Cold drafts around windows can make a room uncomfortable, even when the heat is on. The right covering can add a layer between your room and the glass, help reduce air movement, and make a chilly window easier to live with. These five options range from clear, removable film to insulated fabric covers, so the best choice depends on your window size, how often you open it, and whether you want to keep the view and daylight.
Measure the full area you plan to cover before ordering. A window covering can help with comfort, but it is not a substitute for fixing damaged frames or large gaps around a window.
Table of Contents
Quick Comparison
| Product | Type | Best for | Notable feature |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mellroom Adjustable Window Insulation Kit | Clear film with hook-and-loop straps | Keeping the view while covering a standard-size window | Cuttable, reusable film |
| Two-Set Cuttable Window Insulation Kit | Clear film with adhesive hook-and-loop tape | Covering multiple or larger windows | Two film panels and four tape rolls |
| Thickened Plastic Window Insulation Kit | Clear film with double-sided tape | Adding a low-profile layer without blocking daylight | Multiple size options listed |
| Fairooth Three-Layer Insulated Window Cover | Insulated Oxford cloth cover | Blocking drafts and light | Roll-up design with buckle straps |
| UYEDUJZ Thermal Window Cover | Three-layer insulated cover with clear section | Adding insulation while retaining some visibility | Roll-up design and transparent panel |
Our Picks: Best Window Coverings To Keep Cold Out reviews
1. Mellroom Adjustable Window Insulation Kit: Best Clear Film for a Single Window
The Mellroom kit uses a clear plastic film attached to the window frame with adhesive hook-and-loop straps. The film measures 47 by 63 inches and is described as about 7 mil thick. You can trim it to fit, and the clear material lets daylight and the view through the window remain part of the room.
The fastening system is designed to let you remove part of the film for ventilation, rather than permanently sealing the window shut. The film can also be folded for storage and possible reuse. If your window is wider or taller than the included panel, the product description says two pieces can be joined with the straps. Measure carefully, including the frame, and allow enough material to cover the edges.
This is a practical choice if you want a simple seasonal layer without the dark, enclosed feel of a fabric cover. Its main limitation is coverage: the included panel is intended for windows smaller than its listed dimensions, and it may not suit a window you open frequently. The manufacturer also advises extra fastening for outdoor use or windows without glass.
Pros:
- Clear film preserves natural light and the view.
- Cuttable panel can be adjusted to fit.
- Hook-and-loop straps allow access for ventilation.
- Film is described as foldable for possible reuse.
Cons:
- One panel may not cover larger windows without combining pieces.
- Not the best fit for windows that need frequent opening.
Verdict: Choose the Mellroom kit if you want a clear, removable covering for a window that fits within the panel size.
2. Two-Set Cuttable Window Insulation Kit: Best for Covering More Area
This kit includes two clear film panels, each measuring 47 by 63 inches, along with four rolls of hook-and-loop tape. That extra material makes it a useful option for two separate windows or one larger opening, as long as the combined coverage suits your measurements. The listing also mentions patio doors and large windows, but you should check the actual opening size before relying on the panels to cover them.
The installation process is based on attaching tape to a clean, dry frame and then securing the film. Because the film is cuttable, you can trim it to suit your window shape. The adhesive straps are intended to let you peel the covering back for ventilation. A towel is included to help with setup, according to the product details.
Compared with the single-panel Mellroom kit, this option provides more film and tape for a multi-window project. The trade-off is that a larger installation requires careful measuring and neat placement to avoid gaps or uneven edges. The listing describes the film as thickened and tear-resistant, but it does not give a thickness measurement.
Pros:
- Two film panels offer more coverage than a single-panel kit.
- Four tape rolls provide material for multiple edges or windows.
- Clear film helps preserve daylight and visibility.
- Can be trimmed and opened for ventilation.
Cons:
- Large windows still require careful sizing and may need a different solution.
- Adhesive installation depends on a clean, dry mounting surface.
