10 Best Blackout Panel Curtains Youtubers Praise

Allergies make mornings worse for me. I wake up with itchy eyes and a scratchy throat more often than I’d like, and sunlight blasting through thin curtains only makes matters worse when I want to stay in bed and let my sinuses settle. That’s why blackout panel curtains became a non-negotiable in my home; they reduce pollen drifting indoors, block that early glare, and create a sleep-friendly environment that helps my allergies recover faster.

Why do I trust the recommendations that follow? These are blackout panels widely praised by top home-decor and lifestyle YouTubers — people who test fabrics, measure light penetration, and style rooms on camera. I’ve leaned on their reviews, tried several myself, and gathered details like fabric weight, lining type, colorways, and real-life performance to help you choose.

How I approach testing and selection

• I look for complete light blockage with dense weave and a true blackout backing.
• I check materials: polyester, cotton blends, and performance fabrics each behave differently for drape and texture.
• I evaluate hardware compatibility, curtain header styles, and whether panels are machine-washable.
• I consider aesthetics: color saturation, texture, and how panels layer with sheers or blinds.

Below are 10 blackout panel curtains that YouTubers I follow praise often. Each listing includes real product names, specs, and my personal impressions based on testing and video reviews.

1. Eclipse Kendall Blackout Curtain Panel (63″ x 54″) — heavy-duty, classic drape

• Overview: The Eclipse Kendall panels are a go-to recommendation from several style and sleep-focused YouTubers for their dependable blackout performance.
• Materials & construction: 100% polyester with an opaque foam-backed lining; 6.7 oz/yd² fabric weight that gives a substantial hand and a smooth surface.
• Colors & sizes: Available in charcoal, navy, ivory, and taupe; common lengths are 63″, 84″, and 96″; widths typically 54″ per panel.
• Design details: Grommet-top header with antique-bronze-finish grommets. The fabric hangs cleanly with a medium-to-heavy drape and soft sheen.
• Performance: Claimed 99% light blockage; in living-room tests on video, they darkened a sunny room to hushed dusk without an additional liner.
• Practical notes: Machine-washable on gentle, line dry recommended to preserve foam backing. Panels are thick enough to reduce street noise slightly.
• My testimonial: I used these on my bedroom windows for a month; the texture felt smooth and hotel-like, and my early-morning allergies felt less aggravated because less outside air and sun filtered through.
• Value proposition: Affordable mid-range price for true blackout effect and a polished look that works with both modern and transitional decor.

2. HILKE 100% Blackout Thermal Insulated Curtains (84″ x 52″) — energy-saving and cozy

• Overview: Energy and sleep channels on YouTube praise HILKE’s thermal curtains for saving heating and cooling costs while providing near-total darkness.
• Materials & construction: Triple-weave polyester with thermal insulation layer; tight knit improves blackout and thermal performance.
• Colors & sizes: Offered in over 20 colors, including dusty rose, forest green, and slate gray; lengths range from 63″ to 108″; 52″ panel width standard.
• Design details: Rod-pocket or back-tab options; thick, textured face fabric with matte finish gives a cozy, curated look.
• Performance: Expect about 90–98% light reduction depending on mounting; many buyers report lower HVAC use in extreme months.
• Practical notes: Heavy panels benefit from sturdy rods and rings; machine wash cold, tumble dry low.
• My testimonial: I noticed the room held cooler air after an afternoon of sun, and these panels softened the room’s acoustics beautifully.
• Value proposition: Great for renters or homeowners who want both style and energy efficiency without professional installation.

3. NICETOWN Blackout Curtains (84″ x 52″) — bestselling versatile option

• Overview: NICETOWN shows up in practically every YouTuber’s roundup for reliable, budget-friendly blackout curtains that don’t sacrifice style.
• Materials & construction: Triple-weave polyester, knotted and densely woven for a soft feel yet strong light control.
• Colors & sizes: Wide palette — beige, charcoal, navy, olive — lengths 63″, 84″, 96″, 108″; width 52″ per panel.
• Design details: Grommet-top header, subtle pebble texture that catches light just enough to feel tactile.
• Performance: Many creators demonstrate near-total blackout when panels are mounted close to the ceiling and overlap center.
• Practical notes: Easy care (machine wash) and wrinkle-resistant when hung immediately after laundering.
• My testimonial: I hung NICETOWN in a guest bedroom and received compliments on how the color read warm and rich on-camera.
• Value proposition: Strong balance of price, color selection, and reliable blackout.

