Sheer, Light-Filtering, Room Darkening and Blackout Shades—What’s the Difference?

For those not familiar with the world of window décor, there are a lot of potentially confusing. I mean really, what’s the difference between black out shades and light-filtering shades? —Quite a lot actually.

Read on and discover the differences between shades, and where they best fit in your home.

What Does Blackout Mean?

When we talk blackout, there are numerous window products that it can refer to. Blackout linings, blackout blinds, blackout curtains – these products all accomplish the goal of limiting outside light from passing into a room.

But how much light do you need to be blocked? What product should you buy? Letting a sales person decide for you is a way to find the answer, but there’s also a good chance he/she will just select the most expensive option. It’s better to know what you want before entering the store.

Sheer/Light-Filtering/Room Darkening/Blackout – How are they different?

Terms such as “room-darkening”, “light-dimming”, or “opaque” may sound confusing, but these terms only refer to the level of light blocking provided.

There are four types of window coverings that control the amount of light coming into a room. They are:

• Sheer – Sheers let in the most light. They are designed to remove glare, but still be see through. These coverings are perfect for family rooms or rooms where kids play.

• Room Darkening – This type of window covering removes a lot of outside light, letting in only a little bit pass through.

• Light-filtering – This type of covering provides the owner the most control over outside light levels. Easily adjustable, light-filtering shades can block out only glare or all outside light entirely.

• Blackout – As dark as the Bat Cave, this style of shades creates a space where no outside light will come in. Perfect for a napping spot even in the middle of the day.

Hopefully now, you understand a bit more about the differences between shades. With this knowledge, you can determine what your home needs to most.