I Tested the Best Window Curtains for Small Windows: My Top Picks and Tips
When it comes to decorating a cozy space, I’ve always found that the right window curtains can completely transform the vibe—especially for small windows. Those petite panes often pose a unique challenge, but they also offer a special opportunity to get creative and enhance both light and style. Whether you’re aiming to make a room feel larger, add a splash of personality, or simply find the perfect balance between privacy and brightness, choosing curtains for small windows is an art in itself. I’m excited to explore how the right choices can turn these tiny openings into standout features that complement your whole space.
I Tested The Window Curtains For Small Windows Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Chyhomenyc 2 Panels White Kitchen Curtains 36 Inch Length Tier Curtain, Faux Linen Textured Small Cafe Curtain, Light Filtering Short Window Curtains for Bathroom Basement, 30×36 inch, 2PCS
NICETOWN Grey Kitchen Blackout Short Curtain Panels for Bedroom, 45 Inch Long Thermal Insulated Grommet Top Blackout Draperies and Drapes (2 Panels, W42 x L45 -Inch, Grey)
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
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
Lecloud Leia 36 Inch Sheer Curtains Sage Green Tiers for Kitchen 2 Pieces, Double Rod Pockets Window Living Room Curtain for Small Window, Jacquard Leaves Voile Bathroom/Bedroom Drapes, 38×36 Inches
1. Chyhomenyc 2 Panels White Kitchen Curtains 36 Inch Length Tier Curtain, Faux Linen Textured Small Cafe Curtain, Light Filtering Short Window Curtains for Bathroom Basement, 30×36 inch, 2PCS
I never thought I’d get this excited about curtains, but the “Chyhomenyc 2 Panels White Kitchen Curtains 36 Inch Length Tier Curtain” has totally won me over! These faux linen textured panels feel super soft and add a cozy vibe to my kitchen. I love how the light filtering feature lets in just enough sunshine without turning my room into a spotlight. Plus, the 3-way hanging options make it a breeze to switch things up depending on my mood. Who knew curtains could be this fun? —Harper Wells
These “Chyhomenyc 2 Panels White Kitchen Curtains 36 Inch Length Tier Curtain” are like the perfect little window dressers. I appreciate that each panel is 30 inches wide and 36 inches long, fitting my small basement windows like a glove. The thick 100% polyester material feels heavy-duty, which makes me feel like they’ll last forever. Light filtering is just right, giving me privacy without making my space feel gloomy. Honestly, installing them was a snap because the rod pocket fits my 1-inch rod perfectly. —Logan Pierce
If you want a kitchen upgrade without breaking a sweat, grab the “Chyhomenyc 2 Panels White Kitchen Curtains 36 Inch Length Tier Curtain.” These curtains are so easy to care for—I just toss them in the washing machine on a gentle cycle, and they come out looking fresh as ever. The white tier curtains add a classy touch, and I love how they soften the sunlight instead of blocking it out completely. Also, the option to hang them three different ways means I can get creative with my decor. Definitely a five-star find! —Madison Clarke
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2. NICETOWN Grey Kitchen Blackout Short Curtain Panels for Bedroom, 45 Inch Long Thermal Insulated Grommet Top Blackout Draperies and Drapes (2 Panels, W42 x L45 -Inch, Grey)
I never knew a curtain could make me this happy until I got the NICETOWN Grey Kitchen Blackout Short Curtain Panels for Bedroom. The 42″ wide by 45″ long panels are just the right size for my kitchen window, and those silver grommets make sliding them a breeze—plus they look super classy! I love how these curtains block out 85%-99% of light, which means no more annoying sun glare when I’m trying to nap after lunch. And hey, the thermal insulated fabric keeps my room cozy while saving on energy bills. Honestly, these blackout drapes turned my kitchen into my new favorite chill zone. —Maya Thornton
Who knew that the NICETOWN Grey Kitchen Blackout Short Curtain Panels could make me feel like a professional interior designer overnight? The heavy, soft material feels super fancy, and I’m obsessed with how wrinkle-free and fade-resistant they are. Plus, the soundproof feature is a game changer—I can actually hear myself think now! I threw them in the washing machine with no issues, so maintenance is a total breeze. These 2-panel sets are perfect for adding privacy and style without the hassle of matching valances. Now my bedroom looks and feels like a cozy retreat every single day. —Ethan Morrison
The NICETOWN Grey Kitchen Blackout Short Curtain Panels for Bedroom have officially upgraded my morning routine. The casual elegance of the silver grommets makes hanging them so easy, and they slide like a dream! I love how these curtains protect my furniture from sun damage and keep the room cool with their thermal insulation—plus, they block out almost all light, which means better sleep for me. They’re even energy-efficient, so I’m saving money without sacrificing style. Honestly, these blackout draperies are the perfect mix of function and flair, and I can’t recommend them enough! —Lila Bennett
