Ever feel like you’re missing out on a good night’s rest? With the best blackout shades available on the market, you can rest easy knowing you’ll get the best sleep possible. The right blackout shades will block out all of the daylight, allowing for undisturbed slumber and a better quality of sleep.

In this article, we’ll be exploring the best blackout shades for nursery, home, or office use. We’ve done our research and scoured resources to find what we believe are the very best in terms of quality, durability, and price. First, let's talk about when blackout shades might come in handy.

Why Choose Blackout Shades?

Opting for blackout shades can mean different things to people. In general, this type of shade helps with:

Improved sleep quality 

When light is blocked out, it helps the body better transition into sleep and stay asleep for longer. Having enough restful sleep can reduce stress levels, improve concentration, and even contribute to a healthier lifestyle overall.

Increased privacy

These shades are also great for providing added layers of security in terms of keeping outsiders from looking inside your home or office space. Not everyone wants other people peering into their windows!

Energy savings 

Blackout shades do a great job of blocking strong sunlight from entering your space and thus help reduce energy costs because you won’t need to rely on air conditioners as much.

Protection of furniture and flooring from sunlight damage 

The strong UV rays of sunshine can wreak havoc on your valuable furniture and keepsakes, as well as damage hardwood flooring. By blocking out the light from these windows, you’re helping to protect your belongings from sun-related fading or discoloration.

Throughout history, people have reported benefitting from blackout shades, especially in bedrooms, nurseries and offices. So, let’s take a look at some of the best options available on the market this year for those looking to purchase blackout shades.

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Best Blackout Shades in 2023

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1. Factory Direct Blinds Blackout Shades

Factory Direct Blinds offers room-darkening blackout blinds and shades with excellent light blocking capabilities. These come in a variety of styles and fabrics, like Blackout 2 Excel Polyester or Light Filtering 2 Sateen for those looking for lighter filtering options. 

With both inside and outside mount frame types available, customers can choose according to the type of window they're covering. Plus, our solid construction ensures that these quality blinds are made to last years!

We also offer blackout roller blinds that are sure to keep you sleeping soundly as they have excellent light-blocking capabilities and come with a range of cord styles available.

2. Redi Shade Blackout Pleated Paper Shades

Redi Shade’s Blackout Pleated Paper Shades are an excellent choice for blackout solutions. We would consider these one of the best solutions if you seek light-blocking properties without losing style or quality from your window treatment. They have a unique honeycomb texture and come in several beautiful pastel colours, making them look more like a décor statement than just blinds!

Just keep in mind that they do not come with a window frame. However, if you own a simple and small windowsill, the shades should fit easily without one.

3. Bali Blackout Shades

Next on our list is Bali’s Blackout Shades. These come with excellent room-darkening features and have the ability to block up to 95% of light. As an added benefit, they also help retain heat during colder days and reduce unwanted noise levels.

Furthermore, these shades can be installed in almost any window type, as long as enough depth is available for a proper fit to the frame. They come in various selections of colours and patterns that make them look incredibly stylish wherever you place them!

4. Levolor Blackout Roller Shades

For those looking for an affordable option, Levolor Blackout Roller Shades are a great choice. They offer complete blackout capabilities and feature unique air pockets that increase insulation in your home during colder seasons. These shades are also easier to install than other window treatments due to their adjustable brackets, making them ideal in any room regardless of size or shape!

Although Levolor offers these shades in different colours and makes, they might not last as long as the higher-end models on this list.

5. iFit Blackout Roller Shades

iFit's Blackout Roller Shades are perfect for those who desire a top-of-the-line window treatment. They come with the best blackout capabilities available on the market and feature various cordless locking systems to keep your home safe from intruders.

To add versatility, these shades have their own mounting brackets which allow them to be easily adjusted for different windows or heights within your space! These shades may cost more than others but they also last longer due to the high-quality materials used in their construction.

