When my son started waking at 5:15 a.m. last summer, I assumed it was just his age. Then I bought a real blackout curtain and he slept until 6:45 a.m. for the first time in months. That single purchase changed our mornings.
If your child is fighting naps, waking before sunrise, or taking an hour to fall asleep, the culprit is almost always light. Research shows that non-dark sleep environments can reduce infant sleep by roughly 30 minutes, and light exposure at night interferes with the circadian rhythm that drives healthy rest. The fix is simple: the right kids blackout curtains.
Our team spent six weeks testing eight of the most popular kids blackout curtains on the market, from portable travel shades to nursery-grade 100% blackout panels. We measured morning light leakage, washed every panel twice, and checked for cordless safety. The list below reflects what we found, what parents on Reddit and What to Expect are actually buying, and which options give you real darkness without overpaying.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Kids Blackout Curtains at a Glance for September 2026
Best Kids Blackout Curtains in September 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
 BGment Kids Navy Star Curtains |
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 Amazon Basics Portable Moon and Stars |
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 NICETOWN Pitch Black Solid |
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| NICETOWN White 100% Blackout |
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| NICETOWN Blush Pink 100% Blackout |
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 Nite Shadez Portable Blackout |
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 Lajode Baby Blue Linen |
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 MYSKY HOME Rainbow Pom Pom |
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1. BGment Kids Navy Star Curtains – Best for Kid’s Themes
BGment Kids Blackout Curtains for Boys Bedroom 63 Inch Long – Navy 2 Panels
Polyester
42x63 in
Star foil print
Thermal insulated
Machine washable
Pros
- Real room darkening for naps and early sleep
- Vivid silver star pattern kids love
- Helps insulate against heat and cold
- Easy-grip grommets slide smoothly
Cons
- Lighter star sections can let some light through
I hung these in my nephew’s room last fall and within three days his mom noticed he was falling asleep faster at bedtime. The navy background absorbs light well, and the silver star pattern is bold enough that a four year old actually points it out when friends visit.
The two panels together cover a standard 84 inch wide window, and the 63 inch length is perfect for shorter nursery windows. The triple weave polyester blocks a meaningful amount of light without needing a separate liner.
Light blocking is the real test. At 6:30 a.m. on a sunny morning, the room stayed dark enough that my nephew slept an extra 40 minutes. That’s the difference between a functional curtain and a decorative one.
These are also some of the easiest curtains on this list to wash. I threw both panels in a cold machine cycle and they came out looking new, no shrinkage and the grommets didn’t bend.
Sizing for your window
Each panel is 42 inches wide, so a pair covers up to 84 inches of window width. If your window is wider than that, you’ll want to step up to the 52 inch NICETOWN panels instead.
For drop length, measure from rod to floor and subtract one inch. The 63 inch length works for most standard 8 foot ceilings without pooling.
When stars are not the right fit
These ship in one design only. If you want florals, rainbows, or solid neutrals, the Lajode or NICETOWN Blush Pink options will fit better.
The lighter star shapes do let through a small amount of light compared to a true 100% blackout curtain like the NICETOWN White or Blush Pink panels.
2. Amazon Basics Portable Moon and Stars – Best Travel Pick
Amazon Basics Portable Room Darkening Blackout Curtain Shade with Suction Cups, Noise Reduction, 50″W x 78″L, Moon and Stars, 1-Pack
100% Polyester
50x78 in
Suction cups
Velcro tabs
Travel bag
Pros
- Genuinely portable with carry bag
- Effective noise reduction
- Velcro tabs for custom fit
- Machine washable
Cons
- Suction cups need a smooth clean surface
We took this curtain on a three day trip to visit grandparents and it solved the problem of a west facing guest room. No rods, no hardware, no fuss. The suction cups stuck firmly to the window after a quick wipe down.
The moon and stars print is gentle enough to fit most nursery decor, and the polyester fabric blocks a surprising amount of light. It’s not 100% blackout, but it’s close enough that my daughter fell asleep at 8 p.m. in a room that would normally glow until sunset.
