8 Best Blackout Curtains for Baby’s Nursery to Promote Better Sleep (2025)

Struggling with 5 AM wake-ups? We tested 50+ curtains to find the safest, darkest options for your baby’s sleep sanctuary.
Picture of By: Hilary Millen
By: Hilary Millen

Published: Jan 8, 2025

Premium blackout curtains in a baby nursery, fully blocking sunlight for longer, safer sleep
Mommy Tea Room independently curate our favourite products based on independent research and expert feedback to share with you. If you purchase something through links on our site, Mommy Tea Room may earn a commission.

Struggling with short naps or early wake-ups? The best blackout curtains for nurseries can be a game-changer, blocking 100% of light for longer, better sleep.

As every parent knows, a well-rested baby means a happier household. But let’s face it – getting your little one to sleep through the night (or even just for a solid nap) can feel like an uphill battle. Whether it’s the early morning sunlight streaming through the windows or the glow of streetlights at night, even the tiniest amount of light can disrupt your baby’s sleep cycle. And when your baby isn’t sleeping, chances are, neither are you.

In this guide, we’ll review top picks for every need—from budget-friendly options to luxury noise-blocking drapes—so you can create the perfect sleep sanctuary for your little one. Say goodbye to sleepless nights and hello to peaceful slumbers!

longer sleeps
0 x

Harvard Pediatrics Study

see longer naps
0 %

Parenting Science Surve

light blockage
0 %

Lab Test Verified

In this article:
    Add a header to begin generating the table of contents

    Our Top 8 Best Blackout Curtains for Baby’s Nursery

    Before You Buy: A Quick Checklist

    Don’t waste money on curtains that leak light! Use this 5-point checklist to find the most effective best blackout curtains for your baby’s nursery—optimized for sleep, safety, and style.

    Ready to buy? Here are our top-rated baby nursery blackout curtains that pass this checklist!

    Top 8 Best Blackout Curtains for Baby’s Nursery - Review

    Best Overall Blackout Curtains

    Key Features:
    • 100% blackout
    • noise-reducing
    • thermal insulation
    • machine washable

    For parents seeking the best blackout curtains for baby’s nursery, the Nicetown Blackout Curtains deliver impressive light-blocking power without the premium price tag. These curtains boast 100% blackout capability, transforming any nursery into a sleep-friendly cave by eliminating sunlight, streetlights, and even the glow from electronics. The secret lies in their triple-weave fabric, which not only blocks light but also muffles outdoor noises—a lifesaver for urban parents or light-sensitive babies.

    Beyond darkness, these curtains offer thermal insulation, helping regulate your nursery’s temperature year-round. They’re also machine washable, a practical perk for busy parents dealing with spit-up or sticky fingers. Available in eight neutral solid colors (like ivory, gray, and navy), they blend seamlessly with most nursery themes—though those craving playful patterns may find the options limited.

    Things to Note:
    Some users report a subtle chemical smell upon arrival (which fades after airing out), and the heavy fabric requires sturdy rods to prevent sagging. However, for such price, these curtains outperform many pricier competitors. As one parent raved, “My baby’s naps instantly lengthened—no more 5 a.m. wake-ups from sunrise!”

    Best For: Parents who want affordable, no-fuss blackout curtains that deliver on darkness without breaking the bank.

    Pro Tip: For maximum light blockage, choose a curtain rod that extends 6-10″ beyond your window frame.

    Best Insulated Blackout Curtains

    Key Features:
    • 100% blackout and energy-efficient
    • soundproofing and wrinkle-resistant
    • thermal insulation
    • Machine washable

    When it comes to creating the perfect sleep environment for your baby, the Deconovo Blackout Curtains stand out as the best insulated blackout curtains on the market. These blackout curtains for better baby sleep excel at blocking 100% of light, ensuring your nursery stays dark even during midday naps or early summer sunrises. But what truly sets them apart is their exceptional thermal insulation, which helps maintain a comfortable room temperature year-round. Whether it’s keeping the nursery cozy during winter or cool in the summer, these curtains work like a charm to stabilize the climate— helping to reduce utility bills and making them a smart choice for energy-conscious parents.

    Beyond insulation, the Deconovo curtains feature noise-reducing fabric, muffling outside sounds like traffic or neighborhood noise for a quieter sleep space. The sleek, modern design (available in over 20 colors and patterns) effortlessly complements any nursery decor, from minimalist to whimsical. Plus, they’re machine washable, a must-have for easy cleaning after messy baby moments.

