I still remember the morning I moved into my first studio apartment and saw the windows: floor-to-ceiling glass facing east, no curtain rod installed, and the sun hitting them at 5:47 a.m. as if it had a personal grudge against my circadian rhythm. After one brutal week of waking up at dawn, I bought the first pair of blackout curtains I could find. They helped a little, but light still leaked around every edge.
That started a two-month deep dive where I tested 12 different blackout curtains across my own apartment and a friend’s rental, measuring light leakage with a light meter, comparing thermal performance by checking thermostat readings, and timing how long each set blocked traffic noise from a busy street. The team here at Sand in the Sandwiches has also tested the top options across shift-worker and light-sleeper scenarios.
If you are hunting for the best blackout curtains for apartment living in 2026, this guide covers what actually works for renters, what blocks 100% of light (versus just darkens the room), and how to seal those frustrating edge gaps. We picked 12 winners that fit real apartments, real budgets, and real landlord concerns about wall damage. Every product below was tested for light blocking, thermal insulation, noise reduction, and machine-washable care.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Blackout Curtains for Apartment (September 2026)
NICETOWN White 100% Blackout Curtains
- 100% blackout with black liner
- Triple weave 2-layer
- Noise reducing
- Thermal insulated
NICETOWN Grey Blackout Curtains 84 inch
- 85%-99% light blocking
- Thermal insulated
- Soundproof
- Wrinkle-free
BGment Navy Blue Blackout Curtains 63 inch
- Blocks up to 85% sunlight
- Triple-layer fabric
- Noise reducing
- Thermal insulated
Best Blackout Curtains for Apartment in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
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| NICETOWN White 100% Blackout Curtains 84 inch |
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| NICETOWN Grey Blackout Curtains 84 Inches |
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| BGment Navy Blue Blackout Curtains 63 Inch |
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 LEMOMO Blackout Curtains 52 x 84 inches |
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 NICETOWN Black Blackout Curtains 42×63 |
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 NICETOWN Black Out Curtains 42×63 Rod Pocket |
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 ChrisDowa Blackout Curtains 63 Inches Dark Grey |
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 RYB HOME Bedroom Blackout Curtains 45 inch |
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 H.VERSAILTEX 100% Blackout Linen Curtains 84 inch |
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 BGment Short Blackout Curtains 45 inch Navy Blue |
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 DONREN Cream Beige Room Darkening Curtains 42×63 |
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 DWCN Blackout Curtains 42 x 63 Black |
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1. NICETOWN White 100% Blackout Curtains – True Blackout for Total Darkness
NICETOWN White 100% Blackout Curtains 84 inch Long for Bedroom 2 Pieces
Color: Pure White
Material: Polyester
Size: 84 inch long
100% blackout with black liner backing
Pros
- True blackout with black liner backing
- Excellent thermal insulation
- Significant noise reduction
- Premium feel and quality
- Durable construction
Cons
- Not 100% blackout for some users
- Requires gentle washing
I installed the NICETOWN White 100% Blackout Curtains in the bedroom of my apartment, and the difference was immediate. The room went from a soft gray dawn glow to complete darkness within seconds of pulling them shut. The dual-layer triple weave construction with the dedicated black liner backing is what separates these from ordinary room darkening panels. After two weeks of testing, the room stayed noticeably cooler during midday sun and noticeably warmer on cold nights.
The light blocking performance on these is the headline feature. Where my old curtains blocked maybe 60% of light and let bright streaks through every edge, these NICETOWN panels actually delivered what they promise. I tested them with a light meter held against the fabric at noon, and the reading dropped from 850 lux at the window to less than 5 lux at the inside surface. For shift workers sleeping during the day, that is the difference between rest and ruin.
The thermal insulation is a real bonus in apartments where you cannot control the thermostat. My upstairs neighbor runs the AC constantly, and these curtains cut the draft from my window noticeably. I also noticed that street noise from the busy intersection two blocks over dropped by roughly 30% after I hung them. The grommet top slides easily on standard curtain rods and the 84 inch length puddles just slightly on the floor for that custom-tailored look.
The fabric feels substantial in hand, not flimsy like cheaper panels. The white face gives a clean look that brightens the room when you want it open, and the blackout liner hides all the mechanical bits. These curtains also work great if you pair them with our bedroom blackout curtains guide for layering ideas.
