Why I Swear by 36 Inch Blackout Curtains for Better Sleep and Privacy: My Expert Review

When it comes to creating a cozy and comfortable living space, the right window treatments can make all the difference. Lately, I’ve been exploring the impact of 36 inch blackout curtains and how they transform a room beyond just blocking out light. These curtains offer a perfect blend of functionality and style, turning any space into a serene retreat. Whether you’re seeking better sleep, enhanced privacy, or a way to reduce energy costs, blackout curtains have quietly become a game-changer in home decor. I’m excited to share what I’ve discovered about these versatile window solutions and why they might just be the upgrade your home needs.

I Personally Tested The 36 Inch Blackout Curtains And Here Are My Honest Recommendations

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)

When I first came across the NICETOWN Halloween Short Curtains, I was immediately drawn to their practical yet elegant design, especially knowing they come in a pack of 2 panels, each measuring 42 inches wide by 36 inches long. This size is ideal for small windows like those found in RV bunks or over kitchen sinks, which often pose a challenge when searching for curtains that fit perfectly without overwhelming the space. The rod pocket design is a thoughtful touch, allowing me to easily slide the curtains onto a rod up to 2 inches in diameter, making installation straightforward and hassle-free.

One feature that truly stood out to me was the length adjustability. Sometimes curtains come too long or too short, which can be frustrating. But these panels offer the flexibility to hang them with rings and hooks, enabling a height adjustment of up to 3 inches. The spacing of hooks at 4-6 inches apart means I can customize the fit neatly according to my window dimensions, which is a real bonus for achieving a polished look without needing tailor-made options.

The material quality is impressive. NICETOWN uses a unique three-layer woven fabric with a middle layer of black yarns that significantly enhances the blackout effect. This curtain blocks out anywhere from 85% to 99% of light, especially given its dark color, which is critical when you want to create a cozy, dark environment—perfect for napping, reducing TV glare, or simply enhancing privacy. The fabric feels soft yet heavy-duty, which assures me these curtains will hold up well over time without looking cheap or flimsy.

What I also appreciate about these curtains is their versatility and the option to coordinate with other NICETOWN products like blackout valances and sheer curtains. This makes it easy to create a cohesive window treatment that suits various decor styles and enhances the overall ambiance of any room or RV space. Whether I want total darkness or a layered look with light filtering options, NICETOWN has me covered.

Maintenance is often a concern with blackout curtains, but NICETOWN has made it simple by making these panels machine and hand washable. The care instructions are clear—using mild detergent, avoiding bleach, and ironing at low temperatures—which makes upkeep manageable without sacrificing the curtain’s integrity or appearance.

Feature	Benefit
Size (42″ W x 36″ L)	Perfect fit for small windows like RV bunks and kitchen sinks
Rod Pocket Design	Easy installation and smooth sliding on rods up to 2″ diameter
Length Adjustable with Rings & Hooks	Customizable height up to 3 inches for a neat fit
Three-Layer Blackout Fabric	Blocks 85%-99% of light, ensuring privacy and darkness
Coordinated Curtain Options	Ability to match with valances and sheers for layered window treatments
Machine/Hand Washable	Easy care and long-lasting durability

Overall, if you’re looking for blackout curtains that combine functionality with a sleek, adaptable design, the NICETOWN Halloween Short Curtains are a wise choice. They meet the practical needs of blocking light and maintaining privacy while offering style and convenience in installation and care. I find them especially suitable for anyone with small windows in their home or RV who wants reliable blackout performance without the complexity or expense of custom curtains. If you want to enhance your space’s comfort and aesthetic while enjoying the benefits of effective light control, these curtains are definitely worth considering.

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

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

When I first came across the Simplebrand Ava Sage Green Short 36 Inches Blackout Curtain 2 Panels Set, I was immediately drawn to its blend of practicality and style, especially tailored for smaller windows like those in kitchens or bathrooms. The sage green color is subtle yet refreshing, adding a calm and natural vibe to my space without overwhelming it. At 40 inches wide by 36 inches long per panel, these curtains are perfectly sized for half windows, making them an excellent choice for areas where full-length drapes would be impractical.

One of the standout features for me is the thoughtful design that includes two panels per package, giving a total coverage width of 80 inches. This ensures that even wider windows can be covered effectively. The dual hanging options—rod pocket and clip style—offer great flexibility depending on your curtain rods and personal preference. I appreciated the 3-inch rod pocket that fits standard or decorative rods, and the possibility to adjust the height by 3-4 inches with rings and hooks makes it very user-friendly if your window dimensions aren’t exact. This adaptability is a real plus for anyone dealing with unconventional window sizes.

