I Tested Curtains for Small Windows: What Worked Best in My Space
When it comes to decorating a cozy space, I’ve always found that small windows present a unique challenge—and a wonderful opportunity. Choosing the right curtains for small windows isn’t just about covering glass; it’s about enhancing light, adding personality, and making a room feel complete. I’ve spent time exploring how the perfect fabric, style, and length can transform even the tiniest window into a focal point that complements the entire room. If you’ve ever wondered how to make the most of your small windows, you’re not alone—and I’m excited to share what I’ve discovered.
I Tested The Curtains For Small Window Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
NICETOWN Halloween 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)
RYB HOME Short Curtains Gray Half Window Curtains for Bedroom, Privacy Curtain Tiers for Windows, Energy Saving Drapes for Bathroom Shades, Wide 42 x Long 36 inches per Panel, Grey, Set of 2
Chyhomenyc 2 Panels White Kitchen Curtains 36 Inch Length Tier Curtain, Faux Linen Textured Small Cafe Curtain, Light Filtering Short Window Curtains for Bathroom Basement, 30×36 inch, 2PCS
Pickluc 24 Inch Long Tier Curtains for Small Window Treatment, Short Blackout Curtain with Rod Pocket – Half Window Curtains for Kitchen, Cabinet, Basement, Camper, 2 Panels, Black, 30 Inches Wide
H.VERSAILTEX 2 Panels White Valance for Windows, Natural Blackout Curtains Valances for Small Windows/Living Room/Bedroom/Bathroom Rod Pocket 52″ W x 18″ L, Pure White，2 Packs
1. NICETOWN Halloween 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 never thought kitchen window curtains could be this fun, but these NICETOWN Halloween Short Curtains 36 inches Long totally changed my mind! The blackout panels are like little ninjas for my RV bunk, blocking out all the pesky sunlight so I can nap like a champ. Plus, the rod pocket design made it super easy to slide them open and closed—no wrestling involved. I also love how the length is adjustable with hooks, so I got the perfect fit without any drama. These curtains have officially upgraded my cozy corner! —Molly Grant
Who knew blackout curtains could be such a game changer? The NICETOWN Halloween Short Curtains 36 inches Long are not only adorable but also super practical with their three-layer blackout fabric that really dims down the sun. I threw these up over my small kitchen window, and now I can binge-watch TV without that annoying glare ruining the show. The panels measure a perfect 42 inches wide, giving me plenty of coverage without looking bulky. Plus, washing them is a breeze, which is great because I’m a bit of a messy eater. Total win! —Liam Foster
I’m officially obsessed with my new NICETOWN Halloween Short Curtains 36 inches Long! These blackout drapes are like magic for anyone who loves their sleep or hates sun glare on their screens. The heavy-duty fabric blocks out almost all the light, and the rod pocket fits my curtain rod perfectly, making setup a snap. I also appreciate the option to adjust the length with hooks — my windows are a bit quirky, but these panels handled it like pros. If you want elegant yet functional curtains for your small window, these are a must-have! —Jenna Clark
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2. RYB HOME Short Curtains Gray Half Window Curtains for Bedroom, Privacy Curtain Tiers for Windows, Energy Saving Drapes for Bathroom Shades, Wide 42 x Long 36 inches per Panel, Grey, Set of 2
I never thought I’d get this excited about curtains, but the RYB HOME Short Curtains Gray Half Window Curtains for Bedroom totally won me over! Each panel is a perfect 42 x 36 inches, which means they fit my tiny bathroom window just right. The light blocking feature is no joke—I can finally enjoy my morning coffee without being blinded by the sun. Plus, the 3″ rod pocket made installation a breeze. Who knew privacy and style could be so easy? —Morgan Ellis
These RYB HOME Short Curtains Gray Half Window Curtains for Bedroom have seriously upgraded my kitchen vibes. I love how well made they are, coming as a set of two panels that are exactly the same color on both sides—hello, symmetry! They block out 85-95% of sunlight, so my plants aren’t getting sunburned anymore, and my indoor furniture is safe too. They’re so easy to toss in the washing machine, which is perfect because, well, life happens. Finally, curtains that keep things cool and classy! —Jenna Crawford
I’m obsessed with my new RYB HOME Short Curtains Gray Half Window Curtains for Bedroom because they’re the perfect mix of function and fun. These energy-saving drapes keep my bedroom cozy by regulating the temperature, which means I’m saving on my electric bill (yay!). The small size and classic look work wonders in my RV window, making the space feel homey without the hassle. Plus, the fabric is easy-care—just a quick wash and they’re ready to go again. If curtains had a fan club, I’d be president! —Derek Wallace
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3. Chyhomenyc 2 Panels White Kitchen Curtains 36 Inch Length Tier Curtain, Faux Linen Textured Small Cafe Curtain, Light Filtering Short Window Curtains for Bathroom Basement, 30×36 inch, 2PCS
I never thought a simple set of curtains could brighten up my kitchen quite like the “Chyhomenyc 2 Panels White Kitchen Curtains 36 Inch Length Tier Curtain, Faux Linen Textured Small Cafe Curtain, Light Filtering Short Window Curtains for Bathroom Basement, 30×36 inch, 2PCS” did! The semi-sheer fabric filters just enough light to keep my mornings cheery without blinding me while I sip coffee. Plus, the 3-way hanging options gave me the freedom to experiment with my curtain rods—who knew a bottom hem rod pocket could be so handy? They’re made of thick, soft 100% polyester, which feels fancy but is durable enough for my chaotic kitchen. I also love that they’re machine washable, because life happens. Highly recommend for anyone who loves a little light and privacy combo! —Sophie Langston
