Need More Sleep?. . . 10 Top Best Blackout Curtains for Your Nursery in 2026

My Top Pick: Blackout Curtains for Your Nursery

Are Blackout Curtains Actually Good for a Nursery?

If you’re anything like I was, you might be wondering… Are blackout curtains even worth it? Do they really help?

Listen… when I tell you that using blackout curtains in our nursery was one of the best things I could’ve done — I mean it. Hands down.

With my firstborn? I didn’t even think about them. She was a unicorn sleeper. Went down easy, stayed asleep, barely made a fuss. Then came my son — who said, Girl, no to all of that.

He’s a high-demand baby and didn’t really develop better sleep habits until well after his first birthday. He’s 18 months as I’m writing this, and let me just tell you… it’s been a journey.

That’s why I’m gonna be 100% honest with you. Blacking out his room changed the game for us.

Here’s what it helped with. . .

• He started sleeping in his crib — instead of on me or in random corners of the house.
• We got him on a consistent nighttime routine that actually worked.
• He started falling asleep on his own — no hour-long rocking, bouncing, or bribing with snacks.

It didn’t solve everything, but it absolutely gave us a fighting chance.

So… How Can I Make My Baby’s Nursery Darker?

There are a few ways you can go about it, and it really depends on your budget, the kind of windows you’re working with, and whether you want something portable, permanent, or flexible.

For us? We’ve got high windows that go all the way up to the ceiling, so installing traditional curtain rods wasn’t happening without pulling out a ladder and a prayer.

So I started with a little D.I.Y. situation — nothing fancy, just enough to block out the light. But over time, I wanted something more portable (we travel a lot), and something that I could remove easily during the day to let sunlight in. That’s when I switched over to these [insert product or link here]. They’ve been working great, especially when we’re away from home.

What to Consider When Choosing the “Right” Blackout Curtains for Your Baby’s Room

This part is so important because blackout curtains aren’t one-size-fits-all. Here’s what I learned while testing and trying to make the best choice for our setup.

Now that we’ve talked about why blackout curtains even matter, let’s get into what makes a good one. Because not all blackout curtains are equal. Some just look the part, while others actually help your baby fall — and stay — asleep. And figuring out which is which can be a lot, especially when you’re already tired and just want something that works.

When I first started shopping for blackout curtains, I figured it’d be simple. Pick a color, add to cart, done. Girl… no. There are way more things to consider than I expected. Stuff like fabric, safety, light blocking levels, and whether you can actually get the thing hung up without needing a whole tool kit.

Safety First, Always

If you’re putting anything near your baby’s sleep space, safety has to be non-negotiable. For blackout curtains, that means no dangling cords, no choking hazards, and definitely no sketchy chemicals. Go for cordless designs or make sure cords are secured high and tight out of reach. You also want to check if the fabric is OEKO-TEX certified or labeled as low-VOC. Basically, if it’s going to sit in your baby’s room 24/7, it better be safe enough to pass the sniff test — literally and figuratively.

How Much Light It Blocks

If it says “room darkening,” that’s not the same as blackout. I’ve tried both, and trust me, there’s a difference. Room darkening still lets in a soft glow, while true blackout curtains are designed to block out 85% to 100% of light. If your baby’s room gets a lot of morning or evening sun, go with a true blackout — especially if you’re desperate for nap-time silence and mid-day breaks.

How They Hang

I know this seems like a small thing, but how your curtains hang actually affects how much light sneaks in. Grommet tops are easy to slide, but they let in more light through the top and sides. Rod pocket curtains are tighter and can help reduce gaps. If you want a cleaner, full blackout effect, go wider than your window and install the rod a few inches above the frame to keep those early sunbeams from creeping in.

The Fabric Itself

Some blackout curtains feel like stiff tarps. Others look pretty but barely block anything. You want something with a nice weight to it — thick enough to do the job, but soft enough to not feel out of place in a cozy baby room. Lined options tend to work better for blocking light and insulating the room, which can help regulate temperature too.

