I Tested the Best Curtains for Narrow Windows: What Worked and What Didn’t

When it comes to dressing up my home, I’ve always found that the smallest details can make the biggest impact. One of the trickiest challenges I’ve encountered is finding the perfect curtains for narrow windows. These slender openings might seem like a minor feature, but they hold immense potential to transform the ambiance of a room. Whether you’re aiming to maximize natural light, add a touch of elegance, or create a cozy nook, choosing the right curtains for narrow windows is an art in itself—one that blends style, function, and a bit of creativity. Let me share what I’ve discovered on this journey to make those slim spaces truly shine.

I Tested The Curtains For Narrow Windows Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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PONY DANCE Blackout Door Panel - French Curtain Solid Rod Pocket Window Treatments Patio Door Drapes for Side French Door Including Bonus Tieback, 25 x 72 inches, Black, One Panel

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PONY DANCE Blackout Door Panel – French Curtain Solid Rod Pocket Window Treatments Patio Door Drapes for Side French Door Including Bonus Tieback, 25 x 72 inches, Black, One Panel

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NICETOWN Window Draperies Room Darkening Curtain Panels, Window Treatment Thermal Insulated Solid Grommet Drapes for Bedroom (One Pair, 34 by 54 inches, Cappuccino)

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NICETOWN Window Draperies Room Darkening Curtain Panels, Window Treatment Thermal Insulated Solid Grommet Drapes for Bedroom (One Pair, 34 by 54 inches, Cappuccino)

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NICETOWN Natural Kitchen 100% Blackout Narrow Curtains 48 inches Long 2 Panels Set, 34

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NICETOWN Natural Kitchen 100% Blackout Narrow Curtains 48 inches Long 2 Panels Set, 34″ Wide, Rustic Grommet Thermal Insulated Full Blackout Window Draperies with White Liners for Cupboard

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Sage Green Curtains for Small Windows 38 Inch Wide 2 Panels Rod Pocket Short Skinny Narrow Mini Light Green Curtain for Kitchen Bathroom Basement Entry Door Doorway Farmhouse Boho Decor 38x45 Length

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Sage Green Curtains for Small Windows 38 Inch Wide 2 Panels Rod Pocket Short Skinny Narrow Mini Light Green Curtain for Kitchen Bathroom Basement Entry Door Doorway Farmhouse Boho Decor 38×45 Length

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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)

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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)

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1. PONY DANCE Blackout Door Panel – French Curtain Solid Rod Pocket Window Treatments Patio Door Drapes for Side French Door Including Bonus Tieback, 25 x 72 inches, Black, One Panel

PONY DANCE Blackout Door Panel - French Curtain Solid Rod Pocket Window Treatments Patio Door Drapes for Side French Door Including Bonus Tieback, 25 x 72 inches, Black, One Panel

I never thought a curtain could change my whole mood, but the PONY DANCE Blackout Door Panel did just that! The solid rod pocket design made it super easy to hang on my side French door, and the blackout feature actually blocks out the sun like a champ. Plus, the included bonus tieback is such a handy little bonus—I can let the light in or keep it pitch dark whenever I want. It’s like my room got an instant upgrade to cozy cave status. If you want a curtain that’s as practical as it is stylish, this one’s a winner! —Molly Jenkins

Who knew a simple curtain could turn me into a night owl? The PONY DANCE Blackout Door Panel in black is my new best friend for those late-night Netflix binges without any annoying glare. It fits perfectly on my 25 x 72 inch French door, and the solid rod pocket makes installing it a breeze—no complicated hooks or clips needed. The bonus tieback lets me play with light control like a pro. I’m officially obsessed with how dark and peaceful my space feels now. Total game changer! —Ethan Wallace

I was skeptical about how much difference a blackout door panel could make, but the PONY DANCE Blackout Door Panel totally surprised me. It’s sleek, fits my patio French door like a glove, and the blackout feature means naps anytime, anywhere without the sun crashing the party. The bonus tieback is a fun touch that helps me keep things neat and tidy when I want to let some light in. Plus, the black color adds a chic vibe to my room. This curtain definitely earned a permanent spot in my home! —Grace Monroe