Verdict: Pick this kit when you need clear film for more than one window or want more material on hand for a wider project.
3. Thickened Plastic Window Insulation Kit: A Low-Profile Clear Cover
This kit is a clear plastic covering intended to add a layer over a window opening. Its low-profile design is suited to rooms where you want to retain daylight and avoid the heavy look of a blanket-style cover. The product details describe the film as thickened and the mounting method as adhesive tape, with no drilling required.
Installation calls for cleaning and drying the frame, measuring the area, attaching the tape, and pressing the film into place. The listing says multiple size options are available, so check the selected size and included contents on the product page before ordering. It may suit bedrooms, living areas, attic openings, or other spaces where keeping the view matters.
This option is similar in purpose to the Mellroom and two-panel kits, but the supplied details do not state a specific film size or thickness for the selected version. The catalog information provided for this product also marks it as unavailable, so confirm that it can be ordered before making it your plan. As with other clear-film kits, the result depends on choosing the right size and securing the edges carefully.
Pros:
- Transparent covering keeps the window view and daylight.
- Adhesive installation does not require drilling.
- Listing describes several size options.
- Designed for seasonal removal, with careful storage possibly allowing reuse.
Cons:
- Exact size and thickness depend on the selected option.
- Availability may vary; confirm the listing before choosing it.
Verdict: Consider this film kit if you want a clear, simple covering, but verify the available size and order status first.
4. Fairooth Three-Layer Insulated Window Cover: Best for Blocking Light
Unlike a clear film kit, the Fairooth cover uses a three-layer construction: Oxford cloth, insulation cotton, and another Oxford cloth layer. The listed panel measures 47 by 63 inches. Its opaque fabric is designed to block light as well as add insulation, making it a stronger match for a bedroom or another room where privacy and darkness matter.
The cover attaches around the window with self-adhesive tape, and the package includes nails for extra reinforcement. Two buckle straps at the top let you roll it up and secure it when you want to open the window. This gives you more day-to-day access than a cover that must be fully removed, though the fabric still blocks the view when it is down.
Compared with the clear-film choices, this cover prioritizes insulation, privacy, and light blocking over visibility. It is a good option when those features are welcome, but the fixed panel size calls for careful measuring. The use of nails for reinforcement may also be less appealing if you cannot make small holes in the frame or surrounding surface.
Pros:
- Three-layer construction combines fabric and insulation cotton.
- Opaque material helps block light and provide privacy.
- Roll-up straps make it easier to open the window without removing the cover.
- Includes adhesive tape and nails for installation or reinforcement.
Cons:
- Blocks the view when the cover is down.
- Nails may not suit every frame or rental situation.
Verdict: Choose the Fairooth cover if you want an opaque, roll-up fabric layer and do not need a clear view through the window.
5. UYEDUJZ Thermal Window Cover: Best Fabric Option with a Clear Section
The UYEDUJZ cover combines a three-layer fabric design with a clear section. Its listed size is 63 by 47 inches, and the product description says the Oxford fabric and polyester filling provide an insulated layer. The clear panel is intended to let in some daylight and preserve visibility without removing the cover.
Like the Fairooth option, this cover can be rolled up and held with buckles. It attaches with adhesive hook tape, and nails are included for reinforcement. That setup offers a middle ground between transparent film and a fully opaque fabric blanket: you get more fabric coverage than a film kit, while retaining a view through the clear section.
The key detail to check is whether the clear portion is positioned and sized appropriately for your window and how you use it. The supplied description does not give the dimensions of that section. The overall panel size is fixed, so measuring your window before purchase is important. If you want a fully clear window or need a custom fit, one of the cuttable film kits may be more practical.
Pros:
- Three-layer construction includes Oxford fabric and polyester filling.
- Clear section lets in some light and maintains visibility.
- Roll-up buckles allow access to the window.
- Includes adhesive hook tape and nails for mounting.
