Room Darkening vs Blackout Shades: What's the difference?

Room darkening and blackout shades are often used interchangeably, but they aren't actually the same thing. While they may have similar functions and similar names, they are different window treatments built for slightly different purposes. While this naming convention may seem confusing at first, we hope that with a little info from our specialists here at Orly’s Interiors, all that confusion will be cleared up.

What are Room Darkening Shades?

Room darkening shades are a popular option for blocking controlling light in many people’s home. These shades are often used in bedrooms and living rooms because they help create a dark environment that makes you feel more comfortable as you sleep or watch TV. Room Darkening shades are designed to keep enough light out of a room that you can feel comfortable, but are not meant to make a room pitch black. That makes these a good choice for rooms where you need darkness, but still may want to see a little bit - like a living room or movie room. Many room darkening shades are made from cotton, linen, or silk - fabrics that allow light to filter through so you can still see what's going on outside your window while most of the light is blocked.

What are Blackout Shades?

Unlike room darkening shades, blackout shades are meant to block out all light from a room. Like they’re name suggests, they aim to create a space that is totally dark. They're often made from a thicker material than room darkening shades and will block out all light. This is ideal for rooms with larger windows or for rooms where complete darkness is important - like a bedroom or nursery.

Blackout shades are also great for anyone who wants to sleep in on weekends or need extra help getting up early on weekdays because they prevent any sunlight from streaming into your eyes when you wake up in the morning.

What's the Difference Between Room Darkening Shades and Blackout Window Treatments?

There can be a lot of confusion about room darkening vs blackout shades. Room darkening shades have a thick fabric that blocks out all light, but it lets some light through. Blackout shades are made with a very thick fabric that completely blocks out light. Whether you are considering room darkening or blackout shades, check out Orly’s Interior’s selection of Graber Roman Shades.These shades feature light control levels running from completely sheer to blackout, so you’ll be able to find a shade to block just as much light as you need.

To summarize, Room darkening shades are designed to block out sunlight and provide privacy, but not to the same degree blackout curtains do. Room darkening shades will allow some light through and should be used in rooms where you want a little bit of light but not a lot. Blackout curtains, on the other hand, are intended for rooms that require complete darkness - such as child’s bedroom or master bedroom - and they do a much better job at blocking out all light.

Get in Touch

We hope we’ve cleared up some of the confusion surrounding room darkening vs blackout shades. If you have questions, don’t hesitate to ask! We are always happy to help our customers with any of their home interior questions. Feel free to call us at (626) 335-3015 or contact us online! We can’t wait to help you find the perfect shades!