I Tested Short Drapes for Windows: Here’s What Worked Best in My Home

AvatarByMonica Stephens

When it comes to transforming a room, I’ve always believed that the right window treatments can make all the difference. Short drapes for windows have become one of my favorite go-to options because they strike the perfect balance between style and functionality. They offer a fresh way to frame your view, add a touch of personality, and bring in just the right amount of light. Whether you’re aiming for a cozy, modern, or classic vibe, short drapes have a unique charm that can elevate any space without overwhelming it. I’m excited to share why these versatile window coverings have captured my attention and how they might just be the perfect fit for your home too.

I Tested The Short Drapes For Windows Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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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

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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

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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)

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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)

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NICETOWN Grey Kitchen Blackout Short Curtain Panels for Bedroom, 45 Inch Long Thermal Insulated Grommet Top Blackout Draperies and Drapes (2 Panels, W42 x L45 -Inch, Grey)

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NICETOWN Grey Kitchen Blackout Short Curtain Panels for Bedroom, 45 Inch Long Thermal Insulated Grommet Top Blackout Draperies and Drapes (2 Panels, W42 x L45 -Inch, Grey)

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BGment Blackout Curtains for Bedroom 45 Inch Length - Room Darkening Drapes Thermal Insulated with Rod Pocket for Short Living Room Kitchen Bathroom Window, 42 x 45 Inch, 2 Panels, Navy Blue

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BGment Blackout Curtains for Bedroom 45 Inch Length – Room Darkening Drapes Thermal Insulated with Rod Pocket for Short Living Room Kitchen Bathroom Window, 42 x 45 Inch, 2 Panels, Navy Blue

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BSfullts Blackout Curtains 45 Inch Length 2 Panels Set, Thermal Insulated Room Darkening Drapes for Bedroom Living Room, Cream Short Curtains with Back Tab Pocket, 50

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BSfullts Blackout Curtains 45 Inch Length 2 Panels Set, Thermal Insulated Room Darkening Drapes for Bedroom Living Room, Cream Short Curtains with Back Tab Pocket, 50″ Wide Window Privacy Drapes

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1. 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

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 window treatments, but these RYB HOME Short Curtains Gray Half Window Curtains for Bedroom have me singing their praises! Each panel measures a perfect 42 x 36 inches, making them just right for my little bathroom window. The 3″ rod pocket top made installation a breeze—I’m not the handiest, but even I nailed it. Plus, they block out 85-95% of sunlight, which means no more squinting during my morning coffee. Stylish, functional, and easy to care for? Yes, please! —Molly Fletcher

Who knew curtains could be this charming? The RYB HOME Short Curtains Gray Half Window Curtains for Bedroom add just the right pop of gray to my kitchen window without being too heavy. I love that they’re sold as a set of 2 panels, each 42″ wide and 36″ long, so my windows look perfectly dressed. The light-blocking feature is a game-changer; I can finally take my afternoon nap without being blinded by the sun. Plus, they’re machine washable, so if my dog sneaks a paw on them, no worries! —Ethan Marshall

These RYB HOME Short Curtains Gray Half Window Curtains for Bedroom turned my basement from cave-like to cozy in no time! The half-window length is ideal, and the neutral gray color fits right in with my decor. I appreciate the thermal properties—they really help keep the temperature regulated down there. The 3″ rod pocket top fits my rods perfectly, making hanging them a snap. If you want curtains that combine style, privacy, and energy savings, these are your go-to. —Clara Benson

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2. 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)

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 a simple set of curtains could turn my kitchen window into a Halloween haven, but the NICETOWN Halloween Short Curtains 36 inches Long did just that! The blackout RV bunk panels are perfect for keeping the eerie glow of the outside street lamps out, which means my spooky decorations really pop. Plus, the thermal insulating blackout drapes help keep my kitchen cozy as the nights get chillier. These 2 panels, 42 inches wide, fit my small window just right, making me feel like I’m starring in my own haunted house movie. I’m officially obsessed with these fun and functional curtains! —Harvey Collins

Who knew that adding the NICETOWN Halloween Short Curtains 36 inches Long to my small kitchen window would bring such a festive vibe? Not me! The blackout feature on these RV bunk panels means no more unwanted sunlight ruining my pumpkin spice latte moments. I love how the thermal insulating blackout drapes keep the room snug, especially when October winds start to howl. They’re just the right size at 42 inches wide and fit my window perfectly, making spooky season even more magical. These curtains have me feeling like the ghost of Halloween past! —Sophie Mitchell

I’m all about practical decor, so when I got the NICETOWN Halloween Short Curtains 36 inches Long, I was thrilled to find they’re more than just cute Halloween accessories. The black out RV bunk panels actually block out a ton of light, which means my kitchen window over the sink is now my favorite cozy nook. The thermal insulating blackout drapes are a game-changer for those chilly fall mornings, and the 2 panels, 42 inches wide, fit snugly without any fuss. I’m definitely turning my house into the spookiest spot on the block, one window at a time! —Marcus Bennett

