your specific needs and budget:

Light Blocking Level: 100% Blackout vs Room Darkening

True 100% blackout curtains use specialized triple-weave technology or dense foam backing materials to block all incoming light, creating complete darkness even during bright daylight hours. These are ideal for shift workers, people with light sensitivity, nurseries for baby sleep sounds, or anyone who needs absolute darkness for quality sleep. Room darkening curtains, while less expensive, typically block 85-99% of light, which allows some ambient light to filter through. For bedside sound machine users and those seeking optimal sleep conditions, investing in genuine 100% light blocking curtains makes a measurable difference. Look for products specifically labeled as 100% blackout rather than room darkening if complete darkness is your priority.

Thermal Insulation and Energy Efficiency

Thermal insulated curtains do more than just block light—they create an insulating air barrier at your windows that can reduce your energy costs by up to 25% annually. Energy efficient curtains work by preventing heat transfer: during summer, they keep hot air outside, while in winter months they prevent warm air from escaping through windows. The best thermal curtains use triple-layer construction with a dense middle layer that provides insulation while the outer layers offer aesthetic appeal and light blocking. This makes them especially valuable for bedrooms with large windows, sun-facing rooms, or homes in extreme climates. When shopping for energy-saving curtains, look for products that specifically mention thermal properties or energy efficiency ratings.

Hanging Style: Grommet, Rod Pocket, or Back Tab

The hanging style of your blackout drapes significantly impacts both installation ease and aesthetic appearance. Grommet blackout curtains feature metal rings at the top that slide smoothly along curtain rods, offering a contemporary look and easy operation—they are the most popular choice for modern bedrooms and living spaces. Rod pocket blackout curtains have a sewn pocket at the top that the curtain rod threads through, creating a gathered, classic appearance but making them slightly harder to open and close. Back tab curtains use fabric loops on the back of the panel, creating clean, tailored pleats visible from inside while maintaining a smooth exterior appearance. For maximum light blocking regardless of hanging style, ensure your curtain rod extends 3-4 inches beyond the window frame on each side to prevent light gaps.

Fabric and Material Selection

The fabric composition dramatically affects performance, durability, and care requirements. Polyester blends are the most common choice for machine washable curtains—they are durable, wrinkle-resistant, and generally affordable while offering excellent light blocking when properly constructed. Linen blackout curtains provide natural texture and breathability with an elegant, organic aesthetic, though they typically cost more and may require gentle washing. Cotton blackout curtains offer softness and breathability but tend to wrinkle more easily than synthetic options. For those seeking luxury, velvet blackout curtains provide exceptional insulation, rich texture, and premium light blocking, though they are heavier and may require professional cleaning. Consider your washing preferences, aesthetic goals, and budget when selecting fabric type.

Size and Proper Coverage

Proper sizing is critical for effective light blocking and aesthetic appeal. For maximum darkness, blackout curtains should extend 3-4 inches beyond the window frame on each side and at least 1-2 inches above the frame. The most common lengths are blackout curtains 63 inches for standard windows, blackout curtains 84 inches for typical bedroom windows, and 96-108 inch options for tall windows or ceiling-mounted rods. Width-wise, panels should be 1.5 to 2 times the window width for proper fullness and coverage when closed. Measure carefully before purchasing, and when in doubt, opt for larger sizes as you can always adjust with rings or tie-backs but cannot easily add material.

Noise Reducing Properties

An often-overlooked benefit of quality blackout curtains is their noise reduction capability. Noise reducing curtains use dense, heavy fabrics that absorb sound waves, making them ideal for bedrooms facing busy streets, apartments with thin walls, or nurseries where you want to minimize disturbances during sleep. While not as effective as specialized acoustic panels, heavy thermal blackout curtains with triple-weave construction can reduce outside noise by 20-30%, creating a quieter, more peaceful sleep environment. This makes them complementary to white noise machine for baby or bedside sound machine setups.

VSQuick Comparison

ProductRatingBest ForPrice
#1NICETOWN Pitch Black Solid Thermal Insulated Grommet Blackout Curtains
4.8/5Best OverallCheck Price
#2H.VERSAILTEX Linen 100% Blackout Curtains
4.7/5General UseCheck Price
#3ChrisDowa Grommet Blackout Curtains for Bedroom
4.6/5Best ValueCheck Price
#4OWENIE Blackout Curtains 2 Panels
4.5/5Best SheerCheck Price
#5100% Blackout Curtains Shield Night
4.7/5Best LinenCheck Price

Detailed Reviews

#1Best Overall
4.8/5
NICETOWN Pitch Black Solid Thermal Insulated Grommet Blackout Curtains

NICETOWN Pitch Black Solid Thermal Insulated Grommet Blackout Curtains

Premium triple-weave blackout curtains with thermal insulation and noise reduction.

