Maybe you already have blackout window shades at home. Maybe you have never considered blackout shades. Or maybe you know about blackout shades, but you don't think it's worth overhauling your existing curtains to get a few more hours of sleep. Whatever the case may be, these 5 tings about blackout shades may give you a whole new perspective on it.
1. They block out light, but not always 100%.
Blackout shades are made from tightly woven fabrics or they have a coating to prevent most light from passing through. However, they can't block out 100% of the light, especially around the edges. If you need complete darkness, there are two methods you can refer to:
- Consider add on side channels or layer your window treatments with drapery.
- Choosing an outside mount installation for your blinds can cover more of the window area, which can help to reduce light leakage from the both sides.
2. They can protect your furniture.
Blackout shades protect furniture from sun damage by blocking ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun. UV rays can cause fabric to fade, wood to crack, and leather to become brittle. Blackout shades are made of a thick, opaque material that blocks out most or all of the sunlight, including UV rays.
- UV rays cause fading:UV rays are a type of electromagnetic radiation that is invisible to the human eye. However, UV rays can damage fabrics by breaking down the molecules that give fabrics their color. Over time, this can cause fabrics to fade or become discolored. Blackout shades block UV rays, helping to prevent fading.
- UV rays cause cracking:UV rays can also damage wood by breaking down the lignin that binds wood fibers together. This can cause wood to crack and become brittle. Blackout shades block UV rays, helping to protect wood furniture from cracking.
- UV rays damage leather:UV rays can damage leather by causing it to dry out and crack. Blackout shades block UV rays, helping to protect leather furniture from damage.
3. They are not just dark and gloomy.
Contrary to popular belief, blackout shades are not just available in dark colors. While blackout shades are effective at blocking light, and it's the best window blinds for bedroom, you can still achieve a dark room aesthetic with a lighter colored shade. They come in a variety of colors, patterns, and textures to complement any décor. Here are some reasons why you might choose a light-colored blackout shade:
- Brighten up a room: Dark-colored shades can absorb light and make a room feel smaller. A light-colored blackout shade can help to brighten up a room and make it feel more spacious.
- Match your décor: Light-colored blackout shades can be a good choice if you want the shades to blend in with your walls or other décor.
- Reduce heat gain: Lighter colored shades may absorb slightly less heat than dark colored shades.
4. They come in a variety of types.
Blackout shades come in a variety of styles, including rolling blinds, cellular blinds, Roman blinds, and vertical blinds. Rolling shades are a popular choice for their simple design and ease of use. Cellular shades, also known as honeycomb shades, are a good option for energy efficiency. Roman shades add a touch of elegance to a room, while vertical blinds are a good choice for patio doors. Choose different types of blackout blinds and shades to suit your needs and preferences. Here's a rundown of the common types:
Roller Shades
- A classic and affordable option.
- Made of a single sheet of fabric that rolls up and down on a spring-loaded mechanism.
- Offer a clean and modern look.
- May come in light filtering or blackout fabrics.
Cellular Shades
- Also known as honeycomb shades due to their unique hexagonal cell construction.
- Offer excellent insulation properties, helping to regulate room temperature.
- Effective at blocking light due to the air pockets trapped within the cells.
- Come in a variety of fabrics and transparencies.
5. They are relatively easy to maintain.
Window blinds are considered easier to maintain than traditional curtains due to 3 factors.
5.1. Cleaning
- Blinds: Most blinds only require dusting and occasional wiping with a damp cloth or a vacuum cleaner with a soft brush attachment. You can often clean them while they're still hanging on the window.
- Curtains: Depending on the fabric, curtains may need to be removed, washed, and ironed, which can be time-consuming and require extra effort. Delicate fabrics might need dry cleaning, adding another layer of maintenance.
- Blinds: Their smooth surfaces tend to accumulate less dust and allergens compared to the larger fabric surface area of curtains. This can be beneficial for people with allergies or asthma.
- Curtains: Fabric curtains can trap dust, pet dander, and other allergens more readily, requiring regular cleaning to maintain good indoor air quality.
- Blinds: Many blinds, especially those made from metal or vinyl, are generally more durable than curtains and can withstand wear and tear for longer periods.
- Curtains: Fabric curtains, especially those made from delicate materials, are more prone to tearing, snagging, and fading over time.