Choosing Blackout Curtains: A Practical Buyer's Guide

Long summer days, intrusive streetlights, or the simple desire for complete privacy in your own home. The search for effective window treatments can sometimes feel overwhelming, with countless options and even more promises.

My name is Joybuy, and as a Product Recommendation Officer at Joybuy, my job is to help you make an informed decision. In this article, I'll provide practical information on blackout curtains and related products, ensuring you find a solution that truly fits your needs.

What to Consider Before You Buy

Before making a choice, it's helpful to consider a few key points. This will help you find the right window treatment for your room.

1. Curtains or a Blackout Roller Shade?

The first choice is often between classic curtains and a sleek roller shade.

• Blackout Curtains: These typically hang in folds, creating a soft, atmospheric look. They are ideal for living rooms or bedrooms. A key advantage is their ability to better cover light gaps at the sides when fully closed.
• Blackout Roller Shade: A roller shade is a sleek, minimalist alternative. It has a small footprint and is a popular choice for smaller rooms, offices, or children's rooms. Be aware that a small sliver of light often remains along the sides of a roller shade.

2. Material and Blackout Level

Not every "blackout" product is created equal. The term light-proof curtains refers to products designed to block nearly all light. This is usually achieved through a dense weaving technique or a special backing coat.

Some products also function as thermal curtains. These often feature a special layer, such as a silver-coloured coating, which not only blocks light but, according to the manufacturer, also helps keep heat in during the winter and out during the summer. This can contribute to a more comfortable indoor climate.

3. Determining the Right Size

Correct measurements are essential. Measure the width and height of the window frame.

• For Curtains: Account for extra width for fullness (often 1.5 to 2 times the width of the rod) and extra length if you want them to reach the floor or windowsill.
• For Roller Shades: The specified width is usually the width of the fabric itself. The total width, including the mounting hardware, is often a few centimetres wider. Always check the product details to ensure a proper fit.

Blackout Window Treatment Recommendations

Based on product specifications and functionality, we have compiled a few options for you.

vidaXL Blackout Curtain - 290 x 245 cm, Taupe

Why It Stands Out: This is a classic, wide curtain that offers a simple and effective solution for larger windows. The material is 100% polyester and is designed to block all incoming light, making it an excellent choice for a bedroom blackout curtain.

Key Features:

• Total blackout (100% light blocking).
• Simple installation thanks to the metal hooks.
• Machine washable at 30°C for easy maintenance.
• The generous size (290 cm wide) is suitable for most standard windows.

Who Is It For? For those looking for a traditional curtain that covers a large area and provides complete darkness. Ideal for the living room, master bedroom, or a child's room.

VidaXL Blackout Roller Shade - Grey, 160 x 230cm

Why It Stands Out: This roller shade combines light-blocking capabilities with an additional feature. The back is treated with a thermoplastic silver coating. According to the manufacturer, this layer not only blocks light but also has thermal properties to help keep the room warmer in winter and cooler in summer.

Key Features:

• Provides 100% light reduction.
• Thermal coating for temperature regulation.
• Sleek and modern design that takes up minimal space.
• The control chain can be mounted on either the left or right side.

Who Is It For? For those who prefer a clean, modern look and value the added thermal function. A practical choice for bedrooms, home offices, or rooms that heat up quickly in the summer.

Deconovo Blackout Valance - 132 x 46 cm, Dark Grey

Why It Stands Out: This is not a full curtain, but a valance: a short curtain for the upper part of the window. It's made of dense microfibre and is designed to reduce light and glare from above while adding a decorative element.

Key Features:

• Helps darken the room and provides UV protection.
• Can be combined with existing window treatments.
• Simple installation on a standard curtain rod.
• According to the manufacturer, it has mild thermal insulating properties.

Who Is It For? For those who don't want to cover the entire window but need to block bright sun or glare from the top. A great addition for kitchens, dining rooms, or as a decorative and functional finish over existing blinds.

Looking for Something Else? Discover More Roller Shades

Is a sleek and functional roller shade exactly what you're looking for, but you need a different size or colour? Many more options are available. Take a look at our wider selection to find the perfect match for your interior.

Explore our full collection of blackout roller shades here

Frequently Asked Questions about Blackout Curtains

1. What is the difference between blackout and dim-out? Blackout fabrics are designed to block 99-100% of light, making them ideal for bedrooms. Dim-out fabrics allow a small percentage of light to pass through (usually 5-10%), creating a dim, ambient atmosphere rather than complete darkness.

2. Do thermal curtains really help with the energy bill? Thermal curtains have an insulating layer that manufacturers claim helps reduce heat loss through windows. In winter, this can help keep warmth in, and in summer, it can keep heat out. While not a substitute for proper insulation, it can contribute to a more stable room temperature.

3. How do I wash blackout curtains? Always check the care label on the specific product. Many polyester blackout curtains, like the vidaXL model mentioned above, can be machine washed at a low temperature (30°C). Curtains with a special coating may require a more delicate approach, such as hand washing or dry cleaning.