Block The Noise And Light With These 8 Best Blackout Curtains

Last Updated October 31, 2023 By Bella Zinti

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Quick Comparison of Our Top 4 Picks!

best overall
Quince Cotton Slub Blackout Curtain thumbnail

4.9/5

  • Available in three different lengths and colors 
  • Lined with both cotton and a 100% polyester blackout layer
  • The cross-weave pattern with a natural, nubby texture offers a distinct and organic look
worth the splurge
Emery Linen Blackout Curtain thumbnail

4.9/5

  • Made from premium linen
  • The pole pocket design offers a seamless and tailored look
  • Available in 11 colors and 6 different sizes
most budget friendly choice
H.VERSAILTEX Linen Blackout Curtain thumbnail

4.5/5

  • Budget-friendly price point compared to other blackout curtains
  • Available in 12 colors and 9 sizes
  • Designed for straightforward installation without the need for professional assistance.
best linen blackout curtain
Belgian Flax Linen Curtain thumbnail

4.8/5

  • Offer a luxurious and sophisticated look
  • The blackout lining is highly efficient at blocking out light
  • Offers three hanging options: rod pocket, back tabs, ring top

In the hustle and bustle of our daily lives, finding solace and tranquility within the walls of our homes has never been more important. Our homes ought to serve as sanctuaries, providing us with a haven of tranquility amidst the tumult of the external realm. Yet, achieving that peace and calm can often be easier said than done, especially when you're dealing with intrusive light, noise, or temperature fluctuations.

Meet blackout curtains, the unsung heroes of home decor and comfort. These versatile window treatments can transform any space into a serene oasis where you can escape the relentless glare of streetlights and the unwelcome sun's rays of the morning sun to disrupt your sleep cycle.

In this blog post, we'll dive into the world of blackout curtains, exploring what to look for when shopping for blackout curtains and the best blackout curtains on the market. Whether you're a light-sensitive sleeper, a movie night enthusiast, or someone seeking a touch of elegance in your living space, blackout curtains might become your new favorite home improvement.

What Is Black Out Curtains

Blackout curtains are specialized window treatments that block light and provide enhanced privacy and insulation. These curtains showcase intricately woven or layered fabrics that effectively block out sunlight, rendering them perfect for bedrooms, home theaters, or any area where precise light management is crucial. Besides their light-blocking capabilities, blackout curtains also help reduce outside noise and maintain a comfortable indoor temperature by minimizing heat exchange. They come in various styles, colors, and designs, allowing homeowners to blend them seamlessly into their interior decor while enjoying the added benefits of darkness, tranquility, and energy efficiency.

What Is The Difference Between Blackout Curtains and Room Darkening Curtains

Blackout curtains and room-darkening curtains serve similar purposes, but the two have distinct differences. Blackout curtains are specifically crafted to block nearly all external light, resulting in complete darkness within a room. They frequently incorporate multiple layers or a unique lining that effectively prevents any light from penetrating. In contrast, room-darkening curtains are designed to reduce and filter light but don't provide total darkness. They are ideal for dimming a room, offering privacy, and reducing glare, but may still allow some light to filter through. The decision between the two options hinges on the level of darkness and privacy you seek to achieve in your space.

What To Consider When Shopping For Blackout Curtains

Material

The effectiveness of your blackout curtains is significantly influenced by the material they are made from. Look for curtains crafted from dense, opaque polyester, suede, or velvet materials. These fabrics have a tight weave that minimizes the amount of external light that can seep through. The thickness of these materials is key to their light-blocking capabilities. Heavy and thick curtains blocked light much better compared to lighter ones.

Light-Blocking Level

Light-blocking curtains can vary in their level of light filtration. Information about the curtains' light-blocking rating is often available on the product label or in the product description. Some curtains provide complete darkness, while others may reduce light to varying degrees. Understanding your specific needs for light control is essential in choosing the right level of light blocking.