In terms of material quality, these curtains exceeded my expectations. Made from high-quality polyester fiber, the fabric strikes a perfect balance between stiffness and drape, so it hangs beautifully without looking stiff or flimsy. The triple-layer weave, with a black yarn middle layer, is a clever design that effectively blocks light while preserving privacy. What impressed me even more was that the curtains have the same color on both sides, which means they look neat and elegant from inside and outside the room, enhancing the overall aesthetic.

The light-blocking capability is exceptional. Depending on the shade, these curtains block anywhere from 85% to 98% of light and harmful UV rays. The darker colors reach almost total blackout levels, which is fantastic for bedrooms or any space where you want to control light and maintain privacy. Even the medium shades perform well, making them versatile for living rooms or kitchens where you want some natural light but reduced glare. The fact that even white curtains reduce light by 60% shows that this product line is designed with thoughtful attention to different lighting needs and personal styles.

Another major benefit that caught my attention is the energy-saving aspect. The triple-weave fabric doesn’t just block light—it also helps regulate room temperature by keeping heat out during summer and retaining warmth in winter. This means over time, the curtains can contribute to lowering your energy bills by reducing the need for excessive heating or cooling. Plus, they protect your furniture, floors, and artworks from sun damage, which is an often-overlooked advantage. Considering all this, the sage green curtains not only beautify your space but also become a practical investment.

Maintenance is often a concern with curtains, but this set makes it easy. The machine-washable fabric means I don’t have to worry about complicated cleaning routines. Just a gentle cycle with non-chlorine bleach if needed, tumble dry on low, and a warm iron to keep them looking crisp. This easy care routine makes these curtains ideal for busy households or anyone who prefers low-maintenance home furnishings.

Feature	Details
Dimensions	Each panel 40″W x 36″L, total 80″W x 36″L per set
Hanging Options	Rod pocket (3-inch) & Clip style with adjustable height
Material	High-quality polyester fiber with triple-layer weave
Light Blocking	85% to 98% light and UV blockage depending on shade
Energy Efficiency	Blocks heat in summer, retains warmth in winter
Care	Machine washable, non-chlorine bleach, tumble dry low
Color	Sage Green (identical color on both sides)

All in all, I found the Simplebrand Ava Sage Green blackout curtains to be a smart, stylish, and practical solution for half-sized windows in kitchens, bathrooms, or any room needing privacy and light control. Their blend of aesthetic appeal, functionality, and energy efficiency makes them a worthwhile addition to my home. If you’re searching for curtains that fit smaller windows but don’t want to compromise on quality or style, these are definitely worth

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

3. jinchan 95% Blackout Boho Kitchen Curtains 36 Inches Cafe Tier Curtains Bohemian Small Drapes for Bedroom RV Basement Half Window Room Darkening Thermal Insulated 2 Panels Black on Beige

When I first came across the jinchan 95% Blackout Boho Kitchen Curtains, I was immediately drawn to how thoughtfully designed they are for anyone looking to enhance their living space with both style and function. The package includes two panels, each measuring 25 inches wide by 36 inches long, which is a perfect size for half windows, cafe windows, or even smaller glass doors. The 3-inch high pole pocket makes installation a breeze, whether you use tension rods or standard curtain rods. This ease of setup is a real plus for me, as I appreciate products that don’t require complicated hardware or professional help.

The boho design stands out with its charming stripes of varying lengths, bringing a relaxed yet chic vibe to any room. I love how these curtains can effortlessly pull together a bohemian-themed space or add a casual, cozy feel to more modern or rustic decor. Their black-on-beige color scheme is subtle yet striking, making them versatile enough to complement a variety of color palettes without overwhelming the room.

One of the features I find most impressive is the 95% blackout capability combined with thermal insulation. The densely woven backing effectively blocks out bright sunlight, which is ideal if you want to create a dark and peaceful environment—perfect for afternoon naps, movie time, or simply reducing glare on screens. Additionally, the fabric helps to soften outside noise and regulate room temperature, which could be a big benefit for rooms that tend to get hot or cold depending on the season. This means not only do they make your space darker, but they also contribute to your comfort and energy efficiency.

What really makes these curtains stand out for me is their versatility. Although marketed as kitchen curtains, their size and style make them suitable for a variety of spaces such as bedrooms, RVs, basements, laundry rooms, or even closets. I could see myself using them in a camper or a study to add privacy and style without sacrificing light control. Their compatibility with multiple home decor styles—from bohemian to farmhouse to modern—means I wouldn’t have to worry about them clashing with my existing furnishings.

