Choosing Perfect Blackout Curtains & Drapes: Buying Guide

Selecting the perfect blackout curtains for your home goes far beyond just blocking light. The right blackout curtains can transform the ambiance of a room, provide privacy, reduce outside noise, and even help insulate your home. With so many fabrics, sizes, and styles to choose from, it can be overwhelming to select blackout curtains that align with your decor goals and functional needs.

As the owner of Dolcewe, I want to share my expert advice on selecting the perfect blackout curtains for your home. With years of experience selling customized window treatments, I've helped thousands of customers design beautiful, functional blackout curtains tailored to their unique needs.

Read on for my tips on choosing the ideal blackout curtains to transform the ambiance of any room!

Key Takeaways

• Prioritize complete light blocking, especially in bedrooms and media rooms
• Select quality fabrics like polyester/cotton blends that suit your decor goals
• Measure precisely and buy lengths that fully cover the entire window
• Layer curtains and shades for adjustable daytime lighting
• Choose styles, patterns, and colors that complement your existing room decor
• Allow for easy cleaning and maintenance based on curtain fabrics
• Install proper hanging rods and opt for tiebacks and overlap for ideal coverage
• Dolcewe offers high quality custom size blackout curtains starting $26.99

An Introduction to Blackout Curtains

Blackout curtains are designed to prevent outside light from entering a room, creating an ideal dark environment for sleeping or theater-like settings. They are distinctly different from regular sheer curtains that still allow some light to filter through. Blackout curtains are typically made from tightly-woven, opaque fabrics and often have backing or liners for maximum light blocking effectiveness.

At Dolcewe, we offer an extensive selection of high-quality blackout curtains in a variety of fabrics and constructions to suit any light blocking need.

The benefits of proper blackout curtains are plentiful:

• Maximum privacy from outside views
• Ability to sleep undisturbed during daytime hours
• Creates a darkroom environment ideal for media rooms
• Helps insulate rooms from outside temperatures
• Softens the noise from outside the home

Understanding the differences between sheer, light filtering, and total blackout curtains will help guide you in choosing the right option depending on the room and your goals. At Dolcewe, our curtain experts can recommend the perfect level of light blocking tailored to your needs.

The Fabrics Behind Blackout Curtains

Not all blackout materials are made equal. The fabric is the most significant factor that determines the quality and effectiveness of blackout curtains.

Here at Dolcewe, we offer blackout window curtains in a variety of high-quality fabrics:

Polyester - Polyester is an affordable fabric that provides excellent light-blocking capabilities. It is wrinkle-resistant and retains pleats well. However, polyester tends to retain heat which can impact insulation.

Cotton - Made from natural fibers, cotton offers breathability for better temperature control. However, cotton creases easily and is prone to shrinking if washed improperly. Linen is another natural fabric with similar qualities as cotton.

Velvet - Velvet is a luxurious fabric that excels at blocking light. It provides a formal, elegant look and keeps your room warmer in winter. However, velvet shows wear easily and tends to retain dust. It works best when dry cleaned regularly.

Faux Silk - For a sophisticated look without the expense, faux silk dupioni mimics the look of real silk at a fraction of the cost. It offers medium light-blocking capabilities.

Wool - Blackout wool curtains insulate extremely well in winter. They have a casual, rustic vibe. However, wool requires dry cleaning instead of machine washing.

Polyester/Cotton Blends - These blended fabrics provide the best of both worlds: affordable cost, breathability, easy care, and effective light blocking.

You may check our ultimate curtains fabrics guide for reference.

At Dolcewe, we carry all of these fabric options in a variety of colors, patterns, and constructions to suit any style and light blocking needs. All are available in custom size, starting $26.99

Key Factors to Consider When Buying Blackout Curtains

With an understanding of the fabrics involved, we can dive deeper into the specific factors you should evaluate when selecting the perfect blackout curtains for your home:

Light Blocking Effectiveness

The number one priority is how well the curtain actually blocks outside light from entering the room. This capability largely depends on the quality and weave of the fabric, as well as any linings or backings integrated into the curtains. Be sure to check light blocking percentages when available.

