how to block light from top and sides of curtains
Hey there, it's James from Dolcewe.com, your go-to store for custom size curtains.
Today, I want to talk about a common problem many of us face: light leaking from the top of our curtains.
Whether it's natural light seeping in during the day or street lights at night, this unwanted light can disrupt our sleep and ruin our movie-watching experience.
But don't worry, I've got some effective ways to block that pesky light and restore the darkness in your room.
My Suggestions
| Main Section | Key Takeaway |
|---|---|
| Curtain Rod Adjustment | Raise the curtain rod 2-3 inches above the window frame and use a wrap-around rod to create a tighter seal and prevent light leakage. |
| Blackout Curtains & Liners | Choose blackout curtains or add blackout liners to your existing curtains for maximum light blockage. |
| Magnetic Tape | Use magnetic tape along the top edge of your curtains and the wall or window frame to create a tight seal and prevent light leakage. |
| Cornice or Valance | Install a cornice or valance above your curtain rod to block light from the top and add a stylish touch to your windows. |
| Layering with Blinds or Shades | Combine curtains with blinds or shades mounted close to the window for a double layer of light blockage. |
| Custom Size Curtains | Measure your windows accurately and choose custom size curtains from Dolcewe.com for a perfect fit and optimal light blockage. |
Why Does Light Leak from the Top of Curtains?
Before we dive into the solutions, let's understand why light leaks from the top of your curtains in the first place. There are a few common reasons:
- Your curtain rod is placed too low, leaving a gap at the top between the curtain and the wall or ceiling.
- Your curtains aren't wide enough to cover your windows, allowing light rays to enter from the sides.
- The type of curtain you're using isn't designed to block out light effectively, so light seepage occurs from the top and sides of the curtains.
Identifying Light Leakage
To determine if light is leaking from the top of your curtains, take a close look at the area where your curtain meets the wall or ceiling.
If you see any gaps or notice light coming through the top of the curtain, you've got a light leakage problem.
Even a small amount of light can be disruptive, so it's essential to address the issue and block light entirely from seeping around your curtains.
Solutions to Block Light from The Top And Sides of Your Curtains
1. Adjust Your Curtain Rod
One of the simplest ways to block the light from the top of your curtains is to adjust your curtain panel rod. Here's how:
- Raise your curtain rod: Mount your curtain rod 2-3 inches above the window frame. This will allow your curtains to extend higher, covering the top of the window and blocking sunlight from the top.
- Use a wrap-around curtain rod: A wrap-around curtain rod curves towards the wall, allowing you to wrap your curtains around it. This helps create a tighter seal and prevents light from leaking through the top and sides of curtains.
2. Choose the Right Curtains - Blackout Curtains & More
The type of curtains you use can make a big difference in blocking out light.
Here are some options to consider:
- Blackout curtains: These curtains are specifically designed to block out light entirely. They're made of thick, tightly woven fabric that prevents light rays from passing through, making them the best curtains for light blockage.
- Curtains with liners: If you love your current curtains but need extra light-blocking power, consider adding blackout liners. These liners attach to the back of your curtains and provide an additional layer of light blockage, preventing light leakage from the top and sides of your window curtains.
- Curtains with grommets: Grommet curtains have metal rings at the top, which allow them to slide easily along the curtain rod. This makes it simple to adjust your curtains and ensure they're covering the top of the window properly, blocking light from the top of your curtains.
3. Use Magnetic Tape
Magnetic tape is an effective method to block light from seeping through the edges of your curtains. Here's how to use it:
- Attach one side of the magnetic tape to the back of your curtains, along the top edge.
- Attach the other side of the magnetic tape to the wall or window frame, directly above your curtains.
- When you close your curtains, the magnetic tape will create a tight seal, preventing light from leaking through the top and sides of curtains.
4. Install a Cornice or Valance
A cornice or valance is a decorative treatment that hangs above your curtains. Not only does it add a stylish touch to your windows, but it also helps block light from the top. Here's how:
- Measure the width of your window and add a few inches on each side for overlap.
- Choose a cornice or valance that complements your curtains and room decor.
- Mount the cornice or valance above your curtain rod, ensuring it extends past the edges of your curtains, covering the top of the window and blocking sunlight from seeping in.
5. Layer with Blinds or Shades
If you want maximum light blockage, consider layering your curtains with blinds or shades. Here's how:
- Install blinds or shades directly on your window frame, as close to the glass as possible. This will help block light from the sides of the window.
- Hang your curtains over the blinds or shades, ensuring they extend past the edges of the window, covering the top and sides of your curtains.
- When you close both the blinds/shades and curtains, you'll have a double layer of light blockage, preventing light from seeping through the top and sides of your window curtains.
Additional Methods to Block Light From Sides and Top
To ensure your curtains are blocking light effectively, keep these tips in mind:
- Measure your windows accurately and choose curtains that are wider and longer than your window dimensions. This will help cover the top of the window and prevent light leakage from the sides.
- When hanging curtains, make sure they extend at least 2-3 inches above the window frame and touch the floor or windowsill. This will block light from the top and bottom of your curtains.
- Use curtain holdbacks or tie-backs to keep your curtains securely in place and prevent light from seeping in through the sides of the curtains.
- Regularly adjust your curtains to ensure they're covering the top and sides of your windows properly, blocking light from the top of your curtains.
At Dolcewe, our curtains are available in custom size for perfect fit, starting from $26.99.
Shop Custom Size Curtains at Dolcewe
At Dolcewe, we understand the importance of a good night's sleep and a perfect movie-watching experience. That's why we specialize in custom size curtains that fit your windows perfectly, blocking light entirely from seeping around your window curtains. Our curtains come in a variety of styles, fabrics, colors, and patterns to suit your unique taste and decor.
When you shop with us, you can expect:
- Custom sizing starting at just $26.99
- Free shipping on orders over $199
- An extra 10% off coupon when you sign up for our newsletter
- High-quality, durable curtains that effectively block light from the top and sides of your curtains
- Friendly and knowledgeable customer service to help you find the best curtains for light blockage
So, if you're ready to say goodbye to light leaking from the top of your curtains, head over to Dolcewe.com and explore our collection of custom size curtains. We're here to help you create the perfect light-blocking solution for your home, preventing light leakage and ensuring a restful sleep.
Sweet dreams and happy movie-watching!
James Dolcewe.com
