BlackoutPick – Independent Blackout Curtain Reviews for Apartments

Find the best blackout curtains for apartments. We test every model for light blocking, insulation, and renter-friendly features.

Updated 2026-03-09 Independently reviewed

Our Top Picks

Our Top Pick
1
NICETOWN Blackout Curtains

NICETOWN Blackout Curtains

9.1/10

Triple-weave blackout with 99% light blocking and thermal insulation.

$27

Pros

  • 99% light blocking in testing
  • Thermal lining for insulation
  • Noise reduction
  • Machine washable
  • Multiple colors and sizes
  • Grommet top for easy hanging
  • Affordable price

Cons

  • May need to size up for full coverage
  • Some colors show slight light bleed at edges

Best overall blackout curtains for apartments—excellent light blocking and value.

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2
Deconovo Blackout Curtains

Deconovo Blackout Curtains

9/10

Modern blackout curtains with 3-pass lining and stylish designs.

$35

Pros

  • 3-pass blackout lining
  • Modern, clean designs
  • Thermal insulation
  • Machine washable
  • Rod pocket and grommet options
  • Wide size range
  • Affordable

Cons

  • Lighter fabrics may have slight transparency
  • Check sizing for your window

Best for those who want blackout performance with contemporary design.

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3
Eclipse Curtains Blackout Energy

Eclipse Curtains Blackout Energy

8.8/10

Trusted Eclipse brand with 100% blackout and energy efficiency.

$32

Pros

  • 100% blackout claim
  • Energy-efficient thermal backing
  • Wrinkle-resistant fabric
  • Easy care
  • Wide availability
  • Proven brand
  • Good for renters

Cons

  • Limited style options
  • Slightly stiffer feel

Best for maximum light blocking with energy efficiency.

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4
H.VERSAILTEX Blackout Curtains

H.VERSAILTEX Blackout Curtains

8.7/10

Heavy-duty blackout with thermal and noise reduction.

$42

Pros

  • Heavy-duty construction
  • Excellent light blocking
  • Thermal insulation
  • Noise reduction
  • Durable fabric
  • Multiple hanging options
  • Good for street-facing windows

Cons

  • Heavier—may need sturdy rod
  • Slightly higher price

Best for street-facing apartments with light and noise concerns.

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5
Lush Decor Velvet Blackout Curtains

Lush Decor Velvet Blackout Curtains

8.5/10

Luxury velvet blackout with sound absorption.

$65

Pros

  • Luxury velvet texture
  • Blackout lining
  • Sound absorption
  • Thermal insulation
  • Rich colors
  • Quality construction
  • Machine washable

Cons

  • Higher price
  • Velvet may attract dust

Best luxury option for apartments—velvet blackout with sound insulation.

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6
BESTEK Tension Rod Blackout Curtain

BESTEK Tension Rod Blackout Curtain

8.4/10

No-drill blackout with included tension rod for renters.

$28

Pros

  • Includes tension rod
  • No drilling required
  • Good for renters
  • Blackout lining
  • Easy setup
  • Multiple sizes
  • Affordable

Cons

  • Tension rods have weight limits
  • May not fit all window types

Best for renters who can't drill—includes tension rod and blackout.

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7
Magnolia Home Blackout Curtains

Magnolia Home Blackout Curtains

8.6/10

Designer blackout curtains with Joanna Gaines aesthetic.

$55

Pros

  • Designer aesthetic
  • Good light blocking
  • Quality construction
  • Thermal lining
  • Multiple colors and patterns
  • Linen-look options
  • Target/Walmart availability

Cons

  • Higher price point
  • Some styles less blackout than others

Best for design-conscious renters who want blackout with style.

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8
IKEA KVAD Blackout Curtain

IKEA KVAD Blackout Curtain

8.2/10

IKEA blackout with reliable performance and low price.

$25

Pros

  • Very affordable
  • Reliable blackout
  • Simple design
  • Multiple sizes
  • IKEA quality
  • Easy to hem
  • Good for renters

Cons

  • Basic design
  • May need IKEA pickup

Best IKEA option for budget blackout in apartments.

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9
Amazon Essentials Blackout Curtain

Amazon Essentials Blackout Curtain

8.3/10

Budget-friendly blackout with reliable light blocking.

$18

Pros

  • Very affordable
  • Good light blocking
  • Simple, neutral design
  • Machine washable
  • Multiple sizes
  • Quick delivery
  • Easy returns

Cons

  • Basic design
  • Less insulation than premium options

Best budget option for renters covering multiple windows.

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10
Urban Outfitters Blackout Curtain

Urban Outfitters Blackout Curtain

7.9/10

Trendy blackout curtains with apartment-friendly aesthetics.

$49

Pros

  • Trendy designs
  • Blackout lining
  • Apartment-friendly sizes
  • Unique patterns
  • Good for small spaces
  • Machine washable
  • Reasonable price

Cons

  • Light blocking varies by style
  • Some designs may date

Best for those who want blackout with trendy, apartment-friendly style.

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Our Methodology

We test each blackout curtain for light blocking percentage, thermal insulation, noise reduction, and durability. Details on testing process. No manufacturer has editorial influence.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes blackout curtains effective for apartments?
Effective blackout curtains use multiple layers—typically a triple-weave or 3-pass lining that blocks light. The best options also include thermal backing for insulation (helpful in drafty apartments) and extend beyond the window frame to prevent light bleed at edges. For apartments, consider renter-friendly options: tension rods (no drilling), grommet tops for easy hanging, and machine-washable fabrics for easy care.
Do I need to size up blackout curtains for apartments?
Yes. For full coverage and to prevent light bleed, curtains should be wider than your window—typically 1.5-2x the window width for proper overlap when closed. Length should extend a few inches below the sill or to the floor. For example, a 36-inch wide window needs 54-72 inches of curtain width. Many apartments have standard windows; measure before ordering.
Can I use blackout curtains without drilling?
Yes. Tension rods fit inside the window frame without hardware—several blackout curtain sets include them. Command hooks can hold lightweight rods. For heavier curtains, consider a pressure-mounted rod that spans the window opening. These work well for renters who can't modify walls. Check weight limits—tension rods typically support 10-15 lbs.

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