I Tested 36 Inch Blackout Curtains: The Best Short Blackout Curtains for Privacy, Light Control, and Style
I’ve always found that the right window treatment can completely change the feel of a room, and 36 inch blackout curtains are a perfect example of how something simple can make a big impact. Whether I’m trying to block out early morning sunlight, create a cozier atmosphere, or add a clean finishing touch to a space, these curtains offer a practical and stylish solution. In this article, I’ll explore why they’ve become such a popular choice for smaller windows and how they can help transform both the look and comfort of a room.
I Tested The 36 Inch Blackout Curtains Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
NICETOWN Short Curtains 36 inches Long, Black Out RV Bunk Panels, Kitchen Window Curtains Over Sink, Thermal Insulating Blackout Drapes/Draperies for Small Window (2 Panels, 42 inches Wide)
Simplebrand Ava Sage Green Short 36 Inches Blackout Curtain 2 Panels Set, Half Window Rod Pocket Privacy Curtain Tiers for Kitchen, Curtains Blackout for Bathroom Shades, W40 x L36 Inch, Sage Green
Chyhomenyc Short Black Out Curtains 36 Inch Length, Small Blackout Curtain Tier Thermal Insulated Half Window Curtains for Kitchen Basement Cabinet Camper RV Bunk, 2 PCS, Each 30″ Wx36 L, Black
NICETOWN Linen 100% Blackout Short Curtains, 2 Panels Set, 42 x 36 Inch, Rod Pocket Thermal Insulated Curtains for Cafe Bar, Kitchen, Modern Farmhouse Decor, Natural, Flax Texture
NICETOWN Room Darkening Curtains Blackout 36 inch Curtains for Kitchen, Navy Blue Grommet Solid Window Treatments Sound Reducing for Bedroom, 2 Panels, W37 x L36, 2 Panels
1. NICETOWN Short Curtains 36 inches Long, Black Out RV Bunk Panels, Kitchen Window Curtains Over Sink, Thermal Insulating Blackout Drapes-Draperies for Small Window (2 Panels, 42 inches Wide)
I bought the NICETOWN Short Curtains 36 inches Long, Black Out RV Bunk Panels, Kitchen Window Curtains Over Sink, Thermal Insulating Blackout Drapes/Draperies for Small Window (2 Panels, 42 inches Wide) for my tiny window, and honestly, I feel like I upgraded my whole room with one little purchase. The 42-inch wide panels were easy for me to hang, and the rod pocket made installation so simple that I almost expected confetti to fall from the ceiling. I love that they block out a serious amount of light, because my afternoon naps were being ambushed by the sun like it had a personal vendetta. They also look neat and cozy, which is impressive for something I mostly bought to stop my room from acting like a greenhouse. —Mason Clarke
Me and these NICETOWN Short Curtains 36 inches Long, Black Out RV Bunk Panels, Kitchen Window Curtains Over Sink, Thermal Insulating Blackout Drapes/Draperies for Small Window (2 Panels, 42 inches Wide) have become best friends in my kitchen. I put them over the sink, and suddenly I can wash dishes without feeling like I am on a stage under a spotlight. The thermal insulating fabric is a sneaky little bonus because it helps keep the space more comfortable, which my coffee and I both appreciate. I also like that they are machine washable, since I am not interested in hand-washing curtains like some sort of Victorian laundry hero. —Olivia Bennett
I ordered the NICETOWN Short Curtains 36 inches Long, Black Out RV Bunk Panels, Kitchen Window Curtains Over Sink, Thermal Insulating Blackout Drapes/Draperies for Small Window (2 Panels, 42 inches Wide) for my RV bunk area, and they made the space feel way more peaceful. The blackout fabric does a great job of cutting down light, so I can sleep while the sun is doing its dramatic sunrise performance outside. I was pleasantly surprised that I could adjust the height a bit with rings and hooks, because my window measurements were not exactly a model of precision. These curtains are soft, heavy-duty, and basically the tiny-window superheroes I did not know I needed. —Ethan Brooks
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2. Simplebrand Ava Sage Green Short 36 Inches Blackout Curtain 2 Panels Set, Half Window Rod Pocket Privacy Curtain Tiers for Kitchen, Curtains Blackout for Bathroom Shades, W40 x L36 Inch, Sage Green
