Blackout blinds is a generic term for those window blinds that offer an increase degree of darkness to a room, when completely shut. However, not all of them have the same efficiency, therefore people who need a completely dark room should pay attention to several details, in order to make sure they purchase exactly what they need, be it blinds, shutters, curtains or drapes.

First of all, if you think of installing blackout blinds as a do-it-yourself project, you may want to reconsider this, because it’s a small probability that you’ll find those ready made blinds which perfectly fit your windows size. In this case of total blackout window treatments, it is very important that no light penetrates through the edges. One of the most interesting systems of blackout blinds I’ve seen was called Shy Zip: the innovation was a special side track, the zip side channel, which served as guidance for the edge of the blind fabric, which had a zipper along it. The most beautiful part of the Shy Zip blinds was that they were very easy to turn into electric blinds, as well as hand operated ones, if electric is not an option for you.

If blackout blinds are wanted only for offering a good sleeping environment during daylight time, then vertical blinds can be considered. However, if you want to enjoy your home cinema, you should keep in mind that vertical blinds don’t offer total blackout because of their operating system. There’s always going to be a little bit of light passing through the headrail and on either side of the blind, as well as at the bottom. Roller blinds would be better for obtaining complete darkness.

This is why, when going to buy blackout blinds you need to specify to the shop assistant if you need complete darkness or not, so she knows what to recommend you.

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