6. Arlo Blinds Thermal Room-Darkening Roman Shade

This is the type of shade you'd want if you’re looking for a stylish and modern way to darken your space. The Arlo Blinds Thermal Room-Darkening Roman Shade is thermally insulated, with its room-darkening fabric that blocks out sunlight, while also adding warmth to the room. Both versatile and durable, these shades can be adjusted up and down depending on how much light you want in the room.

These window treatments are more expensive but because of their quality construction, they come with a lifetime warranty!

7. Pottery Barn Blackout Shades

Stylish and classic looks don’t require a fortune. With Pottery Barn's Blackout Shades, you can get the look of designer window treatments for an affordable price and without compromising on quality! These shades feature cordless and motorized lifting systems that make them easy to install, use and adjust.

Plus, their blackout fabric provides effective light control so your room will remain private all day long.
Though these shades aren't as heavy-duty as some other options on this list, they still provide good insulation from the elements and excellent value for money at their price point.

8. Flamingo P Blackout Curtain

For a unique look and optimal blackout technology, you'll want to check out the Flamingo P Blackout Curtain. Not only do they provide 99% light blockage but they come with an extra thick lining that helps keep heat in during colder seasons. They also feature eyelets on top for easy installation and have soundproof properties which can help reduce noise coming from outside!

However, the more intricate and longer length of these curtains means they may be more expensive than alternatives on this list.

9. Yoolax Motorized Shade

Consider the Yoolax Motorized Shade if you're opting for a luxurious look and feel. This product comes with advanced features such as voice activation, setting options for specific times of day, and remote control operation so you don’t have to manually adjust your shades! The motorized system is both energy efficient and reliable in providing privacy from the outside world.

These motorized window treatments are expensive but offer convenience that most manual options cannot match, making them worth their price tag if you’re looking for ultimate convenience!

10. Amazon Basics Portable Window Blackout Curtain

The Amazon Basics Portable Window Blackout Curtain is the perfect choice for those on a budget who need complete light control. This lightweight shade can be easily attached to almost any window and provides 100% blackout protection, without blocking out the outside view.

Plus, it keeps noise from entering your room, making it ideal if you’re living in a noisy area! The ultimate perk may be its price tag – these curtains are among the most affordable on this list!

11. IKEA Marjun Curtains

If you’re looking for a stylish and reliable option, IKEA Marjun is an excellent choice. These curtains are made from thick fabric which actively blocks out both light and noise from the outside world. They also have thermal properties that keep your room cool in hotter months. The product comes with adjustable tie-backs so you can control how much sunlight enters the room as well.

Another differentiating feature of the Marjun Curtain is the stylish design of its fabric. They come in a variety of colours and patterns to suit any decor style: from luxe, classic prints to modern geometric designs! Plus, it’s easy to assemble thanks to IKEA's straightforward instructions.

12. Pottery Barn Kids

For anyone who is looking for a kid-friendly solution, Pottery Barn Kids have the perfect blackout curtains: their insulated blackout curtain liner. This product comes with an extra layer of fabric to provide superior light control and help keep some noise from entering your home. The lining also helps reduce heat gain in hot weather so you can rest assured knowing that your children’s rooms will remain cool even during summer days!

The best part about these curtains may be their stylish designs. They come in various prints and colours suitable for both boys' and girls' rooms. Just know that it would only most likely suit a design that's for kids.

13. Room-Darkening Curtains

Room-darkening curtains could be the way to go for preferences that are centred around complete darkness. Unlike typical blackout curtains, room-darkening curtains block almost all light from entering a room for ultimate privacy and soundproofing at night time. These heavier products usually come with an opaque material to ensure minimal light leakage into the house.

If you’re looking for versatility in terms of colour and design, these curtains can also be found in various prints and colours too, so choose whatever best suits your interior. Plus, they tend to cost less than some of their motorized counterparts so you won’t break the bank either.

