Blackout Curtains Buying Guide: Our Top Recommendations

By the Joybuy Product Recommendation Officer | July 17, 2026

Waking up too early from the morning sun? Or bothered by streetlights creeping into your bedroom? Quality blackout curtains are an essential, not a luxury. Besides blocking light, they also offer enhanced privacy and can help regulate your home's temperature.

However, the options are vast, from different materials to varying degrees of light-blocking. This guide will help you make the right choice. We'll examine technical specifications and practical features to help you find a curtain that meets your needs for bedroom curtains or any other room.

Key Considerations Before You Buy

Before we dive into product recommendations, here are a few practical points to guide your decision.

1. The Degree of Blackout: Dimout or 100% Blackout?

Not all blackout curtains are created equal. The terms 'dimout' and 'blackout' are often used interchangeably, but there's a key difference.

• Dimout curtains: These curtains block a significant amount of light, typically between 75% and 95%. They make a room considerably darker but still allow a small amount of light to filter through. Ideal for living rooms or if you prefer a bedroom that isn't completely pitch-black.
• Blackout or 100% light-blocking: These curtains feature a special coating or an extra lining that stops all light. If you need complete darkness, for instance, because you work shifts or are a light sleeper, a 100% blackout curtain is the right choice.

2. Material and Extra Features: From Linen Look to Thermal

The material determines not only the look but also the functionality. Polyester is a common material due to its durability and ease of maintenance. A 'triple weave' technique is often used, where a black thread is woven into the fabric to create a light-blocking effect.

Looking for a more natural aesthetic? Linen blackout curtains are a popular option. They combine the stylish texture of linen with blackout functionality.

Additionally, many blackout curtains have thermal or insulating properties. The dense fabric helps keep heat out in the summer and cold out in the winter, contributing to a more stable room temperature.

3. Hanging System and Installation: Grommets or Heading Tape?

Ready-made curtains are a quick and easy solution. Pay close attention to the hanging system.

• Curtains with grommets (eyelets): These have large metal rings at the top. You slide the curtain directly onto a rod. This creates a modern look, and the curtain glides smoothly.
• Curtains with heading tape: These have a band at the back where you can insert hooks. This type is suitable for a traditional curtain track.
• Tab top curtains: Loops at the top are hung directly over the rod for a more rustic or informal look.

Recommended Products

Based on product specifications and functionality, we have selected popular choices that cater to different needs.

For Ambience and Privacy: PONY DANCE Semi-Sheer Linen Look Curtains

Why It Stands Out This curtain isn't a full blackout option but a semi-sheer one. It stands out for its combination of a linen-look texture with a subtle botanical print. The sage green curtain colour is a trendy choice that brings a sense of calm and a natural element to your interior.

Key Features

• Material: Linen blend for a stylish, airy look.
• Light Filtering: Provides privacy without completely darkening the room.
• Design: Subtle botanical print for a decorative accent.
• Hanging System: Suitable for both a rod (rod pocket) and a track system (back tab).

Best For: Those who prioritise ambience and privacy in the living room or study over complete darkness. A great choice if you want to filter natural light while making a stylish statement.

The Functional All-Rounder: PONY DANCE Grommet Blackout Curtains

Why It Stands Out This curtain combines functionality with ease of use. According to the manufacturer, its 'triple weave' technology blocks 75-85% of sunlight. The grommet top makes installation very simple. The popular sage green colour makes it a modern addition to any bedroom or living room.

Key Features

• Blackout Level: Dimout effect (75-85% light-blocking according to the manufacturer).
• Insulation: The dense fabric has thermal properties that help regulate room temperature.
• Installation: Easy to hang on a rod thanks to the metal grommets.
• Material: Made of 100% polyester, ensuring a smooth drape and easy maintenance.

Best For: Anyone looking for effective, but not total, blackout. Ideal for the bedroom, children's room, or a TV room where screen glare needs to be reduced.

For Maximum Darkness: PONY DANCE 100% Blackout Linen Curtains

Why It Stands Out This product combines the best of both worlds: the stylish, natural look of linen blackout curtains and the functionality of 100% light-blocking capability. The black lining on the back ensures no light penetrates the fabric.

Key Features

• Blackout Level:100% light-blocking thanks to the sewn-in black liner.
• Thermal Insulation: The double layer makes these effective insulating curtains, helping to block out heat and cold.
• Aesthetics: The linen blend on the front provides a high-end, natural look.
• Durability: The combination of materials is designed for long-lasting use.

Best For: Light sleepers, people with irregular work schedules, or anyone who wants to be able to completely darken a room. Perfect for the bedroom or a home cinema, without compromising on style.

Looking for a Different Style?

Is your interior designed around a specific atmosphere, like a calm and natural boho style? The right curtains can complete the look.

Check out our collection of Boho living room curtains for more inspiration and options that suit your taste.

Frequently Asked Questions about Blackout Curtains

1. What is the difference between dimout and 100% blackout? 'Dimout' means the fabric blocks a large portion of light, typically between 75% and 95%. This makes a room dark, but not pitch-black. '100% blackout' means the fabric, often due to a special coating or lining, lets no light through at all.

2. Do thermal curtains really help with insulation? Yes, thermal curtains can make a noticeable difference. The dense, often multi-layered fabric creates a barrier between the window and the room. In winter, this helps keep heat in, and in summer, it keeps heat out. It's a simple way to contribute to a more comfortable indoor climate.

3. How do I measure for the correct curtain size? First, measure the width of your curtain rod or track. For a full, pleated look, it's recommended to use 1.5 to 2 times the width of the track in fabric. Next, measure the height from the top of the track or rod to your desired length (e.g., to the windowsill, just below it, or to the floor). For grommet curtains, remember to account for the fabric that extends above the rings.