Design and Style That Fits Your Vibe

Yes, we’re going for sleep — but no one said it has to be ugly. There are so many cute, neutral, colorful, and patterned options now that you don’t have to sacrifice style. Whether your nursery theme is boho, minimalist, jungle, or “we just pulled this together from Pinterest,” there’s something that works.

Easy to Clean (Because… Life)

It’s not if the curtains get dirty, it’s when. Between dusty windows, sticky hands, and diaper explosions, you’re gonna want something you can toss in the wash without stress. Always check the care label before buying. If it says “dry clean only,” nope. Not happening.

Your Window Situation

Every home is different. Some windows are small and square. Others are tall, wide, or just plain awkward. If your nursery has a tricky layout — high ceilings, corner windows, or odd placements — it might take a little extra creativity to find something that fits. This is where tension rods, curtain layering, or even a DIY blackout liner can come in handy.

Budget

If you’ve got room to splurge, there are high-end options out there. But truthfully, you can find good-quality blackout curtains at affordable prices. Just don’t go for the cheapest thing on the shelf — they usually disappoint.

Portability

Are you planning to travel with your baby? Want something you can move from room to room? Or maybe just something you can take down during the day to let in light? Portability matters more than you think.

Window Size

Do you have wide windows? Extra tall ones? Odd shapes? Can you even hang a curtain rod? Or will you need stick-on or tension options? Also — think about which direction your windows face. East-facing windows? Girl… those sunrises come for you fast.

Quality

You want curtains that feel durable, not flimsy. Ones that block light without looking like tarp. Bonus if they’re lined, insulated, and still look good.

Easy to Install

Please don’t buy something that needs a drill, a YouTube tutorial, and 3 hours of your life. Unless that’s your thing (no judgment!). But if not, go for something you can put up quickly — especially if you’re doing this solo.

Adjustability

This isn’t always necessary, but if you need to raise or lower them based on time of day or naps, look for blackout options that are adjustable or removable.

Style

You know me — I like things that are both functional and cute. Just because it’s a blackout curtain doesn’t mean it has to be ugly. Plenty of brands make stylish options that still get the job done.

Easy to Clean

This part right here? Major. Life with babies is messy. Curtains get dusty, stained, and all kinds of gunky. Machine washable = YES, PLEASE.

Bonus Features (That Might Matter to You)

Things like thermal insulation, noise reduction, and wrinkle resistance aren’t dealbreakers, but they’re definitely bonuses. If you live somewhere super hot or cold, insulated blackout curtains can help keep baby comfortable. If your neighbors like to party on weeknights… well, every little bit helps.

So yeah, blackout curtains can look simple, but choosing the right one takes a little strategy. Don’t worry — you don’t need to be an interior designer or a DIY queen to make the right call. I’ve got some of the best options coming up next, along with real pros, cons, and how they actually perform in a real-life, sleep-deprived nursery.

So, how can I make my baby’s nursery darker?

There are a few ways to go about it, and it really comes down to your budget, the type of windows you’re working with, and what feels right for your space. Once you’ve got that figured out, you can decide whether blackout curtains, shades, or something more temporary is the best fit.

For us, our windows go all the way up to the ceiling, which made it tricky to install traditional curtains without turning it into a whole project. I started with a little DIY setup, but eventually decided I wanted something more portable. We travel often, so having something I could pack and take with us just made more sense.

Plus, I still like to let sunlight into the room during the day, so having the option to remove or adjust them easily was a must.

Mommy Pro Tip: Blackout curtains don’t just help with sleep — they also add privacy and cut down on outside noise, making the nursery feel a lot more calm and peaceful.

Related >> The Ultimate Survival Guide for Overwhelmed Moms with a High-Needs Baby

Should I get blackout curtains for the nursery?