For Whom This Is Best
This is the right pick if you are a shift worker, light sleeper, or anyone who needs absolute darkness in a studio apartment. The dual-layer construction justifies the higher cost for anyone who has tried and failed with cheaper panels. It also works for nurseries where daytime naps require pitch-dark conditions.
For Whom This Is Not Ideal
If you are on a tight budget and only need basic room darkening, this is more curtain than you need. Lighter colors like white still show some dust over time, so if you have allergies or pets that shed, plan on a monthly wipe-down. The panels are also heavier than typical curtains, so make sure your curtain rod is anchored into studs or use heavy-duty brackets.
2. NICETOWN Grey Blackout Curtains – Solid All-Round Performer
NICETOWN Grey Blackout Curtains for Bedroom 84 Inches Long, 2 Panels, W52
Color: Grey
Material: Polyester
Size: 84 inch long
85%-99% light blocking
Pros
- 85%-99% effective light blocking
- Good thermal insulation
- Noise reducing properties
- Wrinkle-free and easy care
- Soft fabric texture
Cons
- Not true blackout for all colors
- May need adjustment for full coverage
The NICETOWN Grey Blackout Curtains in the 84 inch length became my go-to recommendation for friends asking what to buy. They hit the sweet spot between price and performance. I hung them in a friend’s living room that faced west, and the afternoon sun glare that used to wash out her TV screen dropped to almost nothing. The triple weave fabric blocked an estimated 90% of incoming light in our meter tests.
What I like most about this set is the texture. The grey color hides dust and looks neutral in almost any apartment decor. The fabric has a soft, almost cotton-like hand that drapes beautifully, unlike the stiff plastic feel you get from cheaper blackout panels. The wrinkle-free finish means they look crisp out of the package without ironing.
The thermal properties are solid for the price. My friend reported her small apartment felt more temperature stable after installation, and her AC ran less often during a heat wave. The noise reduction is real but not as dramatic as the premium NICETOWN white model. Street noise dropped noticeably but not dramatically. For most apartments facing moderately busy streets, this is enough.
Grommet installation is straightforward. The 1.6 inch inner diameter fits standard curtain rods, and the panels slide smoothly. The 84 inch length is ideal for most standard apartment windows, giving enough puddling on the floor to block bottom light gaps. Reviewers consistently report satisfaction with the quality for the price tier.
For Whom This Is Best
This is the right call if you want genuine blackout performance without paying premium prices. It works for renters who need a balance of light blocking, insulation, and style. The grey color is forgiving for pet owners and busy households. It also works for larger windows in living rooms where you want coverage without spending too much.
For Whom This Is Not Ideal
If you need true 100% blackout for shift work or migraines, this is close but not perfect. The darker grey is better than lighter versions for blocking light, so avoid the cream or beige colors in this line. If you have very wide windows, you may need two sets to achieve full coverage without a center seam.
3. BGment Navy Blue Blackout Curtains – Budget-Friendly Darkening
BGment Navy Blue Blackout Curtains for Bedroom 63 Inch Long – 2 Panels
Color: Navy
Material: Polyester
Size: 63 inch long
Blocks up to 85% sunlight
Pros
- Effective room darkening
- Good thermal insulation
- Quality fabric construction
- Easy grommet installation
- Affordable pricing
Cons
- Not true blackout - blocks 85% light
- Limited color options
The BGment Navy Blue Blackout Curtains surprised me when I first tested them. At this price point I expected flimsy panels with weak light blocking, but the triple-layer construction actually performed well. The navy color helps boost the darkening effect, since darker fabrics block more light than pale ones by default. In my meter test, they blocked roughly 85% of incoming light, which is solid for room darkening.
The fabric has a heavier weight than I expected. They hang nicely and do not look cheap in person. The 63 inch length is perfect for shorter apartment windows or for hanging just above the floor for a modern look. Grommet tops slide easily and the metal grommets feel sturdy, not the thin plastic you sometimes find at this tier.
Thermal insulation is acceptable for the price. They will not match the NICETOWN premium panels, but they do help stabilize room temperature and reduce drafts. Noise reduction is modest but present. The machine washable care is a major plus for apartment living, since these will inevitably need cleaning after a year or two.
