What Are Blackout Curtains
Blackout curtains use a specially constructed fabric, usually a dense weave combined with a foam or acrylic backing, to block almost all light from entering a room. Unlike sheer or dimout curtains, which allow some light through by design, blackout fabric is built specifically to eliminate it. Beyond light control, the thicker construction also helps dampen outside noise and adds a layer of thermal insulation, keeping rooms cooler in summer and warmer in winter.
Blackout vs Dimout vs Sheer
Sheers let light flow through freely and are best for softening a room during the day. Dimout curtains sit in the middle, blocking most light while still allowing a soft glow through. Blackout is the only option that delivers true, complete darkness, which matters for anyone sensitive to light while sleeping, working night shifts, or setting up a media or home theatre room. If total darkness isn't the goal, dimout is usually the better fit, but where it is, blackout is the only curtain that reliably delivers it.
Where Blackout Curtains Work Best
Bedrooms are the most common use for blackout curtains, particularly for shift workers, young children who nap during the day, or anyone who wants to sleep in without early morning sun waking them up. They're also a strong choice for media and home theatre rooms, where any ambient light affects picture quality, and for west or east-facing rooms across Sydney that get intense direct sun and heat at certain times of day. Beyond light control, the added noise reduction makes blackout curtains a good option for homes on busier streets.
Fabric and Heading Options
Blackout performance comes from the fabric and lining rather than the outer colour or pattern, which means you don't have to compromise on style to get full light control. We offer blackout curtains across a range of fabrics and heading styles, so you can match the look of the room while still getting complete darkness. Darker linings and heavier constructions generally offer the best noise and heat reduction alongside light blocking, our team can talk you through the right combination for your space.
Layering Blackout with Sheers
Many Sydney homes pair blackout curtains with a sheer layer rather than using blackout alone. This gives you the flexibility to keep sheers closed during the day for privacy and soft light, then draw the blackout layer at night for full darkness. It's a popular setup for bedrooms and living areas alike, giving you the best of both without needing to switch curtains depending on the time of day.
See and Feel Our Blackout Fabrics In Person
Fabric weight, texture and how a lining sits behind the face fabric are best judged in person. Visit our showrooms at Belrose or Moore Park to see the full range of blackout fabrics, feel the difference in construction, and get expert advice on the right option for your room. Our team can also help with layering advice if you're pairing blackout with a sheer.
FAQs
How much light do blackout curtains actually block?
Good quality blackout curtains block close to 100% of light, thanks to a dense fabric construction combined with a foam or acrylic backing. This makes them the most effective option where complete darkness is the goal.
What's the difference between blackout and dimout curtains?
Dimout curtains block a large majority of light, generally in the 90 to 98% range, while still allowing a soft glow through. Blackout curtains are built to block light almost entirely, giving you true, complete darkness rather than a dimmed room.
Do blackout curtains help with noise as well as light?
Yes, the dense fabric and lining used in blackout curtains also help dampen outside noise, which makes them a good option for homes on busier streets as well as light-sensitive sleepers.
Are blackout curtains good for reducing heat in a room?
Yes, the thicker construction adds a layer of thermal insulation, helping keep rooms cooler in summer and warmer in winter, on top of blocking light.
Can I still choose a nice fabric and colour with blackout curtains?
Yes, blackout performance comes from the lining and fabric construction rather than the outer colour or pattern, so you can choose a style that suits your room without compromising on light control.
Do you make custom blackout curtains for Sydney homes?
Yes, every blackout curtain is made to measure for your exact window dimensions. We service homes across Sydney, including the Northern Beaches and Eastern Suburbs, with showrooms at Belrose and Moore Park where you can view fabrics in person.