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Tired of your living room or bedroom being so chilly when it’s cold outside? Turning up the heat is always an option, but there’s another, much less expensive way to minimize the cold in your home:
New curtains.
From thermal curtains to insulated curtains to heavy designs that can absorb cold air, here are some of the best curtains to keep the cold out.
Editor Favorites:
Preview | Name | Rating | View |
| Sun Zero Regina Watercolor Floral Thermal Insulated Curtain Panel | ||
| Deconovo Room Darkening Thermal Insulated Blackout Grommet Curtain Panel | ||
| DreamCity Textured Thermal Insulated Drapes | ||
| August Grove Loar Polyester Blackout Curtain Pair |
What to Look For in Cold-Blocking Curtains
When shopping for curtains that can block out the cold, there are a couple of things to look for.
The most important thing is the fabric. Avoid lightweight fabrics, open weaves and curtains made from sheer fabrics, linen, and lace. Instead, look for thicker, heavyweight curtains that are tightly woven in fabrics such as heavy cottons, velvet and suede. We asked Interior Design Coordinator Tara Spaulding with Patio Productions how to pick out the right fabrics. “When choosing a thermal curtain, look for one that’s made from 100% cotton or polyester fabric. These fabrics are comfortable and easy on your skin but also very effective at blocking out all kinds of light—including sunlight!”
The construction of the curtain also makes a big difference. There are a lot of curtains on the market today that are thermal insulated. These sometimes have three to four layers, with an inner layer of thermal insulation in between the outer fabrics.
Many thermal and insulated curtains are also thick enough to block out the light. That makes them perfect for hanging in your bedroom (unless, of course, you enjoy bright sunlight waking you up in the morning). Spaulding agrees, “The best thermal curtains will be made of thick materials that block out more than just the cold or heat—they should block light, too. This means that you won’t have to worry about waking up early in the morning when you’re trying to get some extra shut-eye.”
Here are our 24 favorite curtains to keep the cold outside where it belongs, from pretty patterns to solid colors.
1. Geo Pattern Thermal Insulated Blackout Drapes
Keep the cold air out and the warm air in with the Geo Pattern Thermal Insulated Blackout Drapes. Available in a variety of stylish color combinations, these drapes come in a set of two panels and feature a triple weave fabric design.
These curtains can give any room a fresh, bold look. They also block out 90% of sunlight and 100% of UV rays, so you won’t have to worry about the sunlight fading your furniture or rugs.
They’re made from soft microfiber fabric, so they have a smooth and silky feel that makes them a great addition to any room.
2. Niemeyer Velvet Max Blackout Curtain Panel
The Niemyer Velvet Max Blackout Curtain Panel will insulate your room against cold weather. But it will also block out light and reduce outside noise. Win. Win. Win.
Detailed with a rod pocket at the top, this curtain is made from fade-resistant velvet fabric. It also comes in a variety of color choices to coordinate with all sorts of home décor.
This curtain is sold as an individual panel, so if you want a pair, be sure to order two.
3. Sun Zero Kline Burlap Weave Thermal Blackout Window Curtain Panel
Keep the chill out of your living room or bedroom with the Sun Zero Kline Burlap Weave Thermal Blackout Window Curtain Panel. The burlap weave adds a subtle touch of rustic style, while the grommet top allows for easy hanging over a curtain rod.
This curtain panel reduces noise, blocks light and helps to insulate your home against the cold. Each panel is sold individually and available in various lengths to fit different window frames.
4. Sun Zero Jorah Thermal Room Darkening Panel
Minimize energy loss and block out exterior noises with the Sun Zero Jorah Thermal Room Darkening Panel. Featuring a pretty floral pattern, these thermal blackout curtains offer a classic look with a heavy woven texture.
Each panel measures 40” wide, is machine washable, and comes in a variety of lengths to fit windows of various sizes. It’s detailed with a grommet top that fits a 1.5” diameter curtain rod.
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5. Thermal Room Darkening Window Curtain Pair
With a solid flat texture, the Thermal Room Darkening Window Curtain Pair adds style and function to any room. These thermal window treatments are designed to block out the light with room darkening yarns woven right into the fabric.