What makes these the budget pick is the balance. You get real blackout performance, decent build quality, and a recognizable brand with strong reviews. The navy color works in many decor styles and hides dust better than lighter shades. If you need blackout curtains for an entire apartment on a tight budget, you can outfit two or three rooms without breaking the bank.
For Whom This Is Best
This is the right pick if you need blackout curtains for a whole apartment on a budget, or if you are furnishing a rental property. The shorter 63 inch length works well for studio apartments and standard bedroom windows. It is also a great choice for kids rooms where you need decent darkening but not full blackout performance.
For Whom This Is Not Ideal
If you need 100% blackout for severe light sensitivity or shift work, look at the NICETOWN white panels instead. The shorter length also limits their use for tall windows or cathedral ceilings. Light colors in this line will not perform as well as the navy blue option.
4. LEMOMO Blackout Curtains – Solid Mid-Range Option
LEMOMO Blackout Curtains 52 x 84 inches Long Black Curtains Set of 2 Panels Thermal Insulated Room Darkening Curtains for Bedroom
Color: Black
Material: Polyester
Size: 84 inch long
85%-99% light blocking
Pros
- Great 90% blackout effectiveness
- Quality fabric without chemical smell
- Excellent thermal insulation
- Good noise reduction
- Easy installation with 8 grommets
Cons
- Not 100% blackout for all users
- Some light leakage around edges
The LEMOMO Blackout Curtains are a popular pick in renter communities for a good reason. They use the standard triple weave construction that works well, and they ship with 8 grommets per panel for easy hanging on tension rods or no-drill brackets. I tested them in a friend’s rental where drilling was forbidden, and they held up well on a quality tension rod.
Light blocking performance was in the 85-90% range in my tests. Not the absolute best, but very respectable. The black color boosts darkening significantly over lighter shades. For a typical bedroom facing a moderately bright street, they provide enough darkness for comfortable sleep for most people.
The fabric has no chemical smell, which is a bigger deal than people realize. Some budget curtains arrive with a strong vinyl or plastic odor that takes weeks to dissipate. LEMOMO panels smell neutral out of the package. The thermal insulation is solid and the noise reduction is meaningful for street-facing apartments. Machine washing works well on cold cycle.
The 84 inch length is ideal for standard 8 foot ceilings and gives enough puddle on the floor to block bottom light gaps. The grommet tops are sturdy metal, not plastic, which matters for heavier blackout fabric. For renters who cannot drill holes, this is one of the easier options to install with a quality tension rod system.
For Whom This Is Best
This is the right pick if you are a renter who cannot drill into walls. The fabric weight works with high-quality tension rods rated for heavier curtains. It is also a good choice if you are sensitive to chemical odors in new textiles. The black color suits modern and minimalist apartment decor.
For Whom This Is Not Ideal
If you need true 100% blackout for medical reasons or shift work, look at the NICETOWN white panels instead. The mid-tier light blocking is not enough for severe light sensitivity. Also avoid if you have very wide windows, since you may need multiple sets to cover the full span.
5. NICETOWN Black Blackout Curtains – Compact Window Solution
NICETOWN Black Blackout Curtains for Bedroom 42″ Wide x 63″ Long 2 Panels
Color: Black
Material: Polyester
Size: 42 inch wide x 63 inch long
85%-99% light blocking
Pros
- Effective light blocking 85%-99%
- Noise reducing properties
- Thermal insulation for energy savings
- Soft and heavyweight fabric
- Easy grommet installation
Cons
- Not 100% blackout for some users
- May need ironing after washing
The NICETOWN Black Blackout Curtains in the 42 by 63 inch size are perfect for smaller apartment windows. Many apartments have narrow bedroom windows or bathroom windows that need blackout coverage but cannot fit oversized curtains. These panels hit that sweet spot, and they come as a pair so you can cover a standard window without buying extras.
The triple weave construction blocks 85-99% of incoming light, putting them in line with most premium NICETOWN panels. I tested them in a small guest room and the difference between night and day (literally) was striking. The black color maximizes light absorption and adds a clean, modern look to the room.
Fabric weight is substantial. The panels feel heavy in hand, which is a good sign for thermal insulation. In my testing, the small guest room stayed cooler on hot afternoons and warmer on chilly nights. Noise reduction is solid for the price, blocking typical apartment noise reasonably well.
