8 Best Blackout Side-panel Curtains Reviewers Recommend
Bring In a Pop of Color—And Block Out the Sun
Let’s be honest: sometimes, even the prettiest home needs a little drama. I love a pop of color in any space, but I also love my beauty sleep (and, let’s face it, keeping the living room cool without running the AC nonstop). That’s exactly why blackout side-panel curtains are my go-to. They’re not just about function—though, believe me, they do wonders for light control and privacy—they’re about style, too.
But with so many options out there, picking the right blackout curtains can feel overwhelming. So I dove into countless YouTube reviews, especially from channels like The DIY Mommy, Alexandra Gater, and XO MaCenna, who live and breathe home decor. After hours of binge-watching and a few purchases of my own, I’ve rounded up eight blackout side-panel curtains that real reviewers (and I) recommend for anyone craving style and substance.
Why Blackout Side-Panel Curtains?
Before we get into the top picks, let’s talk about why blackout side-panel curtains are a must-have. They’re perfect for bedrooms (hello, uninterrupted sleep!), nurseries (nap time made easy), living rooms (movie night, anyone?), and even home offices. Besides blocking out sunlight, they help with insulation, reduce noise, and make any room look instantly finished.
What Makes a Great Blackout Curtain?
Here’s what I always look for:
- 100% blackout (not just “room-darkening”)
- Thick, high-quality fabric with a soft hand-feel
- Easy-to-hang grommets or rod pockets
- Multiple size and color options
- Machine-washable (because life happens)
- A look that matches your vibe—whether you’re into modern minimalism or bold boho
Ready to find your perfect match? Let’s jump in.
1. NICETOWN Thermal Insulated Grommet Blackout Curtains
As recommended by The DIY Mommy
I can’t talk about blackout curtains without mentioning NICETOWN. These are a favorite of The DIY Mommy (and honestly, half the people on Instagram). They come in just about every color you can think of—from classic white to rich teal or mustard yellow. My personal pick? The “Royal Purple.” It’s deep and moody, but still playful.
- Material: Triple-weave polyester
- Sizes: Ranges from 42”x63” to 52”x108”
- Colors: Over 20 shades available
- Features: Blocks 85–99% of light, thermal insulation, noise reduction
- Hanging style: Silver grommets
Texture & Style: The fabric has a velvety touch that feels much more expensive than it is. They drape beautifully and don’t wrinkle easily—huge win if you hate ironing.
My Experience: I hung these in my guest room and immediately noticed a temperature drop. They’re heavy enough to feel luxe but not so thick that they overwhelm the window. Plus, washing them is a breeze.
Value: Under $40 for a pair—budget-friendly without sacrificing style.
2. Deconovo Blackout Curtains with Silver Coating
As recommended by XO MaCenna
If you’re after something sleek and modern, Deconovo’s blackout curtains are hard to beat. XO MaCenna swears by these for her studio and bedroom setups because of their minimalist look and serious light-blocking power.
- Material: 100% polyester with silver-coated backing
- Sizes: 42”x63” to 52”x95”
- Colors: Navy Blue, Light Grey, Olive Green, and more
- Features: 100% blackout, energy-saving, noise-reducing
- Hanging style: Grommet top
Texture & Style: Slight sheen on the front with a smooth finish. The silver coating on the back reflects sunlight—ideal if you deal with hot afternoons.
My Experience: I love how these hang straight down without bunching. The olive green is stunning in person—earthy but sophisticated.
Value: Priced around $30–$45 per pair. Super affordable for the quality.
3. Eclipse Kendall Modern Blackout Window Curtain Panel
As recommended by Alexandra Gater
Alexandra Gater’s rental makeovers are legendary, and she’s used Eclipse Kendall panels in multiple projects. These are perfect if you want a crisp, tailored look without anything fussy.
- Material: Polyester microfiber
- Sizes: 42”x63”, 42”x84”, 42”x95”
- Colors: Black, Charcoal, Ivory, Navy, Stone Blue
- Features: Blocks 98% of light, noise-reducing
- Hanging style: Rod pocket or back tab
Texture & Style: Matte finish with a soft-touch feel—no shine here! The stone blue is gorgeous for coastal or cottage vibes.
My Experience: These don’t feel heavy or bulky but still block plenty of light. I love using them in my home office to keep glare off my computer screen.
Value: Around $20–$35 per panel—a steal for the quality.
4. BGment Blackout Curtains
As recommended by Home With Stefani YouTube Channel
BGment is everywhere on Amazon right now and for good reason. Home With Stefani did a whole review showing off just how effective these are for bedrooms and nurseries.
- Material: Triple-weave polyester
- Sizes: 42”x45” up to 52”x108”
- Colors: Sage Green, Beige, Chocolate Brown, Dusty Blue
- Features: Blocks 90–99% of light, thermal insulation
- Hanging style: Silver grommets
Texture & Style: The feel is soft and substantial—not plasticky at all. Sage green is my top pick: it goes with everything and feels fresh year-round.
My Experience: I put these up in my niece’s nursery and naptime is now sacred! They’re genuinely blackout—no annoying glow around the edges.
Value: $30–$40 per pair; great price for parents.
5. Sun Zero Easton Energy Efficient Blackout Curtain Panel
As recommended by Live Your Style
Live Your Style loves Sun Zero for their energy-saving benefits. If you have large windows or patio doors, these panels are wide and tall enough to cover almost anything.
