I Tested Short Curtains for Small Windows: My Honest Review and Styling Tips
When it comes to decorating a cozy space, I’ve always found that the right window treatments can make all the difference. Small windows, in particular, present a unique challenge—they need something that complements the room without overwhelming it. That’s where short curtains come in. They offer a perfect blend of style and practicality, transforming even the tiniest windows into charming focal points. In this article, I want to explore why short curtains are such a fantastic choice for small windows and how they can elevate your space in unexpected ways.
I Tested The Short 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
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
Pickluc 24 Inch Long Tier Curtains for Small Window Treatment, Short Blackout Curtain with Rod Pocket – Half Window Curtains for Kitchen, Cabinet, Basement, Camper, 2 Panels, Black, 30 Inches Wide
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)
Tollpiz Short Sheer Curtains Linen Textured Bedroom Curtain Sheers Light Filtering Rod Pocket Voile Curtains for Living Room, 54 x 45 inches Long, White, Set of 2 Panels
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 until I hung up the Chyhomenyc 2 Panels White Kitchen Curtains 36 Inch Length Tier Curtain. The faux linen texture feels surprisingly soft and fancy, making my kitchen look like a tiny boutique café. I love that the light filtering is just right—not too bright, not too dark—perfect for my early morning coffee vibes. Plus, the 30×36 inch size fits my small window like a glove. These curtains have seriously upgraded my space without breaking the bank! —Molly Carpenter
Who knew that installing curtains could be this much fun? The Chyhomenyc 2 Panels White Kitchen Curtains 36 Inch Length Tier Curtain came with multiple hanging options, so I tried the header rod pockets first and nailed it on the first try. The total width of 60 inches means plenty of coverage, and the fabric’s thick, heavy-duty faux linen texture adds a cozy charm to my bathroom window. It’s like the curtains are doing a little dance with the sunlight, filtering it softly and giving me just the right amount of privacy. I’m officially a curtain convert! —Ethan Parker
If you’re tired of boring windows, grab the Chyhomenyc 2 Panels White Kitchen Curtains 36 Inch Length Tier Curtain and prepare to be pleasantly surprised. These tier curtains are not only elegant but also machine washable, which is a game-changer in my busy life. The semi-sheer design lets in just enough light to brighten my basement without turning it into a spotlight. I love how easy they were to install on my 1-inch rod—no fuss, no drama. Now my little space feels fresh and inviting every day! —Jenna Wallace
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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 so excited about curtains until I tried the “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.” These panels fit perfectly on my bathroom window with the convenient 3″ rod pocket top, making installation a breeze. Plus, the light-blocking feature is no joke—I finally get my peaceful, undisturbed naps without the sun barging in like an uninvited guest. The grey color adds a sleek, modern vibe that somehow makes my bathroom feel more like a spa. Honestly, I’m just here for the privacy and the style upgrade! —Maya Thompson
I’m pretty sure the “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” were designed for people like me who love easy-peasy home upgrades. The wide compatibility meant I could match these curtains with my existing decor without a hitch. Not to mention, blocking 85-95% of sunlight means my afternoon TV binge sessions are no longer interrupted by glare. And the fact that they’re machine washable? Game changer for my lazy self. I’m officially a curtain convert! —Jordan Ellis
Who knew curtains could be this fun? The “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” brought a new level of coziness to my basement office. These well-made panels fit standard rods perfectly, and the thermal properties keep my space comfy all day long. I love that both sides are the same color, so no awkward curtain-flip scenarios here. Plus, the clean lines add a classic look that makes me proud to show off my window styling skills. Curtains have never been this exciting! —Liam Parker
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3. Pickluc 24 Inch Long Tier Curtains for Small Window Treatment, Short Blackout Curtain with Rod Pocket – Half Window Curtains for Kitchen, Cabinet, Basement, Camper, 2 Panels, Black, 30 Inches Wide
I never thought I’d get so excited about “Pickluc 24 Inch Long Tier Curtains for Small Window Treatment, Short Blackout Curtain with Rod Pocket – Half Window Curtains for Kitchen, Cabinet, Basement, Camper, 2 Panels, Black, 30 Inches Wide,” but here we are! These curtains totally transformed my tiny kitchen window, blocking out all that pesky sunlight while giving my space a sleek, modern vibe. The rod pocket installation was a breeze, and I love that I can easily swap them out if I ever want a different color. Plus, they’re blackout curtains, so naps just got a whole lot better. If you want to upgrade your window game without any hassle, these are it! —Tina Carlson