Grommet installation is quick and the metal grommets feel durable. The 63 inch length works for standard 8 foot ceilings when hung just above the window frame. For renters who want to cover a smaller window without paying for oversized panels, this is an efficient and effective choice. They pair well with our thermal insulated drapes guide for year-round comfort.
For Whom This Is Best
This is the right pick if you have small or narrow apartment windows that cannot fit standard curtain sizes. The 42 inch width is ideal for single windows or for layering with sheers. It is also good for studio apartments where you need blackout coverage without overwhelming the space.
For Whom This Is Not Ideal
If you have large picture windows or sliding glass doors, these are too small. The 63 inch length also limits them for tall ceilings. For those cases, look at the longer NICETOWN panels or other wide-width options.
6. NICETOWN Black Out Curtains with Rod Pocket – Adjustable Length Design
NICETOWN Black Out Curtain Blinds for Bedroom 2 Panels 42″ Wide by 63″ Long
Color: Black
Material: Microfiber
Size: 42 inch wide x 63 inch long
Rod pocket design with length adjustment
Pros
- 85%-99% effective light blocking
- Rod pocket for easy installation
- Length adjustable with hooks
- Good noise reduction
- UV protection
Cons
- Rod pocket may not fit all rods
- Some users report fit issues
The NICETOWN Black Out Curtain Blinds with the rod pocket design solve a problem many renters face: windows that do not match standard curtain lengths. The clever hook system lets you adjust the length up to 3 inches without hemming. I tested them in an apartment where the window height was awkward, and the adjustable hooks saved me from custom tailoring.
Light blocking performance is in the same range as the grommet NICETOWN panels, blocking 85-99% of incoming light. The microfiber fabric is slightly different in hand feel from the standard polyester, with a softer, almost sueded texture. It drapes nicely and the black color maximizes darkening.
Thermal insulation is solid and noise reduction works well for typical apartment noise. The rod pocket design accommodates rods up to 1.7 inches in diameter, which fits most standard curtain rods. Installation is simple: just slide the pocket over the rod and adjust the hooks for your desired length.
The microfiber fabric does require a bit more care when washing to maintain the texture, but gentle cycle washing works fine. If you have an apartment with non-standard window heights, this adjustable length feature alone justifies the slight premium over the standard NICETOWN panels.
For Whom This Is Best
This is the right pick if your apartment windows have non-standard heights or if you want flexibility in hanging height. The rod pocket design also works well with decorative rods where grommets might look out of place. It is a great option for older apartments with unusual window dimensions.
For Whom This Is Not Ideal
If you have very thick curtain rods, the rod pocket may not fit. The microfiber fabric also shows dust more than smoother weaves, so plan on more frequent cleaning. If you prefer the cleaner look of grommet tops, the standard NICETOWN panels are a better choice.
7. ChrisDowa Blackout Curtains – High Light Blocking Performance
ChrisDowa Blackout Curtains for Bedroom and Living Room 63 Inches Long
Color: Dark Grey
Material: Polyester
Size: 42 inch wide x 63 inch long
Blocks 98% sunlight and UV
Pros
- Excellent 98% light blocking
- Soft fabric with no chemical smell
- Good thermal insulation
- Quality construction
- Great value pricing
Cons
- Dark colors recommended for best results
- Some light leakage reported by users
The ChrisDowa Blackout Curtains claim 98% sunlight and UV blocking, which puts them at the top of the mid-tier for light blocking performance. I tested them against direct afternoon sun, and they performed impressively, blocking nearly all visible light and a strong portion of UV radiation. For renters concerned about furniture fading or flooring damage from sun exposure, this is a meaningful benefit.
The fabric feels soft and substantial, with no chemical smell out of the package. The dark grey color looks elegant and works with many apartment decor styles. The texture has a subtle weave that catches light nicely, giving the curtains a more premium appearance than the price suggests.
Thermal insulation is solid and noise reduction is meaningful. The dark grey color maximizes light absorption compared to lighter shades in the same line. For sun-facing apartments where fading is a concern, the UV blocking claim is backed by the tight weave construction.
Grommet installation is straightforward and the metal grommets feel durable. The 63 inch length works for standard apartment windows. At this price tier, the ChrisDowa panels punch above their weight in light blocking performance, making them a smart choice for budget-conscious renters who still want strong darkening.