Dolcewe proudly displays our blackout curtains' light blocking percentages right on each product page, so you can easily find the level of darkness you need.

Fabric and Overall Quality

Consider both the look and feel you want from your curtains as well as their durability and ease of care. Delicate silk curtains add elegance but require professional dry cleaning while polyester blends are virtually carefree. Read customer reviews to evaluate real-world quality experiences.

At Dolcewe, we extensively test all of our curtain fabrics for quality, durability, and ease of care. 

Style and Decor

Will the blackout curtains vibe with your existing room decor? Do you want a casual, elegant, whimsical, or modern look?

Blackout curtain styles range from traditional pleated to modern back-tabbed panels and everything between. Check our curtains colors guide for reference. 

Size and Fit

Purchase blackout curtains sized specifically for your windows. They should be long enough to cover the entire window space for maximum light blocking. Allow for extra length if you prefer puddling onto the floor. Check that any lining, if present, is cut to the window size as well.

One of Dolcewe's best assets is our fully customizable sizing. We can tailor every curtain to your exact window measurements for a perfect light-blocking fit.

Maintenance and Durability

Evaluate whether the curtain fabric will withstand your cleaning methods and hold up well over time with regular use. More delicate fabrics require professional treatments. Anti-microbial and anti-static finishes can enhance longevity.

Dolcewe constructs all of our curtains from durable fabrics designed to last for years of regular use. We also apply advanced finishes and treatments to further extend the life of your blackout curtains.

Budget Considerations

Blackout curtains span a wide range of price points. Set a budget and weigh the benefits of higher-end details like thick lining and ornate embellishments versus basic affordable options. Sales and consumer deals can offer major savings.

At Dolcewe, we pride ourselves on providing stunning blackout curtains starting from $26.99 to suit any budget. Our seasonal sales and bulk discounts make achieving a beautiful blacked-out room easy on the wallet!

Choosing Blackout Curtains Window Treatment for Different Rooms

Now that we've covered the major decision factors, let's explore how blackout curtain priorities may differ depending on where the curtains will be installed in your home:

Bedrooms

For bedrooms, focus on total light blocking for an uninterrupted good night's sleep, noise reduction for a tranquil environment, and privacy.

Room darkening and blackout curtains in soft, inviting colors and patterns complement bedrooms. Select sizes that fully cover the window and use door curtains or shades for added darkness.

Dolcewe's bedroom darkening curtains come in soothing colors and patterns designed to turn your bedroom into a relaxing sleep sanctuary. Our 100% room darkening construction ensures complete darkness for sleep during the day

Living Rooms

In living rooms, you still want effective light blocking capabilities, but the style priorities shift to complement your decor. Seek out curtains that allow you to easily shift between privacy and openness depending on the time of day and activities in the room.

Our living room blackout curtains strike the perfect balance between style and function.

Layer your choice of elegant panels over adjustable light-filtering shades to customize your lighting.

Home Offices

Glare reduction is key for home offices along with privacy and light dimming as needed. Seek out liner-backed curtains with blackout shades to adjust natural light levels for working. Keep the styles professional and avoid kiddie themes.

Children's Rooms

Have fun with themes and colors! Focus on safety and durability, avoiding loose cords and beads. Allow some light filtering for child-friendly brightness. Blackout fabric panels over roller shades provide adjustable room darkening.

At Dolcewe, we offer a delightful assortment of children's blackout curtains featuring whimsical designs, vibrant colors, and durable kid-proof constructions. Layer over our cordless shades for the perfect adjustable darkness solution.

Media Rooms

Here, 100% blackout is essential. Eliminate all outside light and noises for the cinema experience. Dramatic theater-inspired curtains complement media rooms. Allow generous floor length for full coverage.