Size and Length

Accurate measurements are essential when selecting blackout curtains. To ensure the curtains you select are a suitable fit, measure both the width and height of your windows, ensuring they are wider and longer than the window itself. This ensures no gaps for light to sneak through, providing you with optimal light control and privacy.

Hanging Style

Blackout curtains are available in various hanging styles, such as grommet, rod pocket, and tab-top. Select a style that not only fits your curtain rod but also enhances your room's overall aesthetic. Grommet curtains, for instance, offer a modern and sleek appearance, while rod pocket curtains have a more classic feel.

Design

The color and design of your blackout curtains are not just about aesthetics; they can also affect their light-blocking capabilities. Typically, darker colors such as navy or charcoal are more efficient in light-blocking than lighter shades. Additionally, solid patterns are more effective at reducing light than curtains with intricate designs or patterns.

Thermal Properties

Some blackout curtains also offer thermal insulation properties. These curtains contribute to maintaining a steady room temperature by inhibiting heat loss in colder seasons and thwarting external heat intrusion in the summer. If energy efficiency is a priority, contemplate curtains with thermal properties.

Noise Reduction

While not a standard feature, some blackout curtains come with added layers that provide noise reduction. This attribute can prove advantageous if you reside in a noisy vicinity or if you aim to establish a more serene environment conducive to relaxation.

Easy Maintenance

Check the care instructions for your chosen curtains to ensure they are easy to clean and maintain. Certain blackout curtains can be machine washed, while others may necessitate professional cleaning. Opt for curtains that align with your cleaning preferences.

Budget

Before embarking on your shopping journey, set a budget for your blackout curtains. Compare prices from different brands and retailers to identify curtains that fulfill your needs while staying within your budget.

8 Best Blackout Curtains for Peaceful Living

Quince Cotton Slub Blackout Curtain

Best Overall

overall 

4.9/5

Price

$$

Material Quality

Blackout Light

Energy efficiency

Quince Cotton Slub Blackout Curtain

Image Source: Quince

For those in search of a thermal curtain that marries both form and function, the Cotton Slub Blackout Curtain from Quince stands out. Crafted from 100% pure cotton in India, the curtains exude a sense of luxury and comfort. The unique cross-weave pattern is a standout feature, introducing a natural, nubby texture that is both tactile and visually striking. This slub effect, a result of the weaving process, introduces beautiful variations in the fabric. This enhances its aesthetic appeal and gives it an organic and approachable look, making it a versatile choice for various interior styles, from contemporary to rustic.

Beyond its design, the curtain's functionality is noteworthy. It is lined with both cotton and a 100% polyester blackout layer. With its dual lining, these curtains guarantee premium light-blocking capabilities, making them perfect for bedrooms, media rooms, or any area where precise light control is necessary. Whether you're aiming for a restful night's sleep without the intrusion of streetlights or watching a movie without glare, these curtains deliver.

Quince understands that homeowners have different preferences when it comes to hanging curtains. Hence, they offer flexibility with the Cotton Slub Blackout Curtain. You can hang them using the back tabs for an elegant pleated style, which is perfect for a more formal setting. Alternatively, the rod pocket option allows for a more relaxed, gathered look, suitable for casual interiors. For those who prefer using curtain clips, that's an option too.

Material

100% Cotton front and lining, 100% polyester blackout lining

Length

84", 96", 108"

Care

Dry Clean

What We Like

  • Available in three different lengths and colors to cater to various window dimensions
  • Lined with both cotton and a 100% polyester blackout layer, it provides premium light-blocking capabilities
  • The cross-weave pattern with a natural, nubby texture offers a distinct and organic look

What We Don't Like

  • The curtain is labeled as "Dry Clean Only," which might not be convenient for everyone
  • Limited color options

Emery Linen Blackout Curtain

Worth the Splurge

overall 

4.9/5

Price

$$$$

Material Quality

Blackout Light

Energy efficiency

Emery Linen Blackout Curtain

Image Source: Pottery Barn

The Emery Linen Pole Pocket Blackout Curtain by Pottery Barn transcends being merely a fabric curtain; it embodies both style and functionality. This product is an admirable selection for individuals willing to invest more in quality and design. Though the Emery curtain may carry a higher price compared to other alternatives on the market, it's crucial to weigh its intrinsic value. The blend of high-quality material, functional features, and elegant design makes it a product that can withstand time.