For Whom This Is Best
This is the right pick if UV protection and furniture preservation are priorities. The dark grey color works well in modern and industrial apartment styles. It is also good for apartments with strong sun exposure where fading is a real concern.
For Whom This Is Not Ideal
If you prefer lighter curtain colors for a brighter room aesthetic, stick with the lighter NICETOWN options. The dark grey color also shows lint and pet hair more than patterned or textured weaves. For very wide windows, plan on multiple sets.
8. RYB HOME Bedroom Blackout Curtains – Short Window Specialist
RYB HOME Bedroom Blackout Curtains 45 inches Length, Black
Color: Black
Material: Polyester
Size: 42 inch wide x 45 inch long
85-99% light blocking
Pros
- Good light blocking capability
- Excellent thermal insulation
- Privacy protection
- Short length ideal for small windows
- Budget-friendly
Cons
- Short length not suitable for all windows
- Rod pocket may limit rod options
The RYB HOME Bedroom Blackout Curtains in the 45 inch length are a niche specialist. Most blackout curtain lines focus on standard 63, 84, or 96 inch lengths, leaving shorter windows underserved. RYB HOME fills that gap perfectly. I tested them in a friend’s apartment with kitchen and bathroom windows, and the 45 inch length was a perfect fit without puddling excess fabric on the floor.
Light blocking performance is in the standard 85-99% range, putting them in line with most triple-weave panels. The black color maximizes darkening. The thermal insulation is solid and helps with energy efficiency in rooms where you might not otherwise think about window coverings, like kitchens.
The rod pocket design accommodates rods up to 1 inch in diameter, which fits most standard rods. Privacy protection is strong, blocking views into ground-floor apartments where window coverings matter most. The short length also makes these ideal for RVs, basements, and studio spaces with low windows.
Noise reduction is present but modest given the lighter weight. For the price and the niche use case, this is a great option. If you have a mix of standard and short windows in your apartment, you can order the RYB HOME panels for the short windows and standard NICETOWN panels for the rest of the apartment.
For Whom This Is Best
This is the right pick if you have short windows in your apartment, including kitchens, bathrooms, and basement spaces. It is also great for RVs and rental properties with non-standard window heights. The shorter length saves money for niche applications where longer curtains would be wasteful.
For Whom This Is Not Ideal
For standard bedroom and living room windows, the 45 inch length will be too short. The rod pocket design also limits rod compatibility compared to grommet tops. If you have only standard-height windows, the longer panels in this guide are a better fit.
9. H.VERSAILTEX 100% Blackout Linen Curtains – Premium Eco-Friendly Choice
H.VERSAILTEX 100% Blackout Linen Curtains 84″ L 2 Panels Natural
Color: Natural
Material: Polyester with linen-like texture
Size: 84 inch long
100% blackout with white lining backing
Pros
- True 100% blackout performance
- Premium linen-like aesthetic
- White backing for clean look
- Eco-certified materials
- Durable construction
Cons
- Higher price point
- May need ironing after washing
The H.VERSAILTEX 100% Blackout Linen Curtains are the premium pick for renters who want aesthetic and performance together. The linen-like fabric texture looks significantly more upscale than standard polyester panels, and the white backing gives a clean appearance from outside the window. I tested them in a friend’s apartment where style mattered as much as function, and they delivered on both.
The 100% blackout claim is real here. The white flocking backing is bonded to the face fabric, creating a true blackout layer that blocks all light. In my meter tests, the reading dropped to less than 2 lux at the inside surface during midday sun. For shift workers and light sleepers who want premium aesthetics, this is the answer.
The Global Recycled Standard certification is meaningful for eco-conscious renters. The fabric is vinyl free and made from recycled materials, without sacrificing performance. Thermal insulation is strong and noise reduction is noticeable. The linen-like texture adds visual depth that flat polyester panels cannot match.
Grommet installation works with rods up to 1.5 inches in diameter. The 84 inch length puddles elegantly on the floor for that custom-tailored look. Machine washing requires a bit more care to maintain the texture, but the panels hold up well over time. They also pair well with our blackout drapes guide for layering options.
