Renting an apartment shouldn’t mean sacrificing good sleep.
Yet many renters struggle with light pollution — streetlights, early sunrises, or neighbors’ lights — while being unable (or unwilling) to drill holes or make permanent changes.
The good news?
There are blackout curtain solutions that work perfectly for renters — without damaging walls or breaking rental agreements.
Here’s how to choose the best blackout curtains for rental apartments.
What Renters Should Look For in Blackout Curtains
Before buying anything, renters need to prioritize different criteria than homeowners.
1. No-Drill Installation
This is non-negotiable.
Look for curtains that work with:
- Tension rods
- Twist-and-lock rods
- Adhesive or removable hooks
If it requires screws → skip it.
2. True Blackout Fabric (Not “Room Darkening”)
Many curtains marketed as “blackout” only reduce light.
For sleep — especially in summer — you want:
- Triple-weave fabric or
- Curtains with a blackout liner
If the product description says room darkening, expect disappointment.
3. Extra Width to Prevent Light Gaps
Light leaks from the sides are the biggest failure point.
Rule of thumb:
- Curtain width should be 2× the window width
- Longer curtains block more light than exact-length ones
This matters more than brand names.
Best Types of Blackout Curtains for Renters
Instead of specific brands, focus on types that consistently work well in rental apartments.
1. Thermal Blackout Curtains
These are renter favorites for a reason:
- Excellent light blocking
- Added insulation (keeps rooms cooler and quieter)
- Heavy enough to hang well on tension rods
Best for: bedrooms facing streets or sunrise.
2. Portable Blackout Curtains (Velcro or Suction-Based)
These attach directly to the window frame using:
- Velcro strips
- Suction cups
Pros:
- Zero drilling
- Fully removable
- Ideal for short-term rentals
Cons:
- Less aesthetic
- More “functional” than decorative
Best for: shift workers, temporary apartments, travel-heavy lifestyles.
3. Blackout Curtain Liners (Renter Hack)
If you already have curtains:
- Add a blackout liner behind them
- Attach using clips or rings
This avoids buying new curtains and keeps the room stylish.
Best for: renters who care about interior design.
Installation Tips (Without Losing Your Deposit)
- Mount rods wider than the window to block side light
- Hang curtains as high as possible to reduce top gaps
- Use command hooks for extra side coverage if needed
- Test during daytime — if light leaks then, it’ll leak at sunrise
Small setup details make a massive difference.
Curtains vs Other Blackout Solutions
Some renters consider alternatives like window film. Each option has trade-offs.
If you want a full comparison, see this breakdown:
👉 Blackout curtains vs window film
Short version:
- Curtains = flexible and renter-safe
- Window film = more permanent, more aggressive
Choose based on how much control you want.
Final Recommendation for Renters
If you’re renting, the safest and most versatile option is:
- Thermal blackout curtains
- Hung on a tension rod
- With extra width for full coverage
This setup delivers:
- Excellent darkness
- Zero wall damage
- Easy removal when you move
Sleep improves. Deposit stays intact.