The terms get used in different ways. Some retailers use 'blockout' and 'blackout' as two names for the same thing, a fabric that stops light coming through, while others use 'blackout' for fabric that lets no light through at all. Either way, what makes a room truly dark is the fit, because light sneaks in around the edges. For a really dark room, pair a blockout fabric with a fit that covers the gaps, or layer it with curtains.
If you work night shift, have a baby who naps during the day or just hate being woken by the early summer sun, you want a bedroom that's properly dark. Here's what the terms mean, and what actually works.
Blockout or blackout?
You'll see both words used, sometimes for the same product. In Australia, "blockout" is the more common term. Some retailers treat the two as the same thing, while others use "blackout" for fabric that lets no light through at all.
Don't get too hung up on the name. Ask instead: does the fabric stop light coming through, and how will the blind be fitted?
Why the room still isn't dark
Most of the light in a room with blockout blinds comes in around the edges, not through the fabric. A blind needs a little gap at each side so it can roll up and down, and light finds its way through.
How to get a room properly dark
- Choose a true blockout fabric. Hold it up to a bright window and you shouldn't see light through it.
- Think about the fit. How the blind sits in or over the window frame changes how much light gets around the edges. Ask us about the options for your windows at the measure.
- Layer it. A blockout roller blind with a room-darkening S-Fold curtain over the top is the darkest result you'll get from inside.
- Go outside. Roller shutters close the window right up from the outside and block out light completely.
What about shutters?
Plantation shutters are brilliant for light control and privacy, but they aren't a blockout product. Some light always gets in around the louvres. They work well in bedrooms where you want a soft, dim light rather than total darkness.
Which room needs what
- Shift worker's bedroom or nursery: blockout roller blind plus a room-darkening curtain, or a roller shutter.
- Main bedroom: blockout roller blind, room-darkening S-Fold curtains, or both.
- Media room: blockout blinds and curtains layered.
- Kids' rooms: blockout roller blinds are simple and great value.
Book a free measure and we'll suggest the best setup for each room.
Common questions
Why is my room still light with blockout blinds?
Usually it's light coming in around the sides, top and bottom of the blind rather than through the fabric. How the blind is fitted makes a big difference.
Are plantation shutters good for a dark bedroom?
Shutters give great light control, but some light will still get in around the louvres. If you need it properly dark, blockout roller blinds or room-darkening curtains do a better job, or you can layer them.
What's the darkest option for a bedroom?
A blockout fabric fitted to cover the gaps, layered with a room-darkening curtain, gets a room the darkest. Outside the window, roller shutters block out light completely.
GNB Shade & Security Specialists (Garry Neven Blinds) is a family-owned business in Garbutt, Townsville, with more than 30 years in security screens, plantation shutters, blinds, roller shutters and outdoor blinds. We're a licensed Invisi-Gard dealer, everything we sell is made in Australia, and we measure, build and install to order. Free measure and quote on 07 4728 9554.
