The afternoon sun, a malevolent intruder. Peering through the crack in my blinds, it mocked my attempts at a proper research nap. I needed darkness, complete and utter. This, as any sleep-deprived physicist will tell you, is not easily achieved. That’s where the Amazon Basics Room Darkening Curtains enter the equation.

My initial assessment, straight out of the packaging? Surprisingly decent. The metal grommets slid easily onto my existing rod. (Pro tip: always double-check your rod diameter; these aren’t going to fit a behemoth.) Fabric quality feels more robust than the budget-friendly price suggests. Forget the flimsy, transparent horrors I’ve wrestled with in the past. These are serious contenders in the battle against light pollution.

The claims about room darkening aren’t hyperbole, either. Afternoon nap test one: complete blackout. The weave is clearly dense, and the resulting opacity is impressive. This isn’t just about blocking glare; it’s about creating an environment conducive to true rest. I can see these being lifesavers for shift workers or anyone with a fluctuating sleep schedule.

Now, I’m not saying they’re perfect. The single layer, while effective, isn’t as insane as some of the multi-layered, blackout-specific options out there. The weave, however, isn’t quite as thick as a premium brand I tested last year (that one cost three times as much, by the way). This leaves the tiniest pinpricks of light creeping through if you’re really scrutinizing, but that’s easily fixed. A simple addition of a standard set of blinds behind the curtains will negate this completely.

There is one thing I have a bone to pick with, though: the limited color selection. If I was designing a laboratory or a darkroom, this could be the place to start, but who wouldn’t appreciate a few more options?

If you’re a light sleeper who’s serious about blocking out the day and creating the perfect sleep sanctuary, these Amazon Basics curtains are a steal. Go ahead, order a pair. Your future, well-rested self will thank you.