Buying Blackout Curtains: Recommendations for Better Sleep

A streetlight shining right into your bedroom? The afternoon sun making the nursery too bright for a nap? Or an energy bill that skyrockets in winter? These are common problems in many households. The right window treatments are often the solution.

As a Joybuy Product Recommendation Officer, I'm here to help you navigate the many options. In this article, we'll look at different types of blackout curtains and provide practical tips, so you can make a choice that suits your situation—without all the marketing jargon.

Buyer's Guide: What to Look For

Before you make a decision, it's helpful to consider a few things. The right curtains do more than just block light.

1. The Degree of Light Blocking: Blackout vs. Dim-out

Not every "light-blocking" curtain is the same. The term blackout curtains refers to fabrics designed to block 85% to 100% of light. This is often achieved with a special coating or through triple-weave technology, where a black thread is woven into the middle of the fabric. A side benefit of this dense fabric is that they often double as noise-reducing curtains, dampening ambient sound.

Dim-out curtains are lighter and still allow some filtered light to pass through. For a bedroom curtain or a home cinema, true blackout options are usually the best choice.

2. Type of Window Treatment: Curtain or Roller Blind?

The choice between classic curtains and a sleek blackout roller blind depends on your interior design and functional needs.

• Curtains: Offer a soft, warm look and have excellent insulating curtain properties. They are available in various hanging systems, such as curtains with eyelets (grommets) that slide easily over a rod, or with header tape for a traditional track.
• Roller Blinds: Provide a minimalist look and take up less space. A model with a special coating on the back can guarantee complete darkness. Installation is often simple but usually requires drilling into the window frame or wall.

3. Extra Benefits: Insulation and Energy Savings

The same properties that block light also make blackout curtains effective as energy-saving curtains. The thick fabric or special coating acts as a buffer: it keeps heat in during the winter and out during the summer. This not only helps to make the temperature in your home more comfortable but can also contribute to a lower energy bill.

Recommended Products to Consider

Based on product specifications and functionality, we have listed a few popular choices for you.

VidaXL Blackout Roller Blind - 140x230cm, Black

Why it stands out: This roller blind is designed for maximum functionality. The back is coated with a thermoplastic silver layer. According to the manufacturer, VidaXL, this layer not only blocks 100% of light but its thermal properties also contribute to insulation.

Benefits:

• Offers complete blackout, ideal for bedrooms.
• The coating helps regulate room temperature.
• Sleek and modern design that fits many interiors.
• The control chain can be mounted on either the left or right side.

Who is it for? Perfect for shift workers, parents with young children, or anyone who wants to make a room completely dark. Also a great choice for a home cinema.

View product details

PONY DANCE Blackout Curtains with Eyelets - 2 Panels, Black

Why it stands out: This set combines a high degree of blackout with ease of use and a more sustainable material profile. The triple-weave technology blocks 85-95% of light, according to the manufacturer. The fabric contains at least 50% recycled polyester and is certified according to the Global Recycled Standard and OEKO-TEX STANDARD 100.

Benefits:

• Highly effective light blocking and privacy.
• Easy installation thanks to the curtains with eyelets.
• Thermal properties contribute to energy savings.
• Made with recycled materials, an eco-conscious choice.

Who is it for? An excellent all-rounder for the bedroom or living room. Ideal for those looking for effective, ready-made curtains that are easy to hang and also have an eco-friendly aspect.

View product details

PONY DANCE Pencil Pleat Blackout Curtains - Sage Green

Why it stands out: The flexibility of this curtain is a major plus. Thanks to the pencil pleat, you can hang it in two ways: with hooks on a traditional curtain track or with rings and hooks on a rod. The soft, sage green colour provides a calm and stylish look.

Benefits:

• Versatile hanging options for both tracks and rods.
• Blocks 85-95% of sunlight thanks to the triple-weave fabric.
• Insulating curtains that help balance room temperature.
• Made of polyester with at least 50% recycled material.

Who is it for? Suitable for those who already have a curtain track or prefer the classic look of pleated curtains. The colour makes it a beautiful addition to an interior where ambiance is just as important as functionality.

View product details

Looking for Something Else?

If your perfect style or colour isn't here, don't worry. Window treatments are highly personal and depend heavily on your interior design. For more decorative options, you can browse our wider collection.

For example, take a look at our selection of black and white swag curtains for more inspiration.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the difference between blackout and dim-out curtains?Blackout curtains are made to block almost all light (85-100%), often using a dense weaving technique or a special coating. Dim-out curtains are lighter in weight and material, and they still allow some daylight to pass through in a filtered way. They reduce glare but do not make a room completely dark.

2. Do blackout curtains really help save energy? Yes, the dense fabric or coating of energy-saving curtains has an insulating effect. In winter, it helps keep the heat in, and in summer, it keeps the sun's heat out. This can reduce the need for heating or air conditioning, which can lead to savings on your energy bill.

3. How do I measure the correct size for blackout curtains? Getting the right size is crucial for effective light blocking. A general guideline:

• Width: Measure the width of your curtain rod or track and multiply it by 1.5 to 2.5. This ensures a nice pleat and prevents light gaps at the sides.
• Length: Measure from the top of the rod or track to the desired length (e.g., the windowsill, below it, or to the floor). Keep in mind that curtains with eyelets start slightly above the rod.