How do you hang blackout curtains?

Blackout curtains can be installed in the same way as regular curtains or drapes. First, measure the length and width of your window frame. If you already have a curtain rod, you can measure from the rod to where you want your blackout curtains to end to ensure you're buying the desired length. If you'd like to guarantee full blackout coverage, you can even purchase a wraparound rod to hang your curtains on. When ready to install, measure and mark four inches above your window and install your brackets. Attach the blackout curtains to the rod and hang the rod on your brackets.

Do blackout curtains help with heat?

Blackout curtains can help block out both light and heat. It's an inexpensive way to keep windows that get a lot of sun significantly cooler. Some curtains, like the NICETOWN Thermal Insulated Grommet Blackout Curtains are specifically designed to add an energy-saving element to your home—they block out 90 percent of light and UV rays that would normally overheat your home. If keeping your home temperature regulated is important to you, be sure to select curtains that state on the label that they feature thermal insulation.

How do you measure for blackout curtains?

If you're installing a new curtain rod, take thorough measurements of the space around your window before hanging them. Curtains should always be double the width of the window. Using a tape measure, measure around four inches above your window for the placement of your curtain rod, but you can go even higher if you'd like to create the illusion of a taller window. You can then use your rod to reference how wide your brackets should be placed across the window.

The 8 Best Blackout Curtains of 2021

Our editors independently research, test, and recommend the best products; you can learn more about our review process here. We may receive commissions on purchases made from our chosen links.

Commerce Photo Composite — The Spruce / Chloe Jeong

Our Top Picks

Best Overall:

Deconovo Thermal Insulated Blackout Curtains at Amazon

The two-piece set is offered in a variety of colors and sizes, so it's easy to find the perfect piece for your space.

Read Review

Best Short:

Best Home Fashion 54-in Polyester Blackout Grommet Curtain Panel Pair at Lowe's

The set is made with a triple weave fabric that helps blocks light.

Read Review

Best Budget:

Eclipse Andora Blackout Window Panel at Home Depot

With these affordable blackout curtains, you can get a restful night's sleep without breaking the bank.

Read Review

Best for Kids:

WallIvyStore Forest Window Curtain at Etsy

These blackout curtains feature a playful forest-themed pattern your little one will love.

Read Review

Best Pattern:

Exclusive Home Medallion Blackout Curtain Panels at Walmart

Available in nine vibrant colors and featuring a medallion pattern, these curtains will liven up any room and block out light.

Read Review

Best Linen:

Pottery Barn Classic Belgian Flax Linen Blackout Curtain at Pottery Barn

Made from Belgian flax linen with a blackout lining, these curtains will give off a chic, airy look while still blocking the light.

Read Review

Best Thermal:

NICETOWN Thermal Insulated Grommet Blackout Curtains at Amazon

These curtains are thermal insulated so they'll keep your home cool in the summer and warm in the winter.

Read Review

Best White:

Exclusive Fabrics & Furnishings Chalk Off White Rod Pocket Blackout Curtain at Home Depot

These white curtains will keep your room dark and add a crisp, sleek look to it.

Read Review

In This Article

Our Picks
What to Look for
Why Trust The Spruce

Whether you're a light sleeper or just in need of a deep sleep, the sun's rays can often interrupt an otherwise restful morning. While you can certainly pull your covers over your eyes, blackout curtains are an easy decor hack that'll block the sun and ensure you get up on the right side of the bed each morning.

Blackout curtains run the gamut when it comes to colors, fabrics, and even their installation. From blackout curtains to room darkening options, there are tons of styles to choose from at different price points.

"Be sure to choose something that looks great in addition to being functional. Blackout curtains don’t have to look or feel any differently than non-blackout curtains aside from the internal lining. Choose these just as you’d select any other curtains for your space," says Alessandra Wood, Vice President of Style at Modsy.

Here, the best blackout curtains.

Deconovo Thermal Insulated Blackout Curtains

4.8

View On Amazon

Deconovo Blackout Curtains Review

What We Like

Available in various sizes and colors
Reduces noise
Thermal insulated
Includes two panels

What We Don't Like

Not wrinkle-free

If you're looking to add an elegant touch to your space, consider the Deconovo Thermal Insulated Blackout Curtains. The two-piece set is offered in a variety of colors and sizes, so it's easy to find the perfect style for your space.

The curtains are made of 100 percent polyester and include a set of silver grommets that make it easy to slide the curtains right onto the rods. The curtains are both thermal insulated and noise-reducing as well, which helps to reduce heat loss, save on energy, and ensure you can get a good night's rest.

What Testers Say

"At night, these blackout curtains kept the bedroom exceptionally dark. They were so effective that the kids were nervous in the complete darkness of the bedroom." — Stacey L. Nash, Product Tester

The 7 Best Places to Buy Curtains in 2021

Best Home Fashion 54-in Polyester Blackout Grommet Curtain Panel Pair

View On Lowe's

What We Like

Comes in various sizes and colors
Reduces noise
Thermal insulated

What We Don't Like

Not fade-resistant

When it comes to blocking those pesky rays, not even the smallest windows in your home should be overlooked. For those compact windows, consider Best Home Fashion's Blackout Curtain Panel Pair. The set comes in a variety of colors and lengths and is made with a triple weave fabric that helps blocks light. The best part? The curtains are both noise-reducing and thermal insulated, so they'll keep your home's temperature just right and reduce outside noise.