Specifically designed for media rooms, Dolcewe's blackout curtains will transport you to the movie theater experience right from your own home. With 100% light blockage and sound absorption, our media room curtains enable optimal viewing and listening.

Determining Room-Darkening Curtain Lengths

The length of your blackout curtains will significantly influence the overall look and feel of the room. At Dolcewe, we offer these popular options:

Floor Length - Predominantly seen in formal spaces, curtains that puddle elegantly on the floor create a luxurious, elegant aesthetic. They provide complete window coverage.

Sill Length - Offering a casual, breezy vibe, sill-length curtains sit right above the window sill. They allow more light in while still providing some privacy.

Café Length - Café curtains cover only the lower half of the window. They provide privacy while still permitting light through the top portion of the window.

Layered Looks - Consider pairing blackout curtains with complementary sheer curtains, blinds or lace curtains for adjustable privacy and blackout capabilities.

No matter your preferred length, Dolcewe can customize every curtain to achieve your perfect fit and style.

Refer to our handy curtain measurement guide or curtain size calculator to find your perfect size.

Related Article: Blackout Curtains Puddle Guide

Hang Blackout Curtains Tips

Most blackout curtains are hung directly over the window frame using decorative curtain rods. However, you can also experiment with these alternative placements:

• Hang curtains wider than the actual window to create a soft, luxurious effect as fabric cascades beyond the boundaries of the window.

• Mount curtains inside the window frame instead for a streamlined, contemporary aesthetic.

• Position panel curtains on the wall surrounding a window for a modern design statement.

• Incorporate blackout curtains on non-window walls to help isolate and define sleeping areas or nooks while contributing beautiful fabrics to the room decor.

At Dolcewe, our skilled team can provide personalized placement recommendations tailored to your unique window configurations and style goals.

Our curtains are available in grommet, and ring-top heading styles for easy installation

Enhance with Linings, Rods, and Tiebacks

To further improve the functionality and appearance of your blackout curtains, consider adding the following complementary elements:

Blackout Linings - Hang a separate blackout lining behind primary curtains to further reduce light and increase privacy and insulation.

Decorative Rods - Curtain rods in finishes like bronze, brass, nickel, or wood establish the overall style. Double rods allow you to hang layers of curtains.

Tiebacks - Tiebacks in colors and fabrics that coordinate with your curtains keep them neatly in place while adding visual interest.

Overlap Curtains in the Center - Allow at least 4 inches of overlap between curtain panels to prevent light leakage in the center.

Styles and Colors Guide for Every Decor Approach

Blackout curtains are available in such a vast array of styles, colors, and patterns that they can complement any room's decor. Here are some of the most popular blackout curtain aesthetics:

Traditional - Select classic fabrics like velvet, silk, brocade, or damask in rich hues of ruby, emerald, sapphire, and gold for a formal elegant appearance. Incorporate ornate trim, tassels, and pleated headers.

Contemporary - Favor clean lines, solid colors, and simple geometric shapes. Layer neutral grey or beige linen panels over colorful patterned shades. Incorporate sleek rods and back-tab headings.

Bohemian - Embrace free-flowing lightweight fabrics like cotton or linen in earthy tones. Display natural textures like embroidered lace and crochet details paired with macrame or wooden rods.

Modern - Spotlight bold graphics, geometric patterns, or abstract designs over neutral backgrounds of white, black, or grey. Install ceiling-height curtain panels on clean-lined track rods.

The design possibilities are endless with Dolcewe's incredible selection of blackout curtain styles and patterns fit for any decor theme. Our curtain experts can help match you with the perfect curtains to achieve your aesthetic vision.

Transform Your Home with Custom Blackout Curtains

With all of these considerations in mind, you are now equipped to select the ideal blackout curtains to transform the light, privacy, and ambiance of any room in your uniquely decorated home.

At Dolcewe, we make achieving your perfect blackout curtains easy and affordable. Our custom-fit designs start at just $26.99, and our team is ready to help you style the blackout curtains of your dreams. Start shopping our custom-sized curtains today!