Joybuy Insights

Blackout Curtains: Our Recommendations for a Dark Bedroom

A bright streetlight shining directly into your bedroom. The early morning sun in summer. Or a living room that turns into a sauna in the afternoon. These are common problems that can significantly disrupt your sleep and home comfort. In these cases, good blackout curtains are not a luxury, but a practical solution for more comfort and privacy.

However, the range of options is vast, and the claims can be even bigger. That's why we're here to help. In this article, we filter the information and provide you with practical guidance to make the right choice for your situation. No marketing jargon, just clear information about what works.

Joybuy Product Recommendation Officer

What to Consider When Choosing Blackout Window Treatments?

Before you make a decision, it's useful to consider a few key points. The right window treatment for the bedroom or living room depends on more than just the colour.

1. Material and Insulating Properties

Not every dark curtain is completely blackout. True light-blocking curtains are made from a densely woven fabric, often with a special coating on the back or an interwoven black thread. This construction completely blocks light. Many of these models are also thermal curtains. They keep the heat out in the summer and in during the winter. This is because the fabric creates an insulating layer of air between the window and the room, which can help reduce heating and cooling costs.

2. Type: Curtain, Roller Blind, or Door Curtain?

The choice between different types depends on your window, your interior design, and your needs.

  • Classic curtains: These provide a soft, atmospheric look and offer excellent blackout coverage if they are wide and long enough to cover the entire window. They are ideal for larger windows in the living room or bedroom.
  • A blackout roller blind: This is a sleek and minimalist solution. It takes up very little space and is perfect for smaller rooms, kitchens, or offices. Pay attention to the sides, as a small sliver of light can sometimes get through.
  • A blackout door curtain: Specifically designed for glass doors or as a flexible room divider. This type of privacy curtain is ideal for closing off an open closet or temporarily blocking a passageway.

3. The Right Dimensions

For optimal blackout, size is crucial. Ensure the curtain is at least 15-20 cm wider than the window frame on both sides. For the length, let the curtain fall to the windowsill or the floor. This prevents light gaps at the sides, top, and bottom. Always measure the space where the curtain will hang, not just the window itself.

Popular Blackout Product Choices

Based on product specifications and functionality, we have selected a few options that provide solutions for different situations.


PONY DANCE Boho 100% Blackout Curtains

PONY DANCE Boho 100% Blackout Curtains

Why It Stands Out This curtain combines functionality with a decorative design. While many blackout curtains are a solid colour, this model features a stylish zigzag pattern. According to the manufacturer, PONY DANCE, the multiple layers of fabric provide a 100% blackout effect and have thermal insulating properties.

Key Features

  • Total Blackout: The manufacturer claims the fabric blocks 100% of sunlight and UV rays.
  • Thermal Properties: The fabric helps regulate room temperature, providing comfort in both summer and winter.
  • Stylish Design: The sage green boho pattern adds a decorative element to the room.
  • Dimensions: Supplied as a set of two panels, each measuring 132 x 220 cm.

Who It's For For those looking for effective blackout curtains for the living room or bedroom without compromising on style. A great choice if the curtain is a visible part of the interior during the day.

View the PONY DANCE Boho Curtains


VidaXL Roller Blind Blackout - Grey

VidaXL Roller Blind Blackout - Grey

Why It Stands Out This blackout roller blind from vidaXL is a model of functionality. The back is coated with a thermoplastic silver layer. According to vidaXL, this layer not only blocks light completely but also contributes to the room's insulation.

Key Features

  • Light-Blocking Coating: The silver coating on the back is designed for 100% light reduction.
  • Insulating Effect: The thermal properties help keep the room cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter.
  • Sleek Finish: The roller blind has a modern, minimalist look that fits into many interiors.
  • Flexible Installation: Can be mounted on the ceiling or wall, with the control chain on the left or right.

Who It's For Ideal for bedrooms, children's rooms, or a home office where complete darkness is desired. Its sleek look makes it a popular choice for modern homes and spaces where traditional curtains would take up too much room.

View the VidaXL Roller Blind


PONY DANCE Accordion Door Curtain

PONY DANCE Accordion Door Curtain

Why It Stands Out This is a smart and versatile solution that goes beyond a standard window. This blackout door curtain can be used for doorways, as a partition for a wardrobe, or even as a temporary room divider. The accordion design makes it easy to slide the curtain aside and secure it.

Key Features

  • Multifunctional: Suitable as a privacy curtain for doors, closets, or as a room divider.
  • Thermally Insulated: Like other blackout fabrics, this material helps regulate temperature.
  • Easy Installation: Comes with hooks, making it easy to hang without needing to install a full curtain rod.
  • Complete Privacy: The dense fabric not only blocks light but also completely obstructs the view.

Who It's For For people seeking a flexible blackout or privacy solution for a doorway, an open closet in the bedroom, or to screen off part of a room.

View the PONY DANCE Door Curtain


Need More Options?

The products above are popular choices for specific situations. If you are looking for a different style, such as sleek panel curtains that provide a modern look, there is more to discover.

Check out our full range of Blackout Panel Curtains for more styles and sizes.

Frequently Asked Questions about Blackout Curtains

1. What is the difference between blackout and light-blocking curtains? The terms are often used interchangeably. Generally, light-blocking curtains suggest a 100% blockage of light, often due to a special coating. "Blackout" can sometimes refer to curtains that block 95-99% of light. For a completely dark room, it is important to check if the product description mentions a 100% blackout claim from the manufacturer.

2. Do thermal curtains really help with the energy bill?Thermal curtains create a layer of still air between the window and the room. This layer acts as an insulator. In the winter, this helps to keep heat in, and in the summer, it keeps the sun's heat out. While the effect depends on factors like the quality of your windows and the rest of your home's insulation, it can certainly contribute to a more stable indoor temperature and potentially a lower energy bill.

3. How should I wash blackout curtains? Always check the manufacturer's care label. Due to the special coatings or densely woven fabrics, many blackout curtains have specific washing instructions. Some can be machine washed on a cold and gentle cycle, while others need to be hand-washed or taken to the dry cleaner to avoid damaging the blackout properties.