View On Home Depot

What We Like

Durable fabric
Reduces noise
Machine-washable

What We Don't Like

Only comes in one size and color
Includes one panel

If you're looking to upgrade your home on a budget, look no further than the Eclipse Andora Blackout Window Panel. The machine-washable curtain is a wallet-friendly option that'll also reduce outside noise for a restful sleep.

Though the panel is made of polyester, it features a neutral linen-like design that'll elevate whichever room it's placed in. The curtains are sold individually, however, so be sure to determine how many you'll need before your purchase.

The 9 Best Bedroom String Lights of 2021

View On Etsy

What We Like

Comes in various sizes
Durable fabric
Easy installation

What We Don't Like

Expensive

For a fun, lively, and kid-friendly option, consider WallvyStore's Forest Window Curtain. Designed with trees, wolves, birds, and beyond, the printed navy curtain will keep the sun out from your little one's room.

The handmade curtain is offered in a variety of sizes and two header types—rod pocket or tape. Each is made of 100 percent polyester and can be made in a custom size, if necessary. The best part? You can even get a sample of the curtain beforehand, so you can see if the pattern works in your space before you commit.

The 8 Best Blackout Shades of 2021

View On Walmart

Exclusive Home Medallion Blackout Thermal Curtain Review

What We Like

Comes in various sizes and patterns
Thermal insulated
Durable fabric

What We Don't Like

Not machine-washable

Looking for an elegant design to perk up your living room, dining space, or bedroom? Consider the Exclusive Home Curtains Medallion Blackout Grommet Top Curtain. The set of two panels features a chic medallion print and offer blackout capabilities.

Available in seven colors and four sizes, the printed set is the perfect balance of style and function. Each curtain is made of 100 percent polyester and thermal insulated fabric that'll manage the temperature of your home with ease. There are also eight grommets per panel includes, so you'll have everything you need to hang them in your home.

What Testers Say

"We noticed an improvement in our sleep from the first use, especially in our ability to sleep in after sunrise. The decreased time it took to put our daughter to sleep was the most noticeable and appreciated benefit of these curtains." — Katie Begley, Product Tester

Pottery Barn Classic Belgian Flax Linen Blackout Curtain

4.5

View On Pottery Barn

Pottery Barn Classic Belgian Flax Linen Blackout Curtain Review

What We Like

Three different hanging options
Available in various sizes and colors
Durable fabric

What We Don't Like

Expensive

Pottery Barn's Classic Belgian Flax Linen Blackout Curtains could be the luxurious fabric upgrade your window needs. Made with Belgian flax fibers, the curtains are offered in eight colors and six sizes, so it's easy to find the perfect fit for your home.

You can choose from the three built-in capabilities—pole pocket, hanging loops, or ring top. The curtain hooks are included with the curtains so you'll be able to unpack and unveil your new purchase with ease. The rings are sold separately, however.

What Testers Say

"We found that by keeping the curtains closed, we were able to keep our room at least five degrees cooler during the sunniest part of the day without needing to cool the room. This room cooling effect was one of our favorite benefits of these curtains. If you live in a very sunny climate, this can amount to significant savings over the life of the curtains." — Katie Begley, Product Tester

NICETOWN Thermal Insulated Grommet Blackout Cur

View On Amazon View On Walmart

NICETOWN Thermal Insulated Blackout Curtains Review

What We Like

Reduces noise
Thermal insulated
Affordable
Comes in various sizes and colors

What We Don't Like

Does not have a liner

If you're looking to add an energy-saving element to your home, NICETOWN 3 Pass Microfiber Home Decoration Thermal Insulated Curtains are a great find. The curtains are offered in over a dozen colors and are thermal insulated, so it'll never be too warm in your home.

The set includes two panels and six grommets, so you'll have everything you need to set them up with ease. The best part, however, is their light-blocking capabilities. The curtains impede 90 percent of the light and UV rays that come through, while also playing a role in noise reduction and insulating against the elements. Cleaning the curtains is also a breeze—just throw in a cold cycle wash and they'll be good as new.

What Testers Say

"These curtains delivered on our expectations. We hung them in the bedroom of two teenage girls. They already sleep well, so we didn’t necessarily need the full power of blackout curtains, and they like some light in their room. What we did want was white curtains that weren’t sheer but still let in light, and that can be hard to find." — Stacey L. Nash, Product Tester

Exclusive Fabrics & Furnishings Chalk Off White Rod Pocket Blackout Curtain

View On Home Depot View On Overstock

What We Like

Thermal insulated
Comes in various sizes and colors
Durable fabric

What We Don't Like

Dry clean only

Sometimes you just can't go wrong with a crisp white window treatment. And while it may seem counterintuitive that white curtains can have blackout capabilities, the Chalk Off White Rod Pocket Blackout Curtain proves otherwise.