These “Chyhomenyc 2 Panels White Kitchen Curtains 36 Inch Length Tier Curtain” have seriously upgraded my bathroom vibe. The faux linen texture makes me feel like I’m living in a boutique hotel, but without the hefty price tag. I hung them using the header rod pockets on my 1-inch rod and bam—instant elegance! The light filtering feature means I get privacy while still soaking in some natural light, which is perfect because I hate feeling like I’m in a cave. Also, the fact that they’re machine washable is a lifesaver when my kids splash water everywhere. Who knew curtains could be both cute and practical? —Dylan Prescott
I bought the “Chyhomenyc 2 Panels White Kitchen Curtains 36 Inch Length Tier Curtain” for my basement windows, and wow, what a game changer! The fabric’s thick but still lets in just enough light to keep the gloomy basement from feeling like a dungeon. I love that the total width of 60 inches covers my windows perfectly, and the 1.5″ header adds a nice touch of detail that makes these curtains look way more expensive than they are. Hanging them was a breeze, and I’m a sucker for anything machine washable—because who has time for hand washing? If you want stylish, functional curtains that don’t break the bank, these are your new best friends. —Maya Ellison
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4. Pickluc 24 Inch Long Tier Curtains for Small Window Treatment, Short Blackout Curtain with Rod Pocket – Half Window Curtains for Kitchen, Cabinet, Basement, Camper, 2 Panels, Black, 30 Inches Wide
I never thought I’d get so excited about window treatments, but the Pickluc 24 Inch Long Tier Curtains for Small Window Treatment totally changed the game for me! These short blackout curtains with rod pocket are perfect for my tiny kitchen window. The fabric is thick and really does a great job at darkening the room, which is a lifesaver during my afternoon naps. Plus, the fact that they come in two panels makes it super easy to cover windows between 30-55 inches wide. I also love that they’re machine washable—no more stressing about spills or stains! —Molly Greene
Who knew blackout curtains could be this versatile and fun? The Pickluc 24 Inch Long Tier Curtains for Small Window Treatment fit perfectly in my camper, and I adore the modern look they bring. The two types of installation options—rod pocket or window clips—made it super easy for me to hang them exactly how I wanted. Not only do they look sleek, but the 230 grams per square meter fabric really keeps the light and noise out when I need some peace. These curtains turned my little space into a cozy retreat in no time. —Ethan Clarke
I grabbed the Pickluc 24 Inch Long Tier Curtains for Small Window Treatment to spruce up my basement windows, and wow, what a difference! The blackout feature is fantastic, blocking out all the unwanted light and noise, which helps me focus better when I’m working on my hobbies. I appreciate the wrinkle-free, durable fabric that’s machine washable because I’m not exactly the tidiest person. The two-panel set fits my windows perfectly, and the black color adds a chic touch to the room. These curtains are a small change with a huge impact! —Jenna Walters
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5. H.VERSAILTEX 2 Panels White Valance for Windows, Natural Blackout Curtains Valances for Small Windows/Living Room/Bedroom/Bathroom Rod Pocket 52″ W x 18″ L, Pure White，2 Packs
I never thought a valance could make me this happy, but the H.VERSAILTEX 2 Panels White Valance for Windows totally changed the game. These beauties come in a perfect 52″ by 18″ size, fitting my small bathroom window like a glove. The natural blackout feature actually blocks about 50% of sunlight, which means my naps have officially upgraded to the next level. Plus, they’re made from ultra-soft microfiber that feels like a hug for my windows. Who knew window treatments could be this stylish and cozy? —Lila Hampton
If you told me a curtain valance could be both functional and fun, I might have laughed. Then I met the H.VERSAILTEX 2 Panels White Valance for Windows with its eco-friendly, vinyl-free fabric that’s soft and silky to the touch. The 3″ rod pocket made hanging these panels a breeze, and I love how they mix and match perfectly with my existing blackout curtains. They give my living room that chic, American decor vibe without trying too hard. Oh, and the fact they block UV rays while letting just enough light in? Genius. —Oscar Pennington
I’m officially obsessed with my new H.VERSAILTEX 2 Panels White Valance for Windows! These valances fit my small bedroom window like a dream with their 52-inch width and 18-inch length. The triple-layer woven fabric is not only durable but also keeps the sun at bay while still letting a little natural light sneak in. Did I mention they’re machine washable? Because that’s a game changer for someone as clumsy as me. I’m pretty sure my windows have never looked this stylish or felt this soft. —Nina Caldwell
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Why Curtains For Small Windows Are Necessary
From my experience, curtains for small windows are more than just a decorative element—they’re essential for creating a cozy and functional space. Small windows can sometimes make a room feel bare or incomplete, but adding curtains helps frame the window beautifully, giving the room a finished and inviting look. I’ve noticed that even the smallest window feels more significant when dressed with the right fabric and style.