4. Pottery Barn Thermal Blackout Curtain, Emery (96″ x 50″) — upscale fabric and finish

• Overview: Pottery Barn’s thermal blackout curtains are regularly featured by high-end decor channels for their craftsmanship and luxe drape.
• Materials & construction: Cotton-linen blend face with a proprietary blackout lining that feels soft and substantial.
• Colors & sizes: Classic neutrals and seasonal shades; sizes up to 108″ length; panel width ~50″.
• Design details: Tailored hem, refined header options (grommet or back-tab), and high-quality stitching.
• Performance: Real-world testing shows effective blackout and comfortable temperature control; excellent for master bedrooms.
• Practical notes: Dry-clean recommended (check product tag). Investment price point but long-lasting.
• My testimonial: Guests always comment on how the fabric looks custom-made; they create a quiet, restful backdrop for sleep.
• Value proposition: Higher cost justifies the finish and fabric quality for those prioritizing aesthetics and longevity.

5. West Elm Blackout Window Curtain (82″ x 50″) — modern textures and colorways

• Overview: West Elm’s blackout options are popular with minimalist channels for clean lines and contemporary palettes.
• Materials & construction: Polyester-linen blend face with blackout lining; midweight fabric that keeps a crisp architectural fold.
• Colors & sizes: Rich color stories like pebble, indigo, and sage; sizes from 63″ to 108″.
• Design details: Grommet-top and tab-top choices, tailored hems for a polished look.
• Performance: Block light well when paired with a tight rod mount; fabric shows subtle slub texture for visual interest.
• Practical notes: Machine washable per care tag; looks excellent layered with sheer curtains.
• My testimonial: They give a refined, boutique-hotel vibe to rooms without feeling heavy or overdone.
• Value proposition: Stylish, on-trend finishes that make blackout curtains feel like part of the decor rather than an afterthought.

6. AmazonBasics Room Darkening Blackout Window Curtains (84″ x 52″) — reliable basics

• Overview: Budget-focused YouTube creators recommend AmazonBasics for straightforward performance and consistent sizes.
• Materials & construction: Polyester with a brushed suede-like finish and a blackout foam backing.
• Colors & sizes: Basic colors — black, navy, white, beige; standard lengths and widths that fit typical windows.
• Design details: Grommet header, soft velvety hand, and easy hang that looks cleaner than its price suggests.
• Performance: Provide effective darkness for small-to-medium rooms; best when panels are mounted close to frame.
• Practical notes: Great low-cost option for apartments and temporary spaces. Machine washable.
• My testimonial: I used these in a rental while moving between homes; they looked surprisingly polished on camera.
• Value proposition: Cheapest path to true blackout without sacrificing decent texture.

7. Pottery Barn Emery Lined Belgian Flax Linen Curtain (96″ x 50″) — light-blocking linen look

• Overview: Linen-look blackout curtains are a favorite on design channels that want a soft, organic aesthetic without losing blackout power.
• Materials & construction: 100% Belgian flax linen face with blackout lining sewn-in for consistent performance.
• Colors & sizes: Muted neutrals like flax, smoke, and sand; lengths up to 108″.
• Design details: Heavier linen face creates a layered, tactile appearance; back-tab or rod-pocket headers available.
• Performance: Because of the sewn-in lining, they deliver dependable blackout while keeping linen’s natural texture visible.
• Practical notes: Linen needs gentle care; check manufacturer directions for washing or professional cleaning.
• My testimonial: These panels warm a room visually, giving a lived-in, calm aesthetic that complements wood tones well.
• Value proposition: Perfect if you want the linen look but need true light control.

