What's The Difference Between Room Darkening and Blackout Window Curtains?

Many shoppers looking for new window curtains for their living room, dining room, bedroom or any other space in their home may not be aware of the differences between room darkening curtains and blackout curtains. While there are many similarities in these two styles of curtains, there are also key differences that need to be explained.

Based on product reviews you may see online, it seems that a large number of people expect "room darkening" to mean blackout. And they're unhappy when they find out that is not the case. To put it simply, room darkening curtains filter natural sunlight, whereas blackout curtains block natural sunlight.

Room darkening curtains are ideal for most spaces in your home where you want to add a beautiful look and also functionality. These curtains will filter on average 70% to 80% of the sunlight coming in. That means at the peak of daylight, you will have some natural light pouring in, but it is drastically reduced, especially compared to having sheer curtains or no curtains at all. And, it's important to note that lighter colored curtains will allow more light to come through than darker colored panels.

This style of curtain offers privacy from outsiders, outside noise reduction, and temperature regulation, which makes them energy efficient. If you need to reduce the glare on your television or other devices, these are the perfect option.

But, if you are looking for the right curtains for your baby's nursery, or for the bedroom of someone who works odd hours or third shift, you probably want to get blackout curtains. Blackout curtains will typically block about 95% to 100% of the sunlight and keep the room dark for restful sleep, at any time of the day.

Adding new window treatments to the room is a great way to enhance your design by adding color, adding a pattern, adding texture or simply bringing new life to a tired design. Just be sure before you make that purchase that the curtains you choose are the right ones to meet the needs of you and your family.