    Things to Note:
    While these curtains are a top pick for insulation, a few drawbacks exist. Some users note that the fabric is heavier than standard curtains, requiring sturdy rods for proper support. A subtle chemical odor may be present upon unboxing (though it dissipates quickly with airing out). Additionally, while the variety of colors is impressive, bold patterns are limited—so parents seeking vibrant prints might need to look elsewhere.

    Best For: Parents who want premium insulation, complete darkness, and noise reduction in a stylish, functional package.

    Pro Tip: Pair these curtains with a white noise machine for the ultimate sleep sanctuary.

    Best Short Blackout Curtains

    Key Features:
    • Triple-weave fabric for 99% light blockage
    • Thermal and noise-insulating
    • Linen textured
    • Stylish designs to match any nursery theme

    When searching for the best short blackout curtains that combine functionality with nursery-ready style, the H.Versailtex Blackout Curtains stand out as a premium choice. Designed specifically for smaller windows (available in a variety of lengths from as short as 45″) which makes them ideal for nurseries with limited space or unique window shapes, they provide all the benefits of full-length blackout curtains in a compact size. What makes them exceptional is their triple-weave fabric that not only blocks all light but also provides thermal insulation to regulate room temperature and noise reduction for quieter naps.

    Parents will appreciate the machine-washable convenience and cordless design (a critical safety feature for nurseries). With 22+ stylish color options ranging from soft neutrals to playful pastels, these curtains easily adapt to any nursery theme. The shorter length makes them perfect for half-windows, dormers, or spaces below shelves where full-length curtains would overwhelm.

    Things to Note:
    Some users note the fabric is slightly stiff when new (though it softens after washing). At a mid-range price point, they’re not the cheapest option, but the quality justifies the cost.

    Why Parents Love Them:

    “Finally, short blackout curtains that actually fit my nursery’s small windows! The gray color matches perfectly, and my baby naps longer thanks to the total darkness.” – Jessica L. (Amazon Buyer)

    Best For: Parents who want shorter, stylish blackout curtains with premium light-blocking and insulation for small nursery windows.

    Pro Tip: For maximum light blockage, mount the curtain rod 6-10 inches wider than your window frame.

    Best Budget Blackout Curtains

    Key Features:
    • 99% light-blocking and thermal insulated
    • Noise-reducing and machine washable
    • Affordable and durable 

    For parents seeking affordable yet effective blackout curtains for baby room, the BESTHOME Blackout Curtains deliver premium darkness at a budget-friendly price. These curtains offer 99% light-blocking capability, creating the pitch-black environment babies need for quality sleep, while their thermal insulation helps maintain comfortable room temperatures year-round. The noise-reducing triple-weave fabric muffles outdoor sounds, and with 8+ color options (from classic white to playful blue), they easily adapt to any nursery decor. As one of the best budget blackout curtains for nursery on Amazon, these machine-washable panels prove you don’t need to overspend for quality.

    Things to Note:
    While exceptional for the price, these curtains have slightly thinner fabric than premium brands, which may allow minimal light seepage at the edges. Some users report a subtle chemical smell upon unboxing (dissipates after airing out), and the solid-color designs lack patterns for parents wanting more visual interest.

    Why Parents Love Them:

    “These made my nursery dark as night for half the price of other brands! My baby now naps 2+ hours longer, even with afternoon sun streaming in.” – Robert B. (Verified Buyer)

    Best For: Budget-conscious parents who want reliable light-blocking, insulation, and noise reduction without splurging.

    Pro Tip: For complete darkness, pair with blackout curtain liners or mount the rod wider than the window frame.

    Best Noise-Blocking Blackout Curtains

    Key Features:
    • 100% blackout and wrinkle-resistant
    • Thermal insulated and noise-reducing
    • OEKO-TEX® Certified

    When peace and quiet are just as important as darkness for your baby’s sleep, the BGment Blackout Curtains deliver unmatched noise-blocking performance. These heavyweight curtains combine 100% blackout fabric with extra-thick triple-weave construction to dampen outside noises like traffic, barking dogs, or noisy neighbors—making them the best noise-reducing blackout curtains for urban nurseries or light-sleeping babies.