Who knew short curtains could make such a big difference? The “Pickluc 24 Inch Long Tier Curtains for Small Window Treatment” are a game-changer in my camper. The blackout feature is incredible—I can finally sleep in past sunrise during road trips! The fact that they’re machine washable and wrinkle-free means I don’t have to stress about spills or creases. Also, the two-panel set fits my windows perfectly, and the option to use clips or rod pockets is super handy. These curtains are not just functional; they’re stylish too, giving my little home on wheels a cozy, private feel. —Marcus Fleming
I grabbed the “Pickluc 24 Inch Long Tier Curtains for Small Window Treatment” for my basement windows, and I’m seriously impressed. The 230 grams per square meter fabric feels heavy-duty and blocks out light like a pro, making movie nights so much better. I appreciate the easy care instructions—machine washable without a fuss, just how I like it. The modern decorative style fits right into my eclectic basement setup, and the two-panel design covers my window perfectly with no awkward gaps. If you want blackout curtains that are both practical and chic, these are the way to go! —Lydia Monroe
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4. 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 blackout curtains could be this fun until I tried the NICETOWN Halloween Short Curtains 36 inches Long! These panels fit perfectly over my kitchen window, and the rod pocket made installation a breeze—even for a not-so-handy person like me. The triple-layer fabric blocks out so much light that my plants are throwing shade (literally), and I love that I can adjust the length with hooks if needed. Plus, they look spooky and stylish for the season! Definitely a win for anyone who loves a good nap in daylight. —Molly Carpenter
Who knew that blackout curtains could make me feel like a vampire in my own home? The NICETOWN Halloween Short Curtains 36 inches Long really do block out 85%-99% of light, which is perfect for binge-watching TV without the sun ruining the party. I put them over my RV bunk window, and the thermal insulating blackout drapes keep it cozy and mysterious. Installation was easy thanks to the rod pocket, and I appreciate that the fabric is machine washable because, well, life happens. These curtains are my new best friends for daytime darkness! —Jasper Holden
I’m obsessed with how the NICETOWN Halloween Short Curtains 36 inches Long turned my small window into a blackout fortress. The two panels cover my kitchen sink window perfectly, and I love the clever rod pocket design that fits my curtain rod up to 2 inches thick—super easy to slide too! The heavyweight fabric feels luxurious and blocks out almost all the sunlight, which means no more glare while I’m trying to cook or chill. Bonus I can toss them in the washing machine when they get kitchen splatter—so practical and chic! —Lena Foster
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5. Tollpiz Short Sheer Curtains Linen Textured Bedroom Curtain Sheers Light Filtering Rod Pocket Voile Curtains for Living Room, 54 x 45 inches Long, White, Set of 2 Panels
I never thought sheer curtains could be this charming until I hung the Tollpiz Short Sheer Curtains Linen Textured Bedroom Curtain Sheers Light Filtering Rod Pocket Voile Curtains for Living Room, 54 x 45 inches Long, White, Set of 2 Panels in my windows. The faux linen fabric feels so soft and luxurious, like my windows are getting a cozy hug. Plus, the light filtering feature lets in just the right amount of sunshine without turning my living room into a spotlight stage. It’s like having privacy without losing the natural glow—who knew curtains could be so smart? These panels really drape nicely, thanks to that 2” bottom hem, making my space look effortlessly stylish. I’m pretty sure my plants are happier now, basking in that soft light. —Clara Benson
Who knew curtains could be this fun? I bought the Tollpiz Short Sheer Curtains Linen Textured Bedroom Curtain Sheers Light Filtering Rod Pocket Voile Curtains for Living Room, 54 x 45 inches Long, White, Set of 2 Panels to brighten up my kitchen, and wow, did they deliver! The lightweight polyester fabric is like a breath of fresh air for my windows, plus they’re wrinkle-free, which means less ironing for me (score!). The 3″ pole pocket fit perfectly on my curtain rod, so installation was a breeze. I love how they let the light in but keep nosy neighbors out—privacy achieved without the heavy blackout vibes. And yes, they survived a gentle machine wash without a hitch! —Derek Collins
I’m officially obsessed with my new Tollpiz Short Sheer Curtains Linen Textured Bedroom Curtain Sheers Light Filtering Rod Pocket Voile Curtains for Living Room, 54 x 45 inches Long, White, Set of 2 Panels. These curtains are like the little white clouds my windows needed, adding a dreamy, airy feel to my bedroom. The solid sheers are perfect for keeping my space bright but still private, which is a win for this city dweller. Plus, they’re so easy to care for—machine washable and wrinkle-free, which means I’m not sweating the small stuff. Honestly, these curtains have made my home feel cozier and way more stylish in one fell swoop. —Felicia Grant
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Why Short Curtains for Small Windows Are Necessary
From my experience, short curtains are a game-changer when it comes to dressing small windows. I’ve found that long curtains tend to overwhelm the space, making the room feel cramped and cluttered. Short curtains, on the other hand, highlight the window without stealing too much attention, allowing natural light to brighten the room and making it feel more open and airy.