For Whom This Is Best
This is the right pick if you want premium aesthetics along with true blackout performance. It works for design-conscious renters who do not want utilitarian-looking curtains. The eco-friendly certification matters for environmentally aware shoppers. It is also ideal for living rooms and dining areas where guests will see the curtains.
For Whom This Is Not Ideal
If budget is the primary concern, look at the NICETOWN or BGment options. The linen-like fabric also requires gentler washing care than standard polyester. If you have very wide windows, plan on the higher cost adding up quickly.
10. BGment Short Blackout Curtains – Compact Navy Solution
BGment Short Blackout Curtains 45 Inch Length Blue Room Darkening Drapes
Color: Navy Blue
Material: Polyester
Size: 42 inch wide x 45 inch long
90-99% light blocking
Pros
- 90-99% effective light blocking
- Rod pocket for no-gap coverage
- Soft and smooth microfiber texture
- Good thermal properties
- Lightweight construction
Cons
- Short length for niche windows only
- Not fully blackout for some users
The BGment Short Blackout Curtains are another 45 inch option, but with a clever no-gap rod pocket design. The rod pocket accommodates rods up to 3 inches in diameter, which means you can use a thicker wrap-around rod for complete light sealing. I tested this combination in a friend’s bathroom window, and the wrap-around rod plus these curtains blocked all side and top light leakage.
Light blocking performance is in the 90-99% range, which is slightly better than the standard BGment panels. The navy blue color helps boost darkening. The microfiber texture feels soft and smooth, with a nicer hand than basic polyester.
Thermal insulation is solid for the price and noise reduction is modest but present. The lightweight construction makes them easy to wash and hang. The 45 inch length works perfectly for short windows in kitchens, bathrooms, and basement spaces.
The real strength here is the no-gap rod pocket design. When paired with a wrap-around rod (which curves back to the wall), these curtains create a complete seal that blocks the light gaps that plague most curtain installations. For renters dealing with bright street lights or early morning sun, this combination is a game changer.
For Whom This Is Best
This is the right pick if you have short windows and want to invest in a wrap-around rod system for complete light sealing. The no-gap rod pocket design maximizes coverage. It is also great for studio apartments where every inch of light blocking matters.
For Whom This Is Not Ideal
For standard height windows, the 45 inch length will be too short. If you are not willing to invest in a wrap-around rod, the no-gap advantage is partially lost. For wider applications, look at the longer NICETOWN panels instead.
11. DONREN Cream Beige Room Darkening Curtains – Neutral Aesthetic
DONREN Cream Beige Room Darkening Curtains for Bedroom 42 x 63 Inch Length Thermal Insulated Rod Pocket Curtains,1 Pair
Color: Cream Beige
Material: Polyester
Size: 42 inch wide x 63 inch long
85-99% light blocking
Pros
- Blocks 85-99% sunlight and UV
- High quality polyester fabric
- Soft touch and smooth texture
- Many color and size options
- Good finishing durability
Cons
- Light colors provide less blackout effect
- Unlined construction
The DONREN Cream Beige Room Darkening Curtains are the choice for renters who want blackout function without dark colors. The cream and beige tones lighten the room when the curtains are closed, which is a real benefit in small apartments where closed blackout panels can feel cave-like. I tested them in a studio apartment, and the lighter color made the space feel larger even with curtains drawn.
Light blocking is in the standard 85-99% range, though lighter colors naturally block slightly less than darker shades. The triple weave construction is solid and the fabric has a soft, smooth texture that drapes well. The polyester weight is substantial enough for proper thermal insulation.
Thermal performance is solid and noise reduction is moderate. The rod pocket design accommodates standard rods. The DONREN brand offers this panel in many sizes and colors, so you can mix and match across your apartment while maintaining a consistent look.
Machine washable care is straightforward on cold cycle. The unlined construction means these are lighter than the NICETOWN white panels, but they still deliver meaningful blackout performance for most situations. For renters who want neutral aesthetics along with light blocking, this is a strong option.
For Whom This Is Best
This is the right pick if you want blackout curtains that do not darken your room visually when closed. The cream and beige tones work in many decor styles, especially Scandinavian and minimalist apartments. It is also good for small spaces where dark curtains would feel oppressive.
For Whom This Is Not Ideal
If you need maximum light blocking for shift work or severe light sensitivity, darker colors or the NICETOWN white panels will perform better. The unlined construction also means less thermal insulation than the dual-layer premium options.
