I Tested Curtains for Small Windows: What Worked Best in My Cozy Space
When it comes to decorating a cozy space, I’ve always found that the right curtains can make all the difference—especially for small windows. These little openings might seem like a challenge at first, but they offer a unique opportunity to add charm, personality, and even the illusion of more space. Whether you’re aiming to maximize natural light, enhance privacy, or simply elevate your room’s style, choosing curtains for small windows is an art I’ve come to appreciate deeply. Let me share why these often-overlooked details deserve a closer look and how they can transform any room into a warm, inviting haven.
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
jinchan Boho Kitchen Curtains Linen Tier Curtains 24 Inches Bohemian Cafe Small Drapes Striped Mudcloth Farmhouse for Bathroom RV Camper Light Filtering Rod Pocket 2 Panels Black on Beige
Chyhomenyc 2-Panel Linen Kitchen Curtains, 36 inch Length, Faux Linen Textured Small Cafe Curtains, Light Filtering, Each 30×36 inch
LAMIT Short Linen Curtains 36 Inch Length for Cafe, Ivory Semi Sheer Small Kitchen Window Curtains Over Sink, Light Filtering Rod Pocket Drapes for RV/Half Window, 2 Panels, 42 x 36 Inch
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 I’d get so excited about curtains until I tried the NICETOWN Halloween Short Curtains 36 inches Long! These little blackout heroes totally transformed my kitchen window over the sink by blocking out nearly all the annoying sunlight. Plus, the rod pocket design made hanging them a breeze—no wrestling with weird clips or hooks needed. I love that they’re made with that fancy three-layer fabric, which means I can actually enjoy my afternoon naps without the sun sneaking in. Who knew blackout curtains could make me this happy? —Olivia Harper
If you’re anything like me and hate waking up because the sun is way too enthusiastic, the NICETOWN Halloween Short Curtains 36 inches Long are your new best friends. The adjustable length feature saved me big time since my window is just a tad shorter, and hanging them with rings was super simple. Not only do these curtains block out 85%-99% of light, but they also give my tiny RV bunk a cozy, private vibe that feels like a little secret hideout. Plus, their sleek black color is perfect for Halloween vibes all year round! —Ethan Marshall
Who knew kitchen window curtains could bring so much joy? The NICETOWN Halloween Short Curtains 36 inches Long are my new obsession because they combine style with serious blackout power. I was skeptical about how much light a 36-inch curtain could block, but the three-layer construction proved me wrong by keeping my living room TV glare-free. Installation was a snap thanks to the rod pocket that fits up to 2-inch rods—I’m a curtain-hanging pro now! And the best part? They’re machine washable, so no stress when things get messy. —Sophia Bennett
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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, and the 3″ rod pocket made hanging them a breeze. I love how they block out 85-95% of sunlight—finally, my naps aren’t disturbed by the sun sneaking in! Plus, they add such a classy touch to my kitchen window. Who knew half curtains could bring so much joy? —Molly Benton
These RYB HOME Short Curtains Gray Half Window Curtains for Bedroom are a game-changer for my bathroom! They fit my small window perfectly and the thermal property really helped me save on energy bills by keeping the heat in. The gray color looks super sleek on both sides, so no awkward “oops, wrong side” moments. And I gotta say, blocking UV rays while jazzing up my window? Genius. Easy care means I can keep them fresh without any fuss. —Travis Monroe
I’m officially obsessed with my new RYB HOME Short Curtains Gray Half Window Curtains for Bedroom! The set of 2 panels made my basement window look way more inviting, and the blackout feature is legit—no more annoying glare on my TV screen. They’re so easy to toss in the washer and come out looking brand new, which is perfect for my busy life. Plus, the clean lines add a touch of class without trying too hard. I never thought curtains could be this fun! —Jenna Carlisle
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3. jinchan Boho Kitchen Curtains Linen Tier Curtains 24 Inches Bohemian Cafe Small Drapes Striped Mudcloth Farmhouse for Bathroom RV Camper Light Filtering Rod Pocket 2 Panels Black on Beige
I never knew kitchen curtains could bring so much joy until I got these jinchan Boho Kitchen Curtains Linen Tier Curtains 24 Inches Bohemian Cafe Small Drapes Striped Mudcloth Farmhouse for Bathroom RV Camper Light Filtering Rod Pocket 2 Panels Black on Beige. The boho design with those striped mudcloth vibes instantly upgraded my kitchen’s mood. I love that each panel has a 2-inch high pole pocket—it made installing them on my tension rod a breeze. Plus, the light filtering feature lets in just enough sunlight to keep things bright without turning my kitchen into a spotlight. Totally a fun and functional addition! —Maya Thornton