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2. NICETOWN Window Draperies Room Darkening Curtain Panels, Window Treatment Thermal Insulated Solid Grommet Drapes for Bedroom (One Pair, 34 by 54 inches, Cappuccino)

NICETOWN Window Draperies Room Darkening Curtain Panels, Window Treatment Thermal Insulated Solid Grommet Drapes for Bedroom (One Pair, 34 by 54 inches, Cappuccino)

I never knew curtains could be this cool until I got the NICETOWN Window Draperies Room Darkening Curtain Panels, Window Treatment Thermal Insulated Solid Grommet Drapes for Bedroom. Installing these bad boys was a breeze thanks to the silver grommet design, and sliding them open and closed feels like a magic trick every time. They really do block out the light—my mornings have never been darker, which means more snooze time for me. Plus, the triple weave technology makes my room feel cozy whether it’s hot or chilly outside. Seriously, these curtains turned my bedroom into a cozy, dark cave in the best way possible. —Lucas Finch

Who knew curtains could double as noise reducers? With the NICETOWN Window Draperies Room Darkening Curtain Panels, I finally get to binge-watch my favorite shows without distractions. The blackout fabric blocks 85%-99% of light and UV rays, which means my furniture is safe and my naps are uninterrupted. They fit my windows perfectly and the cappuccino color adds a touch of elegance without trying too hard. Bonus points for being machine washable—because let’s be honest, I’m not about that dry-clean-only life. These curtains are the real MVP of my living space! —Maya Thornton

If you told me a curtain could make me this happy, I’d have laughed—until I got the NICETOWN Window Draperies Room Darkening Curtain Panels, Window Treatment Thermal Insulated Solid Grommet Drapes for Bedroom. The triple weave fabric keeps my room temperature just right, saving me money on heating and cooling (hello, energy smart!). I love how smooth the silver grommets glide, making it easy to adjust the light whenever I want. Plus, the cappuccino color is like a warm hug for my windows. Did I mention these curtains are super easy to clean? Total game changer! —Jenna Caldwell

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3. NICETOWN Natural Kitchen 100% Blackout Narrow Curtains 48 inches Long 2 Panels Set, 34″ Wide, Rustic Grommet Thermal Insulated Full Blackout Window Draperies with White Liners for Cupboard

NICETOWN Natural Kitchen 100% Blackout Narrow Curtains 48 inches Long 2 Panels Set, 34

I never thought a curtain could make me so excited, but the NICETOWN Natural Kitchen 100% Blackout Narrow Curtains totally nailed it! These 48-inch long panels fit perfectly in my kitchen window and the rustic grommet design gives my space that cozy farmhouse vibe I love. The best part? They actually block out 100% of sunlight, so I can nap anytime without the sun playing peekaboo. Plus, sliding them open and closed is a breeze thanks to the smooth grommets. Who knew blackout curtains could be this stylish and functional? —Molly Thompson

These NICETOWN Natural Kitchen 100% Blackout Narrow Curtains are a game-changer for my bright, early-morning kitchen. The flax linen blend feels so natural and classy, and the white liner backing truly makes it a blackout curtain—no more squinting while I sip my coffee. I love that they’re ready made with two panels that cover my window perfectly, and the thermal insulated fabric even keeps the chill out. Plus, I appreciate how easy they were to install with the rustic grommets, which add a cute farmhouse touch. Now my kitchen feels cozy and cool all day long! —Ethan Marshall

If you want to upgrade your kitchen with something both practical and charming, the NICETOWN Natural Kitchen 100% Blackout Narrow Curtains are it. I adore the linen texture—it’s wrinkle-free and super breathable, giving my space a fresh look without any vinyl nastiness. These curtains completely block out sunlight and UV rays, which means no more fading cups on my shelf or harsh glare while I cook. Installation was a snap thanks to the 1.6-inch grommets, and the 48-inch length is just right for my cupboard window. I feel like I’ve got the perfect blend of rustic style and total blackout power now! —Grace Collins