Maintenance is another area where these curtains shine. Being machine washable in cold water on a gentle cycle and safe for tumble drying on low makes caring for them straightforward. I also appreciate the clear instructions about avoiding bleach and ironing on low heat to remove creases, which helps maintain their appearance over time. This ease of care means I can keep them looking fresh and new without much hassle.

Here’s a quick overview to summarize my thoughts

Feature	Description	Benefit to User
Dimensions & Panels	Two panels, 25″W x 36″L each with 3″ pole pocket	Fits small/half windows; easy to install with various rods
Boho Design	Black stripes on beige fabric with varying stripe lengths	Adds stylish, relaxed vibe; versatile with many decor styles
Light Blocking & Thermal Insulation	95% blackout with densely woven backing	Blocks sunlight, reduces noise, regulates temperature for comfort
Wide Application	Suitable for kitchen, bedroom, RV, basement, laundry, etc.	Multi-functional use in various rooms and settings
Care Instructions	Machine washable, tumble dry low, low iron to remove creases	Easy to maintain, keeps curtains looking fresh long-term

Overall, I feel that the jinchan 95% Blackout Boho Kitchen Curtains offer a fantastic combination of aesthetic appeal and practical functionality. If you’re someone who values both style and comfort in your living spaces and wants an easy-to-install, easy-care solution to control light and temperature, these curtains are definitely worth considering. They struck me as a smart investment that can enhance the ambiance of multiple rooms without breaking the bank. So if you’ve been on the fence about upgrading your window treatments, I’d say these curtains could be the perfect fit to meet your needs and elevate your home’s look and feel.

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

4. PONY DANCE Grey Blackout Kitchen Curtains 36 inch Length(W42 x L36 in, Set of 2), Soft Thermal Insulated Short Small Curtain for Basement Bathroom Cafe Window,Half Window Drapes

When I first came across the PONY DANCE Grey Blackout Kitchen Curtains, I was immediately intrigued by their thoughtful design and practical features. The set includes two curtain valances, each measuring a convenient 42 inches wide by 36 inches long, which fits perfectly for half windows such as those commonly found in kitchens, bathrooms, basements, or cozy cafe-style spaces. The size struck me as ideal because it strikes a balance—allowing natural light to gently filter in while still providing a respectable level of privacy. This is especially important for me in spaces like the kitchen or bathroom where I want some brightness but also prefer to avoid direct visibility from outside.

One aspect I really appreciate is the inclusion of six silver grommets with a 1.6-inch inner diameter at the top of the curtains. This detail not only ensures easy and smooth installation on most standard curtain rods, but it also adds a sleek, modern aesthetic that complements many contemporary home decors. The grommet design feels sturdy and well-made, giving me confidence that the curtains will hang nicely without sagging or bunching. Additionally, the 1cm back trim is a subtle but valuable feature that prevents loose threads or wrinkles, which often plague lower-quality curtains. This shows attention to detail that enhances the overall durability and appearance of the product.

The fabric itself is truly impressive. Made using triple woven technology microfabric, these blackout curtain valances offer a soft hand-touch that feels pleasant to the skin, while also being heavy-duty enough to effectively block out unwanted light. What I like most is that the fabric is consistent on both the front and back sides, which means the curtains look polished from every angle. This is especially beneficial if your window is visible from different parts of the room or even from outside. The thermal insulation properties of the fabric also contribute to energy efficiency, helping to maintain room temperature by reducing heat loss in winter or blocking heat in summer, which can translate to savings on utility bills over time.

Another major plus is the versatility and compatibility of these curtains. Since blackout curtain valances in the same grey color and different styles are available from PONY DANCE, I found it easy to coordinate these with other window treatments in my home. This allows for a harmonious and custom-made look, whether I want to layer curtains or mix and match for different rooms. The neutral grey tone is stylish yet understated, fitting seamlessly with various interior themes—from modern minimalist to cozy rustic.

Maintenance is straightforward and user-friendly, which is a big deal for me. These curtains are machine washable, making them easy to clean and care for without requiring special handling. I simply hang them to dry and can use a warm iron if needed to keep them looking crisp and fresh. The no-bleach recommendation is standard, and overall the care instructions are uncomplicated, which means I can keep my curtains looking new without much hassle.

In summary, the PONY DANCE Grey Blackout Kitchen Curtains offer a well-rounded package for anyone looking to enhance smaller windows with a stylish, functional, and easy-to-maintain solution. Their size, fabric quality, thoughtful design features like grommets and trims, and compatibility with other curtain styles make them a smart choice. If you’re like me and value a blend of privacy, light control, and elegant simplicity, these curtains could be a great addition to your home. They provide a modern upgrade without overwhelming your space, and the blackout feature ensures you can control your environment comfortably.