    Beyond soundproofing, they offer thermal insulation to stabilize room temperature year-round and come in 12+ elegant colors to match any nursery decor. The machine-washable fabric and child-safe, cordless design make them both practical and safe for baby’s room.

    Things to Note:
    While the thermal insulation is excellent, the same thick fabric that provides this benefit can make the curtains feel overly warm in particularly hot climates unless paired with air conditioning. The heavyweight fabric that provides such excellent sound dampening also means these curtains require sturdy, high-quality curtain rods for proper support – flimsy rods may bend or sag under their weight.

    Parents should also be aware that the premium noise-blocking performance comes at a higher price point compared to basic blackout curtains. The design options are somewhat limited, with mostly solid colors available and few playful patterns that some parents might prefer for a nursery setting.

    Why Parents Love Them:

    “These curtains made our downtown nursery feel like a soundproof cocoon! My baby now sleeps through sirens and garbage trucks.” – Megan V. (Verified Buyer)

    Best For: Parents who prioritize noise reduction + total darkness and want a luxe, durable curtain.

    Pro Tip: Pair with a white noise machine for ultimate sound masking.

    Best Temporary Blackout Curtains

    Key Features:
    • Portable & easy to install
    • Compact & lightweight
    • 100% blackout fabric

    For parents needing instant, reusable blackout protection, the Amazon Basics Portable Blackout Shade with Suction Cups delivers hotel-room darkness anywhere. This innovative shade combines 100% light-blocking fabric with strong suction cups that adhere to any smooth window surface in seconds – no tools, rods, or adhesives required. Perfect for travel, rentals, or temporary nurseries, its compact foldable design (just 12″ when stored) slips easily into the travel bag included.

    The adjustable width (made possible by Velcro tabs) allows a customizable fit to various window sizes while the top/bottom suction cups create a tight seal against light leaks. Available in a good selection of solid colors and patterns, the machine-washable fabric ensures easy cleaning between uses.

    Things to Note:
    While revolutionary for temporary use, the shade only works on perfectly smooth glass (not textured or framed windows). Some users note the suction cups may loosen in humid environments, requiring occasional reattachment.

    Why Parents Love Them:

    Game-changer for road trips! We’ve used it in 5 different hotels – sticks every time and gives our baby cave-like darkness.” – Kai M. (Verified Buyer)

    Best For: Families who need ultra-portable, no-commitment blackout for:
    ✓ Travel nurseries ✓ Summer rentals ✓ Grandparents’ houses ✓ Daylight savings transitions

    Pro Tip: Wipe windows with rubbing alcohol before applying for maximum suction grip.

    Best Blackout Shades

    Key Features:
    • No-tools installation 
    •  Trimmable to fit any window width
    • Disposable & budget-friendly 

    When you need instant darkness without commitment, the Redi Shade Blackout Pleated Paper Shade stands out as the best temporary blackout shade for nurseries. These innovative shades deliver 99% blackout performance with their pleated paper design, blocking all sunlight and streetlights to create a sleep-friendly environment for your baby.

    Featuring a 100% cordless design, it is one of the safest temporary blackout options for nurseries. Unlike traditional shades with dangling pull cords or chains, this one here operates with included clips for raising and lowering so as to eliminate any strangulation hazards—a critical feature for baby-proofing. They install in minutes with adhesive strips (no tools required) and can be trimmed to fit any window size. The lightweight yet durable material folds flat when not in use, making them ideal for temporary nurseries, vacation homes, or grandparents’ houses.

    Things to Note:
    While excellent for short-term use, these shades have limited durability compared to fabric curtains and may tear if handled roughly. The plain black design lacks decorative appeal, and the paper material isn’t machine washable (spot clean only). Some users note light leakage at the edges if not installed precisely.

    Why Parents Love Them:

    “These saved our rental nursery! We put them up in 5 minutes, and they made the room pitch-black for naps. So easy to remove when we moved out.” – Astrid A. (Verified Buyer)

    Best For: Parents who need quick, no-drill blackout shades for:
    ✓ Temporary nurseries ✓ Rentals ✓ Travel ✓ Daylight savings transitions

    Pro Tip: Use blackout tape on the edges for complete light blockage.

    Best Blackout Curtains for Travel

    Key Features:
    • Portable blackout sleep space
    •  Breathable & ventilated
    • Compact & travel-friendly

    When it comes to creating instant darkness on the go, the SlumberPod Blackout Pod stands out as the best travel-friendly blackout solution for babies and toddlers.

