How to Blackout Windows? 6 Easy Methods

If you need to block out light for better sleep or privacy, blacking out your windows is easier than you might think. In this article I will share 6 easy methods to blackout windows!

If you’ve ever tried to sleep in on a sunny morning, you know the struggle—light finds every gap in your curtains and wakes you up way too early.

Blocking out your windows isn’t as complicated as it sounds.

You honestly have way more options than you might think, and most of them don’t even require drilling holes or spending a ton.

You can blackout your windows with everything from blackout curtains and stick-on shades to DIY tricks like cardboard or black construction paper—no tools or big budget required.

Some folks love those stick-on blackout shades because cutting to size is easy and are actually pretty handy if you’re renting or just hate the idea of messing with tools.

Whatever you try, there’s something satisfying about making your room completely dark and quiet.

It’s a total game-changer for afternoon naps.

Purpose and Benefits

When you blackout your windows, you’re creating a room that feels private and way more relaxing.

It’s not just for night-shift workers, either.

Blocking light with blackout windows can help cut down on glare on your computer or TV.

If you’ve ever tried to nap in a sunlit room, you know the struggle.

I’ve used thick blackout curtains for my own bedroom and living room, and it’s honestly a game-changer for getting some real shut-eye.

Another positive effect of blackout curtains is the room stays cooler, especially in summer and warmer in winter!

One more is that blackout windows can up your privacy and keep people from peeking inside. For people living downtown or in apartments is just perfect solution!

When You’ll Really Want Blackout Windows

You might need blackout windows if you work weird hours or just want to sleep late on weekends.

Parents use them in nurseries so babies (and exhausted parents) can rest during the day.

Blackout windows also come in handy for movie nights or gaming setups when you don’t want sunlight messing with the screen.

Some people can use them for security or if they’re living in a busy neighborhood with streetlights shining right in.

And honestly, if you just like a dark, cozy vibe, you don’t need a big reason—go for it.

Using Blackout Curtains

Blackout curtains definitely feel like the “grown up” way to block out light.

These thick, heavy curtains are made with special fabric that keeps daylight and streetlights from sneaking in.

I remember in my apartment, me and my boyfriend constantly doing movie nights with curtains closed.

Probably the only real problem with them is that in the mornings you just can’t get up haha. It’s super dark and it feels like night!

Good thing is they come in a ton of colors and styles, so your room doesn’t have to look like a cave (unless you’re into that).

Plus, some even help with noise and keep your room a bit cooler.

Here’s a basics table to help:

Feature	Blackout Curtains
Light Blocking	Excellent
Installation	Easy (requires rod)
Reusable	Yes
Design Options	Many
Cost	Moderate

Quick Fixes That Work

If you’re not ready to commit to curtains (been there, but I’m sorry for that), there are more temporary ways to black out your windows.

Reflectix or blackout window film are both quick fixes—you just cut them to size and stick them right against the glass.

I tried Reflectix one summer before installing blackout curtains, and it actually made my bedroom feel cooler, too.

There are also paper accordion shades with sticky tops, which are SO easy to put up and rip down.

These are great if you’re renting or just crashing somewhere for a bit.

How to Pick the Right Blackout Curtains

You want blackout curtains thick enough to actually block out the light—don’t just grab the first thing labeled “blackout.”

Look for heavier fabrics or double-layer panels.

If you’re picky about color or designs (trust me, I always am), you’ll find plenty that still look cute or match your vibe.

Double check the length and width before buying.

Measure your actual window, not just the frame. It’s smart to go wider and hang them a bit higher than the window itself.

It’s not a problem if they stick out 10 centimeters on both sides, I did it that way.

Tips for Best Results

Seriously, iron your blackout curtains first—creases make them look sloppy and let pockets of light through.

I use garment steamer to iron them. Super fast and easy!

Hang them as wide as possible, because light loves to sneak in from the sides.

If there are gaps, try magnetic strips or even a touch of Velcro along the edges.

You’d be surprised how much difference that tiny trick makes.

And if you’re in a rental, command hooks or those tension rods are lifesavers.

Other Ways to Block Light

If you’re trying to block out sunlight or street lights without spending a ton, there are actually a few clever routes you can take.

I’ve pulled together some of the easiest ways to blackout windows that you can manage on a budget or with stuff you probably already have.

Blackout Window Film

Blackout window film is a total game-changer if you want your space pitch black but don’t want to mess with massive curtains.

You just measure, cut, and stick the film right onto your window glass.

No drilling or sewing—thank goodness. These films come in different levels of darkness.

Some are pure black while others offer a mirror finish from the outside, which is kind of cool if you want extra privacy.

They block pretty much all outside light, but you’ll still be able to peel them off later, which is handy if you’re renting.

Just a tip: clean your window first or the film won’t stick right. And yeah, make sure to smooth out air bubbles unless you’re into that “bubbly” look.