8. Bali Blackout Curtains (84″ x 52″) — classic hotel-style blackout

• Overview: Bali brand curtains are frequently used in hotel-room makeover videos for their professional blackout results.
• Materials & construction: Polyester face with heavyweight blackout foam lining; designed for minimal light seepage.
• Colors & sizes: Standard neutrals with a few accent tones; sizes up to 108″.
• Design details: Crisp finish, grommet or tab options, and durable construction for frequent handling.
• Performance: Excellent for bedrooms and media rooms; many reviewers report dramatic improvements for sleep and nap quality.
• Practical notes: Sturdy enough for frequent laundering; hang carefully to prevent foam delamination over time.
• My testimonial: When I used Bali panels in a media room, the projector image looked richer thanks to the reduced ambient light.
• Value proposition: Great for people seeking hotel-quality blackout at a practical price.

9. Pottery Barn Emery Velvet Blackout Curtain (96″ x 50″) — luxe velvet for depth and darkness

• Overview: Velvet blackout panels are often spotlighted on luxury styling channels because the dense pile both blocks light and adds tactile richness.
• Materials & construction: Polyester velvet face with integrated blackout lining; dense pile increases light absorption.
• Colors & sizes: Jewel tones like emerald, navy, and burgundy plus neutrals; lengths available to 108″.
• Design details: Deep color saturation, soft sheen, and fluid heavy drape that pools slightly on the floor if sized long.
• Performance: Near-total darkness; excellent thermal and acoustic dampening due to pile thickness.
• Practical notes: Velvet needs careful cleaning; spot clean or professional dry-cleaning recommended.
• My testimonial: I used the navy velvet in a guest suite—instantly dramatic and incredibly restful for visitors.
• Value proposition: Splurge-worthy finish that doubles as a design statement.

10. Sun Zero Peyton Blackout Curtain Panel (84″ x 52″) — patterned and performance-driven

• Overview: Sun Zero often appears on styling channels as a brand that balances patterns and strong blackout performance.
• Materials & construction: Polyester with woven face and blackout lining; patterns are printed or jacquard depending on the style.
• Colors & sizes: Botanical prints, geometrics, and solids; multiple lengths and standard panel widths.
• Design details: Pattern clarity is good on the face; available in grommet, rod-pocket, and back-tab styles.
• Performance: Patterned panels can block light as well as solids if the lining and mounting are correct.
• Practical notes: Patterns are great for dressing a room; combine with solids for calm layering.
• My testimonial: The patterned panels added personality to my home office without sacrificing the darkening I needed for video calls.
• Value proposition: Best for shoppers who want style-forward prints with blackout performance.

What YouTubers consistently praise

• True blackout: The best channels test panels using lamp or sunlight tests, and top picks deliver substantial darkness.
• Drape & texture: Creators who stage rooms emphasize how fabric weight and weave affect the curtain’s silhouette.
• Color accuracy: Color fidelity on camera and in person matters, and the brands above generally match product photos.
• Ease of care: Laundry-friendly options get high marks, especially from creators who wash panels between shoots.

What to look for when buying blackout curtains

• Blackout method: Triple-weave fabric vs. sewn-in/attached lining vs. foam-backed lining. Triple-weave integrates the light-blocking fibers; sewn-in linings are seamless; foam backing provides dense coverage but can delaminate if not cared for.
• Header style: Grommet, rod pocket, back-tab, or pinch-pleat affect how the curtain hangs and how much light leaks at the top.
• Mounting and overlap: Mount high (closer to the ceiling) and wide (beyond the frame) to minimize light gaps. Use wraparound rods or holdbacks for full darkness.
• Fabric weight and texture: Heavier fabrics block more light and sound but need stronger hardware. Linen-look and textured faces add visual softness.
• Care instructions: Machine-washable panels offer convenience; delicates like velvet might need professional cleaning.
• Size and fullness: Aim for 1.5–3x the window width in total panel width for proper fullness and visual richness.
• Energy & noise: Thicker panels provide insulating and acoustic benefits beyond light control.
• Price vs longevity: Invest more in quality for main bedrooms; cheaper options work well in spare rooms or short-term setups.

