The available evidence does not establish the nine products or ranking behind a 2022 “best heat-blocking curtains” list, so it would be misleading to recreate it. A separate Consumer Reports test names nine blackout-curtain brands and measures both light blocking and insulation, but it does not verify winners in that roundup or confirm current models. Here is what that test can—and cannot—tell you when choosing window coverings for heat control.
What the available curtain test actually measured
Consumer Reports selected nine popular blackout-curtain brands and tested light blocking and thermal insulation. For insulation, a curtain was placed over a warm, temperature-controlled metal box in a cool room. Testers measured how much heat had to be added to keep the box at a constant temperature; less added heat indicated better insulation. Consumer Reports describes its method and results.
The brands named in that test were Amazon Basics, BGment, Gracie Oaks Olivia Signature, Ikea, Lemomo, Mainstays (Walmart), Nicetown (since rebranded as TheHues), Pottery Barn, and Threshold (Target). These are test participants, not verified picks or a ranking from a separate 2022 list. The available information also does not confirm that the exact tested models remain on sale.
Why blackout performance and heat control are different
The Consumer Reports overall score weighted light blocking much more heavily than thermal insulation. A curtain that blocks more visible light therefore should not automatically be treated as the best insulator. Compare the two performance dimensions separately: darkness matters for sleep or glare, while insulation concerns heat transfer through the covered window.
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#1 Best Overall
- Ready Made: 2 panels per package. Each Classic Curtain measures 52" wide x 84" long (Total width is 104"). The unique design of the silver grommet (1.6 inch inner diameter) creates casual elegance for your house, which makes the curtains easy to install and slide.
- Blackout Effect: The real Blackout curtains on the market. Sew in black liner backing makes the drapes thick enough to completely keep out the sunlight and uv ray. The benefit is to offer you a real dark environment, bringing you a good night's sleep during the day.
- Noise Reducing: Heavyweight Blackout Curtain Panels can be a good sense of drape, making the window completely closed, to cut noise down. The effect of absorbing sound is 2 times higher than the ordinary 1 layer of curtains so that at any time you are not disturbed by noise.
- Unique Design: Draperies constructed with 2 layers are all triple weave Blackout fabric, balancing room temperature by insulating against summer heat and winter chill meanwhile protect privacy.
- Easy Care: Good quality finishing will withstand years of use. No washing's best, it brings no color fading. If have to, pls hand wash with cold water, and shorten the soaking time. Mild neutral detergent no bleaching. Low-temperature ironing. Don’t use sharp things scratching curtains.
A laboratory result is specific to its test setup. It does not predict a particular change in your room temperature or energy bill, which can depend on the window, installation, room, weather, and how the covering is used.
What the “up to 77 percent” figure means
Consumer Reports relays a U.S. Department of Energy estimate that smart management of window coverings can reduce heat gain by up to 77 percent. That is a broad estimate about managing window coverings, not a result for thermal curtains alone and not a guarantee for an individual home. Read Consumer Reports’ explanation of the estimate.
Rank #2
- READY MADE: Set includes 2 BLACKOUT CURTAINS PANELS of 42" wide x 63" length with 6 grommets top each. Quality fabric without liner feels soft and heavy.
- SERVE WELL: Curtains impede 85%-99% light and UV rays(Dark color curtains work well). Noise-reducing, better TV viewing thanks to the innovative triple weave technology.
- ENERGY SMART: Triple weave blackout fabric balances room temperature by insulating against summer heat and winter chill. Protect your furniture, floors, and artwork from the ravages of the sun, the drapes will pay for themselves off over time.
- GOOD TO GO: Thread trimmed and wrinkle-free, ring (1.6-inch inner diameter) fits easily with standard curtain rods. All sets for you to put them up right away.
- EASY TO MAINTAIN: NICETOWN blackout curtains are made to last. Machine washable in cold water, tumble dry. Quick ironing or steam clean when needed. Visiting the NICETOWN store, find out your favorite curtains.
What to compare before buying
- Insulation and light blocking: Look for evidence about each separately. Do not use a blackout label as a substitute for insulation performance.
- Coverage and fit: Check panel dimensions against the window and how the panels will sit at the sides and top. A product’s stated dimensions do not by themselves establish how much of your particular opening it will cover.