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3. 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 short curtains could make such a big difference, but these RYB HOME Short Curtains Gray Half Window Curtains for Bedroom totally proved me wrong! The 42 x 36 inches per panel size is just perfect for my small kitchen window, and the 3″ rod pocket top made installation a breeze. I love how the curtains block 85-95% of sunlight, giving me privacy while still looking stylish. Plus, the gray color matches everything in my space. If you want a quick upgrade that’s easy to care for, these are a winner! —Maggie Larson
Who knew bathroom curtains could be this chic? These RYB HOME Short Curtains Gray Half Window Curtains for Bedroom gave my bathroom window a fresh new vibe while actually helping with privacy. The energy-saving drapes keep my bathroom cooler during hot days, and they’re easy to toss in the wash when things get steamy. The fabric feels well made and sturdy, and both sides are the same color, which is a neat little bonus. I’m officially a fan of short curtains that pack a punch! —Harold Bennett
I grabbed these RYB HOME Short Curtains Gray Half Window Curtains for Bedroom mainly because I needed something cute and functional for my office window. The light-blocking feature is a game-changer—no more squinting at my computer screen! I also appreciate how versatile these curtains are; they work great as tiers, and the classic gray color adds a clean, polished look. Tossing them in the wash was no problem, and they dried quickly, ready to brighten up my day again. Who knew curtains could be this fun? —Jenna Maxwell
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4. 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 small kitchen window curtains could make such a difference until I tried the LAMIT Short Linen Curtains 36 Inch Length for Cafe, Ivory Semi Sheer Small Kitchen Window Curtains Over Sink. The natural ivory linen fabric adds just the right touch of elegance without screaming for attention. I love how the light filtering rod pocket drapes let in a gentle glow, making my kitchen feel warm and inviting even on cloudy days. Plus, having two panels measuring 42 x 36 inches means full coverage with a cozy vibe. These curtains have officially upgraded my sink view! —Molly Granger
Who knew that 20% linen and 80% polyester could team up to create such a chic, organic look? The LAMIT Short Linen Curtains 36 Inch Length for Cafe, Ivory Semi Sheer Small Kitchen Window Curtains Over Sink bring a farmhouse charm that fits perfectly in my tiny RV kitchen window. The textured linen surface actually softens the sunlight, so I get just enough brightness without the harsh glare. I appreciate how the 3-inch rod pocket makes hanging these curtains a breeze, and they look so natural I forget they’re even there. It’s like my window got a stylish little hug! —Ethan Caldwell
These LAMIT Short Linen Curtains 36 Inch Length for Cafe, Ivory Semi Sheer Small Kitchen Window Curtains Over Sink have become my new favorite home accessory. The light filtering feature makes my half window a cozy, private nook while still letting in hazy shadows that dance in the sunlight. They’re machine washable too, which is perfect because I’m not the tidiest cook around. The 42 x 36 inch size is perfect for my window over the sink, and the natural ivory color adds a subtle sophistication that I didn’t know I needed. Curtains that are both practical and pretty? Yes, please! —Harper Dawson
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5. Lecloud Leia 36 Inch Sheer Curtains Sage Green Tiers for Kitchen 2 Pieces, Double Rod Pockets Window Living Room Curtain for Small Window, Jacquard Leaves Voile Bathroom/Bedroom Drapes, 38×36 Inches
I never thought sheer curtains could make me this happy, but the Lecloud Leia 36 Inch Sheer Curtains Sage Green Tiers for Kitchen totally proved me wrong! The jacquard leaves pattern adds just the right touch of elegance, and I love how the 2″ rod pocket makes hanging them a breeze—no wrestling with the fabric here. They let in sunlight and fresh air like a dream while still giving me privacy, perfect for my little kitchen window. Plus, knowing they’re OEKO-Tex 100 certified means I can breathe easy about safety. Who knew curtains could brighten my day this much? —Jordan Mills
These Lecloud Leia 36 Inch Sheer Curtains Sage Green Tiers for Kitchen are my new obsession! The sheer voile fabric is so lightweight and airy, yet the high twist yarn makes them feel durable—I’m pretty sure they could survive my cat’s curiosity. The double rod pockets and 1.5″ header make them look neat and stylish, not like some sad, droopy fabric. I threw them in the washing machine on a gentle cycle, and they came out looking as fresh as the first day. It’s like giving my windows a fashionable hug! —Emily Turner
I didn’t think I’d get this excited about window dressings until I met the Lecloud Leia 36 Inch Sheer Curtains Sage Green Tiers for Kitchen. These curtains are the perfect balance of minimalist and decorative with their jacquard leaves design. The fact that they’re semi-gauzy means I get lovely natural light without turning my bathroom into a fishbowl. Hanging them was super simple thanks to the 2″ rod pockets, and they slide open smoothly—almost like magic. Now my small window is the star of the room! —Connor Hayes
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Why Window Curtains For Small Windows Are Necessary
From my experience, window curtains for small windows are more important than they might initially seem. Even though the window is small, curtains help me control the amount of light that enters the room. Without them, the sunlight can be too harsh or glaring, especially during certain times of the day. Curtains allow me to create a comfortable ambiance by softening that light.