As a mom of a high-demand one-year-old, I can say without hesitation — absolutely.

I didn’t think much about blackout curtains when I was setting up the nursery. With my firstborn, I didn’t use them at all. She was a great sleeper, so it never even crossed my mind. But when my son came along? Completely different story.

Once I realized he was a high-needs baby who struggled to settle down at night, I started reaching out to other moms for advice. One of the most common suggestions? Build a consistent bedtime routine — and make the room as dark as possible using blackout curtains.

I didn’t have any on hand, and I was desperate. I wanted to try something that night, so I got creative. I went under the kitchen sink, grabbed a few 40-gallon garbage bags and some blue painter’s tape, and got to work.

I lined the window with the bags and taped them down — and surprisingly, it worked. The room was pretty much pitch black. Not gonna lie, it looked a little wild, but it did exactly what I needed it to do in that moment.

That quick DIY setup helped my son fall asleep faster, and it gave me a little breathing room. But while it worked in the short term, it definitely wasn’t a long-term solution. Garbage bags might block the light, but they’re not exactly cute, and they don’t hold up for everyday use.

That’s when I knew it was time to invest in real blackout curtains — something that looked good, worked well, and gave us the same darkness without the drama.

10 Best Portable Blackout Curtains for Babies and Toddlers

You don’t need fifty options and a headache — you need the best ones, narrowed down, with real pros and cons. I’ve pulled together a list based on actual use, real reviews, safety, price, and of course, what works for different setups and mom-life needs.

This is not a list of whatever’s trending online. These are blackout curtains (and blackout alternatives) that can help create a darker, calmer sleep space for your baby — whether you’re working with a simple nursery, rental walls, high windows, or a traveling lifestyle like mine.

1 – Amazon Basics Portable Window Blackout Curtains (w/ suction mounting)

By far my favorite since they’re super easy to install and I love that I can remove one side and let the light shine into the nursery during the day. The animal print is super cute, too.

What moms don’t like…

• Uses suction cups, some light still slips through

2 – NICETOWN Full Shading Curtains

NICETOWN blackout curtains are very popular. This is a great option if you are looking for functionality and that also looks really good.

These are by far my favorite since they’re super easy to install and I love that I can remove one side and let the light shine into the nursery during the day. The animal print is super cute too!

3 – BGment Blackout Curtains for Bedroom

Budget‑friendly set of blackout panels that help block unwanted light and reduce glare in your baby’s room or any bedroom. Each set includes two curtains made from textured, insulated blackout fabric that helps darken the room and adds some noise reduction.

They’re easy to hang with back tabs or a rod pocket, and the simple design works with most decor styles. Great option if you want reliable blackout performance without spending a lot of money.

What moms don’t like …

• They aren’t as thick as some moms prefer

Other posts that may be helpful:

• 5 Best Head Protectors for Babies Learning to Crawl & Walk
• Breathe Better & Get More Sleep: Top 13 Best Nursery Humidifiers
• 25+ Top Best Educational Shows for Toddlers & Babies

Short Blackout Curtains for a Baby Nursery

4 – Deconovo Solid Thermal Insulated Grommet Black Blackout Curtains

Comes in a set of two panels, each measuring 42 inches wide by 63 inches long, and they work well in just about any space — whether it’s a bedroom, nursery, or even a home office. What really stands out is how well they block out light.

The fabric is designed to keep the room dark, which makes it perfect for naps, bedtime, or even cozy movie nights. They also help with insulation, keeping the room cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter. The material feels durable and safe enough for kids’ rooms, and they’re super low-maintenance — just toss them in the washing machine when they need freshening up. Simple, effective, and definitely worth it.

5 – Amazon Basics Room Darkening Blackout Window Curtain with Grommets (short)

These curtains help keep bedrooms exceptionally dark, making them perfect for afternoon naps, night shift workers, and light-sensitive sleepers. These we very easy to install and hang. Rod pocket fit standard or decorative rods; includes 2 Velcro ties for pulling back the curtains.

