Blackout curtains, as the name suggests, are curtains that have been designed and manufactured to block out as much light as possible from passing through them during use. This is achieved through the use of a tightly woven fabric, sometimes layered, either as a whole curtain or as a lining added to more traditional curtains. Most brands are able to successfully prevent more than 90% of light from passing through, and higher quality brands advertise 99.9% of the blockage.
blackout window covers will make many people think back to World War II, when they were used to prevent light from leaving the house at night, helping to keep the surrounding area dark. But currently, the target is most likely reversed and no light will enter. The main areas in which to benefit from the use of light curtains are primarily in the bedroom, yours or yours. This becomes even more important as summer approaches, bringing with it earlier sunrises and later sunsets. This can also be important if you work the night shift and need to get enough sleep during the day, or if you have an annoying street lamp or business sign right outside your window.
Sun shades are also useful in a family room or living room where you watch TV during the day. By closing the curtains, you can block out glare that makes it difficult to see and have a more enjoyable experience.
However, there are other reasons that might prompt you to consider buying blackout curtains or blackout lined curtains, the biggest of which is energy efficiency. Studies have shown that about one third of the heat or cold you use in your home is lost due to heat transfer and drafts in windows. Because blackout curtains are made of a heavier material, they act as a thermal barrier, helping to maintain a more constant temperature inside your home, requiring less energy to maintain. By reducing your energy consumption, you also contribute to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and reducing carbon dioxide emissions.
Finally, noise pollution and privacy should be considered, especially if you live in a noisy area or on a busy street. The heavier material of blackout window curtains again dampens the noises that enter your home from the outside. Even if you only place blackout curtains on the side of your house that faces the street or the side that faces noisy neighbors, you can enjoy the comfort and relaxation in a quiet room. You also get an extra layer of privacy as they keep people from looking inside if they are properly fitted.
If you decide to install blackout curtains, there are a few things to keep in mind. Choosing the right size is important, you want the curtain to start high enough above the top and run past the bottom of the window for maximum benefit. Also make sure the curtain is wide enough to fit comfortably across its entire width. If you are buying a window that requires more than one panel to cover the opening, you should look for black blinds with magnetic closure. They consist of a pair of panels with magnets sewn to the edges at intervals to help hold the panels together. Due to the heavier material and special purpose, you should expect to pay a little more than the more traditional option, but according to most people, the benefits make up for that.