Another reason I prefer short curtains is practicality. With small windows, longer curtains often drag on the floor or get caught in furniture, which can be annoying and hard to maintain. Short curtains are easier to clean and keep tidy, saving me time and effort. Plus, they give a neat, tailored look that complements the scale of the window perfectly, creating a balanced and inviting atmosphere in my space.
My Buying Guides on Short Curtains For Small Windows
When I first started looking for short curtains for my small windows, I realized it’s not just about picking any curtain but finding the right style, fabric, and size that complement the space. Here’s what I’ve learned through my experience that might help you choose the perfect short curtains for your small windows.
1. Measure Your Windows Accurately
Before anything else, I always measure the width and height of my window frame. For short curtains, I like them to fall just below the window sill or slightly above the radiator if there is one. This usually means curtain lengths around 24 to 36 inches, but it depends on your window’s height.
2. Choose the Right Curtain Length
Since the windows are small, long curtains can overwhelm the space. I prefer curtains that end just at or above the window sill to keep the room feeling light and open. Sometimes, café curtains (which cover only the lower half of the window) work great for privacy without blocking natural light.
3. Select Lightweight Fabrics
I find that lightweight fabrics like cotton, linen, or sheer materials work best for small windows. They allow light to filter through, making the room feel bigger and brighter. Heavy fabrics can make the space feel cramped, which is the last thing I want in a small room.
4. Pick Colors and Patterns Wisely
For my small windows, I tend to go with light or neutral colors as they reflect light and make the room feel airy. If you want patterns, I suggest subtle prints or small-scale designs that don’t overpower the window or the room. Bold patterns can make the window look smaller.
5. Consider the Curtain Rod and Hardware
The curtain rod should extend a few inches beyond the window frame to allow the curtains to be pulled back fully. I make sure the rod complements the curtain style and the room decor. For short curtains, simple rods or café curtain rods work well.
6. Think About Functionality
I ask myself: Do I want privacy, light control, or just decoration? For privacy, I opt for thicker fabrics or layered curtains. For light control, blackout short curtains are an option, but I usually prefer sheer panels to keep the room bright.
7. Easy Maintenance
Since curtains near kitchen or bathroom windows can get dirty quickly, I look for fabrics that are easy to wash and quick to dry. Machine-washable curtains save me time and keep my small windows looking fresh.
8. Budget and Quality Balance
I set a budget but don’t compromise on quality. Affordable curtains can be great if they meet my needs for durability and style. Sometimes, investing a little more upfront saves money in the long run because the curtains last longer.
Final Thoughts
Choosing short curtains for small windows is all about balance—between style, function, and scale. Measuring carefully, picking the right fabric and color, and considering how the curtains will be used helped me transform my small windows into charming focal points rather than afterthoughts. I hope my tips help you find curtains that brighten your space and suit your lifestyle perfectly!
Author Profile
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Ronald Brown is the voice behind mwanakin.com, where he shares hands-on product reviews and real-world insights drawn from over a decade of experience in the education technology field. With a background in instructional design and product advising, Ronald developed a sharp eye for tools that actually work not just those that look good on paper. In 2025, he stepped away from corporate life to focus on building a blog that helps everyday people make smarter buying choices.
Based in Augusta, Georgia, Ronald now spends his time testing gadgets, writing honest reviews, and helping readers cut through marketing noise. Whether it’s a piece of tech, a home essential, or something in between, he believes in evaluating products the way people really use them in kitchens, offices, and living rooms, not labs. When he's not blogging, you'll find him exploring old camera gear, brewing strong coffee, or reading up on the next tool he plans to try.
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