Practical buying advice and room-by-room tips

• Bedroom: Prioritize 99% blackout, thermal lining, and long lengths that can touch or slightly puddle on the floor for a cozy, hotel-like feel.
• Nursery: Choose hypoallergenic, washable fabrics with gentle textures and secure hardware to keep panels child-safe.
• Living room: Consider linen-look blackout panels in warm neutrals to balance light control with daytime style.
• Home office/media room: Darker, denser fabrics improve video call lighting and projector contrast.
• Rental units: Choose grommet panels and tension rods for damage-free installs.

How to measure for blackout panels (quick steps)

1. Measure window width and height from outside edge of trim to outside edge for full coverage.
2. Add 6–12 inches to each side of the width to reduce side light leakage.
3. For height, mount the rod 4–6 inches above the trim to visually increase the ceiling height and achieve better blackout.
4. Multiply window width by 1.5–3 to determine total panel width needed for fullness.

FAQ — Most common questions answered Q: Do blackout curtains completely block light? A: Many top-rated blackout panels reduce 90–99% of visible light. Triple-weave and sewn-in linings perform best. Full blackout often requires mounting above the window and overlapping panels to prevent leakage.

Q: Will blackout curtains keep my room cooler? A: Yes. Insulated or thermal-lined panels reduce heat transfer and can lower energy use in hot or cold months when used correctly.

Q: Can I machine wash blackout curtains? A: Some can be machine-washed on a gentle cycle; check care labels. Velvet and heavy foam-backed curtains may need spot cleaning or professional care.

Q: Do blackout curtains help with soundproofing? A: They help somewhat by adding mass and dampening mid- to high-frequency sounds, but they won’t replace true acoustic panels.

Q: Which header is best for blackout? A: Grommet and pinch-pleat headers give better structured drape that can close tightly; back-tab and rod-pocket styles are fine but may let in a little more light at the header.

My personal buying checklist

• Realistic budget: Set a price range per panel and check for seasonal sales from brands like Pottery Barn, West Elm, and Amazon.
• Color & texture: Match curtain texture to your room’s aesthetic—linen for warmth, velvet for luxury, smooth polyester for a modern look.
• Size accuracy: Order the correct length; custom lengths are worth it if you want a tailored look.
• Careability: If you plan to launder frequently, favor machine-washable fabrics.
• Hardware readiness: Use sturdy rods and curtain hooks suitable for heavier blackout panels.

Quick comparisons: When to choose which

• Choose NICETOWN or AmazonBasics for budget-friendly, dependable blackout.
• Choose Pottery Barn Emery or velvet options for premium finish and long-term durability.
• Choose HILKE or Sun Zero for thermal performance and energy savings.
• Choose West Elm for modern design-forward choices.
• Choose Bali for hotel-quality blackout at a practical price.

Styling tips from YouTubers I follow

• Layer sheers behind blackout panels for daytime softness and nighttime darkness.
• Mount curtains floor-to-ceiling to make small rooms appear taller.
• Use tiebacks to showcase a beautiful fabric during the day while keeping blackout options ready for night.
• Pair patterned blackout panels with solid furniture for balance.

Final thoughts — balancing function and style Blackout curtains have come a long way from heavy, utilitarian drapes. The picks above combine solid performance with textures and colors that enhance your decor. Whether you need allergy-friendly darkness for better sleep, energy-saving insulation, or a pattern that enlivens a room, the YouTubers I trust repeatedly point to these brands because they deliver on both style and functionality.

I’ve found that the right panel changes a room’s mood instantly: soft textures for calming bedrooms, bold velvet for dramatic living spaces, and dependable triple-weave for practical, everyday use. If you want my short recommendation: start with the NICETOWN or Eclipse for a reliable, all-purpose blackout; move up to Pottery Barn or velvet if you want a design statement that lasts.

If you want, tell me the window size, color palette, and which room you’re outfitting — I’ll suggest the best specific panel length, header style, and mounting approach for your space.

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