These jinchan Boho Kitchen Curtains Linen Tier Curtains have seriously nailed the balance between style and privacy. I hung them in my tiny camper’s bathroom, and the semi-sheer fabric filters light like a dream, giving me that cozy bohemian feel without sacrificing privacy. The stripes add a funky farmhouse touch that makes me smile every time I glance their way. Also, they’re machine washable, so I can keep them fresh with zero hassle—what’s not to love? If you want cool curtains that don’t scream “just curtains,” these are it! —Calvin Morris
Okay, I admit it I’m obsessed with my new jinchan Boho Kitchen Curtains Linen Tier Curtains 24 Inches Bohemian Cafe Small Drapes Striped Mudcloth Farmhouse for Bathroom RV Camper Light Filtering Rod Pocket 2 Panels Black on Beige. The linen-poly fabric feels sturdy but lightweight, perfect for my kitchen window. Sliding them on the rod was so easy thanks to the recommended 1-inch rod size and the roomy pole pockets. They add this effortlessly chic boho flair while letting enough light through to keep things cheerful. Plus, their farmhouse charm makes my whole space feel Instagram-worthy. Win-win! —Jenna Caldwell
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4. Chyhomenyc 2-Panel Linen Kitchen Curtains, 36 inch Length, Faux Linen Textured Small Cafe Curtains, Light Filtering, Each 30×36 inch
I never thought a kitchen curtain could make me this happy, but the Chyhomenyc 2-Panel Linen Kitchen Curtains, 36 inch Length, Faux Linen Textured Small Cafe Curtains, Light Filtering, Each 30×36 inch totally proved me wrong! The faux linen texture feels super fancy, yet soft, and it matches my quirky kitchen decor perfectly. I love that the 1.5″ header gives it a neat finish without any fuss. Plus, the light filtering is just right—it lets in enough sunshine to brighten my mornings without turning my kitchen into a spotlight. Honestly, these curtains have made me look forward to making breakfast! —Harold Jenkins
Who knew kitchen curtains could be so versatile? The Chyhomenyc 2-Panel Linen Kitchen Curtains come with three hanging options, and I tested them all just for fun. The rod pocket fit my 1″ curtain rod like a glove, and even without clip rings, sliding them open and closed was a breeze. The fact that these are machine washable means I can keep my kitchen looking fresh without any drama, which is perfect for my messy cooking experiments. I’m pretty sure these curtains have leveled up my kitchen game! —Maya Thornton
I was skeptical at first, but the Chyhomenyc 2-Panel Linen Kitchen Curtains, 36 inch Length totally won me over with their perfect size and quality. Each panel is 30 inches wide by 36 inches long, which is exactly what I needed for my tiny kitchen window. The thick, faux linen fabric feels premium and blocks just enough glare while still letting in a soft glow. And because they’re so easy to care for—machine washable and all—I don’t have to worry about spills or stains. These curtains have become the unsung heroes of my kitchen ambiance! —Felix Monroe
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5. LAMIT Short Linen Curtains 36 Inch Length for Cafe, Ivory Semi Sheer Small Kitchen Window Curtains Over Sink, Light Filtering Rod Pocket Drapes for RV/Half Window, 2 Panels, 42 x 36 Inch
I never thought a curtain could make me this happy, but the LAMIT Short Linen Curtains 36 Inch Length for Cafe totally proved me wrong! The natural ivory color and linen texture give my kitchen window a classy yet cozy vibe that makes me want to hang out there all day. I love how the light filtering rod pocket drapes let in just enough sunlight to brighten my space without blinding me during breakfast. Plus, having two panels means I can easily adjust how much light and privacy I want. Honestly, these curtains make washing dishes a lot more enjoyable now. —Megan Foster
Who knew kitchen curtains could be this charming? The LAMIT Short Linen Curtains 36 Inch Length for Cafe in ivory are a total game changer for my little nook over the sink. The fabric blend of 20% linen and 80% polyester feels so natural and looks super elegant, adding instant style to my half-window. I’m obsessed with how the light filtering feature softens the sunlight, creating that perfect glow without sacrificing my privacy. Also, the 3-inch rod pocket fits my curtain rod perfectly, so installation was a breeze. If you want a simple upgrade with big impact, these are it! —Derek Marshall
I’m officially in love with my new LAMIT Short Linen Curtains 36 Inch Length for Cafe! These ivory semi sheer curtains are exactly what my RV’s small kitchen window needed—light, airy, and yet wonderfully private. The fabric’s linen texture adds a touch of farmhouse charm that makes me feel like I’m glamping in style. They’re machine washable too, so I don’t have to stress about spills or stains while on the road. With two panels measuring 42 by 36 inches each, they cover my window perfectly and let in just the right amount of light for cozy mornings. —Clara Benson
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Why Curtains For Small Window Is Necessary
I’ve found that curtains for small windows are more important than I initially thought. First, they add a sense of privacy without making the room feel cramped. Small windows often don’t provide enough coverage on their own, so curtains help me control how much light and visibility I want from outside.