14. Redi Shade Original

Yes, another Redi product has made it to our list! The Redi Shade Original is a great solution for those who are looking for an easy-to-install blackout option, without compromising too much on aesthetics. These popular window treatments come in a wide range of sizes and colours so you can easily find something that fits within your room’s design scheme.

They won’t be the most thermally efficient curtains around but they will still help keep heat from entering your home when it gets really hot outside. And with such simple installation steps involved, these could well be some of the best blackout curtains available on the market today.

15. Magic Drapes Pleated Blackout Curtains

Easily one of the best blackout curtains available today in terms of style, Magic Drapes Pleated Blackout Curtains feature a pleated design that makes it easy to manipulate light and go completely dark when necessary. Not only do they provide superior soundproofing capabilities too so you can rest assured knowing that your family is getting enough privacy even during those really noisy summer nights!

Note that these curtains come in a number of colours and prints, so pick the one that best matches your interior décor. They’ll also be great for keeping heat from entering your home during hot summer days as well.

16. Freemansburg Solid Blackout Thermal Curtains

Freemansburg takes pride in providing consumers with some of the best blackout curtains around and their Solid Blackout Thermal Curtains are a prime example. With excellent thermal capabilities, these curtains will be sure to keep your home warm during cold winter nights as well as block out unwanted light when needed. Plus, each curtain also comes with anti-wrinkle properties so you don’t have to worry about any creases or wrinkles in them.

The only downside might be the availability of these curtains which is rather limited. However, for those lucky enough to get their hands on them, you’ll honestly not be disappointed with what Freemansburg has to offer!

17. Sebastian Insulated Total Blackout Window

As one of the best blackout curtains available today, Sebastian’s Insulated Total Blackout Window curtains feature a unique triple-weave construction that helps them block out almost all sources of light. Not only are they highly durable too but also sport an anti-static finish to help reduce dust and other allergens from reaching your home while keeping it soundproofed as well.

These curtains come with easy installation instructions so you can get started right away. Although pricier than some of the other curtains on this list, Sebastian’s Insulated Total Blackout Window curtains deserve their spot as one of the best blackout curtains you can buy today.

18. Barrel Silvana Silk Blackout Curtains

Think of a situation where you want to get the best affordable blackout curtains without compromising on quality and looks. If that’s the case, then Barrel Silvana Silk Blackout Curtains are a great option for your home!

Not just eyes-pleasing but also highly functional, these thermal insulated curtains block out 100% of sunlight while also providing both soundproofing as well as extra privacy thanks to their opaque finish. Perfect for bedrooms or any other places where darkness is needed during any part of the day.

19. Bali Blackout Cellular Shades

For those of you looking for the best blackout curtains with dual functionality, Bali’s Blackout Cellular Shades are the perfect solution. These shades provide complete control over light and temperature while also giving your home superior privacy along with their attractive design. Plus, they come with an easy customization system that allows you to adjust the heights without having any tools at all.

All in all, these shades are an ideal option if you want to get both blackout curtains as well as protection from sunlight-related heat and glare woes at once.

Features to Consider When Choosing Blackout Shades

When it comes to blackout shades, you can also choose from room darkening vs blackout. Room darkening window treatments provide light filtration, while blackout shades and curtains block out virtually all the light. Depending on your needs and preferences, you should decide which type of shade is best for you.

Type

There are different blackout shade types on the market, including:

Roller shades: Best for blocking out light from outside windows.
Cellular shades: Best for creating total darkness in any room.
Faux wood blinds: A stylish option for custom blinds that still provide blackout benefits.
Cordless shades: Offer a safe and child-friendly way to block out the light without cords or strings.

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You should also understand the difference between room darkening and blackout. Room darkening window treatments provide light filtration, while blackout shades and curtains block out virtually all the light. Depending on your needs and preferences, you should decide which type of shade is best for you.

