Best Thermal Curtains for UK Flats
A surprising amount of heat escapes through windows, especially in older flats with single glazing or ill-fitting frames. Thermal, blackout-lined curtains create an insulating layer that keeps warmth in at night, reduces cold draughts, and blocks street light and noise into the bargain. This guide rounds up strong options for flats.
QUICK ANSWER
For a flat, choose thermal blackout curtains with a triple-weave or coated lining, in eyelet (ring-top) style for easy hanging on a standard pole. Make them long and wide enough to overlap the window and reach the sill or floor, so cold air can’t sneak around the edges.
Who this guide is for
Renters and flat owners who feel cold near their windows at night, want to cut heat loss without secondary glazing, or need to block light and street noise in a bedroom.
Our picks at a glance
| Pick | Product | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| BEST OVERALL | Deconovo Thermal Blackout Eyelet Curtains | Well-made thermal blackout on a budget |
| BEST EYELET | Thermal Insulated Blackout Ring-Top Curtains | Simple insulation for any room |
| BEST LINEN LOOK | Aspire Homeware Blackout Eyelet Linen-Style Curtains | A softer, more textured finish |
| BEST VALUE | My Home Store Blackout Thermal Curtains | Everyday thermal blackout for less |
| BEST BUDGET | Funky Gadgets Blackout Curtains | The cheapest way to add a warm layer |
How we chose
We compared these products on the features that matter for UK flats — size, practicality, running or maintenance needs, renter-friendliness and value — using published specifications and brand reputation. We haven’t tested every product hands-on, and we don’t quote prices or star ratings here because they change; tap through to Amazon for the current figures and reviews.
The best thermal curtains for UK flats
Deconovo Thermal Blackout Eyelet Curtains
Best for: Well-made thermal blackout on a budget
Deconovo is a popular curtain brand, and these triple-weave thermal blackout eyelet curtains keep heat in and light out while being easy to hang on a standard pole.
Pros
- Trusted curtain brand
- Triple-weave thermal blackout
- Easy eyelet hanging
- Wide range of sizes and colours
Cons
- Blackout is very dark for some
- Heavier than standard curtains
Thermal Insulated Blackout Ring-Top Curtains
Best for: Simple insulation for any room
Insulated ring-top curtains that add a warming, light-blocking layer to bedrooms and living rooms, with a classic eyelet header for quick hanging.
Pros
- Good thermal insulation
- Classic eyelet header
- Range of sizes
- Affordable
Cons
- Colour can vary from photos
- Creases need hanging out
Aspire Homeware Blackout Eyelet Linen-Style Curtains
Best for: A softer, more textured finish
Blackout eyelet curtains with a linen-look texture, for people who want the insulation and light-blocking of blackout curtains with a more relaxed, natural appearance.
Pros
- Linen-look texture
- Blackout lining for warmth and dark
- Eyelet header
- Smart, understated finish
Cons
- Texture hides the blackout backing
- Premium look costs a little more
My Home Store Blackout Thermal Curtains
Best for: Everyday thermal blackout for less
A budget-friendly thermal blackout curtain that covers the essentials — warmth, darkness and easy hanging — without spending much.
Pros
- Low price
- Thermal blackout lining
- Easy to hang
- Multiple sizes
Cons
- Basic fabric
- Fewer colour options
Funky Gadgets Blackout Curtains
Best for: The cheapest way to add a warm layer
An inexpensive blackout curtain for a spare room or first flat, adding an insulating, light-blocking layer at minimal cost.
Pros
- Very cheap
- Blocks light well
- Adds a warm layer
- Handy for spare rooms
Cons
- Thinner than premium options
- Limited sizing/colours
How to choose
- Blackout thermal lining: Look for a triple-weave or coated blackout lining — this is what provides both the insulation and the light-blocking.
- Size generously: Curtains should be wider than the window and reach the sill or floor, with overlap in the middle, to trap air and block draughts.
- Header style: Eyelet (ring-top) curtains hang easily on a standard pole; pencil-pleat needs a track or hooks.
- Close them at dusk: Draw thermal curtains as it gets dark to keep the day’s warmth in; open them in the day to let sun and light through.
- Pair with draught-proofing: Combine with draught excluders around the frame for the biggest reduction in heat loss.
Frequently asked questions
Do thermal curtains actually keep heat in?
Yes, modestly. A blackout thermal lining adds an insulating air layer at the window, reducing the heat that escapes through the glass at night and cutting cold draughts. They work best when they’re generously sized and closed as soon as it gets dark.
Are blackout and thermal the same thing?
They often overlap: most blackout curtains use a dense lining that also insulates, and most thermal curtains block a lot of light. Check the description for both if you want maximum darkness and warmth.
Will thermal curtains help with condensation?
Indirectly. By keeping the room warmer and the window area less cold, they can reduce condensation slightly, but they don’t remove moisture. Ventilation and a dehumidifier are the real fixes for condensation.
Our recommendation
For most flats the Deconovo thermal blackout eyelet curtains are the best all-rounder. Choose the ring-top insulated pair for simplicity, Aspire Homeware for a linen look, and the My Home Store or Funky Gadgets options on a budget.
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