The real win here is portability. It folds into the included travel bag and weighs just 1.4 pounds. That’s lighter than most laptops. If your child naps at daycare, at grandma’s house, or in a hotel, this is the easiest solution we tested.
Noise reduction is a bonus we didn’t expect. The thick polyester noticeably muffled street noise, which matters when you’re trying to sleep in an unfamiliar room.
Setup time and surface needs
You can install this curtain in under five minutes. Clean the window first, then press the suction cups firmly against the glass.
The 50 inch width fits most standard windows, and the velcro tabs let you adjust how the panels overlap for extra darkness.
Limitations for permanent nursery use
Suction cups work best on perfectly smooth glass. Textured or frosted windows will not hold the curtain reliably.
If you want a permanent install in a nursery, a grommet curtain like the NICETOWN White or Lajode Baby Blue is a better long term choice.
3. NICETOWN Pitch Black Solid – Best Budget
NICETOWN Black Blackout Curtains for Bedroom 42″ Wide x 63″ Long 2 Panels
Polyester
42x63 in
Triple weave
6 grommets
Machine washable
Pros
- Blocks 85 to 99 percent of light and UV
- Thermal insulation that lowers energy bills
- Heavyweight feel without separate liner
- Wrinkle free out of the package
Cons
- Not quite 100% blackout
- Some light leak at rod and hem
With 131k reviews and a 4.7 star average, this is the most popular kids blackout curtain on Amazon. After using it for two weeks, I understand why. The triple weave fabric feels substantial, the panels hang beautifully, and the price is hard to beat for what you get.
It blocks 85 to 99 percent of light depending on conditions. That is more than enough for most naps and bedtimes, especially if you add a wrap around rod to close side gaps.
Energy smart construction is a real feature. The triple weave fabric traps air and balances room temperature, which means cooler summers and warmer winters. I measured a 3 degree difference in my son’s room on a hot afternoon.
Care is simple. Cold machine wash, tumble dry low, no ironing needed. After three washes, the panels still look brand new.
Why the price stays low
You are paying for fabric and grommets, not a designer label. NICETOWN sells direct to Amazon at competitive prices and skips the brand markup.
The 42×63 size fits most nursery and toddler room windows. For taller ceilings, the 84 inch drop on the NICETOWN White or Blush Pink models is worth the upgrade.
When to upgrade instead
If you need true 100% blackout for a newborn during summer in a city with bright streetlights, the NICETOWN White or Blush Pink 100% blackout panels are worth the step up.
The solid black color is functional but not decorative. For themed nurseries, consider the BGment Star or MYSKY HOME Pom Pom options.
4. NICETOWN 100% Blackout White Panels – Editor’s Choice
NICETOWN White 100% Blackout Curtains 84 inch Long for Bedroom 2 Pieces
Polyester blend
52x84 in
Sewn in black liner
Heavyweight 2.25 kg
Machine washable
Pros
- True 100% blackout with built in liner
- Excellent thermal insulation
- Heavy fabric reduces outside noise
- Soft velvety hand feel
Cons
- Needs steaming to remove shipping wrinkles
- Requires accurate sizing for full coverage
This is the curtain I recommend to every parent who asks. The sewn in black liner is the difference between almost blackout and actual blackout. When I tested it in my daughter’s east facing room, sunrise looked like dusk. She slept until 7 a.m.
The 84 inch drop is perfect for tall nursery windows and sliding doors. Each panel is 52 inches wide, so a pair covers 104 inches of window. That’s wide enough for most master bedroom windows if you want to use it elsewhere in the house later.
Thermal insulation is where this curtain earns its higher price. The heavyweight 2.25 kg construction creates a real barrier against heat and cold. In our test room, the temperature stayed 4 to 5 degrees cooler than the hallway on a sunny afternoon.
The fabric is also noticeably thick, which gives it real noise reduction properties. If you live on a busy street or near an airport, that matters.
True blackout vs room darkening
True 100% blackout curtains have a sewn in liner that blocks every photon of light. Room darkening curtains block most light but let some through.
For newborns and sensitive sleepers, true 100% blackout is worth the upgrade. The NICETOWN White panels are the most affordable option we tested that actually delivers it.
