Side-by-side comparison based on expert reviews and community consensus.
CB2 European Flax-Certified Linen Blackout Curtain Panels
Best Premium LinenIKEA Sheer Curtains
Best SheerPrice
$100-$200
$10-$30
Summary
Wirecutter's top pick for room-darkening curtains that actually look beautiful. Certified European flax linen hangs with a breezy, light aesthetic while still delivering impressive light blocking.
Reddit's go-to recommendation for affordable sheer curtains that look clean and modern. IKEA's sheers offer a light, airy feel at a price that makes dressing multiple windows painless.
Pros
- Wirecutter's top pick after testing dozens of curtains
- European Flax-certified linen for a premium, natural look and feel
- Impressive room-darkening ability despite light, breezy appearance
- Hangs beautifully with a sophisticated drape
- Consistently recommended in Reddit interior decorating communities
- Very affordable — easy to dress multiple windows without breaking the budget
- Clean, modern aesthetic that works in most rooms
- Easy to find in stores and online with standard sizing
Cons
- Significantly more expensive than budget blackout options
- Room-darkening rather than full blackout — won't achieve cave darkness
- More expensive and fewer extras than the similar West Elm option
- Sheer only — no light blocking or privacy at night
- Quality considered lower than pricier alternatives like Target's Project 62 line
- Limited pattern and color variety compared to specialty curtain retailers
Our take
If you care about how your curtains look as much as how they perform, CB2's linen panels are the move. Wirecutter tested dozens and these came out on top — they're the rare curtain that looks expensive because it is, and it's worth it.
For sheers, IKEA is the community consensus — full stop. Redditors in interior decorating threads keep coming back to them because they look good, wash well, and cost almost nothing. Don't overthink it.
Buy