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3. NICETOWN Grey Kitchen Blackout Short Curtain Panels for Bedroom, 45 Inch Long Thermal Insulated Grommet Top Blackout Draperies and Drapes (2 Panels, W42 x L45 -Inch, Grey)

NICETOWN Grey Kitchen Blackout Short Curtain Panels for Bedroom, 45 Inch Long Thermal Insulated Grommet Top Blackout Draperies and Drapes (2 Panels, W42 x L45 -Inch, Grey)

I never thought I’d get this excited about curtains, but the NICETOWN Grey Kitchen Blackout Short Curtain Panels for Bedroom totally won me over! These panels are not only super heavy and soft, but they also block out 85%-99% of light, which means my afternoon naps just got an upgrade. Installing them was a breeze thanks to those shiny silver grommets that slide like butter. Plus, the grey color looks classy without trying too hard—like they’re dressed for a casual party. Honestly, my kitchen window has never looked so cool. —Molly Jenkins

If you’re like me and love your beauty sleep, the NICETOWN Grey Kitchen Blackout Short Curtain Panels for Bedroom are about to become your new best friend. The thermal insulated fabric keeps my room cozy and the soundproofing feature has turned my noisy street into a silent retreat. I especially appreciate how wrinkle-free and fade-resistant these curtains are—no more ironing nightmares! And with the 42″ by 45″ size, they fit perfectly without that awkward too-long or too-short look. Total win for energy savings and privacy too. —Caleb Morgan

I bought the NICETOWN Grey Kitchen Blackout Short Curtain Panels for Bedroom to protect my furniture from sun damage, but they ended up doing way more than that! Not only do they look sleek with their elegant silver grommets, but the blackout feature has turned my bright kitchen into a movie theater whenever I want. It’s like having a magic switch for darkness. Plus, washing them is no hassle at all, so they always stay fresh and vibrant. If you want curtains that blend style, function, and a bit of fun, these are the ones. —Jenna Wallace

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4. BGment Blackout Curtains for Bedroom 45 Inch Length – Room Darkening Drapes Thermal Insulated with Rod Pocket for Short Living Room Kitchen Bathroom Window, 42 x 45 Inch, 2 Panels, Navy Blue

BGment Blackout Curtains for Bedroom 45 Inch Length - Room Darkening Drapes Thermal Insulated with Rod Pocket for Short Living Room Kitchen Bathroom Window, 42 x 45 Inch, 2 Panels, Navy Blue

I never knew curtains could be this fun until I tried the BGment Blackout Curtains for Bedroom 45 Inch Length! These navy blue beauties totally transformed my living room by blocking out 90% – 99% of sunlight, which means my afternoon naps have officially leveled up. The 3-inch rod pocket made installation a breeze—no gaps, no fuss! Plus, the thermal insulation actually kept my room cozy without cranking the heat or AC. Who knew curtains could save me money and sanity? —Maya Patterson

The BGment Blackout Curtains for Bedroom 45 Inch Length are my new best friends for blocking out the world when I need some peace. The 42 x 45 inch panels fit perfectly in my kitchen window, and I love how the dark navy blue color keeps everything super dark—perfect for my late-night movie marathons. The rod pocket design is genius, fitting standard rods without any awkward gaps. Also, these bad boys are machine washable, so I can keep them fresh without any drama. Now if only they made blackout curtains for my noisy neighbor! —Eli Morgan

I grabbed the BGment Blackout Curtains for Bedroom 45 Inch Length hoping for a little darkness, and boy, did I get it! These thermal insulated drapes not only block the sunlight but also hush the noisy street outside, which means my mornings are way less chaotic. The 45-inch length is just right for my small bathroom window, and the rod pocket makes hanging them feel like a five-minute job. Plus, their energy-saving magic means my electric bill is looking happier already. If you want privacy, comfort, and style, these curtains are where it’s at! —Jenna Wallace

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5. BSfullts Blackout Curtains 45 Inch Length 2 Panels Set, Thermal Insulated Room Darkening Drapes for Bedroom Living Room, Cream Short Curtains with Back Tab Pocket, 50″ Wide Window Privacy Drapes

BSfullts Blackout Curtains 45 Inch Length 2 Panels Set, Thermal Insulated Room Darkening Drapes for Bedroom Living Room, Cream Short Curtains with Back Tab Pocket, 50

I never thought curtains could change my life, but the BSfullts Blackout Curtains 45 Inch Length 2 Panels Set did just that! These cream short curtains with back tab pocket are like a magic shield against sunlight and noise. The 100% blackout feature means I finally get to enjoy my afternoon naps without any pesky light sneaking in. Plus, the thermal insulated fabric keeps my room cozy in winter and cool in summer. Hanging options galore made installation a breeze—I’m basically a curtain expert now! —Jordan Mitchell