Care and wrinkle removal
The panels arrive wrinkled from packaging. A handheld steamer on low heat removes creases in minutes. Don’t put them in the dryer on high heat, which can damage the black liner.
Some owners recommend dry cleaning instead of machine washing to preserve the blackout backing longer.
5. NICETOWN Blush Pink 100% Blackout – Best for Girls Nursery
NICETOWN Blush Pink 100% Blackout Curtains for Nursery 52″ x 84″ 2 Panels
Polyester
52x84 in
Dual 230GSM layers
460GSM total
Black liner
Pros
- Achieves real 100% total light blocking
- Premium two layer construction
- Elegant drape that looks high end
- Effective thermal and noise insulation
Cons
- Higher price point than alternatives
- Requires proper rod placement for full effect
The blush pink color is what sold my sister, but the blackout performance is what made her keep these. She installed them in her daughter’s nursery and reported that the morning sun was completely gone. Not dim, gone.
NICETOWN upgraded their construction with this model. The two 230GSM layers combined for 460GSM total weight. That is heavier than most premium curtains and you can feel the difference when you handle the panels.
At 4.8 stars across 79k reviews, this is one of the highest rated blackout curtains anywhere. Parents keep coming back because the panels are well made, soft to the touch, and the grommets slide smoothly without snagging.
The blush pink color is gentle and works with most nursery themes. It’s not so saturated that it overwhelms a small room, and it pairs well with white furniture or natural wood.
Why two layers matter
The dual layer construction adds thermal mass, which improves both light blocking and temperature control. Single layer curtains often let light through the weave itself.
The built in black liner sits behind the blush face fabric. From outside the house, the curtains look soft pink. From inside, they look almost black.
Pairing with the right rod
To get full blackout, mount the rod 3 to 4 inches beyond each side of the window frame. This lets the panels wrap around the edges instead of letting light slip past.
For best results, choose a wrap around rod or a curtain rod with returns. Standard straight rods leave small gaps at the edges.
6. Nite Shadez Portable Blackout – Best Portable for Travel
Portable Blackout Curtains (60″ x 80″) – Travel Blackout Curtains for Baby Nursery w/Stars – Portable Blackout Shades w/UV & Thermal Protection – 20 Stick on Suctions & Velcro Blackout Window Cover
100% Polyester
60x80 in
20 suction cups
Travel bag
Oeko Tex checked
Pros
- 20 suction cups for secure attachment
- Includes travel bag with hook and loop
- OEKO TEX material safe for children
- Reusable in multiple rooms
Cons
- Hand wash only care
- Not water resistant
What sets the Nite Shadez apart from other portable curtains is the 20 suction cup system. That’s nearly double what most competitors include, and it makes a real difference. The curtain stayed up overnight even with our dog bumping the window blinds.
This is a purpose built curtain for parents on the move. It comes with a travel bag, has hook and loop closures, and weighs only 1.5 pounds. You can use it at home, in a hotel, or at grandma’s house.
Safety matters with anything that goes near a child. Nite Shadez uses OEKO TEX checked materials, which means the fabric has been tested for harmful substances. That’s the same standard many baby clothing brands follow.
The star pattern is subtle, almost constellation like, which makes it appropriate for older kids who want something less babyish. My nine year old nephew approved of the look.
Suction cup tips for reliability
Wipe both the window and the suction cups with a damp cloth before installing. Any dust or oil will weaken the seal.
If the cups lose grip after a few days, rinse them under warm water and let them air dry. The natural rubber rehydrates and recovers.
When this is the wrong choice
If you have textured or low E coated windows, suction cups will not hold reliably. In that case, a permanent grommet curtain is a better fit.
For a permanent nursery install, the NICETOWN White or Blush Pink curtains are more cost effective.
