The 9 Most Effective Blackout Shades to Block Out Light in Your Space

While there are many different types of blackout shades, the ones that block the most light are made from one of three main materials: wood and polyester. The purpose of these types of shades is to block out light, but you also need to keep in mind that some of them are expensive and may not fit in your future home. If you are renting your space and don't want to spend too much money on them, consider starting with a cheaper option until you have the money to purchase a higher-quality version.

Paper

Blackout curtains block 99% of the light and provide privacy. They are generally hanging in bedrooms. While they can block out light, you can't fully darken a room using these shades, and they aren't as attractive as other blinds or shades. Also, they're not as durable as other types of shades. These aren't good for homes with children or pets, and the adhesive used for the shade can come undone if you don't like it.

A great advantage of paper blackout shades is their affordability. They come in over 30 sizes and varying widths. You can choose to buy a Roman style, which folds excess material into pleats. When you receive your order, the fabric is wrinkled, but this will relax within a few days. If that doesn't work, you can also steam the fabric. This will make it look even better.

Polyester

While some people prefer the pitch-black look of true blackout shades, you do not need to make your space completely dark to achieve complete darkness. With polyester blackout shades, you can achieve this look without sacrificing light control. They are available in more than 30 sizes and come in a variety of designs. You can choose between the Roman or vertical style, which folds the excess material into pleats.

If you are looking for high-quality blackout curtains for your space, then you should consider purchasing a pair of PONY DANCE drapes. These drapes come in 10 classic colors and three standard sizes, ranging from black to pure white. The darkest colors are the most effective, blocking 85 to 95 percent of light. Additionally, they reduce ambient noise. The navy blue curtains I purchased exhibited excellent light-blocking capabilities.

Plastic

Whether you want to reduce the amount of outside light in your space or simply block UV rays, plastic blackout shades can help you achieve your goals. These shades have a top-down, bottom-up configuration to block light while still creating enough shade. They come in over 30 different sizes, with eight grommets to help reduce light leakage. They also come with a 30-day return policy.

Many blackout shades are available for inside or outside mounting. Outside installation ensures a true blackout, but some people find the inside mounting more convenient. Others like to hang curtains over them. Plastic blackout shades come in a variety of materials and look great with either natural textiles or synthetic fabrics. You can also find options made of faux silk or polyester blends. Once you have made a decision, it's time to start thinking about your style.

Wood

When it comes to blocking out light, there are several options. You can install wood blinds on top of shades, or you can hang curtains over blinds for added energy efficiency. While both options have their benefits, wood blinds may not be ideal for your space if you prefer a minimalist aesthetic. Wood blinds, on the other hand, add visual appeal and offer a light-blocking alternative to blinds.

You can also install bamboo shades, woven wood shades, or Roman shades to help block out natural light. There are also sheer shades available that block harmful ultraviolet rays. They can be ordered with a motorized lift system to operate on a schedule. These shades come in eye-catching patterns and neutral colors, but if you want more privacy, you may want to choose dark colors. They also come in various heights and can block out even more light.

Temporary cordless

If you're looking for a quick way to block out sunlight and heat, you can use temporary cordless blackout shades to cover your windows. They come in different colors, but all are made of durable aluminum foil, which blocks 100 percent of visible light. They also come in multiple sizes, which gives you more options for customization. They are easy to install and come with all the necessary hardware. The cordless shades mount in your window frame and can be easily raised or lowered using the plastic tab on the bottom bar.

If you have kids, consider purchasing a cordless model that will be easy to tuck into a closet. These are available in many different colors and styles and can be installed either inside or outside the window frame. You can purchase cordless shades online, or visit a retail store to see what's available. You can also find motorized models of these shades that operate on battery power or plug-in.

Cellular

Cordless cellular shades are among the most versatile choices when it comes to blocking out light. They can be customized with nearly eighty colors. Plus, you can get them in single or double-cell materials for a variety of window sizes. And, you don't have to worry about putting up any extra hardware since they're made of polyester fabric with a metalized inner lining. You can also adjust the light filtration of these shades with ease.

Buying blackout shades is easy, but you should measure your windows properly. Some shades are standard or trim-to-fit, but many are custom. This means you should get the measurements right or hire a professional to do the installation. Otherwise, you'll be wasting money on a shade that doesn't fit properly. Also, if you want a complete blackout, you'll want to hire a professional to install them.