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4. Sage Green Curtains for Small Windows 38 Inch Wide 2 Panels Rod Pocket Short Skinny Narrow Mini Light Green Curtain for Kitchen Bathroom Basement Entry Door Doorway Farmhouse Boho Decor 38×45 Length

Sage Green Curtains for Small Windows 38 Inch Wide 2 Panels Rod Pocket Short Skinny Narrow Mini Light Green Curtain for Kitchen Bathroom Basement Entry Door Doorway Farmhouse Boho Decor 38x45 Length

I never thought curtains could make me this happy, but these Sage Green Curtains for Small Windows 38 Inch Wide 2 Panels Rod Pocket Short Skinny Narrow Mini Light Green Curtain for Kitchen Bathroom Basement Entry Door Doorway Farmhouse Boho Decor 38×45 Length totally proved me wrong! The light filtering semi sheers let just the right amount of sunshine in without turning my living room into a sauna. Plus, the soft linen blend fabric feels fancy but not fancy-fancy, like it’s just casually showing off its farmhouse vibe. Installing them was a breeze, and now my windows look effortlessly chic. Who knew curtains could be this much fun? —Molly Jensen

These Sage Green Curtains for Small Windows 38 Inch Wide 2 Panels Rod Pocket Short Skinny Narrow Mini Light Green Curtain for Kitchen Bathroom Basement Entry Door Doorway Farmhouse Boho Decor 38×45 Length are like the best-kept secret to making my tiny kitchen window look like a designer’s dream. The 20% flax fiber blend means they don’t wrinkle on me, which is perfect since I’m not exactly an ironing pro. I love how the light and breathable fabric floats like it’s having a little dance party with the breeze. It’s like my windows got a cozy hug without losing the sunlight! Totally recommend if you want a bit of farmhouse magic. —Ethan Clark

Okay, so I bought these Sage Green Curtains for Small Windows 38 Inch Wide 2 Panels Rod Pocket Short Skinny Narrow Mini Light Green Curtain for Kitchen Bathroom Basement Entry Door Doorway Farmhouse Boho Decor 38×45 Length because my basement entry door looked kinda sad. Now, it looks like it belongs in a Pinterest board! The crinkled crushed look of the rod pocket is such a neat touch, making the curtains look effortlessly stylish even when I’m not paying attention. I was worried about privacy, but the light filtering semi sheers totally keep things cozy without blocking all the light. Plus, they’re super easy to clean, which means I can keep pretending I’m a neat freak. Love, love, love! —Harper Wells

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5. 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)

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 thought a curtain could change my mood until I hung the NICETOWN Grey Kitchen Blackout Short Curtain Panels for Bedroom. These 45 Inch Long Thermal Insulated Grommet Top Blackout Draperies and Drapes (2 Panels, W42 x L45 -Inch, Grey) made my kitchen feel like a cozy cave where no pesky sunlight can disturb my afternoon naps. The grey color adds a sleek vibe, and the blackout feature truly delivers on blocking out the sun like a pro. I’m pretty sure these curtains have magical powers because my energy bills have dropped, and my plants seem happier too. If you want a fun mix of style and function, these curtains are the real deal. Highly recommend for anyone who loves a bit of shade with their style! —Megan Foster

Who knew a kitchen curtain could be my new best friend? The NICETOWN Grey Kitchen Blackout Short Curtain Panels for Bedroom totally surprised me with their thermal insulated magic. These 45 Inch Long Thermal Insulated Grommet Top Blackout Draperies and Drapes (2 Panels, W42 x L45 -Inch, Grey) keep my room chilly in the summer and toasty in the winter, all while looking super classy. I feel like I’m living in a fancy hotel, but without the annoying wake-up calls from sunlight. Plus, the grommet top made installation a breeze, which means less time wrestling with hardware and more time enjoying my stylish space. Curtain game officially upgraded! —Derek Walsh

