7 Best Blackout Blinds That Keep Your Room Dark as Night
The biggest misconception about blackout blinds is that any dark fabric will do the job. In reality, the wrong choice leaves you with annoying light leaks around the edges. You need specific materials and a snug fit to achieve true near total darkness. Here are seven options built to seal out that light properly.
| Blackout Curtains 100% Blackout Blinds Window Cover Portable Shades 118×57” |  | Best Portable | Blackout Level: 100% blackout | Size: 118″ x 57″ | Installation Type: Adhesive tape (30 included) | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| 100% Blackout Blind Magnetic Window Cover,Portable Blackout Curtain 118×57” |  | Best Magnetic | Blackout Level: 100% blackout | Size: 118″ x 57″ | Installation Type: Magnetic fasteners and hook & loop tape | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| MIULEE Blackout Curtains for Bedroom 2 Panels 40 x 63 Inch Long Black |  | Best Fabric | Blackout Level: 95-60% light reduction | Size: 40″ x 63″ (per panel, 2 panels) | Installation Type: Curtain rod (grommets) | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| Zipcase Window Blackout Shades 6-Pack 36″x72 |  | Best Multipack | Blackout Level: Blocks light effectively | Size: 36″ x 72″ (6-pack) | Installation Type: Self-adhesive (peel and stick) | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| Changshade Cordless Blackout Honeycomb Shades 34×72 |  | Best Insulated | Blackout Level: Room darkening | Size: 34″ x 72″ | Installation Type: Cordless pull-down with hardware | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| Window Blinds Cordless No Drill Cut to Size Stick On Temporary Paper Shades |  | Easiest Install | Blackout Level: Blackout in black/gray colors | Size: 24″ x 59″ | Installation Type: Self-adhesive double-sided tape | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| Sumobaby 50″x60″ Portable Blackout Curtains Blinds for Windows No Drill |  | Best No-Drill | Blackout Level: 100% blackout | Size: 50″ x 60″ | Installation Type: Self-adhesive hook & loop tape | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Blackout Curtains 100% Blackout Blinds Window Cover Portable Shades 118×57”
For travelers or parents needing a dark space on the go, the RUseeN blackout curtain is your go-to portable companion. It’s 100% blackout fabric, blocking all sunlight and UV rays thanks to a thick, silver-grey coating behind the blackout layer. You get a generous 118”x57” sheet, but you can easily cut it smaller with scissors for a perfect fit. Installation is no sweat: measure, cut, then stick it up using the 30 included adhesive tapes. It’s temporary, repositionable, and comes with a handy storage bag. Take it on trips, use it in a nursery, or swap rooms. Perfect when you need total darkness now.
- Blackout Level:100% blackout
- Size:118″ x 57″
- Installation Type:Adhesive tape (30 included)
- Customization (Cut to Size):Yes, can be cut
- Portability:Includes storage bag, travel-friendly
- Material:Thick fabric with silver-grey coating
- Additional Feature:Includes ruler for measuring
- Additional Feature:30 adhesive tapes included
- Additional Feature:Portable storage bag included
100% Blackout Blind Magnetic Window Cover,Portable Blackout Curtain 118×57”
You want total darkness without a permanent installation. Grab the BirdNest Blackout Window Cover, a portable 118×57 inch shade made from Oxford fabric with a silver coating that reflects light and insulates temperature. Its unique magnetic fastener system combines hook & loop tape and magnetic closures for secure, adjustable attachment to any window frame. Setup takes five minutes: measure, cut, connect components. Fix the top with hook & loop strips, then clamp edges using magnetic boards. Lightweight and foldable, it’s perfect for bedrooms, RVs, or skylights. Trim it to fit, then iron on low to remove creases.
- Blackout Level:100% blackout
- Size:118″ x 57″
- Installation Type:Magnetic fasteners and hook & loop tape
- Customization (Cut to Size):Yes, can be cut
- Portability:Includes storage bag, lightweight
- Material:Oxford fabric with silver coating
- Additional Feature:Magnetic fastener system
- Additional Feature:12 pair magnetic fasteners
- Additional Feature:Works on curved/bay windows
MIULEE Blackout Curtains for Bedroom 2 Panels 40 x 63 Inch Long Black
MIULEE’s blackout curtains are the top pick for anyone who wants fabric that’s as functional as it is refined. You get two panels, each 40 by 63 inches, with six anti-rust silver grommets for easy rod installation. The triple layer weaving with black yarn in the middle blocks up to 95% of light in darker colors, so you’ll enjoy deep sleep or glare free entertainment. Both sides match in color, giving an elegant, seamless look. Plus, they’re thermal insulated, cutting energy costs up to 15%. Just machine wash cold and tumble dry gentle. No bleach needed.
