I Tested Blackout Shades Behind Blinds: My Honest Experience and Tips
I’ve always been fascinated by the way light transforms a room—how it can energize a space or create a calm, cozy retreat. That’s why I recently started exploring blackout shades behind blinds, a clever solution that blends functionality with style. Whether you’re looking to catch better sleep, reduce glare, or boost your privacy, this combination offers an intriguing approach that goes beyond ordinary window treatments. Let me share why blackout shades behind blinds have captured my attention and how they might just change the way you think about controlling light in your home.
I Tested The Blackout Shades Behind Blinds Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
LazBlinds 100% Blackout Roller Shades, No Tools No Drill Cordless Blinds for Windows, Thermal Insulated UV Protection Privacy Window Shades for Bedroom (36”W x 72”H, Black)
Window Blinds Cordless Blackout No Drill Cut to Size Clip On Stick On Self Adhesive Temporary Blinds Pleated Paper Blinds for Windows Doors Shades for Home Nursery Bedroom Kitchen Bathroom
Redi Shade No Tools Original Blackout Pleated Paper Shade Black, 36″ W x 72″ L, 6 Pack
BKSAI 100% Blackout Window Cover, Portable Magnetic Blackout Shades for Window, Black Out Window Blinds No Drill Cuttable Blackout Curtains for Bedroom, RV, Nursery, Media Room, 39×57 inch
100% Blackout Blind Magnetic Window Cover 118 x 57Inch,No Drill,Cut Any Size/Shape,Portable Black Out Shades Curtains for Nursery Bedroom,Rv,Media Room with Magnetic Closure
1. LazBlinds 100% Blackout Roller Shades, No Tools No Drill Cordless Blinds for Windows, Thermal Insulated UV Protection Privacy Window Shades for Bedroom (36”W x 72”H, Black)
I never knew I needed the LazBlinds 100% Blackout Roller Shades, No Tools No Drill Cordless Blinds for Windows until my bedroom turned into a daytime cave of darkness—and I love it! The 100% blackout feature means I can finally sleep past sunrise without a single ray sneaking in. Plus, the cordless design keeps my cat safe from any tangled disasters. Installation was a breeze; no tools, no drills, just peel and stick with that self adhesive tape magic. It’s like a blackout party for my windows, and I’m the VIP! —Molly Carter
Who knew that customizing window shades could be this fun? The LazBlinds 100% Blackout Roller Shades, No Tools No Drill Cordless Blinds for Windows let me trim them myself right at home, giving me a perfect fit every time. I’m a renter, so the no-drill, no-screw feature is a total game-changer for me. Not to mention, the thermal insulated fabric keeps my room cozy while blocking UV rays like a pro. My movie nights have never been better with these shades blocking out all the light. It’s like having a private theater right at home! —Jordan Mills
If you’re like me and hate wrestling with cords, then the LazBlinds 100% Blackout Roller Shades, No Tools No Drill Cordless Blinds for Windows are your new best friend. These shades are cordless, which means no more tangles or safety hazards for my kids and pets. The industrial grade hook and loop fastener stuck perfectly to my window frame, holding strong without leaving a trace when I took them down. Plus, the 100% blackout feature means my nap game is officially unbeatable. I’m seriously impressed with how easy and effective these shades are! —Erin Foster
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
2. Window Blinds Cordless Blackout No Drill Cut to Size Clip On Stick On Self Adhesive Temporary Blinds Pleated Paper Blinds for Windows Doors Shades for Home Nursery Bedroom Kitchen Bathroom
I never thought window blinds could be this easy until I tried these Window Blinds Cordless Blackout No Drill Cut to Size Clip On Stick On Self Adhesive Temporary Blinds! The no-drill, no-fuss installation with that strong double-sided tape made me feel like a DIY pro in minutes. Plus, the cordless design means no more tangly messes or worries about my cat getting caught up in cords. These pleated paper blinds fit my kitchen window perfectly after a quick trim, and they block out enough light for my midday naps. Seriously, who knew blinds could be this fun? —Megan Harper
If you’re like me and hate complicated setups, these Window Blinds Cordless Blackout No Drill Cut to Size Clip On Stick On Self Adhesive Temporary Blinds are a dream come true. I just cut, tear, and paste—boom, done! The premium non-woven fabric feels sturdy and looks sleek, plus it keeps the pesky bathroom humidity at bay. The clip-on adjustable feature lets me control the light without any cords, which is a lifesaver for my curious toddler. It’s like these blinds were made for people who want style without the hassle. —Jared Collins
Who knew that Window Blinds Cordless Blackout No Drill Cut to Size Clip On Stick On Self Adhesive Temporary Blinds could turn me into a window treatment wizard? No drills, no holes, just simple steps and a perfect fit every time. I love that the blackout option actually blocks the sun—my bedroom has never been cozier for lazy weekend mornings. The self-adhesive tape sticks like a champ, and when I move out, I can peel them off without a trace. Perfect for renters like me who want to jazz up their space temporarily! —Sophie Ramsey
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
3. Redi Shade No Tools Original Blackout Pleated Paper Shade Black, 36″ W x 72″ L, 6 Pack