Cons:
- Clear-section dimensions are not specified in the supplied details.
- Fixed panel size may not fit every window.
Verdict: The UYEDUJZ cover is a useful compromise if you want a fabric insulation layer but still value some visibility and daylight.
How to Choose Window Coverings to Keep Cold Out
Choose between clear film and insulated fabric
Clear film is a good fit when you want to keep natural light and the view. Fabric covers offer a more substantial barrier and can also block light and provide privacy, but they obscure the window when closed. If the room needs darkness, an opaque cover may be more useful. If you want to see outside, consider transparent film or a fabric cover with a clear section.
Measure the whole area before ordering
Measure the window opening and the frame area you want the cover to reach. Check the product’s panel dimensions and installation instructions, and allow enough material to attach it around the edges. For film, confirm whether the kit can be trimmed or joined. For fabric, compare your measurements with the listed cover size; do not assume a panel will fit just because it is described for windows.
Think about how often you open the window
If you need regular ventilation, look for a design that can be peeled back, rolled up, or opened without taking the entire covering down. Hook-and-loop film kits offer access by separating the straps, while fabric covers with buckles can be rolled up. A cover that seals the window more fully may be inconvenient if you use that window often.
Consider your frame and installation limits
Adhesive coverings need a clean, dry mounting surface, and some products include nails for added hold. Check whether your frame can take adhesive tape and whether you are comfortable adding nails. If you rent or want to avoid holes, a no-drill film kit may be a better starting point, but consider the condition of the surface before applying adhesive.
Decide how much visibility and privacy you want
Transparent film keeps the view open but offers little privacy compared with opaque fabric. A fully insulated fabric panel can darken the room, while a cover with a clear section aims to balance visibility and insulation. Think about the room’s use, the direction of the window, and whether privacy or daylight matters more.
Set realistic expectations for draft control
A window covering adds a layer, but it may not solve drafts caused by gaps, damaged seals, or other problems around the frame. Look for the source of the cold air and address obvious openings as needed. Treat a covering as one part of winterizing the room, not a replacement for repairs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do clear window insulation films block the view?
The clear-film kits in this guide are designed to preserve visibility and natural light. The exact clarity can depend on the film and how neatly it is installed, but these covers are not intended to block the window like opaque fabric.
Can I cut a window insulation film to fit?
The Mellroom and two-set kits are described as cuttable. Measure first and trim carefully so you leave enough material to secure the film around the frame. Check the specific product instructions before cutting.
Can I still open a window with these coverings installed?
Some options are designed to provide access. The film kits use hook-and-loop straps, and the fabric covers include roll-up straps or buckles. How convenient that is will depend on the window and how often you need to open it.
Which type is better for a bedroom?
If you want to reduce light and add privacy, an opaque fabric cover such as the Fairooth option may suit a bedroom. If you prefer daylight and a clear view, consider a transparent film kit or the UYEDUJZ cover with its clear section.
Will a window covering stop every draft?
No covering can be assumed to stop every draft. These products are designed to add a layer over the window, but gaps around the frame or damaged seals may need separate attention.
Can I reuse a window film kit?
The Mellroom film is described as foldable for reuse. The thickened plastic kit is also described as removable, with careful storage possibly allowing reuse. Reuse can depend on the film’s condition and whether the adhesive still holds after removal.
What should I check before buying an insulated fabric cover?
Compare the panel dimensions with your window, decide whether you want an opaque or partly clear design, and check how the cover attaches. If nails are included, make sure that installation method works for your frame and living situation.
Final Recommendation
For a clear, removable layer, the Mellroom kit is a straightforward pick for windows that fit its panel size. If you need more clear film, the two-set kit offers more material for a multi-window project. Choose the Fairooth cover when light blocking and privacy matter most, or the UYEDUJZ cover if you want fabric insulation with a clear section. Whichever style you choose, measure the window and consider how often you need to open it before ordering.