They’re detailed with silver grommets along the top, making them easy to slip over any curtain rod.
6. Forest Hill Woven Blackout Grommet Top Curtain Panels (Set of 2)
Light blocking and insulating, the Forest Hill Woven Blackout Grommet Top Curtain Panels prevent the outside air from getting in. This curtain set features matte silver grommets across the top and a subtle pattern that adds an elegant touch.
Whether you hang them in your living room or bedroom, these have the look of a pair of custom drapes, just without the custom price tag.
7. Dora Polyester Max Blackout Curtain Panel
Looking for thermal insulated curtains in a classy print? Check out the Dora Polyester Max Blackout Curtain Panel. This jacquard grommet curtain is made from 100% polyester with thermal construction to block out light and maintain its temperature.
Sold as individual panels, this curtain adds a unique touch to any living room or bedroom that needs a warm, cozy touch.
Related: Our 15 Favorite Extra-Deep Couches For Every Space
8. Nicetown Thermal Insulated Grommet Blackout Curtains
Perfect for bedrooms, the Nicetown Thermal Insulated Grommet Blackout Curtains feature triple weave blackout fabric with a modern grommet top. They are available in a variety of different colors to coordinate with any color scheme.
And they don’t just look good – they also minimize heat loss and block out light to create the perfect sleeping conditions!
These curtains are incredibly affordable yet well-made. In fact, they’re an Amazon #1 bestseller with over 40,000 four-star reviews.
9. Sun Zero Regina Watercolor Floral Thermal Insulated Curtain Panel
Lower your energy bills and prevent heat loss with the Sun Zero Regina Watercolor Floral Thermal Insulated Curtain Panel. A pretty watercolor pattern gives these a timeless, elegant look, while the thermal insulation decreases energy loss by up to 40%.
They are available in different colors and different lengths, and the pattern makes them perfect for use in the winter or summer. In the winter they’ll keep the cold out. In the summer, they’ll keep out the heat.
10. Jetset Silk Blackout Curtain Panel
Block light, keep your room warm and enjoy the casual luxury of the Jetset Silk Blackout Curtain Panel. Sold in a set of two curtains, they are ultra-soft and cozy silk with light and heat blocking insulation.
These curtains are available in a handful of colors and can be hung in three different ways.
11. Martha Stewart Lucca Blackout Velvet Curtain Set
Add a touch of luxury to any room with the Martha Stewart Lucca Blackout Velvet Curtain Set. Featuring two different color options, these curtains are made from softly textured velvet to trap heat inside when it’s cold outside.
These 84” curtains are finished with rust-free grommets and stitched details. In addition to keeping out the cold air in the winter, they darken as well. And, they are machine washable.
12. Best Home Fashion Solid Thermal Insulated Blackout Curtains (Set of 2)
The Best Home Fashion Solid Thermal Insulated Blackout Curtains are simple, stylish, and perfect for year-round use. These affordable curtains are packaged in a set of two and come in a slew of colors to coordinate with any type of home décor.
A rod pocket along the top makes them easy to slip over a standard curtain rod. The triple weave fabric offers energy efficiency to insulate against the heat and cold. They also reduce noise and block sun and harmful UV rays that can fade furniture and floors.
13. Deconovo Room Darkening Thermal Insulated Blackout Grommet Curtain Panel
Simple and stylish, the Deconovo Room Darkening Thermal Insulated Blackout Grommet Curtain Panel is ideal for use in a living room, bedroom or nursery. They block the light, provide energy efficiency and feature thermal insulation to help reduce your energy bills.
These curtains are sold as individual panels and have a soft, silky feel. They come in a wide range of colors, with the darker colors, blocking out the most amount of light.
14. Utopia Bedding 2 Panels Thermal Insulated Blackout Curtains
The Utopia Bedding 2 Panels Thermal Insulated Blackout Curtains have a timeless look with grommets at the top and a wide hemstitch at the bottom. Designed for light blocking and energy efficiency, this curtain set also comes with a set of tie backs. That way, you can pull your curtains back when you do want to let in the light.
Choose from a variety of colors and sizes to suit your style and fit different sized windows throughout your house.