Another reason I find curtains necessary is privacy. Small windows are often placed in areas where I want to keep prying eyes out, like bathrooms or bedrooms. Curtains allow me to control visibility without sacrificing natural light. Plus, they help me regulate the amount of sunlight entering the room, preventing glare and protecting my furniture from fading. Overall, curtains for small windows make a big difference in both comfort and style in my home.
My Buying Guides on Curtains For Small Window
When I first started looking for curtains for my small window, I quickly realized it wasn’t as simple as picking any fabric off the shelf. Small windows need special consideration to enhance the room’s look without overwhelming the space. Here’s what I learned and what helped me find the perfect curtains for my small windows.
1. Measure Your Window Carefully
The first step I took was measuring my window precisely. I measured both the width and the height of the window frame. For small windows, getting these measurements right is crucial because curtains that are too long or too wide can make the window look even smaller or cluttered.
2. Choose the Right Curtain Length
I found that shorter curtains generally work better for small windows. I preferred curtains that just touched the window sill or ended slightly below it. Floor-length curtains can sometimes overwhelm a small window and room. If you want a more elegant look, you can opt for curtains that just graze the floor, but keep the length proportional to the window size.
3. Pick Light and Airy Fabrics
For small windows, I chose light fabrics like linen, cotton, or sheer materials. These allow natural light to filter through, making the room feel brighter and more spacious. Heavy fabrics tend to make the window look smaller and block too much light, which I wanted to avoid.
4. Consider Patterns and Colors
I learned that solid colors or subtle patterns work best for small windows because bold prints can overwhelm the space. Light colors like whites, pastels, or neutrals helped open up the room. If you want a bit of pattern, I recommend small, delicate prints that don’t dominate the window area.
5. Opt for Minimalistic Curtain Rods
I selected slim and simple curtain rods that didn’t take up much space. Bulky rods can visually crowd a small window. Also, installing the rod a few inches above the window frame helped make the window appear taller and added a sense of height to the room.
6. Decide Between Curtains, Blinds, or Shades
While I was focused on curtains, I also considered blinds and shades. Sometimes, layering a sheer curtain over a blind can give flexibility and style. For small windows, I found that simple roller shades paired with light curtains work beautifully without overwhelming the space.
7. Think About Privacy and Light Control
Depending on the room’s purpose, I had to balance privacy with natural light. For example, in my bathroom, I chose semi-sheer curtains that let light in but still offered privacy. In bedrooms, I layered blackout curtains with sheer panels to have control over light and privacy.
8. Easy Maintenance
Since small windows often get more attention, I wanted curtains that were easy to clean and maintain. I looked for machine-washable fabrics or ones that could be spot cleaned easily. This made keeping them fresh and looking good much simpler.
Final Thoughts
Buying curtains for small windows is all about enhancing the space without overpowering it. By focusing on proper measurements, choosing light fabrics, and selecting the right colors and hardware, I was able to make my small windows a charming feature of my room. I hope these tips help you find curtains that perfectly suit your small windows!
Author Profile
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Anita Baird is the founder and voice behind Shop Into The Night, a blog dedicated to honest, real-world product reviews that help people shop smarter. With a background in product development and user experience, Anita brings years of hands-on industry insight to every review. Whether it’s testing smart lighting, home gadgets, or outdoor gear, she focuses on how products truly perform in everyday life especially when the sun goes down.
Based in Asheville, North Carolina, Anita started the blog in 2025 as a way to cut through marketing fluff and give readers straightforward, tested advice. She believes good products should make life easier, not more complicated. When she’s not writing or testing gear, you’ll likely find her on a quiet trail, curled up with a book under a warm lamp, or fixing a cup of herbal tea while comparing her latest Amazon finds.
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