Introduction

Every moment spent in your space should feel exactly how you want it, quiet, serene, and comfortable; maybe even dark enough. So, what happens when car honks pierce through your curtains or the sun shines too bright? Does your air conditioner never catch a break? This is where blackout curtains come in.

Blackout curtains are primarily designed to block external light from coming into your space and create a private environment around you. Blackout curtains are not just used in the bedroom; they can also be used in home theaters, nurseries, and anywhere you want to shut distractions out. 

How do blackout curtains serve as key solutions to these problems? This guide will walk you through its benefits, debunk common myths about blackout curtains, and help you choose the best one for whichever space it's going into.

What Do Blackout Curtains Really Mean?

The first and most important thing to take note of here is that blackout curtains do not necessarily equate to room darkening. The primary purpose of a blackout curtain is to block all forms of external (outside) light from coming in, while room darkening curtains do not totally block all flickers of light.  A blackout curtain typically blocks between 95% to 99.9% of light, while a room darkening curtain aims between 60% to 85% of light. 

Blackout curtains can be achieved through tightly woven fabrics, a separate blackout linen, or foam blocking. The tightly woven fabrics are three layers of yarn woven together, such that the inner layer serves as the light-blocking material. The separate blackout linen happens when a different sew-in or detachable liner is added to the fabric. Lastly, foam blocking involves adding acrylic foam layers and light-blocking sheets to the back of the fabric.

It is important to note that blackout curtains, even with the heaviest of fabrics, do not completely block out external light without rays. At times, light finds its way in through the center seams, edges, or at the top of the curtain rods. The solution here is to pay extra attention to the curtain installation process. You should buy curtains that are double the width and length of the window so they overlap at the top, bottom, and centre. You can also install rods that curve around the wall instead of straight ones, as these totally stop side leaks. 

Why Should You Invest In Blackout Curtains? 

If you're a lover of good sleep, want a better rest experience for your kids, or need to cut down on your electricity bill, then blackout curtains are the best choice. 

Better and Healthier Sleep Through Total Light Control: 

The body tends to sleep better when the room is dark, and blackout curtains help to maintain the total darkness your room needs. This darkness affects your circadian rhythm, which is akin to the internal clock that regulates your sleep routine. It also boosts the production of melatonin, which is the hormone that makes you feel sleepy. 

Real Energy Savings on Your Utility Bills:

Blackout curtains are not just for blocking light; they control heat transfer in and out of your home by creating a thermal barrier. In winter, you'll feel warmer, and in summer, the light blocking reduces heat, reducing the use of your air conditioner. According to the US Department of Energy, they can reduce heat gains by up to 33% during summer, and reduce heat loss from a warm room by up to 10% during winter.

A Quieter Home:

If you want more silence while performing any activity in your home, then blackout curtains are your best choice. So, whether you always have cars passing, noisy neighbors, streetlights, or commercial activities happening, you can curb 20 to 40% of the noise with well-installed blackout curtains.

Protect Your Furniture And Floor From UV Rays:

UV rays cause furniture to fade, discolour, and weaken; therefore, having proper blackout curtains with polyester or microfiber materials physically blocks the sunlight, thereby increasing their lifespan. 

Total Privacy:

Having a private space helps with better calmness, concentration, and peace of mind. Blackout curtains, with their ability to shut out external activities, give you all of the space you need. 

How To Choose The Perfect Blackout Curtains

Picking the perfect blackout curtain starts with asking yourself the purpose it's meant to achieve. What kind of space is it going into?

Start with the fabric: 

Different materials like polyester, velvet, and linen can be used to make blackout curtains. Polyester fabric is durable and easy to clean. Velvet speaks of luxury and is excellent for total blackout, but it is also heavy. Linen is stylish and has that sew-in layer for the blackout function. 

Pay attention to construction and colour:

The process of the curtain matters here. Do you want to go for a blackout curtain with two or three layers of yarn? Also, your curtain doesn't have to be black to properly perform its function. With our ZeroLight curtain technology, our white curtains also provide complete light blocking.

Measure for Maximum Effect, Not Just for Fit: 

When measuring for blackout curtains, you do not restrict yourself to the exact measurement of your window. For better effectiveness, opt for something fuller and wider than your window itself. For a better and practical understanding of this step, take a look at our how to measure guide. 

Our Top Blackout Curtain Recommendation For Every Need 

There are different blackout curtains for various purposes, and this section will guide you through what works best depending on their intended uses.

If you need ultimate darkness for a bedroom or home theater…

• Our top picks: Delphine Jacquard (90% Blocking) or Frankie Plaid (85% Blocking).

If you want to balance style and privacy in a living room or office…

• Our top picks: Sloan Jacquard (78% Blocking) or one of our elegant 70% blocking options like the Mila Leaf Pattern.

If you're looking to soften harsh sunlight while keeping the room bright…

• Our top pick: Margot Imitation Hand-Weaving (60% Blocking).

Frequently Asked Questions

Do blackout curtains make a room completely dark?

While blackout curtains keep your room cool, they do not offer complete darkness. However, to prevent light flickers, you can extend the height, width and block the top areas where light comes from.

How do you clean blackout curtains?

This depends on the kind of fabric that has been used for the curtain. For a triple-weave polyester curtain, you can make use of a washing machine, while a velvet curtain just requires soft dryclean.

Can you see shadows through blackout curtains?

This also depends on the fabric and the installation of the curtain. With blackout curtains that block out 90% to 99% of light, which also extend beyond the window frame, you can hardly see anything going on outside.

Are blackout curtains a wise investment?

More than just being curtains, blackout curtains are a lifestyle upgrade. For busy streets, in noisy environments, and for front-facing houses, blackout curtains are a good investment for both your health and improved concentration. 

Ready to transform your space? Shop for different blackout curtains from our specially curated collection.