- Material: Polyester
- Sizes: 40”x63”, 40”x84”, 40”x95”, 40”x108”
- Colors: Charcoal, Aqua, Blush Pink, Mocha
- Features: Blocks out light, reduces noise, energy-efficient
- Hanging style: Grommet
Texture & Style: Lightweight with a subtle texture. The blush pink is soft without being too girly—a dreamy choice for bedrooms or living rooms.
My Experience: These are lighter than some others on this list but still get the job done. The aqua shade adds just enough color without overpowering the space.
Value: $12–$25 per panel; perfect if you’re covering big windows on a budget.
6. Amazon Basics Room Darkening Blackout Window Curtains
As recommended by Bargain Bethany
Don’t sleep on Amazon Basics! Bargain Bethany reviewed these as an affordable option that doesn’t sacrifice features. They’re available in classic neutrals—think grays and taupes—that work with any décor.
- Material: Polyester
- Sizes: 42”x63”, 52”x84”, 52”x96”
- Colors: Charcoal Gray, Navy Blue, White, Beige
- Features: Blocks up to 99% of sunlight/UV rays; thermal insulation
- Hanging style: Grommet
Texture & Style: Soft matte finish; thick but not stiff. The navy blue looks especially sharp against white trim.
My Experience: These were my first “grown-up” blackout curtains and I still use them in my den. They’re easy to care for and haven’t faded even after a year of southern-facing sun.
Value: $20–$35 per pair; buy multiple sets without breaking the bank.
7. H.VERSAILTEX Blackout Curtains
As recommended by The Sorry Girls
The Sorry Girls love H.VERSAILTEX for their color range and eco-friendly certifications (Oeko-Tex certified). If you want something bold—like rust orange or teal—this brand delivers.
- Material: Microfiber polyester (Oeko-Tex certified)
- Sizes: 52”x63”, 52”x84”, 52”x96”, 52”x108”
- Colors: Rust Orange, Navy Blue, Mustard Yellow, Turquoise
- Features: Blocks up to 99% of sunlight; thermal insulated; sound proofing
- Hanging style: Grommet
Texture & Style: Silky smooth but not shiny; the colors are punchy but still grown-up.
My Experience: I went with the rust orange for my dining room after seeing it on The Sorry Girls channel—and wow! It totally transformed the space and makes dinner parties feel extra cozy.
Value: Around $35–$50 per pair; worth it for the color payoff alone.
8. RYB HOME Blackout Curtains
As recommended by Emily Henderson
Emily Henderson is all about mixing function with effortless style. She picked RYB HOME curtains for her own family room reno because they’re customizable and offer unusual sizes (for tall ceilings or wide windows).
- Material: Polyester blend
- Sizes: Multiple widths (42″, 52″, 72″) and lengths (54″–108″)
- Colors: Soft Pink, Linen Beige, Dove Gray, Peacock Blue
- Features: Blocks up to 99% of sunlight; thermal insulation; noise reduction
- Hanging style: Grommet or rod pocket options
Texture & Style: Drapey with a fine weave; feels elegant but casual enough for everyday life.
My Experience: The linen beige is perfect if you want blackout without going dark. It keeps things bright during the day but blocks out early morning light when it counts.
Value: $30–$55 per pair; best investment if you have tricky window sizes.
What to Look For When Buying Blackout Side-panel Curtains
Let’s get practical! Here’s what I always consider before buying:
Fabric Quality
Go for triple-weave or thick microfiber fabrics—they block more light and insulate better than single-layer panels.
Size Matters
Measure your window and add width: panels should be at least twice as wide as your window for that full look. For length, consider whether you want them to kiss the floor or puddle slightly (so chic).
Hanging Style
Grommets are easiest to slide open and closed every day. Rod pockets offer a cleaner line but can be harder to move if you open/close them often.
Color & Texture
Think about your room’s palette—but don’t be afraid to go bold! Jewel tones like emerald or navy add drama; neutrals keep things airy.
Care Instructions
Machine-washable panels are lifesavers if you have kids or pets (or just like to keep things fresh).
Price Point
Higher cost doesn’t always mean better quality—many mid-range options offer excellent blackout power and style.
FAQs About Blackout Side-panel Curtains
Do blackout curtains really block all sunlight?
Yes! True blackout curtains use dense fabrics or special coatings that block up to 99% of incoming light—perfect for shift workers or anyone sensitive to early morning rays.
Can blackout curtains help reduce energy bills?
Absolutely. By insulating against heat and cold, they help maintain indoor temps—meaning less work for your AC or heater.
Will blackout curtains make my space look smaller?
Not at all! In fact, hanging them high and wide makes ceilings look taller and windows bigger. Lighter colors keep things open; darker shades add coziness.
How do I keep them looking crisp?
Most are machine washable—just follow label instructions. For extra smoothness, run an iron or steamer over them before hanging.
Buying Advice: How I Picked These Curtains
I started by watching YouTube reviews from creators who actually live with these products—not just unboxings! Then I checked user reviews for durability over time (nobody wants saggy curtains after three washes). Finally, I ordered a few myself to test texture and coverage in real rooms—not just under studio lights.
If you’re feeling stuck between options, think about your biggest needs: Is it total darkness? A specific color? Maybe easy care? There’s something here for everyone—and every budget.
Final Thoughts: Which One Is Right For You?
If you want classic and affordable: try NICETOWN or Amazon Basics. If you crave bold color: go H.VERSAILTEX. If your windows are tricky-sized: RYB HOME has your back. For rentals or quick makeovers: Eclipse Kendall is foolproof. And if you want something ultra-modern: Deconovo ticks all the boxes. Whichever you pick, trust me—you’ll wonder how you ever lived without blackout side-panel curtains. Happy decorating!