Made from premium linen, the curtain exudes a natural elegance. Linen, a fabric revered for its durability and breathable nature, ensures that the curtain looks luxurious and stands the test of time. The meticulous craftsmanship is evident in the fine stitching and the attention to detail, making it a standout piece in any home. The pole pocket design combines functionality and style effortlessly, ensuring the curtain hangs with a seamless, clean, and tailored appearance. The gray hue offers a balance of contemporary flair and timeless elegance. It offers a neutral palette that can effortlessly blend with various interior decors, from minimalist to opulent.

Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the curtain's functionality is noteworthy. The blackout feature is an added bonus for individuals seeking precise control over the amount of light entering a room. Whether it's for a peaceful afternoon nap, a movie marathon, or simply to maintain privacy, this curtain promises optimal room-darkening capabilities. It is available in eleven different colors and six sizes, making it suitable for various spaces in a home. Be it a bedroom, living room, or study, the curtain can elevate the ambiance of the space.

Material

73% linen and 27% cotton blend

Length

6 lengths available

Care

Dry Clean

What We Like

  • Made from premium linen, ensuring durability and a luxurious feel
  • The pole pocket design offers a seamless and tailored look, enhancing the overall aesthetic of any room
  • Available in 11 colors and 6 different sizes
  • Easy and straightforward installation

What We Don't Like

  • Come with a higher price tag compared to other brands
  • Linen, while durable, requires a dry clean
  • Linen curtains can be heavier than curtains made from synthetic materials, which might not be suitable for all types of curtain rods

H.VERSAILTEX Linen Blackout Curtain

Most Budget Friendly Choice

overall 

4.5/5

Price

$

Material Quality

Blackout Light

Energy efficiency

H.VERSAILTEX Linen Blackout Curtain

Image Source: Amazon

In the vast world of home decor, the Darkening Curtains offer a blend of functionality, design, and affordability. This product is a worthy option for budget-conscious individuals who refuse to sacrifice quality and aesthetics. It is crafted from luxurious faux linen material that is both soft and supple. The textured finish adds an aesthetic touch and enhances the tactile experience, making them feel as good as they look. Featuring a textured design, these curtains give any space a touch of sophistication. The design ensures that they maintain style while they serve a functional purpose. Suitable for various interior designs, from modern minimalist to classic, they can seamlessly blend into various decor styles.

One of the standout attributes of these curtains is their exceptional light-blocking capability. They ensure the elimination of unwanted light, rendering them perfect for bedrooms, home theaters, or any area where precise light control is imperative. Furthermore, the insulated design suggests potential energy-saving benefits. By maintaining room temperature, they could help reduce heating and cooling costs, making them a decor item and a practical addition to homes.

The highlight of these curtains is their competitive pricing. In a market where prices can skyrocket based on brand and material, these curtains stand out as a budget-friendly option. They offer consumers an affordable solution without skimping on essential features.

Material

Faux linen

Length

9 lengths available

Care

machine washable in cold water

What We Like

  • Budget-friendly price point compared to other blackout curtains
  • Available in 12 colors and 9 sizes
  • Designed for straightforward installation without the need for professional assistance.

What We Don't Like

  • It will darken the room but not blackout
  • The textured design, while versatile, might not appeal to everyone or fit all decor styles

Belgian Flax Linen Curtain

Best Linen Blackout Curtain

overall 

4.8/5

Price

$$$$

Material Quality

Blackout Light

Energy efficiency

Belgian Flax Linen Curtain

Image Source: Pottery Barn

The Belgian Flax Linen Drape offers a balanced and compelling solution for those seeking the best in linen blackout curtains. Their combination of timeless style, effective light control, and potential long-term energy savings make them a standout choice for enhancing both the beauty and functionality of your living space. These curtains not only deliver outstanding light control but also showcase a level of style and quality that distinguishes them in the market.

