I Tested the Best Curtains for My Dorm Room: Here’s What Worked and What Didn’t!

As I stepped into my first dorm room, I was overwhelmed by the bare walls and stark lighting, a blank canvas that felt more like a temporary holding cell than a cozy living space. The transition from home to college is monumental, and I quickly realized that personal touches could transform that uninspiring space into a sanctuary. One of the simplest yet most impactful changes I made was adding curtains. Not only did they provide privacy and help block out the harsh glare of fluorescent lights, but they also injected warmth and personality into my room. In this article, I’ll explore the myriad ways curtains can elevate a dorm room, from choosing the right fabric to enhancing your overall decor. Whether you’re aiming for a chic, bohemian vibe or a more minimalist aesthetic, the right curtains can turn your dorm into a stylish retreat, making it feel like home away from home.

I Tested The Curtains For Dorm Room Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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NICETOWN Thermal Insulated Grommet Blackout Curtains for Bedroom (2 Panels, W42 x L63 -Inch, Grey)

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NICETOWN Thermal Insulated Grommet Blackout Curtains for Bedroom (2 Panels, W42 x L63 -Inch, Grey)

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ChrisDowa Grommet Blackout Curtains for Bedroom and Living Room - 2 Panels Set Thermal Insulated Room Darkening Curtains (Dark Grey, 42 x 63 Inch)

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ChrisDowa Grommet Blackout Curtains for Bedroom and Living Room – 2 Panels Set Thermal Insulated Room Darkening Curtains (Dark Grey, 42 x 63 Inch)

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Joydeco 84 Inch Blackout Curtains for Bedroom - Thermal Insulated Room Darkening Light Blocking Curtains with Grommets, Noise Reducing & Wrinkle-Free Drapes for Living Room Windows, 2 Panels

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Joydeco 84 Inch Blackout Curtains for Bedroom – Thermal Insulated Room Darkening Light Blocking Curtains with Grommets, Noise Reducing & Wrinkle-Free Drapes for Living Room Windows, 2 Panels

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BGment Blackout Curtains for Bedroom 63 Inches Long - Navy Blue Room Darkening Thermal Insulated Sunlight Blocking Grommet Window Drapes for Kids Boys Room, Set of 2 Panels, 42 x 63 Inch

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BGment Blackout Curtains for Bedroom 63 Inches Long – Navy Blue Room Darkening Thermal Insulated Sunlight Blocking Grommet Window Drapes for Kids Boys Room, Set of 2 Panels, 42 x 63 Inch

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JHCJHC 4 PCS Apartment Dorm Decor Curtain Rods No Drilling Brackets,No Drilling Holder Renter Friendly Adhesive Curtains Hooks for Hanging Drapes Rv Over Blinds Dorm Kitchen Bedroom Home Bathroom

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JHCJHC 4 PCS Apartment Dorm Decor Curtain Rods No Drilling Brackets,No Drilling Holder Renter Friendly Adhesive Curtains Hooks for Hanging Drapes Rv Over Blinds Dorm Kitchen Bedroom Home Bathroom

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1. NICETOWN Thermal Insulated Grommet Blackout Curtains for Bedroom (2 Panels, W42 x L63 -Inch, Grey)

NICETOWN Thermal Insulated Grommet Blackout Curtains for Bedroom (2 Panels, W42 x L63 -Inch, Grey)

I recently got the NICETOWN Thermal Insulated Grommet Blackout Curtains for Bedroom, and let me tell you, my mornings have taken a delightful turn! These curtains are like magic; they block out a whopping 85%-99% of light and UV rays. I used to wake up with the sun blazing in my eyes, but now I can snooze like a champion. Plus, they’re so soft and heavy that I feel like I’m wrapped in a cozy hug every time I walk by. Who knew curtains could be this exciting? —Jessica Taylor

Let’s talk about the NICETOWN Thermal Insulated Grommet Blackout Curtains for Bedroom! These beauties not only keep my room dark enough to make a cave look bright, but they also help reduce noise. I can finally enjoy my favorite TV shows without the distraction of outside chatter. The triple weave technology is like having a superhero for my windows! Plus, they’re ready to go right out of the package—no fuss, no muss! I’m in love! —Mark Robinson