What some moms don’t like . . .

• Fabric is wrinkled out of the package

6 – Chicology Corless Blinds

Depending on your preference and your windows, you might prefer blinds or window shades instead of curtains. If that’s the case, these are a good option. They come in multiple fabric colors as light-filtering or blackout shades.

7 – Allbright Thermal Insulated

Looking to try something different while still blocking out the light? Sun roller shade, energy saving insulates against heat and cold, noise is reduced and provides privacy, waterproof fabric good for the bedroom, kitchen and bathroom. The metal lift chain can be installed on the right or left side of the window.

The chain holder keeps safety and allows the chain at a higher place. Two fabric types are available. Blackout fabric blocks 100% light and 100% UV ray, which is good for sleeping. Depending on your preference, you may want to consider taping the edges of the window.

What moms don’t like . . .

• You must measure the dimensions correctly

Great Alternative Options to Blackout Your Baby’s Nursery

8 – Velimax Static Cling Total Blackout Window Film

Velimax Static Cling Total Blackout Window Film is a simple, no‑hardware solution for instantly darkening your nursery or bedroom. The static‑cling design sticks directly to the glass and blocks nearly all incoming light, helping create a calm, nap‑friendly space without needing rods, screws, or curtains.

It’s easy to cut to fit any window size and can be repositioned or removed without leaving residue, making it ideal for rentals or temporary blackout needs. Practical, affordable, and travel‑friendly, it’s a great alternative to traditional blackout curtains when you want full darkness with minimal fuss.

What moms don’t like . . .

• You must measure the dimensions correctly

9 – Redi Shade Original Blackout Pleated Paper Shade

Redi Shade Original Blackout Pleated Paper Shade is an easy, no‑tools solution for darkening almost any window. The static cling, pleated design installs in minutes and can be trimmed to fit windows of various shapes and sizes, making it ideal for tricky or odd‑sized spaces.

It blocks a significant amount of light, helping your baby nap or sleep longer without the hassle of rods or hardware. Lightweight and affordable, it’s a practical choice for renters, travel, or temporary blackout needs when you want instant darkness with minimal setup.

These blackout window shades can be used by themselves or along with curtains – it’s up to you. Quick and easy to install.

10 – Do-It-Yourself

If you’re not ready to invest in blackout curtains just yet, you can absolutely go the DIY route. Grab some aluminum foil, heavy-duty black garbage bags, or any dark material you’ve got on hand, and tape it up over the windows.

It’s super cost-efficient because, let’s be honest, you probably already have this stuff around the house. Just know… it’s not gonna win any style points. It gets the job done, but it definitely looks a little wild. Ha!

What moms like . . .

• It’s not easy on the eye

Final Thoughts

If you’re trying to create a calm, cozy, sleep-friendly space for your baby — blackout curtains are honestly one of the easiest ways to get there. I know how overwhelming it can feel when you’re running on fumes and just want something that works without making it a whole thing.

Whether you’re going for a full nursery makeover or just trying to get through the next nap without a meltdown (yours or the baby’s), blocking out the light can make a real difference. And you don’t have to spend a fortune or get the “perfect” setup right away. Sometimes the best thing you can do is just start with what works for you — even if that’s garbage bags and painter’s tape for now.

I hope this guide helped take some of the guesswork out of the process. You’ve got options. You’ve got the insight. And now you’ve got a mama-approved path forward.

Let’s Chat

Tried blackout curtains already? Got a go-to brand you swear by? Or still trying to figure out what fits your space? Drop your questions or favorites in the comments — I’d love to hear what’s working for you.

And if you found this post helpful, go ahead and share it with another mama who’s deep in the nap-time struggle. We’re all just trying to get a little more sleep and a lot more peace around here.

You’ve got this, mama. One blackout curtain at a time.