The sun rays will often interrupt the sleep of many people, whether you're a light or deep sleeper. While you can easily pull the duvet to cover your eyes, the best blackout curtains are an easy way to ensure that you block all the sun rays and enjoy your sleep.
There are a good number of options available at different prices, from blackout curtains to room darkening options. A blackout curtain doesn't have to look any different from the other curtains apart from the interior lining.
Ensure you choose something that is not only functional but also looks great. The guide below will assist you in choosing the best blackout curtain to match your needs. Keep reading to find out.
Why Do You Need Blackout Curtains?
Blackout curtains are a priceless investment to anyone trying to get uninterrupted sleep, especially in the morning or during the day. These curtains will help keep your room dark and protected from daytime darkness.
These curtains are an ideal choice for nurseries, bedrooms, home theaters, or rooms in the house where you may need to limit the exposure to natural light. A blackout curtain will often refer to drapes made from a double-lined fabric designed to block light.
Besides keeping the day sun out of your eyes, there are other benefits of using a blackout curtain. They include;
- Reducing the ambient noises
- Insulating the rooms from heat or drafts
- Protecting the decor and furniture from UV rays that may cause fading.
Now that we have identified the need to use a blackout curtain, here are the five best blackout curtains in the market today.
1. NICETOWN Thermal Insulated Grommet Blackout Curtains for Bedroom
- READY MADE: Set includes 2 BLACKOUT CURTAINS PANELS of 42" wide x...
- SERVE WELL: Curtains impede 85%-99% light and UV rays(Dark color...
- ENERGY SMART: Triple weave blackout fabric balances room...
- GOOD TO GO: Thread trimmed and wrinkle-free, ring (1.6-inch inner...
- EASY TO MAINTAIN: NICETOWN blackout curtains are made to last....
If you're in search of an energy-saving option, the NICETOWN Thermal Insulated Grommet Blackout Curtains for Bedroom is one of the best options available. These curtains are thermal insulated and come in a dozen colors to ensure they match your home.
The set comes with six grommets and two panels, and this is everything you will need to set them up with ease. An outstanding part is its light blocking capabilities since these curtains can impede 90% of UV rays and the light that comes in.
They also play a great role in insulating and noise reduction against several elements. Cleaning these blackout curtains is also quite easy as they can just be thrown in the machine for cold cycle wash after which, they will be good as new.
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2. Amazon Basics Room Darkening Blackout Window Curtain with Grommets
- 2-pack of 100% blackout curtain panels for blocking sunlight, UV...
- Creates energy-saving insulating barrier against heat and cold,...
- Rod pocket fit standard or decorative rods; includes 2 Velcro...
- Constructed with innovative triple-weave fabric with thick...
- Made in OEKO-TEX Standard 100 factory, an independent...
The Amazon Basics Blackout Window Curtains with Grommets are 100-percent polyester blackout curtains that feature two panels and are made using a triple weave fabric. They are machine washable and a super economical choice that comes in a multitude of patterns and colors.
They include 1.5-inch grommets and Velcro ties that help pull them back. Additionally, these curtains are made in an Oeko-TEX standard factory. Given their durable fabric, they do a great job of blocking the outside noise and insulating the rooms for energy efficiency.
Moreover, their reasonable price point and a huge range of styles make them stand out from the rest of the curtains. They can easily be installed on the curtain panel, and they are an ideal choice for playrooms, kids' rooms, and also people who are renting.
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3. PONY DANCE Blackout Curtains for Bedroom Thermal Insulated & Privacy Rod Pocket
- READY MADE: 2 panels of Heavy-duty blackout curtains includes,...
- VERSATILE STYLES: Dual header(Back Tab and Rod Pocket) enable you...
- INNOVATIVE FABRIC: PONY DANCE blackout curtains with no liner...
- MULTI-FUNCTION: The blackout curtains reduce noise and regulate...
- CARE INSTRUCTIONS: Machine washable, Use only non-chlorine...
If you're in search of sleek and effective thermal insulated blackout curtains, look no further than the PONY DANCE Blackout Curtains for Bedroom Thermal Insulated & Privacy Rod Pocket. These curtains are made from polyester fabric and come in ten colors and three standard sizes.
The color spectrum ranges from pure white to black, but it is recommended to pick the darker shades for the best light blocking ability. This is especially true for those people who are looking for 85 to 95% light blockage and reduced ambient noise.
These curtains feature a rod pocket installation that is versatile enough to enable you to either hang the curtains on the rod or use curtain clips to hang them. However, these curtains may be a bit challenging to install compared to the grommet style.
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4. MIUCO 2 Panels Thermal Insulated Grommet Window Blackout Curtains
- DESIGN STRUCTURE - Includes 2 panels, each 52 inch wide by 63...
- SUN LIGHT CONTROL - Innovative triple-weave construction helps...
- NOISE CONTROL - Miuco's window blackout curtains are able to...
- ENERGY EFFICIENT - Help to keep the heat in the room during the...
- CLEAN INSTRUCTIONS - Machine wash cold, gentle cycle, do not...
The MIUCO 2 Panels Thermal Grommet Window Blackout Curtains are designed for both cold and hot weather seasons. It comes with 18 colors to choose from, all of which have a satin finish. Additionally, this set of curtains also come with two matching tiebacks to provide a tidier look whenever the curtains are open.
As one of the best blackout curtains, these curtains feature a triple woven fabric that helps block 98 percent of sunlight and 100 percent of UV light, with the results varying depending on the different colors of the curtains.