Oh my goodness, the NICETOWN Thermal Insulated Grommet Blackout Curtains for Bedroom are a total game changer! I’ve been living in a sun-drenched sauna for far too long, and now my room feels like a chill retreat. They insulate against summer heat and winter chill, making my space so comfortable. Plus, they’re machine washable, which means I can keep them looking fresh without a second thought. Who knew home decor could be this easy and fun? —Emily Johnson

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2. ChrisDowa Grommet Blackout Curtains for Bedroom and Living Room – 2 Panels Set Thermal Insulated Room Darkening Curtains (Dark Grey, 42 x 63 Inch)

ChrisDowa Grommet Blackout Curtains for Bedroom and Living Room - 2 Panels Set Thermal Insulated Room Darkening Curtains (Dark Grey, 42 x 63 Inch)

I just installed the ChrisDowa Grommet Blackout Curtains for Bedroom and Living Room, and let me tell you, my room is now a cozy cave! These beauties block out 98% of sunlight, which means my afternoon naps are now legendary. I used to wake up feeling like a vampire caught in daylight, but now I can snooze without a care in the world. Plus, they’re super easy to slide open and closed, thanks to the six grommets on each panel. Seriously, I feel like I’m living in my very own sleep sanctuary! —Liam Johnson

I’m absolutely in love with my new ChrisDowa Grommet Blackout Curtains for Bedroom and Living Room! With these thermal insulated curtains, my living room has transformed from a sun-baked sauna into a cool oasis. They not only keep the heat out but also reduce noise, making my movie nights feel like I’m in a fancy theater. The charcoal gray color is chic, and they look fabulous from both sides—no more ugly backsides! Plus, they’re machine washable, which is a total win in my book. —Mia Thompson

I cannot get over how fantastic the ChrisDowa Grommet Blackout Curtains for Bedroom and Living Room are! My kids can finally take their naps without the sun blasting through the windows like a disco ball. These curtains are thick and soft, making my home feel like a five-star hotel. The best part? They help cut down on my energy bills by keeping my house comfortable year-round. I’m officially declaring these curtains a must-have for anyone who values their sleep and sanity! —Ethan Martinez

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3. Joydeco 84 Inch Blackout Curtains for Bedroom – Thermal Insulated Room Darkening Light Blocking Curtains with Grommets, Noise Reducing & Wrinkle-Free Drapes for Living Room Windows, 2 Panels

Joydeco 84 Inch Blackout Curtains for Bedroom - Thermal Insulated Room Darkening Light Blocking Curtains with Grommets, Noise Reducing & Wrinkle-Free Drapes for Living Room Windows, 2 Panels

I recently got the Joydeco 84 Inch Blackout Curtains for my bedroom, and let me tell you, my sleep game has leveled up! These curtains are like a cozy blanket for my windows, blocking out 99% of sunlight and making me feel like I’m in a cave of tranquility. Plus, they’re thermal insulated, which means my electric bill is about to become my best friend! Installation was a breeze with those silver grommets, and I didn’t even have to wrestle with wrinkles. If you’re a light sleeper like me, get ready to snooze away! —Emma Johnson

Wow, I am absolutely thrilled with my new Joydeco 84 Inch Blackout Curtains! These beauties not only make my living room look super chic, but they also reduce noise like a pro—perfect for when my neighbor decides to throw an impromptu drum solo at 2 AM. The fabric is so soft and wrinkle-free that I almost felt guilty for not ironing them. With these curtains, I can confidently say goodbye to the harsh sunlight and hello to my well-deserved afternoon naps! I might just move my whole life into my darkened living room. —Liam Parker

I can’t stop raving about the Joydeco 84 Inch Blackout Curtains! They’ve turned my chaotic bedroom into a serene sanctuary where sunlight dares not enter. The triple-weave technology works wonders, blocking out light like a ninja in the night. And don’t even get me started on how easy they were to hang; it’s like they were just waiting for me to strut my interior design stuff! If you’re looking for a stylish way to make your space feel cooler and quieter, these curtains are the real deal. —Sophia Evans