Cardboard, Towels & Other DIY Magic

If you’ve ever ordered a big appliance and got left with a giant cardboard box, don’t just toss it.

Cardboard is a surprisingly solid blackout window hack; just cut it to fit your window, and press it right in the frame.

It wedges in and blocks out light like a charm.

A friend of mine uses painter’s tape or double-sided tape to keep it up at night and pops it out during the day.

It’s not fancy, but it seriously gets the job done. You could even layer up towels or thick blankets for more darkness, though it won’t look super Insta-worthy wow.

Here’s what you’ll need:

• Cardboard (thicker is better)
• Scissors or a box cutter
• Tape

Quick, cheap, and you probably already have the supplies.

Foil and Reflective Materials

Using aluminum foil (that’s just plain ol’ tinfoil) is something I picked up from my college days.

Just flatten sheets across your window, smoothing out the wrinkles, and tape around the edges.

This is about as low-cost as it gets—bonus points if you use painter’s tape so you don’t gum up your walls.

Not only does foil keep light out, but it also reflects heat away.

That’s a double win in summer, especially if your room gets sun-blasted in the morning.

It kinda gives you that “secret science lab” vibe, but hey, if you’re cool with the aesthetic, it totally works.

If you want it to look a bit neater, sandwich the foil between your window and blackout window fabric or curtains to hide the shiny side.

Related posts: What Should Curtain Rods Complement in Your Decor?

What Stuff Works Best

You’ve got options beyond the boring blackout curtain. Here’s what I’ve tried or seen friends use:

Material	Pros	Cons
Blackout Curtains	Easy to find, looks tidy	Can be pricey
Stick-on Window Film	Cheap, modern vibe	Harder to remove
Cardboard + Foil	Super cheap, blocks light	Not the cutest
Felt or Black Fabric	Flexible fit, no tools	Might need Velcro/magnets
Custom Shades	Fits perfectly, looks sharp	$$

If you want zero light leaks, pair stick-on blackout film with some heavy curtains.

Or, Velcro strips with black fabric can honestly be a game-changer in rentals—easy on, easy off.

Choose what matches your budget and how “finished” you want the windows to look.

Cleaning Tips

Honestly, blackout curtains don’t need anything fancy—just some regular dusting and a gentle touch.

I usually grab my vacuum’s brush attachment once every couple of weeks and run it along the fabric to keep dust from building up.

For tough spots, a bit of lukewarm water and a drop of mild soap on a soft cloth does the trick.

You’ll want to avoid soaking your blackout shades or tossing them in the washing machine because it can mess up the light-blocking lining.

If they get wrinkly after cleaning, use a steam iron on low, but hold it a little above the fabric. I’ve learned the hard way that direct heat can leave marks.

When It’s Time for a Refresh

Blackout window treatments are pretty tough, as long as you don’t get too rough with them.

You’ll notice it’s time to swap them out when the backing starts peeling or the fabric fades and feels thin.

If you open and close your curtains a lot—like I do—they might show signs of wear sooner than you’d expect.

Although mine are 3 years old now and still look like new!

Keep an eye out for rips along the seams or corners, too, since those have a way of sneaking up on you.

Swapping in new blackout curtains is a quick fix and honestly changes the vibe of your room fast.

Related posts: Budget Blinds vs. Home Depot vs. Lowes: Which Is The Best For You?

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

You’ve got a bunch of ways to cover up your windows and block out light, and you don’t have to spend a fortune.

I’ve tried a handful of these tricks myself, especially on those bright summer mornings when sleep feels impossible.

What’s the easiest method to darken a window?

Blackout curtains are my go-to. You just hang them up and, boom—instant darkness.

You can find a pair almost anywhere, and even the cheaper ones work surprisingly well.

They really do change the game when the sun insists on waking you up at 6am.

Can I black out windows using household items?

You can use cardboard or big towels if that’s what you’ve got lying around. It’s not fancy, but it blocks out nearly all the light when you need it to.

Any tips for DIY window blackouts on a budget?

Velcro and dark fabric is a hack you can try. Just cut the fabric to fit your window, stick on some Velcro dots, and press it up there.

It’s easy to take down, and it won’t mess with your walls or paint.

What’s an effective but cheap way to shade my windows?

If you want something super affordable, grab some Reflectix from the hardware store.

It’s that silvery bubble wrap you can cut to fit your windows.

Just press it right into the glass, and you’ll notice things stay cooler. Sometimes I’ll even throw on a blackout curtain for total darkness.

Can you blackout window with shades and blinds?

Yep, you can totally blackout a window with the right shades or blinds—just make sure they’re labeled “blackout” or have a light-blocking liner.

If you’re still getting a bit of light sneaking in around the edges, try layering with curtains or using side tracks to seal the deal. It’s a game-changer if you’re chasing that pitch-dark, nap-anytime vibe!