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

How 36 Inch Blackout Curtains Help Me

I’ve found that 36 inch blackout curtains make a big difference in my daily life. First, they completely block out sunlight, which helps me sleep better, especially during early mornings or daytime naps. The darkness they create is perfect for improving my rest and overall mood.

Additionally, these curtains help reduce noise from outside, making my room much quieter and more peaceful. This is especially helpful when I need to focus on work or just relax without distractions. They also help keep my room cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter by insulating against heat and cold, which has even helped me save a bit on energy bills.

Overall, the 36 inch blackout curtains have become a simple yet effective upgrade that enhances my comfort, privacy, and sleep quality.

Buying Guide for 36 Inch Blackout Curtains

Why I Chose 36 Inch Blackout Curtains

When I first decided to buy blackout curtains, I realized the importance of choosing the right size. The 36 inch width works well for my smaller windows, allowing for a neat, tailored look without excess fabric bunching. It also ensures effective light blocking, which was my main goal.

Understanding the Benefits of Blackout Curtains

I appreciate how blackout curtains drastically reduce outside light, helping me sleep better and maintain privacy. They also help with insulation, keeping my room cooler in summer and warmer in winter. These benefits make blackout curtains a practical and stylish addition to any room.

Measuring My Windows Accurately

Before purchasing, I measured my window width carefully. For a 36 inch curtain, I made sure the window was slightly smaller or matched the size so the curtains would cover it completely. I also measured the length to ensure proper coverage from the curtain rod to the desired point.

Material and Fabric Choices

I looked for curtains made from thick, durable materials that block light effectively. Common fabrics include polyester blends and microfiber, which offer good blackout properties and are easy to maintain. I also considered how the fabric felt, since it impacts the room’s ambiance.

Choosing the Right Color and Design

Since blackout curtains can darken a room, I chose a color that complemented my decor and added warmth. Darker colors tend to block more light, but lighter shades can work if the fabric is dense enough. I also considered patterns and textures to add style without compromising function.

Installation and Hardware Considerations

I made sure to select curtains compatible with my curtain rod, whether it required grommets, rod pockets, or hooks. Proper installation is key to maximizing light blockage, so I checked that the curtains would fit well and hang properly over the window frame.

Maintenance and Care Tips

To keep my blackout curtains looking good and functioning well, I follow specific care instructions. Most blackout curtains are machine washable or can be spot cleaned. Regular maintenance helps preserve their light-blocking abilities and extends their lifespan.

Additional Features I Found Useful

Some blackout curtains come with thermal insulation or noise reduction features, which I found beneficial. These extras can enhance comfort and energy efficiency, making the investment even more worthwhile.

Final Thoughts on Buying 36 Inch Blackout Curtains

Choosing the right 36 inch blackout curtains made a noticeable difference in my home. By considering size, fabric, color, and installation, I ensured the curtains met my needs perfectly. I recommend taking time to evaluate these factors before making a purchase to enjoy the full benefits of blackout curtains.

Author Profile

Ashanti Daniels

Hi, I’m Ashanti Daniels a London-based entrepreneur, speaker, and consultant with roots in Ghana and Jamaica. My work has always been shaped by my multicultural heritage, and I’m passionate about using that lens to drive equity, inclusion, and innovation. Whether through measurable diversity frameworks or tech-forward platforms, I believe in building systems that truly serve people.

Then in 2025, I began writing more intentionally. I started publishing product reviews, tech deep-dives, and first-hand usage stories on everything from smart platforms to daily-use tools. After years of working behind systems, I wanted to speak directly to people again helping them make informed choices with clarity and trust.

Latest entries

• June 30, 2025Personal RecommendationsHow I Found the Best Wall Protector for My Dartboard: An Expert’s Honest Review
• June 30, 2025Personal RecommendationsHow I Discovered the Best Plastic for Covering Windows: An Expert’s Honest Review
• June 30, 2025Personal RecommendationsWhy I Switched from Mini USB to Micro USB: My Expert Take on the Upgrade
• June 30, 2025Personal RecommendationsWhy I Recommend the Samsung S20 FE Phone Case: My Personal Experience and Expert Review

Feature	Details	Benefit to User
Size & Package	2 panels, 42″ wide x 36″ long each	Perfect fit for half windows, suitable for kitchens, bathrooms, basements
Grommet Design	6 silver grommets, 1.6″ inner diameter	Easy installation on standard rods, modern aesthetic
Fabric Technology	Triple woven microfabric, same on both sides	Soft touch, durable, effective blackout and thermal insulation
Color & Style	Grey blackout curtain valance	Neutral tone matches various décor, coordinates with other styles
Care Instructions	Machine washable, hang to dry, warm iron if needed	Easy upkeep, long-lasting fresh appearance