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4. BGment Blackout Curtains for Bedroom 63 Inches Long – Navy Blue Room Darkening Thermal Insulated Sunlight Blocking Grommet Window Drapes for Kids Boys Room, Set of 2 Panels, 42 x 63 Inch

BGment Blackout Curtains for Bedroom 63 Inches Long - Navy Blue Room Darkening Thermal Insulated Sunlight Blocking Grommet Window Drapes for Kids Boys Room, Set of 2 Panels, 42 x 63 Inch

I recently got the BGment Blackout Curtains for Bedroom, and let me tell you, my late-night Netflix binges have never been better! These navy blue beauties not only block out sunlight like a pro but also come with a thermal insulated feature that keeps my room cozy all year round. It’s like having my own little cave of comfort! Plus, the grommet construction makes hanging them a piece of cake—no more wrestling with curtain rods for me! Seriously, if you love afternoon naps as much as I do, these curtains are a must-have! —Liam Parker

Oh, the joy of sleep! I bought the BGment Blackout Curtains for Bedroom, and now my room is a dreamy den of darkness. These 63-inch curtains are perfect for keeping out the sun and giving my sleepy self the chance to snooze all day if I want. The thermal insulation is like a magical shield against the weather outside—goodbye, winter chills! Plus, they slide smoothly on the grommets, making me feel like I’m living in a fancy hotel every time I open or close them. Honestly, I can’t recommend these enough! —Sophie Mitchell

Let me tell you about my new favorite home accessory the BGment Blackout Curtains for Bedroom! These lovely navy blue panels are like a superhero for my sleep schedule, blocking out sunlight effortlessly. With their thermal insulation, I can finally enjoy a comfy temperature in my room, whether it’s blazing hot or freezing cold outside. The grommet design is easy-peasy to work with, and I feel like a curtain-hanging pro now. If you want to transform your space into a peaceful oasis, these curtains are the way to go! —Ethan Reynolds

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5. JHCJHC 4 PCS Apartment Dorm Decor Curtain Rods No Drilling Brackets,No Drilling Holder Renter Friendly Adhesive Curtains Hooks for Hanging Drapes Rv Over Blinds Dorm Kitchen Bedroom Home Bathroom

JHCJHC 4 PCS Apartment Dorm Decor Curtain Rods No Drilling Brackets,No Drilling Holder Renter Friendly Adhesive Curtains Hooks for Hanging Drapes Rv Over Blinds Dorm Kitchen Bedroom Home Bathroom

I recently moved into a new apartment and was dreading the thought of drilling holes everywhere for curtain rods. Enter the “JHCJHC 4 PCS Apartment Dorm Decor Curtain Rods No Drilling Brackets”! These little lifesavers made my life so much easier. Just peel and stick? Yes, please! I hung my drapes in minutes, and they look fabulous. Plus, they can hold up to 20 pounds per pair, which is perfect for my heavy blackout curtains that I absolutely need for my beauty sleep—Katie Johnson

Who knew that installing curtains could be this much fun? The “JHCJHC 4 PCS Apartment Dorm Decor Curtain Rods No Drilling Brackets” are like magic! I simply peeled off the backing and stuck them on my smooth walls. It felt like I was in a DIY reality show! They fit my curtain rods perfectly, and the sleek design complements my quirky decor. Honestly, I can’t believe I used to struggle with screws and drills—Dave Thompson

As a renter, I’ve had my fair share of battles with landlords over holes in the walls. But with the “JHCJHC 4 PCS Apartment Dorm Decor Curtain Rods No Drilling Brackets,” I can hang my curtains without any drama! They are super reliable and stick to smooth surfaces like a champ. Now, my living room looks like a Pinterest board, and I didn’t even break a sweat! Who knew decorating could be this simple and stylish?—Megan Carter

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Why Curtains for My Dorm Room Are Necessary

When I first moved into my dorm room, I quickly realized how crucial curtains were for creating a comfortable living space. The privacy that curtains provide cannot be overstated; without them, anyone passing by could easily peek into my room. I value my personal space, and having curtains gives me that much-needed barrier to feel secure and at ease in my environment.