These curtains also come with a sound insulation feature that blocks about 60% of the outside noise. Despite the varying light blocking capabilities of this blackout curtain, the installation is quite easy.
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5. Deconovo Thermal Insulated Blackout Curtains, Room Darkening Window Drapes
- BASIC INFORMATION - Package contains 2 panels. Each Drape...
- DESIGN and TEXTURE - This solid color blackout curtain features a...
- FUNCTION CURTAINS - These thermal insulated curtains block out...
- CARE INSTRUCTIONS - Machine washable,wash below 86°F, gentle...
- The DECONOVO DIFFERENCE - At Deconovo, we champion meeting...
The Deconovo Blackout Thermal Insulated Curtains will add an elegant touch to your space. This two-piece set comes in various sizes and colors to help you find the perfect one for your space.
These curtains are made from 100 percent polyester and come with a set of silver grommets that make it easy to slide the curtains onto the rods. Both pieces have thermal insulation and help reduce outside noise.
The thermal grommet curtains will help reduce heat loss, save energy and ensure you get a better night's sleep. In addition, these blackout curtains will keep the bedroom exceptionally dark at night, allowing no light to pass through them.
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Blackout Vs. Room Darkening Curtains
The blackout and room darkening curtains can easily block light; however, blackout curtains will ensure the room remains as dark as possible. It would help to consider getting a room darkening curtain for a kid's room because a blackout curtain may give a completely dark environment that may disturb their circadian rhythm.
Types of Blackout Curtains
The two most common types of blackout curtains are;
- Grommet Curtain- These come with wide metallic holes which allow the curtain rods to go through them. When it comes to this style, it is always a good idea to position the rod high enough for the window so that the grommet hole doesn't hang over the window and allow light to come in.
- Rod pockets- These ones will allow the curtain rod to slip through the curtain's fabric, preventing the light from getting in the room. This type is mostly used in classic spaces.
There are other blackout curtains that come with a magnetic stripe or a weighted bottom hem to block out light and seal off any light seepage.
What Do You Consider Before Buying the Best Blackout Curtains?
1. Size
While most blackout curtains come in standard widths of 42 or 52 inches per panel, they come in different lengths. They are available in extra large and extra small lengths and widths to suit different window sizes and shapes as well the chosen curtain rod.
Here are some tips you should consider when want to maximize light blocking by getting the right sizes of curtains;
- Extend the curtain panel 2 inches past both sides of the window frame
- Measure from the top side of the rod to the floor or the bottom of the window frame to find out the ideal curtain length.
- The curtain rod should be above the window to ensure that no light can seep in.
- You can use wrap-around rods to connect the wall to the ends of the curtain panels, blocking even more light.
2. Installation
To ensure the blackout curtains will function effectively, it is important to use a wraparound rod and measure few inches beyond the window frame. Curtains that include the necessary hooks will make the installation even much easier.
3. Color and Material
Despite its name, blackout curtains, these curtains come in various colors, including white. The fabric options are also available. Unlike cotton or linen, polyester and other synthetic materials are budget-friendly options that will still give a stylish look for your space.
However, synthetic materials may not be as durable as other materials. So while any material can be great, be sure to pick one that matches your needs and preferences. For example, for a lighter look, you should consider linens, and for sound and warmth conditioning, you should consider thicker fabrics like velvet.
4. Opacity
The opacity of the curtains depends on how much light can get in the room, whether artificial or natural light. Therefore, manufacturers often specify the opacity, which is the percentage of light that the curtain can block.
A higher percentage won't necessarily be better. For example, it's best for the curtains to block 85 to 98% percent of light in the bedrooms because a small amount of light will help someone navigate around the room.
When it comes to opacity, pay attention to the denseness, material, and color of the curtain because they affect the ability of the curtain to block out light. If the goal is 100 percent, light reduction opts for darker or black fabric.
How Do You Install Blackout Curtains?
Blackout curtains are installed in a similar way as regular curtains or drapes. To install the curtains, you first need to measure the width and length of the window frame. If you have a curtain rod, you can measure where you want the blackout curtains to start or end to ensure you get the desired length.
When installing, you need to measure and mark four inches above the window to install your brackets. Then attach the blackout curtains to the curtain rod, hang your rod on the brackets, and that's it!
For a maximum blackout, you need to cover the windows with curtains that are extending the window itself to help minimize the light that passes through. You can also buy a wraparound rod to help hang your curtains on.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on Blackout Curtains
1. What is the best color for blackout curtains?
The best color of blackout curtains is dependent on how much you want to block. To block 100 percent of the light, you should choose a blackout curtain with a dark color like black or a coated fabric curtain in any color.
2. Do blackout curtains really work?
Yes. Most people benefit from darker rooms when sleeping, and the best blackout curtains will help block light when installed properly. On the other hand, room darkening curtains can also be used to block more light at night and less during the day.
3. Why are blackout curtains bad?
Some blackout curtains may be made with chemicals, and they often have VOCs, which is why they are considered toxic. However, in most cases, a blackout curtain may not be hazardous enough to interfere with your health when used properly.
4. What is the best material used for blackout curtains?
Heavy microfiber is known to make the best blackout curtains because it features a triple weave technology is used when making the curtains. This material is designed to block 90% o the light and can also help balance the temperature of the room because of its insulating features. Polyester blackout curtains are also good enough.
