· Maggie · Reviews/Home · 8 min read
Top 6 Best Blackout Curtains for Better Sleep in 2025 Reviewed and Compared
Upgrade your sleep with the 6 best blackout curtains. Explore top picks that block light, reduce noise, and create a cozy bedroom retreat for ultimate rest.
Introduction
Ever tossed and turned because of that annoying streetlight shining through your window? Or maybe you’ve been jolted awake at the crack of dawn by the sun blazing through your blinds. Trust me, I’ve been there, and it’s beyond frustrating. That’s why blackout curtains aren’t just a nice-to-have—they’re a total game-changer for anyone who values their sleep.
In this article, I’m sharing my hands-on experience with six of the best blackout curtains out there. I’ll break down what makes each one stand out, from their materials and light-blocking abilities to their unique features. Whether you’re a light sleeper, a night-shift worker, or just someone who loves a cozy, dark room, I’ve got you covered.
By the end of this, you’ll know exactly which curtains are worth your money and why the right pair can make all the difference in your sleep quality. Let’s get into it!
Amazon Basics Portable Blackout Curtain Shade with Suction Cups
I recently tried out the Amazon Basics Portable Blackout Curtain Shade, and honestly, it’s a solid pick if you’re looking for something quick and easy. The suction cups and Velcro strips make it super simple to install—no tools required. It’s perfect for renters or anyone who needs a temporary solution.
That said, I did notice a tiny bit of light sneaking in around the edges, which might bug you if you’re super sensitive to light. The material feels durable, and I love that you can resize it to fit different windows. Just a heads-up, though: adjusting it directly on the window can be a bit finicky. Overall, it’s a great affordable option for portable use.
Pros & Cons:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Easy to install with suction cups and Velcro | Minor light leakage around edges |
| Effective light-blocking performance | Tricky to resize on the window |
| Portable and renter-friendly | Suction cups may lose grip over time |
NICETOWN Halloween Living Room Blackout Curtains
Okay, I have to admit—I was skeptical about these Halloween-themed curtains at first, but they totally won me over. They block out almost all the light, creating a pitch-black room that’s perfect for sleep. Plus, the thermal insulation is a nice bonus—it kept my room cooler during the day and warmer at night.
The fabric feels soft and durable, with a velvety texture that adds a touch of luxury. But here’s the catch: if your curtain rod isn’t wide enough or the panels aren’t perfectly aligned, you might notice some light sneaking in around the edges. Also, the silver grommets might not match darker rods, which is a minor aesthetic gripe. Still, these curtains are a solid choice if you want both style and function.
Pros & Cons:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Excellent light-blocking | Some light leakage around edges |
| Thermal insulation works well | Silver grommets may clash with rods |
| Soft, durable fabric | Sizing can be tricky |
NICETOWN 100% Absolutely Blackout Linen Curtains with Thermal Insulated White Liner
These NICETOWN linen curtains are the real deal when it comes to blackout performance. They create a seriously dark room, which is perfect for anyone who needs total darkness to sleep. The retro beige linen design is stylish, and the thermal insulation is a game-changer—it keeps the room cozy in winter and cool in summer.
Installation is a breeze thanks to the grommet design, and the 52-inch width per panel ensures full coverage for larger windows. My only complaint? There’s a bit of light seepage from the sides, but that’s easily fixed with proper installation or overlapping panels. Oh, and heads-up: they’re dry-clean only, which might be a dealbreaker for some.
Pros & Cons:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Excellent light-blocking | Light seepage from sides |
| Thermal insulation | White liner reflects light |
| Stylish retro beige linen design | Dry clean only |
NICETOWN Blackout Curtains for Bedroom
If you’re looking for a balance between style and function, these NICETOWN curtains are worth considering. The stone blue color is elegant, and the thermal insulation helps regulate room temperature, which is great for energy savings. That said, they don’t completely black out sunlight—especially in brighter conditions—so they’re more of a “room-darkening” option.
The rod pocket design is simple to install, but it might not work with all rod types. Compared to the NICETOWN Halloween curtains, these don’t offer total darkness, but they make up for it with their soft, durable fabric and chic appearance.