15. Best DreamCity Textured Thermal Insulated Drapes (Set of 2)
If you’re looking to keep your home warm, block light, and reduce noise, check out the Best DreamCity Textured Thermal Insulated Drapes. With a textured linen weave, these curtains include silver grommets and a neat hemstitch, making them look good from top to bottom.
And while they may look like linen, they’re tightly woven so that most light won’t be able to filter through.
16. Dreaming Casa Green Velvet Curtain
The Dreaming Casa Green Velvet Curtain offers an elegant way to maintain the room temperature you desire. Soft and plush with a bit of a sheen, these high-quality curtains have a luxurious look and feel.
These velvet curtains provide energy-saving style by insulating windows and blocking out most light. They’re available in various lengths and colors, plus detailed with a double rod pocket for easy attachment on a curtain rod.
17. Heathered Thermal Room Darkening Curtain Panel
Need a super affordable curtain that costs less than $10 per panel? The Heathered Thermal Room Darkening Curtain Panel is perfect for use in any room of your home or apartment. With a rod pocket design for easy hanging, this curtain helps insulate against the cold and block the light.
This style comes in a variety of colors, making it easy to coordinate with all types of furniture and décor.
18. August Grove Loar Polyester Blackout Curtain Pair
This set of two curtain panels provides a classy, upscale look to the more formal areas of your home, with the set’s tulle draping and extra length. But you don’t have to give up function for the sake of fashion with this set. They’re also blackout curtains, blocking out 100% of UV rays and up to 99% of all light, and thermal curtains, maintaining your home’s internal temperature and blocking out excess noise with ease.
The embroidered tulle curtains feature a grommet header and come with tie-backs included. They’re also machine washable.
19. HLC.ME Paris Paisley Decorative Print Curtain Panels
For something a little more casual and fun, try these decorative, damask, paisley-pattern curtain panels available on Amazon. They come in five different sizes and seven different colors. They’re light filtering and thermal, and the manufacturer claims they can help you save up to 30% on your energy bill. The machine-washable curtains are made from polyester.
Reviewers do report, though, that these curtains are not 100% blackout curtains but are, instead, just like the description notes, darkening curtains only. Still, if you don’t want total darkness, just some thermal curtains, these will work just fine.
20. HPD Half Price Drapes Grommet Blackout Curtains
If you want the thick blackout, thermal action of thermal curtains but don’t like that thick look of some of the options you’ll find on the market, consider these curtains. They have a linen-like appearance on one side for a lighter and airier aesthetic, but they still have the thermal thickness you need to maintain your home’s temperature effectively.
These curtains come in five colors and four sizes and are made from 100% polyester.
21. Miuco 2 Panels Room Darkening Thermal Insulated Grommet Window Blackout Curtains
These affordable curtains are on the shorter side, making them suitable for use in the bedroom (or just anywhere you don’t want a floor-length curtain, whether that’s the living room, an office or elsewhere). According to the manufacturer, the curtains can block up to 98% of all sunlight, 100% of all UV rays and 60% of all external noise—all while reducing your energy bill by up to 30%.
The machine-washable curtains come in nearly 20 different colors and three sizes.
22. Moondream Thermal Blackout Curtains
These curtains come in four sizes and seven colors. Their unique thermal technology works just like an emergency blanket that retains your heat in dire situations, but, in this case, the technology is retaining your home’s heat, so you save on your electric bill in the winter. The manufacturer claims the curtains will block up to 100% of all light and, in the summer, you can expect a drop of up to 5 degrees in your home and, in the winter, you can expect to save up to 46% on your heating bills.
The curtains are made with polyester and aluminum, and all fabrics have been OEKO-TEX certified, which means they were made with no toxic substances.
23. Rose Home Fashion Thermal Insulated Blackout Curtain Liner
Let’s say, though, that you want to keep your existing curtains or you have your eye on some curtains that don’t come in a thermal or blackout option. If that’s the case, you may want to go ahead and buy the curtains you want but then also purchase an additional thermal curtain liner, like this one from Rose Home Fashion.
The curtain liners are made to hang directly behind your existing curtains, hidden from view. The curtain liners come in six different sizes, but they are all white for complete opacity. The result is thermal insulation and up to 99% light blockage without the need to change your decor at all.
