When choosing curtains for your home or project, understanding their function is crucial to making the best choice. Blackout curtains have become increasingly popular for their ability to block out light, provide insulation and reduce noise. Whether you’re aiming to create a peaceful sleeping space or enhance privacy, knowing the ins and outs of blackout curtain fabric will help you make an informed decision. This guide will cover everything from what blackout curtains are to the best fabric options available so that you find the perfect solution for your needs.
What are blackout curtains?
Blackout curtains are specially designed window coverings that block out light and enhance privacy. Made with dense, multi-layered fabric, they are perfect for rooms where you want to eliminate external light sources, such as bedrooms or cinema rooms.
As well as their light-blocking capabilities, blackout curtains also provide a level of thermal insulation, helping to keep your home cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter. Their sound-dampening properties also make them ideal for spaces where noise reduction is wanted. By creating a dark, quiet and comfortable environment, blackout curtains contribute to better sleep and overall comfort in your home.
What is blackout fabric?
Blackout fabric is a specialised material used in the manufacturing of blackout curtains. The key to its effectiveness lies in the 3-pass coating process:
1. First Pass
The back of the fabric is coated with a foam layer to add thickness and help block out light.
2. Second Pass
A black opaque layer is added on top of the foam. This means no light can pass through the fabric.
3. Third Pass
A white or coloured layer is then applied to give the fabric a finished look. This also helps to provide additional insulation and durability.
How do blackout curtains work?
The main function of blackout curtains is to block light. The fabric used in these curtains is coated with a 3-pass process, including an opaque layer that prevents light from passing through. Blackout curtains often double up as insulation because their multi-layered construction means they help to maintain a consistent indoor temperature.
The dense fabric of blackout curtains also helps to dampen sound. While not soundproof, they can significantly reduce the amount of noise entering a room as their heavy material absorbs sound waves. So, for people who live in busy urban areas or near noisy streets, they’re helpful.
What are blackout curtains made of?
Blackout curtains are made from a combination of materials that offer light-blocking properties and durability.
Fabrics
Polyester is one of the most common materials used in blackout curtains. It is durable, easy to maintain and resistant to wrinkles and shrinking. The tightly woven fibres of the fabric create an effective barrier against light.
Cotton is another popular fabric. While on its own it’s not as effective at blocking light, as a base fabric with coatings, it is suitable for blackout curtains. Cotton has a soft, natural texture and is often chosen for its breathability as well as its aesthetic appeal.
Backing
Many blackout curtains have a foam or rubber backing. This is crucial for the light-blocking aspect of the curtains. The backing layer is applied to the fabric to prevent light from passing through. It also contributes to noise reduction and insulation.
Thermal layers
Some blackout curtains also have additional thermal layers built in to enhance insulation. This helps regulate the room temperature. These layers are often made from materials like acrylic or polyester.
What kind of fabric is best for blackout curtains?
To achieve optimal light-blocking, you should consider pure polyester or polyester blends. Each has its benefits and your choice depends on your specific needs and preferences.
Pure polyester is popular due to its excellent performance. It is highly durable, resistant to wrinkles and easy to clean. The tightly woven fibres block light effectively even before the additional layers are added. Polyester is also good at insulating against heat and noise.
Polyester blends combine polyester with other materials like cotton or rayon. These blends can offer enhanced aesthetic appeal and texture options. While these may not block light as effectively as pure polyester, they still provide significant light reduction. The fabric blend can make the curtains more versatile and softer, catering to different interior design preferences.
To decide between the two, it’s a good idea to compare their performance:
| Light blocking | Insulation | Aesthetic and texture | Durability | |
| Polyester | Superior light-blocking capabilities due to its dense weave | Generally better thermal and acoustic insulation | Functional, utilitarian appearance | Highly durable. Will maintain appearance over time. |
| Polyester Blends | Effective light-blocking but a small amount of light may filter through | Good thermal and acoustic insulation | Wide range of textures and finishes are available | May be slightly less durable but still offers long-lasting performance |
Recycled blackout fabrics
With sustainability being crucial in your choice of fabric, we offer RESET, made from 100% recycled polyester. Another recycled fabric is double-sided Blackout UNITY. As this is coloured on both sides – an uncommon design, especially for a blackout – it gives a strongly stylish design both inside and out as well as ensuring maximum darkness.
In summary, the best fabric for blackout curtains depends on the balance between functionality and aesthetic preferences. Pure polyester excels in performance, while polyester blends provide versatility and design options.
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