Choosing the best short curtains for kitchen windows can instantly improve both the appearance and functionality of your space. Kitchens need window treatments that allow natural light, provide privacy, resist moisture and stay easy to maintain. Short curtains are the perfect solution especially for small windows, sink areas and breakfast nooks.
In this in depth guide, you’ll discover the best short kitchen curtains available, how to choose the right fabric and length, and smart styling tips to upgrade your kitchen decor.
Best Short Curtains for Kitchen – Top 5 Picks
Below are some of the most reliable and stylish options currently available. These selections cover blackout, light-filtering, modern, and farmhouse styles.
1. ChrisDowa Small Window Curtains – 2 Panels
These short curtains are ideal if your kitchen gets strong sunlight or heat. They are made with thermal insulated, room darkening fabric, helping to block excess light and regulate indoor temperature. The simple grommet design makes them easy to hang and slide.
Best for: Bright kitchens, heat control, modern décor
Key features:
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Room-darkening performance
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Thermal insulation
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Noise-reducing fabric
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Smooth grommet top
Why they’re great for kitchens:
They protect food areas from direct sunlight and reduce heat while still keeping a clean, modern look.
2. RYB HOME Short Curtains – Set of 2 Panels
These are a strong everyday option for kitchens with small windows. The fabric filters light well, offers privacy, and is machine washable a major advantage for cooking spaces.
Best for: Small kitchen windows, rentals, everyday use
Key features:
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Light-blocking fabric
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Rod-pocket installation
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Wrinkle-resistant
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Easy care
Why they’re great for kitchens:
They’re simple, affordable, and versatile enough to match most kitchen styles.
3. PONY DANCE Blackout Curtains – Short Panels
If your kitchen faces direct sunlight, these blackout panels help reduce glare, protect furniture, and improve comfort. While bold in style, they work very well in modern kitchens or utility cooking spaces.
Best for: Strong sunlight, west-facing kitchens
Key features:
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Blackout performance
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Energy-saving insulation
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Thick, durable fabric
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Grommet design
Why they’re great for kitchens:
They dramatically cut heat and brightness perfect for kitchens that get too warm.
4. oolygoo Eucalyptus Botanical Café Curtains
These café-style curtains are designed mainly for decoration and light filtering. The eucalyptus leaf pattern brings a fresh, botanical feel that works beautifully in farmhouse, cottage, or boho kitchens.
Best for: Farmhouse kitchens, sink windows, cozy spaces
Key features:
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Café-length design
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Lightweight fabric
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Botanical farmhouse pattern
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Soft light diffusion
Why they’re great for kitchens:
They brighten the room while adding character without blocking airflow.
5. jinchan Tier Curtains with Attached Valance
This set includes tier curtains and a valance, giving your kitchen a layered, designer look. The linen-style fabric filters sunlight gently while keeping privacy.
Best for: Rustic kitchens, traditional décor, breakfast nooks
Key features:
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Attached decorative valance
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Light-filtering fabric
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Rod pocket installation
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Farmhouse aesthetic
Why they’re great for kitchens:
They enhance window style while keeping the space bright and welcoming.
Why Short Curtains Are Ideal for Kitchens
Short curtains are designed to cover only part of a window, usually stopping at or just below the sill. This makes them perfect for kitchens where long curtains can collect stains, moisture, and odors.
Benefits of short kitchen curtains:
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Let in more natural sunlight
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Stay clear of sinks and countertops
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Are easier to clean and maintain
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Improve airflow
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Match modern, farmhouse, and classic kitchens
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Work perfectly for small or narrow windows
If your goal is to balance beauty and practicality, short curtains are the smartest kitchen window treatment.
How to Choose the Best Short Curtains for Your Kitchen
Measure Your Kitchen Window Correctly
Choosing the best short curtains for your kitchen is not only about appearance it’s also about practicality. The first thing you should focus on is accurate window measurement. Always measure both the width and height of your kitchen window before buying curtains. Short kitchen curtains usually look best when they end at the window sill or slightly below it. Curtains that are too long can touch countertops, collect stains, and interfere with daily kitchen tasks, which is why proper sizing is essential.
Choose a Fabric That Fits Kitchen Conditions
Fabric plays a major role in how well your curtains perform in a kitchen environment. Kitchens are exposed to heat, moisture, and food odors, so lightweight and breathable materials such as polyester blends, cotton, and linen-style fabrics are ideal. These fabrics allow air to circulate and are much easier to clean. Machine-washable curtains are especially important because kitchen curtains need frequent washing to stay fresh and hygienic.
Decide the Right Level of Light Control
Not every kitchen needs the same amount of sunlight. Some kitchens benefit from bright natural light, while others suffer from harsh sun and excess heat. If your kitchen faces strong sunlight, short curtains with light-filtering or blackout properties can help reduce glare and keep the space cooler. For darker kitchens, sheer or semi-sheer short curtains are a better option, as they brighten the room while still offering a level of privacy.
Match the Curtains With Your Kitchen Style
Style is the finishing touch that brings everything together. Modern kitchens usually look best with simple, solid-colored short curtains and clean designs such as grommet tops. Farmhouse and rustic kitchens pair beautifully with café curtains, tier curtains, botanical patterns, and decorative valances. When your short curtains match your cabinets, walls, and kitchen accessories, your space feels balanced, welcoming, and professionally styled.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best short curtains for kitchen windows?
The best short kitchen curtains are moisture resistant, easy to wash and matched to your light needs. Café and tier curtains are the most popular options.
What length should short kitchen curtains be?
Most short kitchen curtains range between 24 and 36 inches, ending at or just below the window sill.
Are café curtains good for kitchens?
Yes. They provide privacy, allow sunlight, and are ideal for windows over sinks.
Which fabric is best for kitchen curtains?
Polyester blends and light-filtering cotton fabrics work best due to easy maintenance.
Can short curtains block sunlight?
Yes. Blackout short curtains are available for kitchens with strong sun exposure.
Conclusion
Choosing the best short curtains for kitchen spaces improves comfort, cleanliness, and visual appeal. Whether you want a modern blackout solution or a cozy farmhouse café look, the right short curtains can transform your kitchen without major renovation.
Focus on proper sizing, washable fabrics, and a style that matches your space. With the options above, you can confidently upgrade your kitchen windows.