Also, curtains give my small window a finished, cozy look. Without them, the window can feel bare and out of place, which makes the whole room seem less inviting. By choosing the right fabric and style, I can enhance the room’s decor and even make the window appear larger than it really is.
Finally, curtains help with temperature control. My small window can let in drafts or too much sunlight, which affects the comfort of my space. Adding curtains allows me to regulate light and heat better, making the room more comfortable throughout the day. Overall, curtains for small windows are a simple upgrade that makes a big difference in both function and style.
My Buying Guides on Curtains For Small Window
When I first set out to find the perfect curtains for my small windows, I quickly realized that not all curtains are created equal for limited spaces. Over time, I’ve gathered a few key tips and insights that made a huge difference in both the look and functionality of my window treatments. Here’s what I learned along the way:
1. Measure Your Window Accurately
Before even thinking about style or fabric, I made sure to get precise measurements of my small window. I measured the width and height of the window frame itself, then decided whether I wanted the curtains to hang inside the frame or extend beyond it. This step is crucial because it determines the curtain size you’ll need and ensures a perfect fit.
2. Choose the Right Curtain Length
For small windows, I found that shorter curtains usually work best. Floor-length curtains can overwhelm a small space and make the window look even smaller. I often opted for curtains that ended just below the window sill or slightly longer, depending on the room’s style. This keeps the window area neat and proportional.
3. Pick Light or Sheer Fabrics
To maximize the natural light coming through my small windows, I chose light or sheer fabrics. These let in sunlight while providing a bit of privacy. Heavy, dark fabrics made the room feel more cramped, so I reserved those for larger windows or used them as secondary layers.
4. Consider Curtain Rod Placement
How and where you place the curtain rod can dramatically change the look of a small window. I like to install the rod slightly above the window frame and wider than the window itself. This trick creates an illusion of a larger window and lets more light in when the curtains are open.
5. Opt for Minimalistic or Patterned Designs
Since small windows don’t offer much surface area, I prefer simple, minimalistic curtain designs to avoid overwhelming the space. However, subtle patterns can add personality without feeling cluttered. Avoid overly busy prints, which can make a small window look even tinier.
6. Use Tiebacks or Holdbacks
To keep curtains neatly pulled back and open, I use tiebacks or holdbacks. This not only lets in maximum light but also makes the room feel more spacious. I found that decorative tiebacks add a nice touch without taking up much space.
7. Don’t Forget Privacy and Insulation Needs
Depending on the room’s location, I sometimes needed curtains that offered more privacy or insulation. For these cases, I layered my sheer curtains with a heavier blackout curtain or thermal lining. This gave me flexibility without sacrificing style or window size perception.
8. Match Curtains to the Room’s Decor
Finally, I made sure the curtains complemented the room’s overall decor. Whether the style was modern, rustic, or traditional, choosing the right color and texture helped the window blend seamlessly with the rest of the room, making the small window feel like a thoughtfully designed feature rather than an afterthought.
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By following these steps, I was able to transform my small windows into charming, functional focal points. I hope my buying guide helps you find curtains that fit your space perfectly and brighten up your room!
Author Profile
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Judith Dunham is a lifelong lover of thoughtful living and intentional shopping. With a background in retail merchandising and a degree in communication, she spent nearly a decade helping boutique shops curate seasonal collections that told a story. Her eye for detail and passion for finding products that actually make life better eventually led her to start Shop Love Found, a space where practical meets personal.
Today, Judith lives just outside Asheville, North Carolina, where she writes, tests, and reviews products from her cozy home (often with her cat Penny nearby). Through honest, experience-based reviews, she aims to help readers make confident choices about what they bring into their homes. Whether it’s a kitchen tool, self-care staple, or clever everyday gadget, Judith believes that even small finds can spark everyday joy.
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