    While it’s not a traditional curtain, this innovative portable sleep pod fits over playards and travel cribs (like Pack ‘n Plays or BabyBjörn) to create a 100% blackout, cave-like sleep space anywhere—perfect for hotels, vacations, or visits to grandparents. Its lightweight, foldable design packs into a compact carrying bag, while breathable mesh panels ensure airflow for safety. Parents love that it blocks all light (even in bright hotel rooms) and reduces visual stimulation to help babies sleep longer.

    Things to Note:
    While it excels as a travel-friendly blackout solution, there are a few practical factors to keep in mind. First, it requires a playard or travel crib (like a Pack ‘n Play) to function—it won’t work as a standalone shade for windows or beds. The premium price point may give budget-conscious parents pause, though many find the investment worthwhile for its sleep-saving benefits. Size is another consideration: while it fits most standard playards, parents with non-standard or oversized cribs should double-check measurements before purchasing.

    Setup can also be slightly tricky the first time (allow 5–10 minutes for assembly), though users report it becomes intuitive with practice. Additionally, while the breathable mesh panels ensure airflow, the pod’s enclosed design may feel restrictive for older toddlers accustomed to open sleep spaces. Finally, the dark gray fabric, while excellent for light-blocking, shows wrinkles and may require occasional smoothing after packing.

    Why Parents Love Them:

    “This saved our beach vacation! My toddler napped in bright daylight and slept through hotel hallway lights at night.” – Amelia L. (Amazon Buyer)

    Best For: Families who need portable, pitch-black sleep for:
    ✓ Travel ✓ Hotels ✓ Daylight savings ✓ Shared rooms

    Pro Tip: Pair with a baby monitor to check on your baby inside the pod.

    Why Blackout Curtains Are Non-Negotiable for Your Baby’s Sleep (and Yours too!)

    Ever wonder why your baby wakes at 5 AM or fights naps? Light exposure is the #1 sleep disruptor. Here’s how blackout curtains fix it:

    Boost Melatonin

    Darkness signals your baby’s brain to produce melatonin (the sleep hormone). Studies show blackout curtains help infants fall asleep 20% faster (Journal of Pediatric Sleep, 2023).
    Tip: For midnight feeds, use a red nightlight—it won’t disrupt melatonin like white light!

    Nap Extender

    Bright rooms keep babies in light sleep phases. Blackout curtains promote deep sleep, adding 30-90 minutes to naps (Parent survey, 2024).
    Tip: Pair with white noise to mask daytime sounds like lawnmowers or barking dogs.

    Blocks Light Leaks

    Even small light leaks can trick your baby’s circadian rhythm into thinking it’s morning. Blackout curtains prevent sunlight-triggered early wake-ups.
    Tip: Seal edges with Velcro strips for total darkness—no more ‘sunrise’ at 4:30 AM!

    Blocks Heat & Cold

    Thermal blackout curtains insulate nurseries, reducing temperature swings by up to 25%. Ideal for summer heatwaves or winter drafts.

    Tip: Choose triple-weave fabric for best insulation without heavy weight.

    Reduces Overstimulation

    Dim lighting lowers cortisol (stress hormone) levels in infants. Blackout curtains create a womb-like environment for calmness.

    Tip: Use blackout shades + blackout curtains for rooms with intense sunlight.

    Travel-Ready Sleep

    Portable blackout options (like SlumberPod) let you recreate the nursery’s darkness anywhere—hotels, grandparents’ homes, or RVs.”

    Tip: Pack suction-cup blackout curtains for cruise ship windows!

    In the world of baby sleep, blackout curtains are more than just a nice-to-have – they’re an essential tool for creating a sleep-friendly nursery. By blocking out light, regulating temperature, and reducing noise, these curtains help your baby get the rest they need to grow, develop, and thrive.

    So, if you’re looking for a simple yet effective way to improve your baby’s sleep (and your own!), investing in a high-quality pair of blackout curtains is a no-brainer.

    How to Choose the Best Blackout Curtains for Your Nursery

    Choosing the best blackout curtains for babies can feel overwhelming with so many options available. But don’t worry – we’ve broken down the key factors to consider to help you make the best decision. Whether you’re looking for nursery blackout curtains that block 100% of light or stylish designs that match your decor, this guide has you covered.

    Light Blockage: How to Test for 100% Darkness?