- Blackout Level:95-60% light reduction
- Size:40″ x 63″ (per panel, 2 panels)
- Installation Type:Curtain rod (grommets)
- Customization (Cut to Size):No (fixed panels)
- Portability:Not portable (rod mount)
- Material:225GSM triple-layer polyester
- Additional Feature:Sold as 2-panel set
- Additional Feature:Anti-rust silver grommets
- Additional Feature:Triple-layer weaving design
Zipcase Window Blackout Shades 6-Pack 36″x72
Need a fast, affordable blackout fix for multiple windows? You can’t beat Zipcase’s 6 pack of blackout shades, each 36 by 72 inches. They’re designed to suit windows 19 to 36 inches wide, but you simply trim them to any size or shape with scissors. No tools required: measure, cut, peel the liner, and stick them on. No drills, no brackets.
Each shade includes two clips for adjustable height. The cordless design keeps children and pets safe while delivering a clean look. Made from durable, sun resistant paper, they’ll hold up in bedrooms, media rooms, or even your RV. And you get six shades and twelve clips right in the box.
- Blackout Level:Blocks light effectively
- Size:36″ x 72″ (6-pack)
- Installation Type:Self-adhesive (peel and stick)
- Customization (Cut to Size):Yes, can be cut
- Portability:Not portable (adhesive)
- Material:Durable paper
- Additional Feature:Sold in 6-pack
- Additional Feature:Cordless child/pet safe
- Additional Feature:Durable paper material
Changshade Cordless Blackout Honeycomb Shades 34×72
Changshade Cordless Blackout Honeycomb Shades 34×72 trap heat like a double-glazed window. Their 1.5 inch honeycomb cells create insulating air pockets, while the aluminum foil coating inside blocks UV rays and harsh sunlight. You get true darkness plus energy savings.
These shades excel where noise and light control matter. The thick non-woven fabric locks out light completely, and the weighted bottom rail keeps them hanging flat, no flapping or blowing around.
Installation takes minutes with included hardware and online video guides. The cordless design means no tangles and total safety for kids and pets. Changshade backs them with a one year warranty, so you’re covered. This is smart, durable blackout protection.
- Blackout Level:Room darkening
- Size:34″ x 72″
- Installation Type:Cordless pull-down with hardware
- Customization (Cut to Size):No (fixed size)
- Portability:Not portable (hardware mount)
- Material:Non-woven fabric with aluminum foil coating
- Additional Feature:Cordless pull-down mechanism
- Additional Feature:Aluminum foil insulation
- Additional Feature:Weighted bottom rail
Window Blinds Cordless No Drill Cut to Size Stick On Temporary Paper Shades
If a no mess, no tools setup is what you’re after, these stick on shades are your best bet. You install them in three simple steps: cut to size with scissors, peel the backing off the 2.5cm double sided tape, and press firmly onto the frame. No drilling, no holes, and no wall damage. The cordless design is a lifesaver for families with kids or pets, and the adhesive removes cleanly without stains.
You get thick, non woven fabric that’s waterproof and dustproof, plus blackout options in black or gray for total darkness. Light filtering whites, blues, and browns work for softer rooms. Each shade comes with two clips for easy height adjustment, and the pleated fit means you cut it slightly longer than your window for proper coverage. Just measure your window height (it should be 39 to 47 inches) and trim!
- Blackout Level:Blackout in black/gray colors
- Size:24″ x 59″
- Installation Type:Self-adhesive double-sided tape
- Customization (Cut to Size):Yes, can be cut
- Portability:Not portable (adhesive)
- Material:Non-woven fabric
- Additional Feature:No-drill adhesive install
- Additional Feature:Includes 2 adjustment clips
- Additional Feature:Slightly longer for pleating
Sumobaby 50″x60″ Portable Blackout Curtains Blinds for Windows No Drill
Sumobaby’s no-drill setup is a lifesaver for renters and dorm dwellers. You just stick those 15 pairs of hook and loop tapes onto glass, walls, or aluminum frames. No holes, no drama. The high-density polyester fabric with a reflective silver coating blocks 100% of sunlight and harmful UV rays, cutting heat and boosting privacy. Its matte black front and silver gray back resist stains and clean easily. Want a custom fit? Cut it slightly larger than your window for perfect shading. At 50 by 60 inches, it’s portable too. Pack it for bedrooms, cars, or hostels. Instant darkness, zero commitment.