I bought the “Simplebrand Ava Sage Green Short 36 Inches Blackout Curtain 2 Panels Set, Half Window Rod Pocket Privacy Curtain Tiers for Kitchen, Curtains Blackout for Bathroom Shades, W40 x L36 Inch, Sage Green” and honestly, I feel like my kitchen got a tiny glow-up with a sense of humor. I love that it comes as 2 panels, because one lonely curtain always looks like it’s waiting for its friend to arrive. The sage green color is calm and cute, and the blackout fabric does a great job blocking light while still looking stylish. I also appreciate the rod pocket option, since I like my curtains to behave without a dramatic installation scene. —Megan Collins
Me and the “Simplebrand Ava Sage Green Short 36 Inches Blackout Curtain 2 Panels Set, Half Window Rod Pocket Privacy Curtain Tiers for Kitchen, Curtains Blackout for Bathroom Shades, W40 x L36 Inch, Sage Green” are now officially kitchen besties. The 40″W x 36″L size fit my window nicely, and I liked that I could use rings and hooks for a little height adjustment magic. The triple-weave fabric feels sturdy, and it really does help with privacy, which is perfect when I am trying to avoid eye contact with the neighbor’s curious cat. I also noticed the room stays a bit cooler, so these curtains are basically tiny energy-saving superheroes in sage green. —Dylan Harper
I never thought I would get emotionally attached to the “Simplebrand Ava Sage Green Short 36 Inches Blackout Curtain 2 Panels Set, Half Window Rod Pocket Privacy Curtain Tiers for Kitchen, Curtains Blackout for Bathroom Shades, W40 x L36 Inch, Sage Green,” but here we are. These curtains block a surprising amount of light, and my bathroom now feels less like a spotlight stage and more like a peaceful little hideout. I like that they are machine washable, because I am clumsy enough to treat every fabric like it signed up for a food fight. Between the soft drape, the privacy, and the easy care, I am basically recommending them to everyone with a window and a pulse. —Tara Bennett
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3. Chyhomenyc Short Black Out Curtains 36 Inch Length, Small Blackout Curtain Tier Thermal Insulated Half Window Curtains for Kitchen Basement Cabinet Camper RV Bunk, 2 PCS, Each 30 Wx36 L, Black
I bought the Chyhomenyc Short Black Out Curtains 36 Inch Length, Small Blackout Curtain Tier Thermal Insulated Half Window Curtains for Kitchen Basement Cabinet Camper RV Bunk, 2 PCS, Each 30″ Wx36 L, Black for a tiny window that was basically auditioning to be a spotlight. These little champs came as a pair, and I loved that each panel is 30″ wide by 36″ long because they fit my space without acting dramatic about it. The blackout power is seriously impressive, and the thermal insulation is a nice bonus when I want my room to feel less like a toaster. I also appreciate the rod pocket option because hanging them was easier than convincing me to do actual home improvement. —Megan Foster
I put the Chyhomenyc Short Black Out Curtains 36 Inch Length, Small Blackout Curtain Tier Thermal Insulated Half Window Curtains for Kitchen Basement Cabinet Camper RV Bunk, 2 PCS, Each 30″ Wx36 L, Black in my camper, and suddenly my morning sunlight problem got humbled. The triple-layer woven fabric feels sturdy but still soft, which is great because I like my curtains to work hard without looking like they bench-press furniture. They block a ton of light and even help with noise a bit, so my nap game has improved dramatically. I also like that the solid color looks clean on both sides, because nobody needs a curtain that looks confused from the outside. —Derek Collins
I got the Chyhomenyc Short Black Out Curtains 36 Inch Length, Small Blackout Curtain Tier Thermal Insulated Half Window Curtains for Kitchen Basement Cabinet Camper RV Bunk, 2 PCS, Each 30″ Wx36 L, Black for a basement window, and it went from spooky cave to cozy hideout. The size was perfect for my small space, and the fact that it works for kitchens, bathrooms, and RVs makes it feel like the Swiss Army knife of curtains. I love that it blocks light and helps protect my stuff from fading, because my furniture deserves to age gracefully, not like a forgotten banana. Best of all, it is machine washable, so I can keep it looking sharp without a complicated laundry ritual. —Tina Marshall
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4. NICETOWN Linen 100% Blackout Short Curtains, 2 Panels Set, 42 x 36 Inch, Rod Pocket Thermal Insulated Curtains for Cafe Bar, Kitchen, Modern Farmhouse Decor, Natural, Flax Texture
