7 Best Blackout Curtains UK to Keep Your Bedroom Quiet & Dark
Our picks for the best blackout curtains UK in 2024
You will find so many blackout curtains on the market that you will not be sure which one to choose. It is important to find a balance between material quality, manufacturer reputation and price. We have selected 7 models for you, and each one of them stands out in its own category.
Blackout Curtains
1
Bice Overall
Blackout Curtains
2
Best Value
Blackout Curtains
3
Best for Sliding Doors
Blackout Curtains
4
Best for Thermal Insulation
Blackout Curtains
5
Best for a Nursery
Blackout Curtains
6
Best Luxurious
Blackout Curtains
7
Best for Girls
Bice Overall: NICETOWN Thermal Insulated Grommet Blackout Curtains
For our number one spot, we have to go with this model from NICETOWN, as they have every feature you'd want from blackout curtains!
Bice Overall
Make your room completely dark, quiet and thermally insulated with this model.
This fantastic model, which we ranked as the best overall, will arrive at your address, ready-made. You can choose from a lot of different sizes and colours.
They are made of very high quality microfiber, which is woven with triple-weave technology. NICETOWN Thermal Insulated Grommet Blackout Curtains block 99% of UV rays and 100% light.
But that's not all, as this triple weave technology allows for other benefits as well. It will also help you insulate your room, so it won't be so hot in summer and cold in winter. If you live in a busy street, you will also notice how the noise level in the room is reduced by these curtains.
They are made of a very durable material, so you can wash them in the washing machine without worrying that they will be damaged.
KEY FEATURES:
- Dimensions: From 73.66 x 91.44 cm to 177.8 x 241.3 cm
- Material: Polyester
- Hanging Style: Grommet top
- Colours: 31 colour options
- UV Protection: Yes
- Noise Reduction: Yes
- Thermal Insulation: No
- Number of panels: 2
Advantages
Easy maintenance
Just remove them and throw in a washing machine.
Noise reduction
Forget any external sounds that may disrupt your sleep.
Energy-efficient
These curtains are energy efficient and perfect for the sunny sides.
Disadvantages
Not good for sliding doors
You may find that this model is not suitable for all types of doors, especially sliding doors.
Best Value: PONY DANCE Blackout Curtains
Darken your room and spend very little money.
Best Value
Made of polyester, these blackout curtains are available in over 15 different colours, so they will fit into any interior.
And if you care about the design of your bedroom just as much as making the room darker, this is a very big plus.
Composed of three layers, it will perfectly block light and sound. It will also be about 10% quieter in the room thanks to the dense fabric, and they also affect the temperature of the room. Again, this is thanks to the blackout fabric.
These blackout curtains are not very heavy and they are very easy to install. It is very likely that you will be able to use your existing rods without having to install new rods.
You can wash them in the washing machine, and they are very durable and fade-resistant. Just don't use bleach.
KEY FEATURES:
- Dimensions: From 116.8 x 137.1 cm to 228.6 x 228.6 cm
- Material: Polyester
- Hanging Style: Hooks and loops
- Colours: 18 colour options
- UV Protection: No
- Noise Reduction: Yes
- Thermal Insulation: Yes
- Number of panels: 2
Advantages
Easy installation
These curtains block external light 100%, ensuring you dark sleep environment.
Good thermal insulation
Great pick for hot summer days and cold winter days.
Good noise reduction
Sleep peacefully as it will insulate the external sounds 100%.
Disadvantages
Light coloured models not so great at light blocking
We noticed the difference in light blocking when we used light-coloured curtains.
Best for Sliding Doors: Rose Home Fashion Sliding Door Curtains
If you have a patio door or other type of sliding door, this is the right choice for you.
Best for Sliding Doors
It is much more complicated to find good blackout curtains for sliding doors than for ordinary windows.
That's because certain poles and curtains were designed to work with sliding doors and others weren't.
But you shouldn't look any further than the Rose Home Fashion Sliding Door Curtains. Their great rating on Amazon tells you that these are top level blackout curtains.
They come to your place ready to hang, so you can use them right away. It will offer you complete privacy and a dark room when you want to sleep. Plus, they'll block out some of the external noise.
They are also energy efficient, so they will minimise heating and cooling costs. And when you want to wash them, just put them in the washing machine and turn on the cold water cycle.