24. Candlelight Rod Pocket Blackout Curtains
These pole pocket curtains offer both thermal insulation and light-blocking capabilities, shutting out up to 80% of all light. The polyester fabric is outfitted with hook belts and back tabs for easier hanging. You do have to purchase these curtains one panel at a time, but two panels should be enough for most large windows.
These curtains come in a large array of colors and patterns.
Thermal Curtains FAQs
Still have questions about which of the best thermal curtains might be a good fit for your home? Let’s see if we can answer them.
How do thermal curtains work?
Thermal curtains are made with an internal layer of fabric that helps to prevent air from leaving or entering a home. This extra layer can make the curtains twice or even three times as thick as your typical curtains.
Are there different types of thermal curtains?
Yes! Just like you can buy different types of most regular curtains and window treatments, you can buy different types and styles of thermal curtains as well.
In general, a thermal curtain is just loosely defined as a curtain that features padding between two layers of cloth to provide extra climate control. Thermal curtains come in varying styles, such as balloon, Roman and side-draw, but also different fabrics, from polyester to microfiber to cotton.
In addition to the different styles of thermal curtains you’ll find on the market, you can also find thermal curtains in an array of different sizes to fit most windows.
Will thermal curtains block noise?
Yes, in addition to blocking airflow, thermal curtains are also noise reducing. This noise reduction actually works both ways, making thermal curtains a great option whether you want to block out your neighbor’s or street noise or you want to dampen the noise coming from your own home.
Will thermal curtains block light?
Yes, most thermal curtains, due to their thickness, will also block light. They, however, usually aren’t as opaque and/or as light-blocking as traditional blackout curtains.
How do you clean thermal curtains?
Thermal curtains can be either machine washable or dry clean only. The cleaning method you’ll need to use for your curtains will depend on the brand and type you buy. Check the manufacturer’s instructions and labeling to see what’s recommended.
Can I use blackout curtains for thermal curtains?
If you already have a set of blackout curtains on hand, you may be wondering if you can use them in place of thermal curtains. However, while some thermal curtains may double as blackout curtains, that doesn’t mean you can use blackout curtains as thermal curtains in every situation. Often, thermal curtains are thicker than blackout curtains and specifically designed to prevent airflow, while blackout curtains are not made with airflow in mind.
How do I know what size curtains I need?
To know what size thermal curtains (or any type of curtains) to buy, measure the length and width of where you would like your curtain to hang, not just the length and width of your window.
You should measure the entire area of space that you would like the curtain to cover, from the top of the curtain rod all the way to where you would like the curtain to end, whether that’s at the floor or higher.
Once you know the length needed, add about 24 inches to your initial width measurement and divide the new total width by two (or however many panels you would like to buy for each window). This will tell you how wide your two (or other number of) panels should be while still ensuring that your single panels have some flow and draping effects and aren’t just stretched tight across the window every time you close them.
Why aren’t my thermal curtains as effective as I’d like them to be?
Sometimes, thermal curtains just don’t work as well as we might’ve originally hoped. Despite the curtains’ thermal properties, air may still manage to get through or around the fabric. Spaulding adds, “Longer curtains tend to be more effective at keeping out light than shorter ones because they cover more area on your windowsill or sill plate (the part where your window meets your wall.)”
For the best energy-saving, light-blocking results, always buy thermal curtains that are slightly larger than what you think you might need so that you have extra fabric to play with. The curtains should overlap in the middle when closed. You can also use velcro or magnetic tape to discreetly attach the edges of the curtains to the windowsill or walls alongside the window. If you have enough curtain fabric to work with, no one will know the difference, and you’ll prevent excess air from leeching around your curtain edges.
Are Thermal Curtains Right for Your Home?
Still undecided? Let’s recap the main benefits of using some of these best seller thermal curtains.
Thermal curtains will help you…
- Keep warm or cool air from leaking out or around your windows
- Prevent cold or hot air from the outside from leaking into your home via the windows
- Block sunlight
- Block noise, both inside and out
- Create an extra layer of privacy in your home
If you’re looking for all — or even just a few — of the above benefits, then thermal curtains are likely a good investment for your home.