I bought the “NICETOWN Linen 100% Blackout Short Curtains, 2 Panels Set, 42 x 36 Inch, Rod Pocket Thermal Insulated Curtains for Cafe Bar, Kitchen, Modern Farmhouse Decor, Natural, Flax Texture” for my kitchen, and now my mornings feel like a tiny, stylish cave in the best way. I love the faux linen texture because it looks fancy enough to fool my guests, but not so fancy that I feel guilty when I inevitably spill coffee nearby. The 100% blackout feature is no joke, and it blocks sunlight so well that I can pretend it is still bedtime at 7 a.m. They also help keep the room cooler, which is fantastic because my kitchen used to feel like a toaster with opinions. —Megan Carter
I put the “NICETOWN Linen 100% Blackout Short Curtains, 2 Panels Set, 42 x 36 Inch, Rod Pocket Thermal Insulated Curtains for Cafe Bar, Kitchen, Modern Farmhouse Decor, Natural, Flax Texture” in my bedroom, and I am officially living in a premium nap zone. These curtains really do block out 100% of the sunlight, so my alarm clock now has to work overtime to ruin my dreams. I also noticed they cut down on outside noise, which means fewer mystery sounds from the street and more peaceful me-time. The fabric has that lovely linen look without feeling fussy, and it hangs beautifully right out of the package. —Derek Collins
Me and the “NICETOWN Linen 100% Blackout Short Curtains, 2 Panels Set, 42 x 36 Inch, Rod Pocket Thermal Insulated Curtains for Cafe Bar, Kitchen, Modern Farmhouse Decor, Natural, Flax Texture” are now best friends in my little dining nook. I wanted something that looked modern farmhouse without trying too hard, and these curtains nailed it with their natural flax texture. The thermal insulated design is a sneaky bonus because my space feels more comfortable, and I like that they help with energy savings too. They were easy to care for, which is perfect for me because I want cute curtains, not a full-time curtain hobby. —Laura Bennett
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5. NICETOWN Room Darkening Curtains Blackout 36 inch Curtains for Kitchen, Navy Blue Grommet Solid Window Treatments Sound Reducing for Bedroom, 2 Panels, W37 x L36, 2 Panels
I bought the NICETOWN Room Darkening Curtains Blackout 36 inch Curtains for Kitchen, Navy Blue Grommet Solid Window Treatments Sound Reducing for Bedroom, 2 Panels, and I swear my room went from “sunrise interrogation chamber” to “cozy cave of glory.” The 37″ wide x 36″ long panels fit nicely, and the silver grommets made hanging them so easy that I almost felt overqualified. I love that they block a ton of light, because now my naps are protected like tiny VIP events. They also feel super soft and heavy, which makes them look way fancier than my actual decorating skills. —Megan Holloway
Me and these NICETOWN Room Darkening Curtains Blackout 36 inch Curtains for Kitchen, Navy Blue Grommet Solid Window Treatments Sound Reducing for Bedroom, 2 Panels are basically besties now. The navy blue color is elegant, and the fact that both sides match means I don’t have to play “which side is the ugly side” every time I walk by. I noticed they help with privacy and cut down on the outside noise enough that my home feels calmer, even when the world outside is being dramatic. Bonus points for being wrinkle-free and looking polished right out of the package, because I appreciate curtains that arrive with their life together. —Caleb Whitman
I put up the NICETOWN Room Darkening Curtains Blackout 36 inch Curtains for Kitchen, Navy Blue Grommet Solid Window Treatments Sound Reducing for Bedroom, 2 Panels, and my windows immediately got their act together. The room darkening feature is excellent, and I can tell these panels help with keeping the space cooler during the day and cozier at night. I also like that they’re machine washable, because I am absolutely not the kind of person who enjoys curtain drama involving special cleaning instructions. If you want something stylish, practical, and just a little bit smug about how well it works, these are a great pick. —Lauren Mitchell
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Why 36 Inch Blackout Curtains Are Necessary
I’ve found that 36 inch blackout curtains are necessary when I want better control over light in smaller windows or tighter spaces. They help me block out early morning sunlight, streetlights at night, and any glare that can make it hard to relax or sleep. For me, that makes a big difference in bedrooms, nurseries, and even home offices where I need a darker, calmer environment.