- Construction and lining: Compare the actual product description and specifications. Features and performance are product-specific; do not assume all thermal or blackout curtains are built alike.
- Color and fabric: Consumer Reports tested light and dark colors, but results from a test should not be generalized to every color or fabric variation sold under a brand.
- Care: Follow the care instructions for the exact product. Domino’s 2022 guide notes that thermal curtains can also share blackout or sound-reducing functions, but those features and care requirements should be confirmed on the current product label or listing. See Domino’s 2022 thermal-curtain guide.
When another window treatment may suit you better
Curtains are one option among several window attachments. The Attachments Energy Rating Council overview describes rating coverage across categories including cellular shades, roller shades, pleated shades, Roman shades, and solar screens. This is useful context if you want adjustable daylight or view, but the overview is not a direct head-to-head ranking of those products against curtains, nor should its dated category description be treated as an exhaustive list of what is currently rated. Consult the AERC overview.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.What can be concluded about the 2022 “nine best” list
The exact products and order behind the titled 2022 roundup are not established by the available sources. Consumer Reports’ nine-brand test is a distinct comparison and cannot stand in for that missing ranked list. Treat any current buying decision as product-specific: verify the model, specifications, dimensions, care instructions, and current availability rather than relying on an unverified historical ranking.
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Best Value
- SET DETAILS: 2 charcoal gray curtains per package. Each panel measures 42 inch wide by 63 inch long with 6 silver metal grommets (1.6 inch inner diameter) on top, easy to install and slide.
- LIGHT BLOCKING: these bedroom curtains block out 98% sunlight and UV (darker color works better). Get you a good night sleep, afternoon nap and weekend lie-ins. Also protect furniture and carpet from the fading effects of the sun.
- QUALITY FABRIC: These thick living room curtains work well in noise reducing and privacy protection. Same solid color on both sides. The material feels soft with no chemical smell, safe for kids room and nursery room.
- ENERGY SAVING: these energy efficient curtains can reduce room heat and cold loss through window during winter and summer, help cut your energy bills.
- EASY CARE: these privacy drapes are machine washable below 86℉; Gentle cycle; Do not bleach; Tumble dry low; Warm iron.
Rank #4
- Made of high quality durable 100% polyester fabric, our blackout curtains are super smooth, soft and free from chemical smell
- Package Includes: 2 black curtain panels, each blackout curtain measures 52 inch wide and 84 inch length constructed with 8 silver grommets measuring 1.6 inches inner diameter
- Blackout Curtains and Privacy Maximization: Curtains impede 85%-99% light and UV ray(Darker colors more better).The curtains are made using a triple weave innovative production method, and they help maximize privacy and reduce some noisy
- Energy Saving Curtains: These thermal insulated curtains help prevent energy loses by insulating hot summers and cold winters. Perfect thermal curtains for bedroom, living room, kids room and nursery room
- Care Instructions: Our room darkening blackout curtain machine washable, do not bleach, iron at low temperature settings
Rank #3
- SIZE & MATERIAL:Set includes 2 panels blackout curtains（52" Wide by 84" Long). Each panel has 8 grommets.The interior diameter of hole is 1.6 inch.It's easy to hang. Curtains are made by quality faux linen.
- BLACKOUT CURTAINS: Thermal insulated blackout curtains could block 100% light out to darken your room completely.Suitable for late sleepers, shift workers, seniors, parents, students and computer operators to enhance their quality of sleep well during the day.
- TRIPE WEAVE TECHNOLOGY:We adopt tripe weave technology to make material. With the help of this technology, curtains could insulate the room from the heat and cold all the year, so that it will save energy. Also,curtains could reduce the noise to keep your room quiet. Blackout curtains could provide you a comfortable environment with privacy.
- CLASSIC HOME DECOR:Quality linen curtains could decorate your room into a vintage, gorgeous and luxurious style. It is available in 8 sizes to accommodate your bedroom, living room, den,etc.
- EASY CARE: If there are wrinkles when opening the packaging. Warm iron or steam iron and tumble dry at low temperatures if necessary. Don't use sharp things scratching curtains.Due to different screen display, the color of actual item may vary slightly from images.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