KEY FEATURES:
- Dimensions: From 127 x 160 cm to 254 x 274.3 cm
- Material: Polyester
- Hanging Style: Grommet top
- Colours: 5
- UV Protection: Yes
- Noise Reduction: Yes
- Thermal Insulation: Yes
- Number of panels: 1 & 2
Advantages
Great option for sliding doors
If you have a sliding door, this is going to be perfect match.
Machine-washable
Super-easy maintenance. Just wash it on cold cycle.
Good temperature insulation
The thick polyester layer insulates indoor space both during winter and summer.
Disadvantages
Higher price tag
More expensive than similar blackout curtains on the market.
Limited colour options
At best, these curtains come in 5 colours.
Best for Thermal Insulation: Deconovo Thermal Insulated Blackout Curtain
Provide yourself with ideal conditions in both winter and summer.
Best for Thermal Insulation
As you may have concluded so far, all blackout curtains provide thermal insulation to some extent.
However, if thermal insulation is equally important to you, as well as to prevent light from entering your room, choose this model.
They are made of such a material that you will immediately notice the difference in terms of thermal insulation.
It will be much warmer in winter and more pleasant in summer. Of course, it will fulfill its purpose as blackout curtains, and it will also reduce the noise level coming from the street.
But if you live near the busy or high traffic area, you won't be that satisfied.
KEY FEATURES:
- Dimensions: From 106.6 x 160 cm to 106.6 x 274.3 cm
- Material: Polyester
- Hanging Style: Grommet top
- Colours: 4-32
- UV Protection: No
- Noise Reduction: Yes
- Thermal Insulation: Yes
- Number of panels: 1
Advantages
Thermo-insulating
A very good thermal insulation that is especially noticeable during the winter.
Machine-washable
Super easy maintenance. Just put it in the washing machine.
Very vivid colours
While there aren't too many colour options, they're all clear and vivid.
Disadvantages
Poor noise reduction
Though it will be good for a remote areas, it is not great for high-traffic areas.
Best for a Nursery: H.VERSAILTEX Blackout Curtains
Conditions in the nursery must be particularly good, and H.VERSAILTEX Blackout Curtains will allow you to do so.
Best for a Nursery
What makes this model stand out primarily as the best for a nursery is that it is made of a hypoallergenic material.
A special microfiber is used, so you don't have to worry that something will irritate your baby.
The darkness will be complete, nothing will disturb you and the child. In addition to blocking 100% sun and UV rays, it will also serve as sound insulation, which is especially important for the room where the baby is staying.
After all, there's little point in achieving total blackout if the bedroom is still noisy. And sometimes a car horn is a lot more distracting than direct sunlight!
It is available in 4 different colours, so you will find the right design for both boys and girls. The manufacturer offers a 8 year quality warranty.
KEY FEATURES:
- Dimensions: From 132 x 160 cm to 132 x 213.3 cm
- Material: Polyester
- Hanging Style: Grommet top
- Colours: 4 colour options
- UV Protection: Yes
- Noise Reduction: Yes
- Thermal Insulation: Yes
- Number of panels: 1
Advantages
Hypoallergenic
Thanks to hypoallergenic material, you won't have problems with allergies.
100% blackout
It is 100% blackout curtain. You can sleep peacefully during the sunny day.
8-year warranty
The curtain comes with 8-year warranty, which is not often seen with curtains.
Disadvantages
Durability issues
Some customers reported slight durability issues.
Best Luxurious: Always4u Velvet Blackout Curtains
Besides just being the best eyelit blackout curtains on this list, these are also the most luxurious curtains we could find!
Best Luxurious
If money isn't a problem for you and when you get eyelit blackout curtains you get the BEST eyelit blackout curtains, these curtains are for you.
For one, as the name would suggest, they utilise velvet for that silky smooth texture and luxurious sheen. However, this curtains are also very practical!
For one, they are blackout thermal curtains. So, you get free temperature regulation! Secondly, these insulated curtains can also help dampen any outside noise. And, of course, they will keep your room pitch dark.
Although they're luxurious, these eyelit curtains are also machine washable. So, keeping them clean is also rather simple.
KEY FEATURES:
- Dimensions: From 132 x 137cm to 229 x 229cm
- Material: Velvet
- Hanging Style: Grommet top
- Colours: 28
- UV Protection: Yes
- Noise Reduction: Yes
- Thermal Insulation: Yes
- Number of panels: 2
Advantages
Premium materials
Velvet is a premium, high-quality material.
Machine washable
The curtains can be easily washed and kept clean.