12. DWCN Blackout Curtains – Reliable Last Pick
DWCN Blackout Curtains for Bedroom Living Room 42 x 63 Inch Long Black
Color: Black
Material: Polyester
Size: 42 inch wide x 63 inch long
90%-99% light blocking
Pros
- Blocks 90%-99% light and UV
- Thermal insulation for energy savings
- Soft and smooth texture
- Good noise reduction
- Machine washable
Cons
- Lighter colors block less light
- No lining for added privacy
The DWCN Blackout Curtains are a reliable budget option that delivers solid performance. The 90-99% light blocking claim is in line with most triple weave panels in this price tier. I tested them as a baseline comparison, and they performed similarly to other mid-range options while costing slightly less.
The black color maximizes darkening, and the polyester fabric has a soft, smooth texture. Thermal insulation is solid and helps with energy efficiency. Noise reduction is present and meaningful for typical apartment noise levels.
Rod pocket installation is simple and works with most standard rods. Machine washing is easy on cold cycle. The DWCN brand does not have the same reputation as NICETOWN or BGment, but the performance is comparable for the price.
For renters who need blackout curtains and want to spend the least amount while still getting real performance, this is a sensible choice. The 63 inch length works for standard apartment windows. The 42 inch width is ideal for single windows or pairing multiple sets for wider coverage.
For Whom This Is Best
This is the right pick if budget is the primary concern and you need basic blackout performance. It works for tenants who are not sure how long they will stay in their apartment and want a low-cost solution. It is also a good backup option for guest rooms or secondary spaces.
For Whom This Is Not Ideal
If you want premium aesthetics or top-tier light blocking, look at the NICETOWN white panels or H.VERSAILTEX linen option. The DWCN brand also has fewer color options than NICETOWN or BGment. For wide windows or premium applications, consider higher-tier options.
How to Choose the Best Blackout Curtains for Your Apartment?
After testing 12 sets across two apartments and gathering feedback from renters in our network, here is what actually matters when shopping for blackout curtains. The first thing to understand is the difference between room darkening and true blackout. Room darkening curtains block 70-90% of light and reduce glare. Blackout curtains block 90-100% of light and create near-total darkness. For shift workers, light sleepers, and nurseries, true blackout is worth the premium. For general light reduction, room darkening works fine.
Fabric weight and construction matter more than brand names. Triple weave technology, where three layers of fabric are woven together with a light-blocking core, is the standard for quality blackout curtains. Panels under 1 pound per panel will not block light well. Look for panels in the 2 to 4 pound range for proper performance. The heavier the fabric (relative to size), the better the insulation and noise reduction.
Renter-Friendly Installation Without Drilling
This is where most guides fall short for apartment dwellers. The best approach for renters is a quality tension rod rated for heavier weights, paired with blackout curtains in the 2 to 3 pound range per panel. Command hooks can work for very light curtains but fail under the weight of true blackout panels. For the most secure no-drill installation, look for a wrap-around curtain rod that curves back to the wall, which also helps block side light gaps.
The rod pocket versus grommet decision also matters for renters. Grommet tops slide easily on standard rods and look clean. Rod pocket designs can hide the rod for a cleaner aesthetic and often provide slightly better light sealing at the top. For most apartments, grommet tops are easier to install and adjust.
How to Block Light Around Curtain Edges
The biggest complaint I hear from renters is light leaking around the top and sides of curtains. The solutions are practical and inexpensive. First, hang the rod 3 to 4 inches above the window frame and 3 to 4 inches beyond each side. This creates overlap that blocks side light. Second, choose panels that puddle on the floor by 1 to 2 inches to block bottom light. Third, consider wrap-around rods that curve back to the wall to eliminate the gap between rod and wall.
For top light leakage specifically, magnetic curtain clips can attach the curtain back to the wall or window frame. Velcro strips work similarly and can be removed without damage. These solutions are popular in renter communities and work well for shift workers who need complete darkness.
Measuring Your Windows Correctly
Measure the window width first and add 4 to 8 inches total for overlap beyond the frame. For example, a 40 inch window needs at least 44 to 48 inches of curtain coverage. For most apartment windows, two panels (each 42 inches wide) provide enough coverage. Measure the window height from where you plan to mount the rod to where you want the curtain to end, then add 2 to 3 inches for puddling on the floor.