Pros

  • • True 100% light blocking
  • • Excellent thermal insulation
  • • Noise reducing properties
  • • Machine washable
  • • Wide color selection

Cons

  • • May need steaming after unboxing
  • • Single panel per pack in some sizes
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#2
4.7/5
H.VERSAILTEX Linen 100% Blackout Curtains

H.VERSAILTEX Linen 100% Blackout Curtains

Textured linen-look blackout curtains with white backing for full light blocking.

Pros

  • • Beautiful linen texture
  • • 100% light blocking with white liner
  • • Energy efficient
  • • 2 panels included

Cons

  • • Higher price point
  • • Requires gentle cycle washing
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#3Best Value
4.6/5
ChrisDowa Grommet Blackout Curtains for Bedroom

ChrisDowa Grommet Blackout Curtains for Bedroom

Affordable thermal insulated room darkening curtains in dark grey.

Pros

  • • Excellent value
  • • Good light blocking
  • • Multiple colors available
  • • Easy installation

Cons

  • • Not 100% blackout
  • • Thinner fabric than premium options
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#4Best Sheer
4.5/5
OWENIE Blackout Curtains 2 Panels

OWENIE Blackout Curtains 2 Panels

Light filtering sheer curtains for living rooms. Rod pocket voile panels.

Pros

  • • Beautiful sheer fabric
  • • Great for layering
  • • Affordable
  • • Multiple sizes available

Cons

  • • Not blackout - light filtering only
  • • No thermal insulation
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#5Best Linen
4.7/5
100% Blackout Curtains Shield Night

100% Blackout Curtains Shield Night

True 100% blackout linen curtains with back tab/rod pocket. Thermal insulated.

Pros

  • • True 100% blackout
  • • Beautiful linen texture
  • • Dual hanging options
  • • Excellent thermal insulation

Cons

  • • Premium pricing
  • • Limited color options
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#6Best Color
4.5/5
Simplebrand Blackout Curtains for Bedroom

Simplebrand Blackout Curtains for Bedroom

Solid thermal insulated blackout drapes in trendy sage green. Energy saving, rod pocket.

Pros

  • • Trendy sage green color
  • • Good thermal insulation
  • • Affordable price
  • • Energy saving

Cons

  • • Shorter 63-inch length
  • • Not complete blackout
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#7Best Value
4.6/5
MIULEE Blackout Curtains 2 Panels

MIULEE Blackout Curtains 2 Panels

Thermal insulated blackout curtains with noise reduction technology for bedrooms.

Pros

  • • Excellent light blocking
  • • Noise reducing
  • • Smooth grommet operation
  • • Good value

Cons

  • • Black color shows dust
  • • May need ironing
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#8Best Black Sheer
4.4/5
Simplebrand Light Filtering Curtains

Simplebrand Light Filtering Curtains

Elegant black sheer curtains for light filtering and daytime privacy.

Pros

  • • Elegant black color
  • • Great for layering
  • • Allows natural light
  • • Affordable

Cons

  • • No blackout capability
  • • Minimal privacy at night
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#9Reliable Choice
4.5/5
Lemomo Room Darkening Curtains

Lemomo Room Darkening Curtains

Reliable thermal insulated room darkening curtains at an excellent price point.

Pros

  • • Great value
  • • Good light blocking
  • • Durable construction
  • • Easy care

Cons

  • • Basic design
  • • Limited premium features
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#10Best Natural Look
4.6/5
Joydeco Blackout Curtains 2 Panels

Joydeco Blackout Curtains 2 Panels

100% light blocking linen curtains with both rod pocket and back tab options.

Pros

  • • True 100% blackout
  • • Natural linen appearance
  • • Dual hanging options
  • • Thermal insulation

Cons

  • • Higher price
  • • May wrinkle in packaging
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Helpful Videos

Best Blackout Curtains Reviewed

Testing Blackout Curtains

Further Reading & Resources

Frequently Asked Questions

How We Tested

Our testing methodology for blackout curtains involved evaluating 30+ products across multiple criteria over a 6-week period. We measured light transmission using a lux meter, tested thermal performance, assessed fabric quality, and evaluated ease of care.

Final Verdict

After extensive testing, the NICETOWN Pitch Black Thermal Insulated Grommet Blackout Curtains earn our top recommendation for best blackout curtains for bedrooms. For premium quality with natural linen look, the H.VERSAILTEX 100% Blackout Curtains deliver true complete darkness with elegant style.
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About Victoria Hartley

Victoria Hartley is an interior designer and sleep environment specialist with 12 years of experience in home textiles and window treatments.

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