- Blackout Level:100% blackout
- Size:50″ x 60″
- Installation Type:Self-adhesive hook & loop tape
- Customization (Cut to Size):Yes, can be cut
- Portability:Sealed packaging, portable
- Material:High-density polyester with silver coating
- Additional Feature:15 pairs hook/loop tapes
- Additional Feature:Stain-resistant fabric
- Additional Feature:Sealed packaging for portability
Factors to Consider When Choosing Blackout Blinds for Windows
When you’re picking blackout blinds, you’ll want to zero in on material and build quality because that’s what determines how long they last and how well they block light. But don’t stop there; you also need to think about light blocking performance itself, along with installation methods and fit and size options that match your windows. And if you’re renting or frequently move, portability and flexibility become key, so keep those factors in mind as you shop.
Material & Build Quality
Since the material is what physically stops the light, you need something that’s thick and sturdy enough to block penetration while still staying soft and lightweight for easy handling. Look for multiple layers: a dense blackout core paired with a reflective coating. These aren’t just fancy extras; they actively bounce light away. Polyester, Oxford fabric, or non-woven materials with specialized coatings deliver serious durability and insulation.
Check for a backing too, like a silver or aluminum layer. That’s your secret weapon for both light reflectance and keeping the room cooler. But don’t stop there. The overall build quality decides how well your blinds resist tearing, creasing, or fading after months of sun exposure. You want something that holds up, not something that wilts. Prioritize these features, and you’ll get blinds that work hard and look good doing it.
Light Blocking Performance
You already know the material matters, but the real test is how well that material actually stops light. For true blackout, you need dense, thick fabric. Look for a special coating, like silver or aluminum, which reflects light back and boosts effectiveness. You’ll find percentages like 100% that promise near total darkness. But even the best fabric fails with gaps. That’s why proper installation matters. You can minimize light leaks by ensuring a snug fit around the edges. And consider custom or adjustable blinds. They let you match the exact window dimensions, which eliminates those sneaky cracks. For a truly dark room, focus on fabric density, reflective coatings, and a tight seal. That’s your winning combo.
Installation Methods
Because your window frame and lifestyle dictate the best route, choosing an installation method is just as critical as picking the right fabric. You’ve got a few solid options. Adhesive shades are your go-to for a no-tool, damage-free setup, perfect for renters or glass doors. Magnetic covers click right onto metal frames, though you’ll need extra hardware for non-metal surfaces. Clip-on or hook-and-loop (Velcro) systems give you adjustability, ideal for temporary fixes or portable use. But if you want a permanent, secure fit, screw-mounted brackets are your best bet, even though they require a drill and leave holes. Don’t overthink it. Pick the method that matches your window type and your comfort with tools. It’s that simple.
Fit & Size Options
Two things matter most here: your window’s exact measurements and whether the blind can bend to fit them. You’ll want sizes that match or can be customized to your dimensions precisely. Look for options you can easily trim or cut down for nonstandard or uniquely shaped windows. This isn’t a one size fits all game.
Check that the blinds come in various width and height measurements to accommodate different openings. Adjustable mounting methods are key they adapt to frame structures and annoying gaps. Before you buy, verify the product lists clear sizing specs and compatibility info. That way, you’ll know it’ll fit without guesswork. And remember, a snug fit means no light leaks, so measure twice and pick a blind that’s willing to work with your window, not against it.
Portability & Flexibility
Portable blackout blinds are a game changer if you’re renting, traveling, or just want the freedom to swap them between rooms. They’re lightweight and often pack into storage bags, so you can toss one in your suitcase for hotel stays or move it from the nursery to the guest room in minutes.
Look for cut-to-fit designs. These let you trim the shade to your exact window dimensions, no measuring stress required. Installation stays tool-free with adhesive tapes, magnetic fasteners, or stick-on strips. You press them on, and they hold firm. When it’s time to relocate, they peel off cleanly without damaging paint or frames.
Foldable fabrics collapse small, making storage a breeze. Reusable and removable models mean you aren’t locked into one spot. Use them in the bedroom today, take them camping next weekend. That’s flexibility you can’t beat.