Constructed from premium Belgian flax linen, these blackout drapes are a testament to craftsmanship and attention to detail. The natural texture of the linen and the rich, deep hue of Dark Flax make them a sophisticated addition to any interior decor. Whether your home leans toward modern, traditional, or eclectic design, these curtains effortlessly blend in, elevating the overall aesthetic.

In addition to their aesthetic appeal, these blackout curtains excel in terms of functionality. The blackout lining effectively blocks light, ensuring a peaceful and darkened ambiance for quality sleep or immersive home theater experiences. Moreover, the linen fabric's inherent insulation properties help regulate room temperature, potentially leading to energy savings over the long term.

Material

100% Belgian flax, 100% polyester lining

Length

3 sizes available

Care

Machine wash cold; gentle cycle

What We Like

  • Offer a luxurious and sophisticated look
  • The blackout lining is highly efficient at blocking out light
  • Offers three hanging options: rod pocket, back tabs, ring top

What We Don't Like

  • Relatively more expensive compared to some other blackout curtain options
  • Linen curtains may require more care than synthetic materials

NICETOWN Sound Barrier 100% Blackout Divider Curtains

Best noise-reducing blackout curtain

overall 

4.5/5

Price

$$

Material Quality

Blackout Light

Energy efficiency

NICETOWN Sound Barrier 100% Blackout Divider Curtains

Image Source: Amazon

If you prioritize noise reduction and light control, the NICETOWN Blackout Curtains offer a solid solution. Their simple yet efficient design and performance make them a dependable choice for enhancing the comfort and serenity of your living space.

Constructed with 2 layers of triple-weave fabric, these curtains reduce external noise, making them suitable for bedrooms, nurseries, or any area where tranquility is paramount. The dense fabric also effectively prevents 100% sunlight penetration, ensuring a dark and cozy ambiance.

The presence of a detachable felt fabric liner positioned in the center significantly enhances sound absorption by 2.5 times compared to standard curtains. This minimizes the impact of noise, offering improved tranquility at any time. It's important to note that these curtains are not noise-canceling but noise-reducing in nature. Additionally, the effectiveness of noise dampening increases with more folds in the curtains.

Material

Polyester, Polyester Blend

Length

Multiple sizes available

Care

Machine wash

What We Like

  • These curtain panels excel at blocking out light, making them ideal for bedrooms, home theaters, or any space where light control is essential
  • In addition to blocking lights, it also blocks heat and cold air from coming in
  • These curtains are designed to reduce noise levels, creating a quieter and more peaceful indoor environment

What We Don't Like

  • It's important to note that these curtains are noise-reducing, not noise-canceling
  • Like most curtains, these may require occasional cleaning or maintenance to keep them looking their best, especially if they are exposed to dust and dirt

Moondream 2-in-1 EMF Radiation Blackout Curtain

Best EMF radiation blackout curtain

overall 

4.7/5

Price

$$$$

Material Quality

Blackout Light

Energy efficiency

Moondream 2-In-1 EMF Radiation Blackout Curtain

Image Source: Amazon

The Grey Electromagnetic Field Shielding Blackout Curtain from Moondream offers a unique and practical solution for individuals seeking both EMF protection and light control. Its innovative technology and practical design make it a standout selection for individuals seeking to augment the privacy and security of their living environment.

Constructed with a specialized heavy fabric that is coated with an alloy of copper and nickel on a polyester support, these curtains effectively act as a barrier against EMF radiation, such as that emitted by Wi-Fi routers, cell phones, and other electronic devices. This shielding capability is particularly relevant in today's digital age, where concerns about EMF exposure have grown.

Beyond their EMF-blocking prowess, these blackout curtains also excel in light control. The blackout feature ensures a darkened environment, making them suitable for bedrooms, home theaters, or spaces where light and radiation control are paramount.