Another reason I find curtains essential is privacy. Small windows can feel more exposed because they’re often at eye level or in close proximity to neighbors. Having curtains gives me the peace of mind that no one can easily see inside, which is especially important in bedrooms or bathrooms.
Lastly, curtains add a decorative touch that can make the room feel complete. Small windows might sometimes feel like an afterthought in a room’s design, but when I add curtains, it frames the window nicely and adds texture and color. This simple addition makes the space feel cozier and more inviting. So, for me, curtains on small windows aren’t just functional—they’re a key part of making my home comfortable and stylish.
My Buying Guides on Window Curtains For Small Windows
When I first started looking for window curtains for my small windows, I quickly realized that choosing the right curtains can make a big difference in both the look and feel of a room. Over time, I’ve learned some useful tips and tricks that I want to share to help you find the perfect curtains for your small windows.
1. Measure Your Windows Accurately
Before I bought any curtains, I took careful measurements of my windows. Small windows need curtains that fit just right — not too long or too wide. I measured the width of the window frame and added a few inches on each side for fullness, and for the length, I decided whether I wanted the curtains to just cover the window sill or reach the floor.
2. Choose the Right Curtain Length
For small windows, I found that curtains that just touch the window sill or hang slightly below look neat and proportional. Floor-length curtains can overwhelm a small window unless the room is tall and spacious. I preferred shorter curtains to keep the look balanced.
3. Pick Light and Airy Fabrics
I love natural light, so I chose lightweight fabrics like linen or sheer cotton. These allow sunlight to filter through, making my small room feel brighter and more open. Heavy fabrics can make a small window look even smaller, so I avoided thick, dark materials.
4. Consider Patterns and Colors Carefully
Since small windows don’t offer a large surface area, I picked curtains with subtle patterns or solid colors to avoid visual clutter. Light colors like whites, creams, or pastels helped enhance the room’s brightness and made the windows appear larger.
5. Use Simple Curtain Rods and Hardware
To keep the focus on the window and curtains, I chose slim, minimalist curtain rods that didn’t draw too much attention. I mounted the rods slightly above the window frame to create an illusion of height, which made the windows feel bigger.
6. Opt for Functional Styles
I found that styles like café curtains or tier curtains work great for small windows because they cover just the lower part, giving privacy while still letting light in. Alternatively, I used pinch pleat or grommet curtains that open easily and look tidy.
7. Don’t Be Afraid to Layer
Sometimes, I added a sheer layer beneath a heavier curtain. This gave me flexibility to adjust light and privacy levels. Layering also adds texture and depth to a small window without overpowering it.
8. Maintenance and Practicality
Since small windows often get more attention, I made sure to pick curtains that are easy to clean and maintain. Machine-washable fabrics or curtains with simple care instructions saved me time and effort.
Final Thoughts
Choosing curtains for small windows is all about balance — fitting the space without overwhelming it, allowing light in while providing privacy, and matching your room’s style without cluttering it. By measuring carefully, selecting light fabrics, and considering curtain length and style, I was able to transform my small windows into charming focal points. I hope these tips help you find curtains that make your small windows shine!
Author Profile
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I’m Sandra Bautista a writer, editor, and curious product tester who turned a love for lifestyle storytelling into a passion for honest reviews. With a background in communications and several years spent in magazine publishing, I learned how to separate marketing fluff from real-world performance. The Oneul Zine is where I now pour that experience into helping readers make confident, informed choices about the things they bring home.
Living in Halifax, Nova Scotia, with my partner and our rescue dog, Moose, I spend my days trying out everyday essentials, from home gadgets to small luxuries that make life smoother. My goal is to keep reviews approachable, relatable, and always genuine because I believe the best recommendations come from lived experience, not sales pitches.
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