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Finding new shades is as easy as one, two, three.
Photo:Real Simple
In This Article
Real Simple
Getting a good nights sleep is easier said than done.
The shade is on the thicker side and blocks out most incoming light.
The shade also has thermal-insulated backing to help insulate the room from heat, cold, and ambient noise.
PHOTO: Real Simple / Jennifer May
It includes all the screws, but you will need atool kit.
Once installed, the shade has a streamlined look and is available in three colors and multiple sizes.
These shades have exceptional performance and don’t skimp on quality, even with their budget-friendly price.
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When mounted inside the window frame, the shade blocks out almost all light.
We noticed that the blind rustles when pulled, which may not be ideal for nurseries.
This shade has a blackout liner to block light, and the cellular construction helps provide insulation.
PHOTO: IKEA
In fact, we found that it helped keep the room cooler.
After two months of regular use, they remained just as effective as they were on day one.
Installation is simple, tooyou only need two brackets with one screw per bracket.
PHOTO: Real Simple / Tammy Gardini
During our testing, this shade blocked out about 90% of light.
It also comes in multiple color and size options.
To determine setup time, we started a timer and recorded how long the installation took.
PHOTO: Real Simple
For outside mounts, we installed the shade outside the window frame, covering both the frame and glass.
If the shade was adjustable, we trimmed it down to the recommended length for the window.
We looked at the texture and thickness of the shades to determine their quality.
We also considered the effectiveness of the retracting mechanism (roller, wand, pull chain, cordless).
Too small of a shade will allow light to shine through the gaps.
We recommend measuring your windows first.
Some products we tested can customized to fit the size you need, like our overall best pick.
Our best variety pick also has plenty of sizing options.
Note that the cost of a shade will also depend on its sizelarger shades are generally more expensive.
Style
Blackout shades come in several styles, including cellular, roller, and Roman.
Your choice depends on your preferred aesthetic, but there are also functional and cost differences between the styles.
Renters can also consider adhesive options to avoid drilling into walls or window frames.
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Let’s Settle This: Curtains vs.
However, shades have the advantage of being lighter and taking up less space.
For a 100% blackout solution, though, you could also combine your shades with curtains.