Temperature regulation
The blackout curtains help with temperature regulation.
Disadvantages
Expensive
This is a luxurious product and not at all budget-oriented.
Best for Girls: NICETOWN Bedroom Curtains
NICETOWN is back at it again, showcasing once more that they have some of the best blackout curtains in the UK market!
Best for Girls
While blackout curtains tend to be monochromatic and dark, that doesn't always have to be the case! In fact, when buying blackout curtains, you can go a bit crazy when it comes to design.
And if you have a daughter, or are just a child at heart, these eyelit blackout curtains are the best! Coming in many different patterns and colour schemes, these blackout curtains feature plenty of bright colours and fun shapes to liven the room up a bit.
However, it's important to note that these curtains can't offer a complete blackout. This is because they've opted for flare instead, with star cutouts that let light in and make your room a lot more interesting.
So, while street lights and harmful UV rays might have a way inside, at least your room looks a lot nicer than some of the more mundane blackout curtains would allow.
KEY FEATURES:
- Dimensions: From 137 x 132cm to 229 x 168cm
- Material: Polyester
- Hanging Style: Grommet top
- Colours: 15
- UV Protection: No
- Noise Reduction: No
- Thermal Insulation: No
- Number of panels: 2
Advantages
Fun design
The curtains have little star holes that let light in to decorate your room.
Great for kids
The blackout curtains are very colourful and bright.
Machine washable
The curtains can be easily cleaned.
Disadvantages
Not for a complete blackout
The curtains can't achieve a complete blackout because of the holes.
What to consider when buying the best blackout curtains
There are four important features to consider when you want to buy blackout curtains. Those four features are the material, installation, style and maintenance. We will address each of these four characteristics separately so that you know exactly what to pay attention to, whether you will make a purchase in a brick-and-mortar shop or online.
The size of the curtains
The size of the blackout curtains you choose for your home should be based on the size of your windows. If you have a large window, you will need a larger curtain to cover it. If you have a small window, you will need a smaller curtain.
This is important because if the curtains are too small, they will not be able to cover the entire window and will let light in. If the curtains are too large, they will be bulky and difficult to open and close.
When measuring for blackout curtains, first determine how much of the window you want to cover.
For complete light-blocking, measure from the top of the window frame to the bottom, as well as side to side. For a less drastic look, measure from the top of the window frame to where you want the curtains to end, typically about 15 cm from the bottom of the window. Once you have determined the desired length and width – choose accordingly.
Also, if you're getting blackout curtains for a glass door or something similar, it might be smart to go for a slightly shorter model. This is because if you've already gone through the trouble of getting the best blackout curtains, having them pick up dust every time you open/close the door seems counterproductive. Also, take note of how thick the curtains are. If you want the best thermal blackout curtains, go for a thicker, tightly woven fabric.
Material
Polyester is the most commonly used material for making blackout curtains. There are models that are made entirely of polyester, while others are made of a mixture of cotton and polyester. For example, they have a cotton base and a polyester liner. Why is it necessary that they are at least partially made of polyester? The answer is that the cotton weave cannot be thick enough for the darkness to be complete, so it is necessary to add a polyester liner.
Since the role of blackout curtains is not only to make the room completely dark but to reduce noise as well and even serve as an additional layer of insulation, microfiber is also used.
Hanging style
There are different ways to hang your stylish curtains, depending on the type of material and construction of the drape. The most popular methods are using grommets or single rod pockets, but fabric loops are present, too.
Grommets are metal rings that are attached to the fabric of the curtain. The curtain rod is then pushed through the curtain hooks. This method is popular because it is easy to install and provides a clean, finished look. Single rod pockets are sewn into the top of the curtain and create a pocket for the curtain pole to slide through. This method is also popular because it is easy to install, but can result in a less finished look.
Fabric loops are loops of fabric that are sewn into the top of the curtain. The curtain rod is then fed through the loops, creating a loop. This method is less popular because it can be more difficult to install and can result in a less finished look.
Additionally, you will have to choose between eyelet blackout curtains and pencil pleat blackout curtains to match the hanging style. Eyelet blackout curtains are better for classic rod style, and pencil pleat curtains are better attached to the pole by rods or tracks. So, let's quickly go over the different heading styles.
The heading style
While you'd think that the design of a blackout curtain ended at how it was hung and the pattern of the curtain itself, you'd be wrong. That's because even the heading of the blackout curtain can vary from one model to another. And by heading we mean the upmost part of the curtain, typically on the curtain pole. This is where we can finally see a term we've used a few times already – pencil pleat blackout curtains.