Light-Blocking Ability

Understanding light-blocking levels is also crucial to how the blinds you buy suit your preference and needs. Particularly, the levels are:

Light filtering: Provides plenty of light filtration. This level can be achieved with blinds and shades such as Roman shades and bamboo shades.
Room darkening: Blocks out more light than light filtering while still offering some natural light. Cellular shades, shutters, and roller shades are great options for room-darkening blinds.
Blackout: Completely blocks out the sunlight to create ultimate darkness in any space. The best blackout blinds include cordless shades, faux wood blinds, and blackout cellular shades.

Take your time to consider each of these important factors when shopping for blackout window treatments so you get the perfect set of blinds or curtains that work best for you!

Insulation

Insulation is an essential factor to consider when choosing your blackout window treatments, as it helps keep a room cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter. Insulated blinds and shades, such as cordless shades, help reduce energy costs by blocking out heat from outside windows. This can also prevent draughts from entering your home during colder months, providing you with comfortable temperatures all year round.

When shopping for the best blackout blinds for your needs, make sure to look at materials like faux wood blinds or cellular shades that are designed specifically with insulation in mind. These types of blinds will not only provide complete darkness but will also help keep your home energy efficient, especially in areas with extreme temperatures.

Style and Color Options

For a classic look, you can choose from traditional blinds such as faux wood blinds that come in many natural hues like white, beige, grey, and brown. If you're looking for something more modern, then blackout cellular shades offer sleek lines while providing maximum darkness. Cordless shades, the best of both worlds, provide a timeless look while still blocking out maximum light.

No matter what type of material or colour option you choose for your blackout window treatments, make sure to pick something that will complement your overall home design.

Ease of Installation and Operation

Room darkening shades are generally easier to install than blackout blinds since they don't require any additional hardware. They also tend to be lighter and easier to operate than their blackout counterparts. However, if you're looking for absolute darkness and complete light blockage, then a blackout blind or shade is your best bet.

You should, therefore, understand installation difficulty to ensure you choose the correct blinds for windows. If you don't want to take on the task of installing them yourself, there are plenty of custom blinds that can be installed by professional technicians who work with Factory Direct Blinds for all types of window treatments.

Durability

The materials used to make blackout shades are important when it comes to durability because some will last longer than others. For instance, if you need blackout shades in a high-traffic area or home with children and pets, opt for ones constructed with vinyl or faux wood material. These options have superior durability and are resistant to scratches and fading due to their moisture-resistant properties.

Also, some materials and brands offer more durability than others due to their higher quality and construction.

Custom Blackout Shades from Factory Direct Blinds

Blackout shades can vary in type, purpose, and many different factors, but with the right knowledge and support, you can now find the best blackout shades for your home.

Still can't find the time to shop around for the perfect shades? Factory Direct Blinds offers custom blackout shades that are made to fit your windows perfectly. With a variety of materials and colours available, you'll be able to find suitable options for any room in your home.

Whether you're looking to block out sound or light, our team of experts can help guide you toward the best window treatments for your needs. We also offer free shipping on all orders across Canada so you won't have to worry about hefty extra fees. 

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FAQs

What type of shades are best for blackout?

The best shades for blackout are typically made of vinyl or faux wood material. These materials offer superior durability and are resistant to scratches and fading due to their moisture-resistant properties.

Do blackout shades really work?

Yes, blackout shades do work. They are designed to block out as much light and sound as possible, so you can enjoy complete darkness in any room.

What is the best blackout for windows?

The best blackout for windows depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you are looking for complete darkness, then a blackout blind or shade is your best bet. However, if you don't need total darkness and want something easier to install, room-darkening shades may be the better option.

Which brand of window shades are the best?

Factory Direct Blinds offers the best window shades on the market. Our custom shades are made to fit your windows perfectly, and we offer a wide range of materials and colours for you to choose from. Plus, our team of experts can help guide you toward the best window treatments for your needs.