If you’re tired of waking up at 6AM because the sun blasted through your blinds, or you want complete privacy at night without the glow of headlights pouring into your living room — blackout shades are your new best friend.
But not all blackout blinds are created equal.
Some just dim the light. Others? They turn your room into a cave.
So before you waste money on some poorly made Amazon product with fake reviews, here’s what actually matters when shopping for blackout blinds
1. True Blackout vs. Light Filtering: Know the Difference
Don’t fall for marketing hype.
Just because it says blackout doesn’t mean it fully blocks light. Some products only reduce brightness — they’re more like “room darkening” shades.
Look for key phrases like:
- 100% blackout
- Triple weave fabric
- Foam-lined back layer
- Lightproof side channels
If it doesn’t mention these, it probably leaks light.
2. Choose the Right Style for Your Room
There’s no “best” blackout blind overall — it depends on your vibe.
Roller Shades
Sleek and modern
Best for minimalists
Easy to clean
Light can leak from sides without side tracks
Cellular (Honeycomb) Shades
Excellent insulation
Blocks noise
Looks cozy
Slightly bulkier design
Roman Shades
Classy, fabric-based look
Great for bedrooms
Can be pricier and harder to clean
Blackout Curtains
Affordable
Easy to hang over existing blinds
Block light even around window edges
Bulkier, more traditional look
3. Corded, Cordless, or Motorized?
- Corded: Cheapest option, but messy and not kid-safe
- Cordless: Clean look, safer for kids and pets
- Motorized: Luxury feel with remote/app control — ideal for large or hard-to-reach windows
Want to impress someone on a date? Remote-controlled blackout shades are the move.
4. Measurements Matter — Don’t Wing It
Before you click “Buy Now,” measure:
- Inside Mount: Fit the blinds inside the window frame
- Outside Mount: Blinds hang over the window frame (blocks more light)
Always double-check width and length. Amazon sellers love putting “universal fit” — but there’s no such thing. Measure or regret it.
5. Watch Out for These Red Flags on Amazon
Fake reviews (look for generic praise or photos that don’t match product)
No mention of blackout layers or thermal insulation
Flimsy mounting hardware (check Q&As and 1-star reviews)
Thin material that flaps in the wind or bends easily
Stick with brands that show real photos, clear install instructions, and include mounting kits in the box.
6. Extra Features That Make Life Better
- Thermal Insulation: Keeps rooms warmer in winter, cooler in summer
- Noise Reduction: Blocks outside sounds (great for apartments or babies)
- UV Protection: Helps preserve furniture and flooring
- Moisture Resistant: Ideal for kitchens or bathrooms
Quick Recap — What You Actually Need:
100% blackout fabric
Proper sizing
Easy installation
Cordless or motorized if you have kids or want style
Bonus features like insulation or noise reduction
Still Not Sure?
No problem — we’ve made it easy.
👉 Check out our Top 10 Blackout Blinds for 2025 — reviewed, tested, and ranked.