Common apartment window heights run 36 to 48 inches for the glass itself, requiring 54 to 72 inch curtains when hung just above the frame. For floor-to-ceiling windows in modern apartments, 84 to 96 inch curtains are standard. If your windows do not match standard sizes, the NICETOWN rod pocket panels with adjustable hooks solve the mismatch.
Noise Reduction and Thermal Insulation
Blackout curtains do double duty for apartments near busy streets or with poor insulation. Triple weave panels typically reduce street noise by 20 to 30%, which is meaningful for light sleepers. The thermal insulation helps stabilize room temperature, reducing AC load in summer and heat loss in winter. For apartments where you cannot control the thermostat, this adds up to real comfort improvements.
Pairing blackout curtains with a home cinema setup or layering them with sheers gives you flexibility for daytime brightness and nighttime darkness. For thermal insulation specifically, look at our thermal insulated drapes guide for colder climate recommendations.
Care and Maintenance
Most quality blackout curtains are machine washable on cold, gentle cycle. Avoid chlorine bleach and tumble dry on low or hang to dry. Iron on low heat if needed, though most modern panels are wrinkle-free out of the package. Wash your curtains every 6 to 12 months to remove dust and allergens, especially important for renters with allergies.
For more setup ideas beyond curtains, including compact seating for small spaces, our compact armchairs guide covers how to create cozy reading nooks in apartments with limited square footage.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the downsides of using blackout curtains?
The main downsides of blackout curtains are their weight (which can cause tension rods or cheap brackets to fail), the cave-like feeling some people experience when rooms are very dark, and the fact that most panels only block 85-99% of light rather than 100%. Heavier blackout curtains also cost more to wash and dry due to their bulk. For renters, the weight can also stress curtain rods mounted into drywall without studs.
What are some renter-friendly blackout window shades?
For renters, the best no-drill blackout options include NICETOWN curtains on a quality tension rod rated for heavier weights, BGment panels paired with wrap-around rods, and LEMOMO curtains with 8 grommets for flexible hanging. Tension rods rated for at least 15 pounds work for most triple weave panels. Command hooks can hold lighter curtains but typically fail under true blackout weights. For complete darkness without drilling, combine a tension rod with magnetic clips at the edges.
What is the best brand of blackout curtains?
NICETOWN is the most consistently reviewed brand for blackout curtains, with multiple panels showing 4.6 to 4.8 ratings across hundreds of thousands of reviews. BGment, LEMOMO, and ChrisDowa are strong mid-tier alternatives. For premium options, H.VERSAILTEX offers 100% blackout with eco-friendly certification. The best brand for you depends on your budget and whether you need true 100% blackout or standard room darkening performance.
How to blackout a window in an apartment?
To blackout a window in an apartment, start by mounting a curtain rod 3 to 4 inches above and beyond the window frame, then hang blackout curtains that puddle 1 to 2 inches on the floor. For renters who cannot drill, use a tension rod rated for heavier weights or a wrap-around rod that curves back to the wall. Seal any remaining light gaps with magnetic clips or Velcro strips. For best results, choose triple weave panels in dark colors that block 90% or more of incoming light.
Final Verdict on the Best Blackout Curtains for Apartment
After two months of testing and gathering feedback from renters across multiple cities, the best blackout curtains for apartment living in 2026 come down to your priorities. For true blackout performance that blocks 100% of light, the NICETOWN White 100% Blackout Curtains with the dual-layer black liner backing are the clear winner. They delivered the most complete darkness in our tests, with the added benefits of thermal insulation and meaningful noise reduction.
If budget matters more than absolute top-tier performance, the NICETOWN Grey Blackout Curtains deliver 85-99% light blocking at a more accessible price. For renters outfitting an entire apartment on a tight budget, the BGment Navy Blue Blackout Curtains provide reliable darkening without breaking the bank. Whatever you choose, mount the rod beyond the window frame, let the curtains puddle slightly on the floor, and consider wrap-around rods for complete light sealing.
The right blackout curtains transform apartment sleep. No more 5 a.m. sunrises waking you up. No more streetlight glare across your pillow. No more neighbors complaining about your TV glare at night. Pick a set from this guide, install it this weekend, and start sleeping better starting tomorrow.