Buying Blackout Curtains: Recommendations for Bedrooms and Living Rooms

Are you waking up too early in the morning due to light? Do you feel a cold draught from the window in winter? Or are you simply looking for more privacy and ambiance in your living room or bedroom? Good blackout curtains can be the solution to all these issues. However, the selection is vast, and it's not always clear which curtains truly deliver on their promise.

As a Joybuy Product Recommendation Officer, I'm here to guide you. In this article, we'll provide practical tips for choosing the right ready-made curtains and highlight some popular choices for 2026, based on their specifications and functionality. This way, you can make an informed decision without being swayed by marketing jargon.

What to Look for When Choosing Blackout Curtains?

Before we dive into the products, here are a few key considerations to help you make your choice.

1. Material and Functionality Go Hand in Hand

The material determines not only the look but also the functional properties of the curtain.

• Linen curtains (or those with a linen look) create a natural, airy feel. They are often less effective at blocking light, but some versions come with a special coating or an extra lining to provide complete blackout.
• Velvet curtains feel luxurious and naturally have good sound-dampening and insulating curtains properties due to their dense, heavy fabric. Ideal for a chic atmosphere in the living room curtains or bedroom.
• Polyester is the most commonly used material for thermal curtains. It is durable, easy to maintain, and can be woven very effectively to keep light and cold out. Pay attention to the fabric's weight (expressed in g/m?): a higher weight often indicates better quality and blackout performance.

2. The Right Size and Hanging System

Ready-made curtains are practical, but only if the size is right. Carefully measure your window frame or the current track/rod. For a full and luxurious effect, choose a curtain that is 1.5 to 2 times the width of your window.

Also, consider the hanging system:

• Grommets: Modern and easy to slide over a rod.
• Pencil Pleat: Suitable for a track with hooks. This creates a classic, uniform pleat.
• Back Tab: The rod is threaded through loops on the back, allowing the curtain to hang closer to the wall and creating a neat pleat at the front.

3. Blackout Level: 100% Blackout or Dim-out?

The term "blackout" is used broadly. Some curtains block 85-95% of light (dim-out), which is often sufficient for living room curtains. For bedroom curtains, you might want complete darkness. Therefore, look for specifications that mention "100% blackout." These curtains often have a special black intermediate layer or a coated backing.

Popular Blackout Curtain Choices

Below is a selection of curtains that stand out for their specific properties and material use.

1. PONY DANCE 100% Blackout Linen Curtains

Why it stands out: This curtain combines the sought-after, natural look of linen curtains with the functionality of 100% blackout. While many fully blackout curtains are made of smooth polyester, this offers a stylish, textured alternative.

Specifications & Benefits:

• Total Blackout: Thanks to an interwoven black layer, this curtain blocks all daylight, making it ideal for the bedroom.
• Thermal Insulation: The dense fabric helps keep the room cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter, which can contribute to energy savings.
• Natural Look: The linen-blend fabric in the 'Natural' colour fits well in a rustic, Scandinavian, or bohemian interior.

Who is it for? For anyone looking for maximum blackout in the bedroom without compromising on a light and natural interior style.

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2. PONY DANCE Blackout Curtain with Pencil Pleat (Extra Wide)

Why it stands out: The exceptional width of 300 cm per panel makes this curtain a practical ready-made solution for large windows, bay windows, or sliding doors, where you would normally need multiple panels.

Specifications & Benefits:

• Suitable for Wide Windows: One panel can cover a large area, creating a sleek and seamless look.
• Flexible Hanging System: The pencil pleat is suitable for a curtain track but can also be hung on a rod using rings.
• Good Blackout: The heavy fabric (230 g/m?) blocks 75-85% of light according to the manufacturer, which is ideal for reducing glare in the living room and creating privacy.

Who is it for? For homeowners or renters with large windows who are looking for an affordable and effective solution that looks custom-made.

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3. PONY DANCE Patterned Velvet Curtains

Why it stands out: This is more than just a functional curtain; it's a decorative statement. The combination of luxurious velvet curtains with a classic floral and stripe pattern in mustard gold instantly adds warmth and character to a room.

Specifications & Benefits:

• Luxurious Appearance: The soft, rich texture of velvet provides a sense of luxury and depth.
• Sound and Heat Insulating: The dense, heavy fabric helps to dampen ambient noise and keep the room temperature stable.
• Atmospheric Darkening: While not 100% blackout, it provides effective 'room darkening', creating a cosy and intimate atmosphere.

Who is it for? For those who want to combine functionality with a distinctive style. Perfect for adding a touch of elegance and ambiance to a living room or a chic bedroom.

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Haven't Found What You're Looking For?

The right curtains are highly personal and depend on your taste, interior, and the specific requirements of the room. The recommendations above are a starting point. Are you looking for different sizes, colours, or styles?

View our full range of blackout ready-made curtains for more options.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between blackout and dim-out curtains?

Blackout curtains are designed to block 99-100% of light. They often have a special lining or coating. Dim-out curtains still allow a small percentage of light through (usually 5-15%) and are ideal for spaces where complete darkness is not necessary, such as the living room.

Do blackout curtains really help against the cold?

Yes, especially thermal curtains or curtains made of a heavy, dense fabric like velvet have a noticeable insulating effect. They create a layer of air between the window and the room, which helps to keep heat in and cold out. This can contribute to a lower energy bill.

Can I wash blackout curtains myself?

Most ready-made blackout curtains made of polyester or a linen blend can be machine washed at a low temperature (maximum 30°C). However, always check the care label of the specific product. Curtains with a special coating or made from delicate fabrics like velvet may require a gentler treatment, such as hand washing or professional cleaning.