7. Lajode Baby Blue Linen Blackout – Best Linen Look
Lajode Baby Blue Linen Blackout Curtains for Nursery – 52×84 Inch 2 Panels
Faux linen polyester
52x84 in
White blackout liner
Water repellent
Bronze grommets
Pros
- 100% blackout in every shade
- Natural linen texture
- Faux linen outperforms natural linen
- Water repellent fabric
- Machine washable
Cons
- Handmade so 1 to 2 inch size tolerance
I tested the Lajode Baby Blue in a toddler’s room and a guest room. Both times, the result was the same. Real blackout performance with a much more sophisticated look than typical shiny blackout fabric.
The faux linen texture gives the panels a high end appearance. From across the room, they look like genuine Belgian linen. Up close, you can tell they are polyester, but in a way that feels intentional rather than cheap.
The white blackout liner is bonded directly to the faux linen face. That creates a seamless look from outside the house. No visible black liner peeking around the edges.
Water repellent is a feature I didn’t expect on a curtain. It means spills wipe off with a damp cloth, and the fabric resists staining. For a kid’s room, that’s a real plus.
Why faux linen works better
Natural linen lets light through. It’s a loosely woven natural fiber that looks great on a sofa but fails at blackout duty.
Lajode’s faux linen pairs the texture you want with a bonded blackout liner. You get the look without sacrificing performance.
Style versatility
The baby blue color works in modern farmhouse, boho, and coastal rooms. It’s not too saturated, so it pairs well with neutrals and most wood tones.
For a boy’s nursery, this is a softer alternative to navy or gray. For a girl’s room, it works as a more grown up accent color.
8. MYSKY HOME Rainbow Pom Pom Curtains – Best Decorative
MYSKY HOME Kids Blackout Curtains for Boys Bedroom 84 Inch Long 100% Light Blocking Cute Curtains for Playing Room 2 Panels Grommet Nursery Drapes with Rainbow Pom Pom Sheer 2 Layered 50W x 84L
100% Polyester
50x84 in
Dual layer with sheer
Rainbow pom pom
Grommet top
Pros
- 100% blackout with sheer overlay
- Unique bohemian meets modern style
- Lightweight and easy to install
- Smooth sliding grommets
- Machine and hand washable
Cons
- Not water resistant
These are the curtains my friend’s daughter picked out for her “big girl room” and the curtains I recommend when parents ask for something decorative that still blocks light. The rainbow pom poms along the edge are whimsical without being too babyish.
The dual layer design is clever. The inner panel is a 100% blackout curtain in solid white. The outer layer is a sheer with rainbow pom pom trim. During the day, you can leave the sheer closed for filtered light. At nap time and bedtime, close both layers for complete darkness.
At 4.8 stars across 456 reviews, this is a newer product that has earned its strong rating quickly. Parents consistently mention the quality of the fabric, the smooth grommets, and how well the curtains actually block light once both layers are drawn.
The 84 inch length works for tall ceilings, and each panel is 50 inches wide. A pair covers 100 inches of window.
Who this curtain is for
If your child wants a curtain that looks like decor, not just function, this is the one. The pom poms add personality without overwhelming a small room.
It’s also a great choice for playrooms where you want blackout for movie time but a softer look during the day.
Care and styling notes
The sheer layer is delicate. Hand wash if possible, or use a mesh laundry bag on a gentle cycle.
The rainbow pom poms can snag on rough surfaces. Keep the curtain rod smooth and avoid brushing the panels against textured walls.
How to Choose Kids Blackout Curtains That Actually Work?
Not all blackout curtains are created equal. After testing eight models and reading hundreds of parent reviews, here’s what actually matters when you shop.
Light blocking percentage: what the numbers really mean
Manufacturers throw around terms like room darkening, blackout, and 100% blackout interchangeably. They are not the same.
Room darkening curtains block most light but let some through the weave itself. Blackout curtains block 85 to 99 percent of light. 100% blackout curtains have a separate liner that blocks essentially all light. For a newborn’s nursery or a child who wakes at first light, only the third option will reliably work.
Fabric construction and weight
The best kids blackout curtains use triple weave polyester or a face fabric bonded to a separate liner. Triple weave is more affordable and lighter. Bonded liners are heavier and more effective.
Weight matters too. Curtains under 1 pound per panel usually let light through. Look for panels in the 2 to 2.5 kg range for true blackout performance.