Pencil pleat curtains
Pencil pleat curtains are the most popular, almost standard heading style. Basically, pencil pleat curtains got their name due to the heading getting bunched up, resembling pencils stacked one next to another. At least this is what happens when you push a pencil pleat curtain to one side. While “open”, the heading style is very minimal and more subtle than some of the others heading styles.
And it's important to remember that pencil pleat curtains really are the norm. In other words, unless you specifically look for different kinds of curtains, you will end up with pencil pleat curtains. This is also why we won't dwelve on the other curtain types too much.
Eyelit curtains
Aside from pencil pleat curtains, eyelit blackout curtains are the most likely style you're going to get. That's because, like pencil pleat curtains, eyelit blackout curtains keep it simple. They just have hoops (usually made of metal) that the curtain rod goes through.
Thanks to these hooks, the best eyelit blackout curtains can be rather heavy, as the weights is spread out on the curtain pole. So, if you want heavy, thermal curtains, finding the best eyelit blackour curtains could be worth your time.
Goblet, pinch pleat and tab top
Lastly, we're going to put these three types together, as they're rather rare. In fact, odds are that all of your existing curtains are either eyelit curtains or pencil pleat curtains. And if it isn't broken, why fix it?
However, if you do want a curtain heading type that's a bit more extravagant than a pencil pleat curtain or an eyelit curtain, look into these three and see what you like the most.
Installation
We do not want to say that the installation of blackout curtains is complicated, but it certainly requires more work than when you install ordinary curtains. Since blackout curtains are significantly heavier and larger, you will need to install a curtain rod that will be able to support them.
We advise you to make the curtain rod wider than the window, and not just how wide the window is. If the rod is just edge to edge, there is a possibility that light will reach you, even if you use blackout curtains. So make it wider. Anyway, if you need extra help, there are a lot of DIY tutorials that you can find online.
Also, while you shouldn't have any issues with this, make sure that the curtain pole can support the actual curtains. For example, if you're going to use your old curtain pole, that was made for lighter curtains, and put on your new, heavy blackout curtains, it might give out. Also, make sure that the curtain pole doesn't block a different window or door from properly opening.
Style & colour
You should know right away that you won’t have to sacrifice style or colour just because you buy blackout curtains. You will find these heavy-duty curtains available on the market in all colours and styles. Just like regular curtains. Many think they must be black, but that is not the case. They can be of any colour, because certainly the colour does not affect their transparency, but the material.
When shopping, think about what best fits your interior and then choose accordingly. Many opt for warm colours, because such colours contribute to the comfortable feeling you have in the room and additionally help you fall asleep.
You can also take into account things we've already mentioned, like the heading style. Are the best blackout curtains for you going to be pencil pleat blackout curtains or some other style? Or perhaps eyelit blackout curtains better compliment the rest of your decor.
And then there are more obvious factors like the actual design of the curtains. As long as all external light stays outside and you get a good night's sleep, feel free to go crazy with the different styles!
Maintenance
Due to the material from which they are made as well as the way the material is processed, blackout curtains get dirty more than ordinary curtains. They will gather dust, and if you have a pet, be sure you will find lots of pet’s hair on them.
So you have to maintain them regularly, as well as to prevent mold from appearing. You can machine or hand wash them. If you machine wash them, use cold water programs, choose gentle cycle and do not use bleach. If you wash them by hand, then use soap and water. You can also vacuum them occasionally, but don’t choose the most powerful mode.
Level of insulation
Just like blackout blinds, blackout curtains help us get a better night's sleep by blocking out all sunlight and making our room completely dark. However, with them blocking out all light, it's easy to see how blackout thermal curtains also came to be.
Basically, all effective blackout curtains are thermal blackout curtains. After all, if sunlight doesn't get in, it can't heat up the air and thus make your room hotter. However, some curtains are better at this than others. Plus, light blocking isn't the only form of insulation blackout curtains can offer!
Insulated curtains can also help dampen sound, which is a blessing if you have noisy neighbours. As a general rule of thumb, the thicker the blackout fabric is, the more sound it can soak up and keep away from your ears. So, look for a dense fabric if you live next to a busy street.