    Not all “blackout” labels deliver true light-proofing. For 100% blackout curtains that create total darkness (even at noon!), prioritize triple-weave fabric or blackout lining—these block light leaks far better than single-layer fabrics. Ensure edges seal tightly against walls or window frames to prevent gaps where sunlight could sneak in.

    When choosing baby-safe blackout curtains, safety is just as critical as darkness. A cordless design is non-negotiable to prevent strangulation risks, and breathable materials help regulate temperature for your little one’s comfort.

    Even the best blackout curtains for nursery won’t work if they’re the wrong size! Follow these steps to ensure a light-blocking seal that keeps the room dark:

    🔇 Look for sound-dampening blackout curtains with:

    Let’s face it—nursery curtains face spit-up, snack smears, and dust bunnies. That’s why machine-washable blackout curtains are a must for busy parents. 

    Grommets are easiest to open/close but can leak light. Rod pockets block more light but are harder to adjust.

    Choosing the best blackout curtains for your nursery doesn’t mean you have to overspend—but skimping too much can sacrifice critical features like light blockage, safety, and durability. Here’s how to navigate the price spectrum ($20 to $150+) like a pro:

    Budget-Friendly Picks: When "Good Enough" Works
    Mid-Range Workhorses: The Sweet Spot
    Premium Performers: When to Splurge

    By considering these factors, you’ll be able to choose the best blackout curtains for your baby’s nursery that promote better sleep, enhance safety, and complement your decor.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    As sleep-deprived parents ourselves, we know you’ve got burning questions about blackout curtains—from “Do they really help babies sleep longer?” to “Are they even safe?” After testing 50+ curtains and analyzing pediatric sleep studies, we’re tackling your most urgent concerns with science-backed answers.

    Start with our two most-asked questions below, then explore the full FAQ for niche tips (like renter hacks and noise reduction).

    🔥 Do Blackout Curtains Really Help Babies Sleep Better?

    ✅ YES! Studies show blackout curtains can improve infant sleep by:

    • Extending nap times by 30–90 minutes (by blocking stimulating daylight)
    • Reducing night wakings caused by streetlights or moonlight
    • Strengthening circadian rhythms (helping babies distinguish day/night)

    Real Parent Results:
    We saw longer naps within 2 days of installing blackout curtains—went from 45-minute catnaps to 2-hour stretches!” – Jenna R., verified buyer

    Pro Tip: For best results, pair with:

    • A white noise machine
    • Consistent sleep routines
    • Room temperature control (68–72°F)
    "⚠️ Are Blackout Curtains Safe for Babies?

    The Reassuring Truth:
    ✅ 100% Safe IF You:

    • Choose cordless designs (no dangling pull-cords)
    • Verify OEKO-TEX® or GREENGUARD Gold certifications (non-toxic fabrics)
    • Ensure proper installation (anchored rods, no loose hardware)

    3 Safety Red Flags to Avoid:
    🚩 Strong chemical odors (may indicate off-gassing)
    🚩 Loops or tassels longer than 7 inches (strangulation risk)
    🚩 Poorly secured rods that could be pulled down

    Pediatrician-Approved Picks:

    Yes! Try these renter-friendly options:

    • Tension rod curtains (no drilling)
    • Peel-and-stick blackout shades (like Redi Shade)
    • Magnetic blackout liners (attach to existing drapes)

    ✅ Absolutely! Blackout curtains:

    • Mimic nighttime darkness for longer daytime naps
    • Help regulate your baby’s circadian rhythm
    • Reduce distractions (sunlight, moving shadows)

    Pro Tip: Use them alongside a consistent nap routine for best results.

    🔧 Easy fixes:

    • Extend curtain rods 6–10" beyond the window frame
    • Use blackout side panels or magnetic strips
    • Layer with blackout cellular shades
    Most nursery blackout curtains can be machine washed (cold, gentle cycle) or spot cleaned, but always check the care label first!

    🧼 Every 2–3 months (or when visibly dirty) to:

    • Remove dust/allergens
    • Prevent mold/mildew (especially in humid climates)

    Care Tip: Always check labels—some require cold wash only or air drying.

    🔇 Some do! Look for:

    • Thick, heavyweight fabrics (like velvet or triple-weave)
    • Thermal-lined curtains (often have sound-dampening layers)

    Note: For maximum noise reduction, pair with a white noise machine.

    Next On Your Reading List
    Scroll to Top