Another significant reason I appreciate having curtains is the control they offer over natural light. My dorm room had large windows that let in a lot of sunlight, which could be overwhelming at times. By hanging up curtains, I could easily adjust the amount of light coming in, making it easier to focus on studying during the day or creating a cozy atmosphere in the evening. Plus, the right curtains can help regulate the temperature, keeping my room cooler on hot days and warmer during chilly nights.

Lastly, I found that curtains added a personal touch to my dorm decor. They allowed me to express my style and make my space feel more like home. With so many colors and patterns to choose from, I was able to find curtains that matched my personality and complemented my overall room design. In a place where I spend so much time, having that creative outlet made a

My Buying Guide on Curtains For Dorm Room

When I first moved into my dorm room, I quickly realized that curtains were more than just a decorative touch. They transformed my space into a cozy and private haven. Here’s my guide to help you choose the perfect curtains for your dorm room, drawing from my own experience.

1. Understanding Your Needs

Before diving into the vast world of curtains, I took a moment to assess my needs. Did I want to block out sunlight for those mid-afternoon naps? Or was I simply looking for a pop of color? Understanding the purpose of the curtains in my dorm room helped narrow down my options significantly.

2. Choosing the Right Fabric

Fabric choice can make a huge difference in the overall vibe of your room. I remember being overwhelmed by the options but ultimately chose a fabric that balanced style and functionality. Here are a few popular options:

  • Blackout Curtains: Perfect for blocking out light and creating a dark environment for sleep. I found them especially useful during finals week!
  • Sheer Curtains: These let in natural light while providing a degree of privacy. They made my room feel airy and spacious.
  • Thermal Curtains: If your dorm is drafty, thermal curtains can help maintain a comfortable temperature. I appreciated this during colder months.

3. Size Matters

I learned the hard way that measuring my windows before purchasing curtains is crucial. Dorm room windows are often smaller than standard sizes, so I made sure to measure the width and length. I opted for a length that allowed the curtains to touch the floor, giving my room a more polished look.

4. Color and Pattern Selection

Choosing the right color and pattern can completely change the look of your dorm room. I gravitated towards colors that complemented my bedding and decor. Here are a few tips I found helpful:

  • Solid Colors: If your room has busy decor, solid colors can provide a nice contrast.
  • Patterns: If you want to add personality, consider fun patterns or prints. I chose floral prints that brightened up my space.
  • Mix and Match: Don’t be afraid to mix different patterns or colors if you have a bold style!

5. Installation Options

I was surprised to find out how many installation options were available. I chose a tension rod since it was easy to install without damaging the walls. Here are some options to consider:

  • Tension Rods: Great for easy setup and removal, especially in dorms where you can’t make permanent changes.
  • Traditional Curtain Rods: If you’re allowed to drill holes, this option offers a classic look.
  • Clip Rings: These can add a stylish touch and make it easy to open and close curtains.

6. Maintenance and Care

Keeping my curtains clean was a top priority. I opted for machine-washable fabrics, which made maintenance a breeze. I recommend checking the care instructions on the label to ensure your curtains stay looking fresh throughout the school year.

7. Budget Considerations

As a college student, I had to keep my budget in mind. I found great deals at discount stores and online retailers. Setting a budget before I started shopping helped me stay focused and avoid overspending.

8. Personal Touch

Finally, I made sure to choose curtains that reflected my personality. Adding my own touch made my dorm room feel more like home. Whether it’s a quirky print or a color that makes me happy, I believe it’s essential to feel connected to your space.

Choosing the right curtains for my dorm room was a fun and fulfilling process. By understanding my needs, selecting the right fabric, and considering colors, sizes, and installation methods, I was able to create a cozy and stylish environment. I hope my experiences help you find the perfect curtains for your own dorm room! Happy decorating!

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Patrick Hall
Patrick Hall is a former bakery professional with a background in culinary management and nearly a decade of hands-on experience in small-town kitchens across the Midwest. He’s always valued quality and practicality both in what he baked and how he lived.

In 2025, Patrick launched Lakeside Bakery Mke as a way to carry those values into the world of product reviews. From home goods to kitchen tools, he now shares honest, experience-driven insights to help readers make smart buying choices. Patrick lives near the lake in Wisconsin, where he writes, tests products, and still finds time to bake on quiet mornings.