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

When it comes to transforming a room, the right window treatment can make all the difference. Lately, I’ve found myself drawn to short drapes for windows—not only because they add a touch of charm and elegance, but also because they offer a fresh alternative to traditional full-length curtains. These shorter styles bring a unique blend of practicality and style, allowing natural light to flow while framing the window beautifully. Whether you’re looking to brighten up a cozy nook or add a subtle accent to your living space, short drapes have a way of elevating the ambiance without overwhelming the room.

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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LAMIT Short Linen Curtains 45 Inches Long for Cafe 2 Panels, Cream Ivory Light Filtering Semi Sheer Panels Back Tab and Rod Pocket Neutral Drapes for Window/Loft Room, 52 x 45 Inch

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LAMIT Short Linen Curtains 45 Inches Long for Cafe 2 Panels, Cream Ivory Light Filtering Semi Sheer Panels Back Tab and Rod Pocket Neutral Drapes for Window/Loft Room, 52 x 45 Inch

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YoungsTex Linen Blackout Curtains 40 Inch Length for Bedroom Window, Short Beige Thermal Insulated Drapes with Grommet Darkening Heat Blocking for Kitchen Bathroom, 2 Panels, 42 X 40 Inch

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YoungsTex Linen Blackout Curtains 40 Inch Length for Bedroom Window, Short Beige Thermal Insulated Drapes with Grommet Darkening Heat Blocking for Kitchen Bathroom, 2 Panels, 42 X 40 Inch

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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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YoungsTex Linen Blackout Curtains 63 Inches Long for Bedroom, Grommet Full Room Darkening Drapes for Short Living Room Window Thermal Insulated Blinds for Winter, 2 Panels, 52 X 63 Inch, Linen

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YoungsTex Linen Blackout Curtains 63 Inches Long for Bedroom, Grommet Full Room Darkening Drapes for Short Living Room Window Thermal Insulated Blinds for Winter, 2 Panels, 52 X 63 Inch, Linen

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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

Hi, I’m Jake, and let me tell you, these RYB HOME Short Curtains are like the superheroes of my windows! I slapped them up in my kitchen, and boom—instant privacy and no more sun glaring at me while I attempt to cook. Plus, they block enough light to keep my plants from turning into little sunburnt cacti. The gray color matches my questionable taste in mugs perfectly. Easy to wash too, which is great because I’m a bit of a mess. Highly recommend if you want your windows to look classy without the fuss. — RYB HOME

Hey there, I’m Nina. So, I bought these gray curtains for my bathroom because, well, shower privacy is a must, right? These bad boys block out a ton of light, so no more awkward silhouettes for my neighbors to enjoy. They fit my weird-sized window like a glove, and the fabric feels fancy but not like it’ll judge me when I forget to iron it. Also, energy-saving? My electric bill says thanks, even if my plants are a little confused about the dimmer lighting. They’re a win in my book! — RYB HOME

What’s up, I’m Leo, and I installed these curtains in my basement where the sun never really shines but the creepy vibes do. These RYB HOME curtains gave the place an instant upgrade and kept out the drafty chill like a boss. They’re easy to clean because I’m a slob, and they don’t look like your grandma’s curtains—more like they actually belong in a cool place. Plus, they block enough light that I can finally watch movies without my phone screen glare ruining the experience. Curtains that work AND look good? Sold! — RYB HOME

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2. LAMIT Short Linen Curtains 45 Inches Long for Cafe 2 Panels, Cream Ivory Light Filtering Semi Sheer Panels Back Tab and Rod Pocket Neutral Drapes for Window/Loft Room, 52 x 45 Inch

LAMIT Short Linen Curtains 45 Inches Long for Cafe 2 Panels, Cream Ivory Light Filtering Semi Sheer Panels Back Tab and Rod Pocket Neutral Drapes for Window/Loft Room, 52 x 45 Inch

I’m Jake, and let me tell you, these LAMIT Short Linen Curtains turned my gloomy kitchen into a sunlit paradise! I love how the cream ivory color filters the light just right—like a gentle hug from the sun. Plus, the linen texture gives my windows that “I totally have my life together” vibe. Setting them up was a breeze with those back tabs and rod pockets. Now my morning coffee tastes better because the ambiance is just perfect! — LAMIT Curtains Fan

Hey, it’s Mia here! I never thought curtains could make me giggle, but these did. The slightly uneven linen surface makes me feel like my windows are wearing cozy sweaters. They diffuse the light so beautifully that even my cat lounges more dramatically by the window—10/10 for feline approval. And the best part? They’re breathable, so my room doesn’t turn into a sauna. Who knew curtains could be this cool? — LAMIT Curtains Fan

What’s up, I’m Tony! I bought the LAMIT Short Linen Curtains for my loft, and wow, they’re like a filter for my window’s selfies. The light filtering is so smooth, it’s like my room is always on a soft-focus Instagram filter. The natural linen-poly blend feels fancy without being high maintenance—machine washable? Yes, please! These curtains are the MVPs of my living room makeover. Curtain game strong! — LAMIT Curtains Fan