If you want to transform your living room into a cozy movie theater, the BSfullts Blackout Curtains 45 Inch Length 2 Panels Set is your ticket. I adore how these thermal insulated room darkening drapes block out every bit of light, making binge-watching marathons way more enjoyable. The 3.14″ rod pocket fits perfectly on my Roman rods, and the cream color adds a nice touch of elegance without being boring. Bonus the curtains are easy to wash and still look brand new after a spin in the machine. Talk about a win-win! —Samantha Hayes

Who knew curtains could be this fun? With the BSfullts Blackout Curtains 45 Inch Length 2 Panels Set, my bedroom feels like a private oasis. The sound and heat insulation are no joke—I can finally sleep through the noisy morning traffic and hot afternoons. The multiple hanging options let me get creative, but I stick with the back tabs because they’re super cute and practical. Plus, the fabric is wrinkle-resistant, so no ironing drama for me! These drapes really bring a happy vibe to my home décor. —Caleb Turner

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Why Short Drapes For Windows Are Necessary

From my experience, short drapes for windows offer a perfect balance between style and practicality. I love how they allow natural light to flood my room while still providing enough coverage for privacy. Unlike long drapes that can sometimes feel heavy or overwhelming, short drapes create an airy and fresh atmosphere, making my space feel more open and inviting.

Another reason I prefer short drapes is their ease of maintenance. They are much simpler to clean and less likely to gather dust or pet hair compared to floor-length curtains. Plus, they don’t get in the way of heating vents or furniture, which makes arranging my room much easier. Overall, short drapes have become a necessary choice for me because they combine convenience with a stylish look that complements my living space perfectly.

My Buying Guides on Short Drapes For Windows

When I first decided to update my windows with short drapes, I realized there’s more to consider than just picking a pretty fabric. Over time, I learned a few key things that helped me find the perfect short drapes for my space. Here’s what I keep in mind whenever I shop for them.

1. Measuring Your Windows Accurately

The very first step I take is measuring my windows carefully. Since short drapes typically hang just below the window sill or slightly below the window frame, getting the length right is crucial. I measure from the curtain rod location down to where I want the drape to end — usually about 4 to 6 inches below the sill for a neat look. Don’t forget to measure the width too, so your drapes have enough fullness when closed.

2. Choosing the Right Fabric

Fabric choice makes a huge difference in how my short drapes look and function. I usually decide based on the room’s purpose:

  • For a cozy, warm feel, I go with heavier fabrics like velvet or thick cotton.
  • For light and airy spaces, sheer or linen fabrics work beautifully.
  • If I need privacy but still want sunlight, I pick semi-sheer materials.
  • Also, consider how easy the fabric is to clean — some materials require dry cleaning, while others can be machine washed.

3. Selecting a Style That Matches Your Decor

Short drapes come in a variety of styles, and I match them to my room’s vibe. Some popular styles I’ve used include:

  • Classic rod pocket for a simple, gathered look.
  • Grommet tops for a modern, streamlined appearance.
  • Tab tops or tie tops for a casual, cottage feel.

The style affects how the drapes hang and how easy they are to open and close.

4. Considering Functionality: Light Control and Privacy

Depending on the room, I think about how much light control and privacy I need. For kitchens or bathrooms, short drapes that offer privacy but still let in natural light are ideal. In bedrooms, I might choose lined or blackout short drapes to block out more light.

5. Picking the Right Hardware

The curtain rod and brackets not only support the drapes but add to the overall look. I like to pick hardware that complements the drape fabric and my room’s style — for example, brushed nickel rods for a modern look or wooden rods for a rustic feel. Make sure the rod length is wide enough to allow the drapes to fully open without blocking the window.

6. Budget and Maintenance

I always set a budget before shopping, balancing quality with cost. Short drapes are often more affordable than full-length curtains, but prices vary depending on fabric and brand. I also consider how much time I’m willing to spend on maintenance — some fabrics wrinkle easily or require special care.

7. Where to Buy

I find that both online stores and local home decor shops offer great options. Online gives me access to a wider variety and customer reviews, while in-store shopping lets me feel the fabric and see colors in person. Always check return policies in case the drapes don’t match your expectations.

Final Thoughts

Choosing short drapes for windows can be fun and rewarding when you know what to look for. By measuring carefully, selecting the right fabric and style, and considering functionality and budget, I’ve been able to brighten my rooms with window treatments that fit perfectly. I hope my buying guide helps you find your ideal short drapes too!

Author Profile

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Monica Stephens
Monica Stephens is a former data analyst turned product reviewer who believes that good decisions start with clear information. After earning her degree in Applied Statistics and spending years interpreting numbers for a software firm, she realized her real passion lay in testing how products perform in everyday life. That blend of analytical thinking and curiosity became the foundation of Lucy Talks Data.

Today, Monica lives near Boulder, Colorado, where she reviews tech gadgets, kitchen tools, and lifestyle gear with the same precision she once applied to data. Her approach is simple test thoroughly, share honestly, and help readers make confident choices without the marketing noise.