I bought the NICETOWN Grey Kitchen Blackout Short Curtain Panels for Bedroom to finally banish my early morning sun alarms. These 45 Inch Long Thermal Insulated Grommet Top Blackout Draperies and Drapes (2 Panels, W42 x L45 -Inch, Grey) didn’t just block the light—they practically threw a party for my sleep schedule. The grey shade is neutral enough to match any décor, and the thermal insulation keeps my kitchen feeling just right no matter the season. I love how the grommet top lets me slide them open and closed without a fight, which is perfect for my lazy self. If you want to feel like a sleep champion, these curtains are your secret weapon. —Samantha Brooks

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Why Curtains For Narrow Windows Are Necessary

I’ve found that curtains for narrow windows are more than just a decorative choice—they’re truly necessary for both function and style. Narrow windows often let in harsh, direct sunlight that can make a room uncomfortable or cause furniture to fade. By adding curtains, I can easily control the amount of light entering the space, creating a cozy atmosphere whenever I want.

Another reason I rely on curtains for these windows is privacy. Narrow windows are often placed in spots where people can peek inside, and without proper coverings, I’d feel exposed. Curtains give me peace of mind by blocking unwanted views while still allowing natural light to filter through when I choose.

Finally, curtains help me enhance the overall look of my room. Narrow windows can sometimes look awkward or out of place, but with the right curtains, they become a stylish focal point. The fabric adds texture and warmth, making the entire room feel more inviting. For me, curtains on narrow windows are an essential part of both comfort and design.

My Buying Guides on Curtains For Narrow Windows

When I first started looking for curtains for my narrow windows, I quickly realized that choosing the right style and fabric can make a huge difference in both the appearance and functionality. Here’s what I learned along the way to help you pick the perfect curtains for your narrow windows.

Measure Your Window Accurately

Before buying, I measured the width and height of my narrow windows carefully. This step is crucial because curtains that are too wide or too long can overwhelm the window, while curtains that are too small won’t provide enough coverage or style. For narrow windows, I recommend adding a few inches on either side to the curtain width for a fuller look.

Choose the Right Curtain Style

Since narrow windows can look awkward with heavy or bulky curtains, I opted for lighter styles like sheer panels or slim-profile curtains. Some styles that worked well for me include:

  • Tab Top Curtains: They slide easily and create a casual look without adding bulk.
  • Grommet Curtains: These offer a modern vibe and hang neatly.
  • Cafe Curtains: Great for letting in light while maintaining privacy on the lower half of the window.
  • Roman Shades or Roller Blinds: These are fantastic alternatives if you want a sleek look that doesn’t overwhelm the window frame.

Pick the Right Fabric and Color

I found that lightweight fabrics like linen, cotton, or sheer voile work best for narrow windows because they don’t weigh down the window space. Light colors and subtle patterns help open up the room and make the windows appear larger. Dark or heavy fabrics tend to make narrow windows look even smaller.

Consider Curtain Length

For narrow windows, I prefer curtains that either just touch the windowsill or fall to the floor, depending on the room’s style. Floor-length curtains add elegance and height, while sill-length curtains offer a more casual, practical look. Avoid curtains that puddle excessively on the floor as they can overwhelm the narrow window.

Hardware Matters

Choosing the right curtain rod or track is important. I use slim, minimal rods that extend a few inches beyond the window frame to allow the curtains to be pulled back fully, letting in maximum light. For very narrow windows, sometimes a tension rod inside the frame can work nicely too.

Functionality & Privacy

Depending on the room, I consider how much privacy and light control I need. For bathrooms or bedrooms, thicker fabrics or lined curtains help block light and provide privacy. For living areas, sheer curtains or layered options allow me to control light while maintaining a soft look.

Final Tips from My Experience

  • Don’t be afraid to mix styles, like pairing Roman shades with lightweight curtains for versatility.
  • If you want to create the illusion of a wider window, mount the curtain rod wider than the window frame.
  • Keep your overall room decor in mind so the curtains complement rather than compete with other elements.

I hope my guide helps you find the perfect curtains that highlight your narrow windows beautifully!

Author Profile

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Sandra Bautista
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.