Sizing to prevent light gaps
The most common parent complaint is light leaking around the edges, not through the fabric. To prevent this, your curtain rod needs to extend 3 to 4 inches beyond each side of the window frame.
For length, measure from rod to floor and choose the closest drop length. Curtains that pool slightly on the floor are fine. Curtains that float 6 inches above the floor will leak light underneath.
Safety certifications to look for
Anything in a child’s room should be free of harmful chemicals. Look for OEKO TEX STANDARD 100 certification, which tests for substances that could be harmful to health.
GREENGUARD Gold is a stricter standard that also tests for chemical emissions. Sleepout and a handful of premium brands carry this certification.
Cordless design is non negotiable
The Window Covering Manufacturers Association and the American Academy of Pediatrics both recommend cordless window treatments in children’s rooms. Pull cords are a strangulation hazard for young children.
Every curtain on this list uses either grommets, back tabs, or suction cups. None require pull cords. That’s a deliberate choice, and you should make it too.
Installation options: grommet vs suction vs rod pocket
Grommet curtains slide easily on standard rods and create even pleats. They are the most common style and the easiest to install.
Suction cup curtains are perfect for renters, travel, and windows where you cannot drill. They install in minutes and remove cleanly.
Rod pocket curtains have a fabric sleeve that the rod slides through. They create a softer look but are harder to open and close.
Care and washing
Kids get things dirty. Look for curtains that are machine washable in cold water and can tumble dry on low. Avoid curtains that require dry cleaning unless you are willing to keep up with it.
For 100% blackout curtains with a bonded liner, use a gentle cycle and avoid high heat drying. The heat can delaminate the blackout backing over time.
FAQs
Do blackout curtains help kids sleep better?
Yes. Research shows non-dark sleep environments can reduce infant sleep by roughly 30 minutes. Blackout curtains support healthy circadian rhythm development and help children fall asleep faster, stay asleep longer, and wake less often during the night. They are especially helpful during summer months when sunrise comes early or in cities with bright streetlights.
What are the safest curtains for a child’s room?
Look for curtains with OEKO TEX STANDARD 100 or GREENGUARD Gold certification, which test for harmful chemicals and emissions. Always choose cordless designs to prevent strangulation hazards. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends cordless window treatments for any room where young children sleep. Avoid curtains with lead weights or small detachable parts.
Are blackout curtains safe for babies?
Blackout curtains are safe for babies when they are properly installed and certified free of harmful chemicals. Choose curtains with OEKO TEX or GREENGUARD certification, install them securely so they cannot fall into a crib, and avoid any cords or pull chains. NICETOWN, Nite Shadez, and Lajode all offer certified safe options.
Should I get curtains or shades for my nursery?
Both work, but curtains are more versatile and easier to wash. Shades mount inside the window frame and can be harder to clean. Curtains hang outside the frame, block more light around the edges, and can move to different rooms as your child grows. For most parents, blackout curtains offer better value and easier care than blackout shades.
How do I stop light from leaking around the edges of blackout curtains?
Use a curtain rod that extends 3 to 4 inches beyond each side of the window frame. This lets the panels wrap around the edges instead of letting light slip past. For the bottom, choose curtain length that just touches the floor or pools slightly. You can also tack the curtain edges to the wall with removable adhesive strips for a tighter seal.
Final Thoughts on Choosing Kids Blackout Curtains
After six weeks of testing, the NICETOWN White 100% Blackout curtains remain our top pick for most families. The sewn in liner delivers true blackout performance, the 84 inch drop fits tall nursery windows, and the price per panel is fair for what you get.
For budget shoppers, the NICETOWN Pitch Black pair delivers 85 to 99 percent light blocking at a fraction of the cost. For renters and travelers, the Nite Shadez portable curtain installs in minutes and travels anywhere. For parents who care about decor as much as function, the Lajode faux linen or MYSKY HOME pom pom options prove you do not have to choose.
The right kids blackout curtains will pay for themselves in better sleep within the first week. Pick the option that matches your window size, your decor, and how permanently you want to install it. Your child’s mornings will thank you.