Tips for buying and using best blackout curtains
We want to emphasise that wraparound rods are the right choice when installing blackout curtains. For two reasons, that is the type of curtain pole you should choose. The first reason is that it is more stable than the classic rod, and blackout curtains are heavier.
And also because of its shape it will allow you to place blackout curtains in such position to completely eliminate light from the room. As for how high you want to install them, keep in mind that the longer they are, the longer your window will visually look, which is very nice. So with blackout curtains you can influence the look of the room, and not just the light, noise and energy consumption.
- Let the width of the blackout curtains be at least twice the width of the window.
- You must maintain it regularly or they will be too dusty.
- Wraparound rod is the right choice for this type of curtains.
The advantages of owning blackout curtains
Everyone when they decide to buy blackout curtains do so because the light in the room bothers them. This is definitely a big problem as it can disrupt the sleep cycle. And regular sleep is key to human health. While this is of course their primary purpose, you should know that it will bring you more benefits. And the primary benefit with blackout is that you will get sound and thermal insulation.
Because of the material they are made of, as well as because of the thickness, these types of curtains have a multiple role in your room. Also, you don’t have to worry that you will have to buy black ones as they are available in all colours. Almost all models on the market are machine washable so you won't have any problems with maintenance.
External noise blocking
You've probably noticed that even your existing curtains do a decent job of muffling the sound coming from the outside, so it's only natural that these heavy, light-blocking curtains do the same. In fact, some of the best eyelet blackout curtains do an incredible job of muffling the noise coming from the outside. So, if you live in a busy city or near a construction site, these room-darkening shades can make a huge difference in the quality of your sleep.
Room insulation
Blackout curtains can keep the room cool in the summer and warm in the winter. The tightly woven fabric helps to keep the temperature inside of the room stable. This is a great way to save on energy costs throughout the year.
Plus, getting a good night's sleep is a lot easier if you're not too hot or too cold. And if your existing curtains aren't already doing this for you, getting blackout thermal curtains will make a noticeably difference – especially during the summer heat when regular curtains can do little to protect your from the sun!
Furniture protection
Blackout curtains can protect your furniture from the sun. The dense fabric will keep the room darker, which will help to keep the furniture from getting sun damage. Sun damage can be a major problem for furniture. The sun can fade the colours of the furniture, and it can also cause the furniture to warp and crack – especially if you prefer leather furniture.
Blackout curtains can also help to keep your furniture from getting too hot. The thick fabric will block out the sun’s rays, which will keep the furniture from getting too hot and becoming damaged. And, if someone is sleeping on said furniture, the stylish curtains will also allow them to get a better night's sleep.
Conclusion
And that's all you need to know to find the best blackout curtains UK has to offer! So, which blackout curtains are you going to get? Make sure to let us know in the comments. And if you have any questions about getting the best blackout curtains, check out the FAQ section or contact us directly.
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FAQs about blackout curtains
It is certain that a few more questions were left unanswered. That is why we will do our best to answer those few remaining questions in the FAQs section and thus complete our buying guide about blackout curtains. The next three questions are what customers are often interested in, and most articles on the Internet will not give you answers.
How do I measure the blackout curtains properly?
When measuring for blackout curtains, it is important to take into account the height of the window as well as the width. The curtains should be long enough to cover the entire window and should extend at least a few inches beyond the frame on either side.
How do I hang blackout curtains?
Most blackout curtains can be hung using standard curtain rods and hooks. However, some manufacturers may recommend specific hardware to use for optimal results.
What are blackout curtains lined with?
Blackout curtains are typically lined with a thick, opaque fabric that helps to block out light.
Why do blackout curtains smell?
Some blackout curtains have a chemical smell that is due to the materials used in their construction. This is usually not a cause for concern and will dissipate rather quickly.
Are all blackout curtains the same as the ordinary curtains?
Although they look similar to ordinary curtains, they are not the same because they differ in purpose, the material from which they are made and so on.
How heavy are blackout curtains?
The weight varies depending on the size of the blackout curtain, but we can say that in most cases they are heavier than ordinary curtains, and lighter than drapes.
Can I blackout my room completely with blackout curtains?
Yes, you can blackout your room completely with blackout curtains, because that is their purpose.
Do blackout curtains make the room hotter/colder?
There is no definitive answer to this question as it depends on a number of factors, such as the type of fabric used for the curtains or the overall insulation of the room.
What is the difference between blackout and thermal curtains?
Blackout curtains are designed to block out all light, while thermal curtains are designed to keep heat in or out of a room.
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