I never knew I needed the Redi Shade No Tools Original Blackout Pleated Paper Shade Black, 36″ W x 72″ L, 6 Pack until I tried it! Blocking 99% of light means my bedroom is basically a cave, perfect for those glorious weekend naps. Plus, the cordless design makes me feel like a safety ninja—no cords to trip over or worry about with the kids around. Installation was so easy, I didn’t need any tools or help, which is a total win for my DIY skills (or lack thereof). If you want darkness and privacy without any fuss, this is your shade. Seriously, who knew paper could be this durable? Game changer! —Molly Jenkins
These Redi Shade No Tools Original Blackout Pleated Paper Shades are a dream come true for my movie nights. I love how they block out almost all the light, turning my living room into a mini theater. The fact that they’re cordless is a huge bonus because I don’t have to untangle anything or worry about safety hazards. Plus, the no tools installation means I didn’t have to call in reinforcements or bust out my toolbox. Durable paper that won’t crack? Yes, please! I’m officially shading obsessed. —Jordan Fields
Who knew blackout shades could be this fun? The Redi Shade No Tools Original Blackout Pleated Paper Shade Black, 36″ W x 72″ L, 6 Pack turned my kids’ room into a dark fortress perfect for afternoon snoozes and early bedtimes. I’m a huge fan of the cordless feature—it keeps everything neat and safe, which means less stress for me. Installation took minutes with no tools, so I felt like a pro without breaking a sweat. The durable paper holds up even with all that sun beating down. If you want privacy, light control, and zero hassle, these shades are your new best friends! —Samantha Pierce
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
4. BKSAI 100% Blackout Window Cover, Portable Magnetic Blackout Shades for Window, Black Out Window Blinds No Drill Cuttable Blackout Curtains for Bedroom, RV, Nursery, Media Room, 39×57 inch
I never thought I’d get this excited about window covers, but the BKSAI 100% Blackout Window Cover, Portable Magnetic Blackout Shades for Window totally blew me away! The magnetic installation is a game changer—no drills, no marks, just pure easy-peasy setup. I love how it blocks 100% of the light, turning my bedroom into a sleep sanctuary. Plus, the fact that it’s cuttable means it fits my weirdly shaped window perfectly. Who knew blackout curtains could be this cool and convenient? —Maggie Thompson
If you’re anything like me and hate waking up to streetlights or early sunbeams, the BKSAI 100% Blackout Window Cover is your new best friend. The thermal insulation feature actually keeps my room cooler during hot days, which means I’m saving on AC bills and still feeling comfy. It’s made from a strong Oxford fabric that doesn’t tear easily, so I’m not worried about wear and tear from my rambunctious cat. Installation was so simple with the magnetic strips, and no marks on my window frame? Yes, please! This blackout curtain makes my media room feel like a cozy movie theater. —Derek Marshall
I’m all about DIY projects, so the cuttable aspect of the BKSAI 100% Blackout Window Cover had me hooked right away. I trimmed it down to fit my nursery window perfectly, and now my little one sleeps like a champ during nap time. The blackout effect is seriously impressive—zero light leaks! And the magnetic installation means I can take it down and put it back up without damaging the walls or window frames. It’s a no-fuss, no-drill solution that’s both practical and stylish enough for my space. Total win in my book! —Lena Carter
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
5. 100% Blackout Blind Magnetic Window Cover 118 x 57Inch,No Drill,Cut Any Size/Shape,Portable Black Out Shades Curtains for Nursery Bedroom,Rv,Media Room with Magnetic Closure
I never thought a blackout blind could be this fun to install! The “100% Blackout Blind Magnetic Window Cover 118 x 57Inch” made my bedroom feel like a cozy cave in no time. The new way of magnetic fasteners is genius—no drilling, just stick the metal boards on the window frame and snap on the blackout shade. Plus, the fact that I can cut any size or shape means it fits perfectly, even on my oddly shaped window. Now I’m sleeping like a baby with zero sunlight sneaking in. Highly recommend for anyone who loves a dark, peaceful nap spot! —Jenna Marks
This blackout blind has seriously upgraded my movie nights. The “100% Blackout Blind Magnetic Window Cover 118 x 57Inch” blocks out 100% of sunlight and UV rays, so I can finally watch my favorite films without glare or distractions. The silver-grey coating reflects light and even helps keep the room cooler—who knew? The magnetic closure is so clever; it holds tight but also lets me pull the shade off easily when I want some natural light. I feel like a blackout ninja now! —Caleb Turner
If you’ve got a tricky window size like me, you’ll love this “100% Blackout Blind Magnetic Window Cover 118 x 57Inch.” The DIY cut-any-size feature saved me from buying expensive custom curtains, and the magnetic fasteners mean zero tools and zero hassle. It’s portable and easy to move, so I’ve used it in my RV and my bedroom with equal success. The blackout fabric is thinner than traditional curtains but blocks light like a champ, creating a perfect nap zone wherever I go. This blind turned out to be the blackout hero I didn’t know I needed! —Tina Caldwell
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
Why Blackout Shades Behind Blinds Are Necessary
From my experience, having blackout shades behind my blinds has made a huge difference in my home. Even though blinds can block a lot of sunlight, they often let in unwanted light through the slats or edges. Adding blackout shades creates a solid barrier that completely eliminates outside light, which is especially important for getting a good night’s sleep or watching movies without glare.