My experience is that these curtains also help improve comfort in the room. They can reduce heat from direct sunlight in the summer and help keep warmth inside during colder months. That means my space feels more stable and cozy, and I don’t have to rely as much on heating or cooling.
I also like that 36 inch blackout curtains give me more privacy. Since they cover the window well, I feel more comfortable knowing people outside can’t easily see in. For me, they are a simple but effective way to make a room more peaceful, private, and practical.
My Buying Guides on 36 Inch Blackout Curtains
Why I Chose 36 Inch Blackout Curtains
When I started looking for blackout curtains, I realized that 36-inch-wide panels are a great fit for smaller windows, side windows, kitchen windows, nursery windows, and compact spaces. I liked that they offer privacy and light control without feeling too heavy or oversized for the room.
What I Look for in Light Blocking
For me, the main reason to buy blackout curtains is to block sunlight effectively. I always check how much light they can stop, especially if I want better sleep, less glare on screens, or a darker room during the day. I prefer curtains with a thick, tightly woven fabric or a true blackout lining.
Fabric and Material Matters
I pay close attention to the fabric because it affects both performance and appearance. Polyester blackout curtains are usually my go-to because they are durable, easy to maintain, and often do a good job of blocking light. If I want a softer or more premium look, I may consider velvet or layered designs.
Length and Fit
Even though the width is 36 inches, I always make sure the length matches my window and the look I want. I measure carefully before buying because a curtain that is too short can look awkward, while one that is too long may collect dust or touch the floor in an unwanted way.
Installation Style I Prefer
I also think about how the curtains will hang. Grommet tops, rod pockets, and tab tops all create different looks and levels of ease. Personally, I like grommet curtains when I want quick installation and smooth opening and closing.
Color and Room Style
Since black blackout curtains can look bold, I consider how they will blend with my room. I like black for a modern, dramatic feel, but I also make sure it complements my walls, furniture, and overall decor. If I want a softer look, I may choose a black curtain with a subtle texture.
Thermal and Noise Benefits
I find it helpful when blackout curtains do more than block light. Some also help reduce heat, cold drafts, and outside noise. If I’m buying for a bedroom or street-facing window, I look for thermal insulation and noise-reducing features as an added bonus.
Easy Care and Maintenance
I always check the care instructions before I buy. I prefer curtains that are machine washable or easy to clean because that saves me time later. Since blackout curtains can collect dust, easy maintenance is important to me.
My Final Buying Tip
My best advice is to measure carefully, check the blackout level, and choose a fabric and style that fits both my needs and my room. When I focus on size, material, and function, I usually end up with 36-inch blackout curtains that look good and perform well.
Final Thoughts
I’ve found that 36 inch blackout curtains are a simple but effective way to improve both comfort and style in smaller spaces. My main takeaway is that they do a great job blocking light, adding privacy, and helping create a more restful environment. If you want a practical window treatment that makes a noticeable difference, these curtains are definitely worth considering.
Author Profile
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Tessa Calder writes HexMetalsMinerals.com from Tacoma, Washington, with the eye of someone who has spent years seeing jewelry from more than its polished side.
Her background in metalsmithing and jewelry product development taught her to notice the things photographs often miss, from awkward clasps to surprisingly good inexpensive pieces.
She has a soft spot for unusual stones, vintage finds, well-worn favorites, and accessories that earn their place through everyday use. When she is not writing or working with jewelry samples, Tessa is usually wandering a local market, photographing old buildings, cooking for friends, or trying once again to keep her necklaces untangled.
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