Material

Polyester, Polyester Blend

Length

Multiple sizes available

Care

Machine wash

What We Like

  • These blackout curtains are specifically designed to shield against electromagnetic radiation emitted by various electronic devices, potentially reducing exposure
  • Highly efficient at blocking out external light
  • Unlike many other brands, these blackout curtains are tested by third-party

What We Don't Like

  • The curtains are available in a single color (grey), which may not suit all interior decor preferences
  • More expensive compared to standard blackout curtains

Cotton Velvet Blackout Curtain

Best Cotton Blackout Curtain

overall 

4.7/5

Price

$$$

Material Quality

Blackout Light

Energy efficiency

Cotton Velvet Blackout Curtain

Image Source: Amazon

The Cotton Velvet Curtain in Frost Gray from West Elm offers a balanced blend of style and light control. Their aesthetic appeal and effectiveness at blocking light make them a practical choice for enhancing your living space's ambiance and functionality.

Crafted from cotton velvet, they exude a sense of luxury and sophistication. The Frost Gray color adds a neutral touch, making them adaptable to various interior design schemes. The curtains' primary advantage lies in their ability to effectively block light. They effectively minimize external light intrusion, creating a darkened environment conducive to restful sleep and privacy.

Thanks to the rod pocket design, installation is user-friendly, allowing for easy hanging on most standard curtain rods. While the Cotton Velvet Curtain is primarily designed for light control and privacy, it balances practicality and style, making it a valuable addition to home decor.

Material

100% cotton and 100% polyester liner

Length

Multiple sizes available

Care

Machine wash

What We Like

  • The blackout lining of these curtains is highly efficient at blocking out external light
  • Crafted from high-quality cotton velvet, these curtains exude elegance and a luxurious feel, enhancing the overall aesthetic of your space
  • Cotton offers some natural insulation properties, which can help with temperature regulation in your room

What We Don't Like

  • Relatively more expensive compared to standard cotton curtains
  • Limited color options may not suit all decor preferences

NICETOWN 4-in-1 PM2.5 Particles Noise Blackout Thermal Insulation Curtains

Best Thermal Insulated Blackout Curtains

overall 

4.5/5

Price

$$$

Material Quality

Blackout Light

Energy efficiency

NICETOWN 4-In-1 PM2.5 Particles Noise Blackout Thermal Insulation Curtains

Image Source: Amazon

The NICETOWN Custom 4-Layers Blackout Curtain is more than just a curtain; it's an embodiment of innovation tailored to meet the demands of contemporary living. With its four-layered design, it goes beyond the basic function of blocking light. Each layer has been meticulously crafted to serve a specific purpose.

The first layer effectively blocks out light, ensuring that your room remains dark even during the brightest days, making it ideal for those who work night shifts or simply prefer a darker room. The second layer provides effective soundproofing features, which can be a great benefit for individuals residing in busy urban areas or noisy neighborhoods. The third layer provides thermal insulation, ensuring that the room remains cool during hot summers and warm during chilly winters, potentially leading to energy savings. The fourth layer, with its anti-dust feature, ensures that the curtain remains pristine and reduces the frequency of washes.

Aesthetically, the curtain exudes elegance and sophistication. The choice of material speaks of quality, and the attention to detail in the stitching showcases the brand's commitment to excellence. The curtain effortlessly complements a wide range of interior decors, making it a versatile choice for homeowners.

Material

100% Polyester

Length

Multiple sizes available

Care

Machine wash

What We Like

  • Effectively blocks out light, ensuring a darkened room even during bright daylight
  • Offers noise reduction, making it ideal for those living in noisy environments
  • Easy to clean as it is machine washable
  • Anti-dust features reduce the need for frequent washing.

What We Don't Like

  • Expensive compared to some of the other blackout curtains
  • The four layers might make the curtain heavier

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About the author

Bella has a Bachelors degree in interior design, is a master gardener. She designs nourishing outdoor & indoor spaces guided by the practice of Feng Shui.

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