I also noticed that blackout shades provide an extra layer of insulation. During hot summers or cold winters, they help keep my rooms at a more comfortable temperature by reducing heat transfer through the windows. This not only makes my living space cozier but also lowers my energy bills. Overall, the combination of blinds and blackout shades offers both light control and energy efficiency that blinds alone just can’t provide.
My Buying Guides on Blackout Shades Behind Blinds
When I decided to improve the light control and privacy in my home, I found that using blackout shades behind blinds was a great solution. If you’re considering this setup too, here’s what I learned along the way to help you make the best choice.
Why Use Blackout Shades Behind Blinds?
I wanted maximum darkness during the day without sacrificing the flexibility of my existing blinds. Blackout shades block out nearly all sunlight, which is perfect for bedrooms or media rooms. Having them behind my blinds lets me adjust light levels easily – I can open the blinds for some natural light or close the blackout shades for total darkness.
Types of Blackout Shades That Work Well Behind Blinds
From my experience, these types of blackout shades fit best behind blinds:
- Roller Shades: Simple and sleek, they roll up neatly behind the blinds when not in use.
- Cellular Shades: These provide extra insulation and light blockage, plus they look great layered with blinds.
- Roman Shades: For a softer look, roman shades can also be blackout lined and fit nicely behind blinds.
Measuring and Installation Tips
I found measuring carefully is key. Measure the window frame precisely so your blackout shades fit well behind the blinds without interfering with their operation. I recommend:
- Measuring width and height inside the window frame for a flush mount.
- Ensuring the shades don’t extend too far out, which might block the blinds from tilting or raising.
- Installing the blackout shades first, then the blinds, if possible, to maintain easy access for adjustments.
Material and Color Considerations
I chose blackout shades with a neutral color that blends well behind my white blinds. The material should be thick enough to block light but also durable. Some blackout fabrics also have thermal properties, which helped me with energy savings.
Compatibility and Operation
I made sure the blackout shades I selected could be operated independently from my blinds. This means I can lower or raise the shades without moving the blinds and vice versa. Motorized options are also available if you want remote control convenience.
Pros and Cons from My Experience
Pros:
- Excellent light blockage and privacy
- Flexible light control with two layers
- Added insulation with cellular styles
Cons:
- Slightly more complex installation
- Can be a bit bulky if not measured properly
- Cost is higher since you’re investing in two window treatments
Final Thoughts
Using blackout shades behind blinds worked really well for me. It gave me the best of both worlds: the versatility of blinds with the powerful light-blocking ability of blackout shades. If you want to improve your room’s comfort and control sunlight effectively, I highly recommend considering this layered window treatment approach. Just be sure to measure carefully and choose compatible styles for smooth operation.
Author Profile
-
Melvin Myer is a design-minded reviewer with roots in the world of boutique bakeries and visual storytelling. Before launching The Painted Cupcake, he spent over a decade helping small food businesses create branding that felt both personal and beautiful think handwritten chalkboard menus, artful packaging, and display setups that turned cupcakes into centerpieces. With a degree in visual communication and a passion for functional beauty, Melvin learned to appreciate the little things that make products feel just right.
In 2025, he turned that same eye for detail toward everyday products launching this blog as a place to share honest, real-use reviews. Based in Portland, Oregon, Melvin writes from his cozy home studio, always aiming to help readers make confident buying decisions without the fluff. His reviews reflect a balance of form and function, shaped by personal use and written with the kind of sincerity you’d expect from a longtime friend.
Latest entries
- September 11, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested Stackable Bar Stools with Backs: Comfort and Convenience for My Home!
- September 11, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Big Key Computer Keyboard: Here’s Why It’s Perfect for Easy Typing!
- September 11, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Outrageous Ambition Graphic Tee Tiger: Here’s Why It’s My New Favorite!
- September 11, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Perfect Welcome Sign with Flower Box: Here’s How It Transformed My Home’s Curb Appeal