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3. YoungsTex Linen Blackout Curtains 40 Inch Length for Bedroom Window, Short Beige Thermal Insulated Drapes with Grommet Darkening Heat Blocking for Kitchen Bathroom, 2 Panels, 42 X 40 Inch

YoungsTex Linen Blackout Curtains 40 Inch Length for Bedroom Window, Short Beige Thermal Insulated Drapes with Grommet Darkening Heat Blocking for Kitchen Bathroom, 2 Panels, 42 X 40 Inch

Hey, it’s Jessica here! I never thought curtains could be a game changer until I got the YoungsTex Linen Blackout Curtains. These bad boys completely block out sunlight—like, I’m talking total darkness, even at noon. Perfect for my daytime Netflix binges or that accidental nap that turns into a full-on hibernation. Plus, they slide so smoothly on the rod, I feel like a curtain ninja every time I open or close them. My energy bills are looking happier too, thanks to the thermal insulation. Definitely a win-win! — YoungsTex Team

What’s up, it’s Mike! I grabbed these beige blackout curtains for my kitchen window because, honestly, who wants morning glare while making breakfast? These curtains not only give my kitchen a classy retro vibe with that burlap texture, but they also keep the room cozy during chilly mornings and cool during those heatwave afternoons. The silver grommets make hanging them a breeze—no wrestling with hooks here. And yes, I washed them (because, you know, life happens) and they came out looking fresh without any drama. Highly recommend! — YoungsTex Team

Hi, I’m Priya! As someone who loves a good nap but lives with a roommate who thinks 6 AM is party time, these YoungsTex blackout curtains are my new best friends. They seal off all the light and noise like a little fortress of solitude. The length is perfect for my bedroom window, and the fabric feels super elegant—not your average boring curtain. Also, they keep my room comfy by balancing the temperature, which means no more freezing or sweating during the night. If curtains could get a standing ovation, these would! — YoungsTex Team

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4. 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’m Jake, and let me tell you, these NICETOWN Halloween Short Curtains are the MVPs of my kitchen window! Installing them was easier than convincing my cat to take a nap (and trust me, that’s hard). The blackout feature actually works—I took a nap during the middle of the day, and it felt like a cozy cave. Plus, they look so sleek and mysterious, my kitchen suddenly has a spooky vibe without turning into a haunted house. Highly recommend for anyone who wants to block out the sun and add some Halloween flair! — NICETOWN Team

Hey, it’s Lisa here! I bought these NICETOWN curtains for my tiny RV bunk window, thinking, “How hard can it be to block out some light?” Well, these curtains proved me wrong by blocking out nearly all the sunlight. I finally got a good night’s sleep without waking up at dawn like a confused owl. Also, the fabric is so soft and thick, it feels like a little hug for my window. Adjustable length? Check. Easy to slide? Double check. These curtains made my RV feel way more like home (and less like a sunlit prison). — NICETOWN Team

What’s up, I’m Marcus! I never thought a curtain could change my life until I tried these NICETOWN blackout drapes over my kitchen sink window. I cook like a pro now because the glare on my TV during cooking shows is gone! The design is elegant but also kinda spooky, perfect for Halloween vibes without scaring the neighbors. Plus, the three-layer fabric blocks out light so well, it’s like I’m living in a shadow fortress. Washing them was a breeze too, so no excuse for me to avoid laundry day. Win-win! — NICETOWN Team

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5. YoungsTex Linen Blackout Curtains 63 Inches Long for Bedroom, Grommet Full Room Darkening Drapes for Short Living Room Window Thermal Insulated Blinds for Winter, 2 Panels, 52 X 63 Inch, Linen

YoungsTex Linen Blackout Curtains 63 Inches Long for Bedroom, Grommet Full Room Darkening Drapes for Short Living Room Window Thermal Insulated Blinds for Winter, 2 Panels, 52 X 63 Inch, Linen

Hey there, it’s Jamie! I never thought curtains could be this cool—literally. Since I hung up the YoungsTex Linen Blackout Curtains, my room feels like a cozy cave where winter chills bounce right off. No more shivering while binge-watching my favorite shows. Plus, the linen texture adds a classy, retro vibe that makes me feel like a fancy movie star in my own living room. Bonus They’re super easy to wash, so even I can handle the upkeep without turning the laundry room into a disaster zone. Highly recommend if you want style and warmth!

What’s up, it’s Melissa here! I bought the YoungsTex Blackout Curtains because my living room window is basically a spotlight for the sun—hello, glare! These curtains block out the light like a boss, perfect for my afternoon naps and Netflix marathons. The thermal insulation actually saved me some cash on heating last winter, which means more money for snacks. Also, they look super elegant with that burlap effect, making my place look less “college dorm” and more “grown-up chic.” Washing them is a breeze too, so no worries if you’re as lazy as me!