Thermal Curtain Alternatives
But let’s say you decide that thermal curtains aren’t a good fit for your home decor or overall home needs. If that’s the case, there are other window covering options that can increase your home’s energy efficiency and/or block undesirable light, noise and/or airflow. These include…
Insulated Cellular Shades
If you prefer the look of shades to curtains, you can purchase insulated cellular shades that contain insulating layers to reduce heat loss by up to 40% in the winter while likewise reducing solar heat in the summer by up to 60%, all of which results in a decrease in your energy bill of up to 20%, depending on the season.
Heat and Light-Blocking Window Films
You can also buy stick-on films that attach to your windows and block up to 90% of UV rays and up to 50% of solar heat. The films apply to the exterior side of your windows and give the outside of the window a mirrored look while still allowing you to fully see outside from the inside of your home.
Window Insulation Inserts
Similarly, you can purchase window insulation inserts that attach to the interior side of your window via magnetic strips. This option doesn’t require you to apply a sticker directly to your window or to hang any pesky curtain rods. Just apply the magnets to the edges of your window frame and then attach the insert, for blocking out exterior heat and cold air.
Can Curtains Keep the Cold Out?
The right curtains can keep the cold out, and block light and minimize noise from outside. They can even reduce your heating bills, keep the summer heat away, and make your home more comfortable overall. It’s just a matter of finding the color, size, texture and pattern you like!
Look for heavyweight fabrics and triple weave designs with inner linings. If blocking out the light is also a feature you’re looking for, opt for darker colors that allow for less light penetration. No matter your style or needs, there are energy-efficient curtains to suit every type of home decorator.
From affordable Amazon designs to expensive designer options, curtains can cost as little as a few dollars or as much as a few hundred per panel. But with so many to choose from, it’s easy to find a pair you like and stick to your budget, whatever your budget may be.
You might also be interested in: 21 Home Decor Items Under $25 To Elevate Your Space
The 24 Best Curtains to Keep the Cold Out:
- Geo Pattern Thermal Insulated Blackout Drapes
- Niemeyer Velvet Max Blackout Curtain Panel
- Sun Zero Kline Burlap Weave Thermal Blackout Window Curtain Panel
- Sun Zero Jorah Thermal Room Darkening Panel
- Thermal Room Darkening Window Curtain Pair
- Forest Hill Woven Blackout Grommet Top Curtain Panels (Set of 2)
- Dora Polyester Max Blackout Curtain Panel
- Nicetown Thermal Insulated Grommet Blackout Curtains
- Sun Zero Regina Watercolor Floral Thermal Insulated Curtain Panel
- Jetset Silk Blackout Curtain Panel
- Martha Stewart Lucca Blackout Velvet Curtain Set
- Best Home Fashion Solid Thermal Insulated Blackout Curtains (Set of 2)
- Deconovo Room Darkening Thermal Insulated Blackout Grommet Curtain Panel
- Utopia Bedding 2 Panels Thermal Insulated Blackout Curtains
- Best DreamCity Textured Thermal Insulated Drapes (Set of 2)
- Dreaming Casa Green Velvet Curtain
- Heathered Thermal Room Darkening Curtain Panel
- August Grove Loar Polyester Blackout Curtain Pair
- HLC.ME Paris Paisley Decorative Print Curtain Panels
- HPD Half Price Drapes Grommet Blackout Curtains
- Miuco 2 Panels Room Darkening Thermal Insulated Grommet Window Blackout Curtains
- Moondream Thermal Blackout Curtains
- Rose Home Fashion Thermal Insulated Blackout Curtain Liner
- Candlelight Rod Pocket Blackout Curtains
Posted October 20, 2022 inHome category
Jessica Heston
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Jessica Heston
After 15 years in the fashion industry, this Philadelphia native ditched her corporate career to focus on writing full time. Jessica is a TV junkie, whiskey lover and true crime addict. She finds inspiration from Broadway musicals, Hitchco*ck films and The Beatles. She is happily married without children, which she credits as the reason for her professional success, youthful attitude and solid eight hours of sleep every night.
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