Designed with a nifty pole pocket with back tabs and a hook belt, the weighted hem ensures that the curtains will stay in place when you need your room darkened. The curtains have thermal insulation that regulates temperature, as well as blackout capabilities for a restful sleep.

Final Verdict

Overall, we recommend the Deconovo Thermal Insulated Blackout Curtains (view at Amazon), which get high marks from our product tester for their fabric quality and affordability. Besides blocking light, their thermal insulation also helps maintain your home's temperature, saving you money on energy costs. For a budget-friendly option, consider the Eclipse Andora Blackout Window Panel (view at Home Depot). The affordable find blocks noise and light and has a durable construction.

Blackout vs. Room Darkening

Though both types of curtains sufficiently block light, blackout curtains will keep the room as dark as possible.

Installation

To make sure that blackout curtains function properly, measure a few inches beyond the window frame and use a wraparound rod. It's also worth noting if the curtains include the necessary hooks, as it'll make installation easier.

"You can have blackout shades that sit inside your window frame but you’ll likely see a sliver of light shining through. For maximum blackout, think Las Vegas hotel room...you’ll want to encase the window with curtains extending well beyond the window itself. This will help reduce the light that passes through," says Wood.

Colors and Fabric

Despite the name, blackout curtains come in a wide variety of colors, including white. Fabric options are limitless too. Polyester and other synthetic materials are typically more budget-friendly than linen or cotton, and will still offer a stylish look in your space.

"Any material can be great. For more warmth and sound conditioning opt for thicker fabrics such as velvet. For a lighter look, go for linens," says Wood.

FAQ

How do you hang blackout curtains?

Blackout curtains can be installed in the same way as regular curtains or drapes. First, measure the length and width of your window frame. If you already have a curtain rod, you can measure from the rod to where you want your blackout curtains to end to ensure you're buying the desired length. If you'd like to guarantee full blackout coverage, you can even purchase a wraparound rod to hang your curtains on.
When ready to install, measure and mark four inches above your window and install your brackets. Attach the blackout curtains to the rod and hang the rod on your brackets.
Do blackout curtains help with heat?

Blackout curtains can help block out both light and heat. It's an inexpensive way to keep windows that get a lot of sun significantly cooler. Some curtains, like the NICETOWN Thermal Insulated Grommet Blackout Curtains are specifically designed to add an energy-saving element to your home—they block out 90 percent of light and UV rays that would normally overheat your home. If keeping your home temperature regulated is important to you, be sure to select curtains that state on the label that they feature thermal insulation.
How do you measure for blackout curtains?

If you're installing a new curtain rod, take thorough measurements of the space around your window before hanging them. Curtains should always be double the width of the window. Using a tape measure, measure around four inches above your window for the placement of your curtain rod, but you can go even higher if you'd like to create the illusion of a taller window. You can then use your rod to reference how wide your brackets should be placed across the window.

This article was written by Adrienne Jordan, a freelance writer who has contributed to The Spruce since 2021. More of her home-related writing can be found on MyDomaine. To make this list, she considered each curtain's color and fabric, as well as whether they are blackout curtains or room darkening.

The 8 Best Blackout Curtains of 2021

Block out any unwanted light with style

Best Overall: Deconovo Thermal Insulated Blackout Curtains

Best Short: Best Home Fashion 54-in Polyester Blackout Grommet Curtain Panel Pair

Best Budget: Eclipse Andora Blackout Window Panel

Best for Kids: WallIvyStore Forest Window Curtain

Best Pattern: Exclusive Home Medallion Blackout Thermal Grommet Top Window Curtain Panels

Best Linen: Pottery Barn Classic Belgian Flax Linen Blackout Curtain

Best Thermal: NICETOWN Thermal Insulated Grommet Blackout Curtains

Best White: Exclusive Fabrics & Furnishings Chalk Off White Rod Pocket Blackout Curtain

The 8 Best Blackout Curtains of 2021

Block out any unwanted light with style

Best Overall: Deconovo Thermal Insulated Blackout Curtains

Best Short: Best Home Fashion 54-in Polyester Blackout Grommet Curtain Panel Pair

Best Budget: Eclipse Andora Blackout Window Panel

Best for Kids: WallIvyStore Forest Window Curtain

Best Pattern: Exclusive Home Medallion Blackout Thermal Grommet Top Window Curtain Panels

Best Linen: Pottery Barn Classic Belgian Flax Linen Blackout Curtain

Best Thermal: NICETOWN Thermal Insulated Grommet Blackout Curtains

Best White: Exclusive Fabrics & Furnishings Chalk Off White Rod Pocket Blackout Curtain

What to Look for in Blackout Curtains

Blackout vs. Room Darkening

Installation

Colors and Fabric

Why Trust The Spruce?