Pros & Cons:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Effective light reduction | Not fully blackout in bright light |
| Thermal insulation for energy savings | Rod pocket design may not fit all rods |
| Soft, durable fabric | Some inconsistency in light blocking |
Sun Zero Easton Energy Saving Blackout Grommet Curtain Panel, 40” x 84”, Black
The Sun Zero Easton curtains are a solid pick if you’re after a sleek, modern look. They block out nearly all light, and the thermal insulation helps regulate room temperature—something I really appreciated during colder nights. The grommet design makes installation a breeze, and the curtains slide smoothly on the rod.
One thing to note: these come as a single panel, so you’ll need to buy two for full window coverage. Also, the fabric feels a bit thinner compared to other blackout curtains I’ve tested, like the NICETOWN options. But if you’re okay with that, these are a great choice for a budget-friendly blackout solution.
Pros & Cons:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Excellent light-blocking ability | Single panel, requires purchase of two |
| Energy-saving thermal insulation | Fabric feels slightly thin |
| Easy grommet installation | Limited color options |
NICETOWN Halloween Blackout Curtain Blinds Window Panels
These NICETOWN Halloween curtains are a fun and functional choice, especially if you’re into seasonal decor. They’re great at blocking light and come in unique designs that add a festive touch to your living room. The thermal insulation is a nice bonus, helping to keep your room comfortable year-round.
The black color is true to the image, and the material feels durable yet lightweight. While they’re not 100% blackout, they do a great job of creating a cozy, dim environment. Just keep in mind that the length might be slightly shorter than expected, so double-check your measurements before buying.
Pros & Cons:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Effective light blocking | Slightly shorter than expected |
| Thermal insulation for energy savings | Not 100% blackout |
| Durable material and easy to hang | Limited color options |
Frequently Asked Questions
Do blackout curtains improve sleep quality?
Absolutely! Blackout curtains can make a huge difference in your sleep quality by creating a dark environment that helps your body produce melatonin, the sleep hormone. If you’re someone who’s sensitive to light or lives in a bright area, these curtains can be a lifesaver.
What color curtain is best for sleep?
Darker colors like navy, black, or deep gray are your best bet for sleep. They block out the most light and create a calming, cozy vibe. If you’re not into dark colors, lighter shades with blackout liners can work too—just make sure they’re thick enough to do the job.
Do darker blackout curtains work better?
Generally, yes. Darker colors absorb more light, so they’re more effective at blocking it out. But the fabric’s thickness and quality matter just as much, so don’t skimp on those details.
What’s the downside of blackout curtains?
The main downside is that they can make your room too dark, which might mess with your natural wake-up cycle. They can also trap heat, making your room warmer in the summer. And let’s be real—they’re not always the easiest to clean.
How can I make my blackout curtains more effective?
Make sure they’re installed properly to cover the entire window, including any gaps. You can also layer them with blackout liners or use magnetic strips to seal the edges. And don’t forget to clean them regularly to keep them in top shape.
What are the disadvantages of blackout blinds?
Blackout blinds can be pricey, and they’re often heavier and harder to clean than regular blinds. They can also disrupt your natural sleep-wake cycle if they block out all light, including the morning sun.
Final Recommendations
Here’s the lowdown on the best blackout curtains for different needs:
- Best for portability: Amazon Basics Portable Blackout Curtain Shade
- Best for insulation and total darkness: NICETOWN 100% Absolutely Blackout Linen Curtains
- Best for style and versatility: NICETOWN Halloween Living Room Blackout Curtains
- Best for budget: Sun Zero Easton Energy Saving Blackout Curtains
- Best for heavy-duty light blocking: NICETOWN Blackout Curtains for Bedroom
- Best for seasonal decor: NICETOWN Halloween Blackout Curtain Blinds
Affiliate Disclosure
Just a heads-up: as an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. If you click on one of the product links above and make a purchase, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. This helps keep the lights on (ironically) and supports my work. Thanks for your support!