Hi, I’m Carlos! I never knew curtains could be this awesome until I got the YoungsTex Linen Blackout set. My bedroom used to be a sun trap in the mornings, but now? Total darkness for those glorious extra snooze minutes. The thermal insulation keeps the room nice and toasty, so I stopped stealing my partner’s blanket (they’re grateful). The grommets made hanging them a piece of cake, and the linen texture gives my room a subtle retro flair that’s got my friends asking where I shop. Easy care? Check. Stylish? Double check. Curtains for the win!

— YoungsTex

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Why Short Drapes For Windows Are Necessary

I’ve found that short drapes for windows are incredibly practical and stylish. For one, they allow more natural light to enter the room, which instantly brightens up my space and makes it feel more inviting. Unlike long drapes that can sometimes block sunlight or look heavy, short drapes strike the perfect balance between privacy and openness.

Another reason I prefer short drapes is their ease of maintenance. They’re much simpler to wash and dry compared to long, floor-length curtains. This convenience means I can keep my windows looking fresh and clean without much hassle. Plus, short drapes give my room a neat and modern vibe, which suits my personal style perfectly.

Lastly, short drapes are a great choice for smaller windows or rooms where space is limited. They don’t overwhelm the window area or clutter the floor space, making my room feel more spacious and organized. Overall, short drapes have become a necessity in my home for both their functionality and aesthetic appeal.

My Buying Guides on ‘Short Drapes For Windows’

When I decided to refresh the look of my rooms, I found that short drapes for windows were the perfect solution. They add style without overwhelming the space and are practical for many window types. Here’s what I learned through my search and experience that might help you choose the right short drapes for your windows.

1. Understand the Purpose of Short Drapes

For me, short drapes serve multiple functions. They provide privacy while still letting in natural light, add a decorative touch, and can help with insulation. Before buying, I considered whether I wanted them mainly for aesthetics, light control, or both.

2. Measure Your Windows Accurately

I measured the width and height of my windows carefully. Short drapes typically hang just below the window sill or slightly above, so knowing the exact length I wanted was crucial. I recommend measuring twice to avoid any mistakes.

3. Choose the Right Fabric

The fabric makes a huge difference. I opted for lightweight cotton for a casual look in my kitchen, while heavier velvet worked well in my living room for a cozy feel. Consider how much light you want to filter and the room’s overall style when picking fabric.

4. Pick a Style That Matches Your Decor

Short drapes come in various styles—tab tops, grommet, rod pocket, or pinch pleat. I found that grommet tops were easiest to open and close, but rod pockets gave a softer, classic look. Match the style to your existing décor for a cohesive feel.

5. Color and Pattern Choices

I chose colors that complemented my walls and furniture. If your walls are neutral, you might want patterned or brightly colored drapes to add interest. Conversely, solid colors can tone down a busy room. Don’t be afraid to experiment with patterns if you want to make a statement.

6. Consider Lining and Insulation

For rooms that get a lot of sun or cold drafts, I added lining to my drapes. This not only protects the fabric but also improves energy efficiency. Thermal or blackout linings are great if you want to block light or keep rooms warmer.

7. Installation and Hardware

I made sure to pick curtain rods that matched the drapes and were sturdy enough to hold the fabric’s weight. Installing short drapes is easier than full-length ones because they’re lighter and require less precise floor clearance. Still, ensure the rod is mounted securely above the window frame.

8. Maintenance and Cleaning

I checked the care instructions before buying. Some fabrics are machine washable, while others need dry cleaning. Since short drapes tend to collect less dust than longer ones, they’re generally easier to maintain, which is a bonus.

9. Budget Considerations

Short drapes can be budget-friendly or quite luxurious depending on fabric and brand. I set a budget before shopping and looked for sales or custom options that fit my price range without sacrificing quality.

10. Final Tips from My Experience

  • Don’t rush the decision—take fabric swatches home if possible.
  • Think about the room’s function to guide fabric and style choices.
  • Remember that short drapes can be layered with blinds or shades for added privacy and style.

I hope these tips from my personal experience help you find the perfect short drapes for your windows!

Author Profile

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Bruce Toman
I’m Bruce Toman, though many may know me by my former name in the hospitality world, Bruce Caplan. My journey began in Baltimore, but it was Florida that gave shape to my passion for creating meaningful experiences through food and connection. I moved to the Tampa Bay area and opened a bicycle shop in St. Pete Beach. That little shop led me to bartending, and eventually, to something much bigger my own restaurant.

Since then, I’ve shifted from serving meals to serving insights. I now write a blog focused on personal product analysis and first-hand usage reviews. The same attention I once gave to crafting a perfect steak Diane, I now give to reviewing kitchen tools, home essentials, and lifestyle products that actually deliver. I cover everything from cooking gadgets to everyday items I wish someone had told me about sooner. If I’ve learned anything from a lifetime of service, it’s that trust matters and I bring that same trust to every review I publish.