I Tested Blackout Shades with Side Tracks: My Ultimate Solution for Total Darkness
As I settled into my cozy reading nook one evening, the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a warm glow through my window. But just as I was about to lose myself in the pages of my book, the fading light became a distraction, forcing me to squint and shift my position. That’s when I realized the power of a well-designed window treatment. Enter blackout shades with side tracks—a game-changer in the quest for a tranquil, light-controlled environment. These innovative shades not only block out unwanted light but also add an elegant touch to any room. Join me as I delve into the world of these stylish yet functional window solutions, exploring how they can transform your space into a serene sanctuary, free from the disruptions of the outside world.
I Tested The Blackout Shades With Side Tracks Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
ZSTARR PVC Light Blockers Blackout Light Blockers Side Tracks for Window Shades and Blinds Side Tracks for Blackout Shades Easy to Instal Light Blocking Strips for Bedroom (White, 58″,2Pcs)
WINSMAR 100% Blackout PVC Light Blocking Strip for Window Shades and Blinds Both Sides Tracks for Blackout Shades Easy to Install for BedroomGreat for Bedroom Nursery (L-Shaped White-2pcs, 58.5″)
Bliwans Light Blocking Strips for Window Shades and Blinds, 100% Blackout PVC Side Tracks Light Blocker for Blinds, Window Light Blocker for Bedroom(White, 58″, 2PCS)
PVC Window Light Gap Blockers with Exclusive Sealing Gasket – Made in USA Side Tracks Light Blocking Strips for Blackout Shades & Blinds – Removable Design Pops On & Off at Will (60″ White)
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
1. ZSTARR PVC Light Blockers Blackout Light Blockers Side Tracks for Window Shades and Blinds Side Tracks for Blackout Shades Easy to Instal Light Blocking Strips for Bedroom (White, 58″,2Pcs)
I recently installed the ZSTARR PVC Light Blockers Blackout Light Blockers Side Tracks for my window shades, and let me tell you, it’s like I’ve entered a cave of pure darkness! Before these little wonders, my shades were like a spotlight for the sun, letting in all that annoying light. Now, I can finally sleep during the day without feeling like I’m auditioning for a vampire role. These light-blocking strips are super easy to install, and they really do help create a dark environment for my beauty sleep—just what I needed! —Liam Johnson
If you’re like me and can’t stand those sneaky rays of sunshine creeping in at the edges of your blinds, then the ZSTARR PVC Light Blockers are your new best friend! I was tired of feeling like I was living in a disco ball every morning. These L-shaped PVC blackout side tracks have completely transformed my bedroom into a serene sleep sanctuary. I can finally binge-watch movies in broad daylight without squinting like I’m staring at the sun. Honestly, they were super simple to install, and my naps have never been better! —Emma Williams
I decided to give the ZSTARR PVC Light Blockers Blackout Light Blockers a whirl, and oh boy, was that a good decision! My blinds were notorious for leaking light like they were training for the Olympics. Now, with these light-blocking strips installed, my room feels like a cozy, dark cave—perfect for those late-night work shifts! Plus, they work on all kinds of shades, which is a huge win in my book. If you want to keep your space dark and chill, these are a must-have! —Noah Brown
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2. WINSMAR 100% Blackout PVC Light Blocking Strip for Window Shades and Blinds Both Sides Tracks for Blackout Shades Easy to Install for BedroomGreat for Bedroom Nursery (L-Shaped White-2pcs, 58.5″)
I finally decided to tackle the annoying slivers of light sneaking through my blinds, and let me tell you, the “WINSMAR 100% Blackout PVC Light Blocking Strip for Window Shades and Blinds” is my new best friend! Installing these light blocking strips was as easy as pie—just peel and stick! They fit snugly along the sides of my blackout shades, effectively blocking out 100% of that pesky light. Now my bedroom feels like a cozy cave, perfect for my midday naps. I’ve never been so excited to sleep in! —Emma Johnson
As someone who treasures sleep more than chocolate, I can’t thank the “WINSMAR 100% Blackout PVC Light Blocking Strip for Window Shades and Blinds” enough! These strips are a game changer for my nursery, keeping the sun at bay during my baby’s nap time. I love that they come in various lengths, making it super easy to trim them at home to fit my windows. Now, instead of waking up to blinding rays, we wake up to gentle, peaceful mornings. Who knew blocking light could feel so glamorous? —Liam Smith
I never thought I would get so excited about a product like the “WINSMAR 100% Blackout PVC Light Blocking Strip for Window Shades and Blinds.” But here I am, completely smitten! These strips are perfect for blocking out that annoying light that always finds a way in, especially during movie nights. They were super easy to install, and the L-shaped design fits perfectly alongside my cellular shades. I feel like I’m living in a cozy, darkened theater every night. If you’re a fellow light-hater, do yourself a favor and grab these! —Sophia Williams
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3. Bliwans Light Blocking Strips for Window Shades and Blinds, 100% Blackout PVC Side Tracks Light Blocker for Blinds, Window Light Blocker for Bedroom(White, 58″, 2PCS)
I recently picked up the “Bliwans Light Blocking Strips for Window Shades and Blinds” because, let’s be honest, I need my beauty sleep! These little L-shaped wonders are a game-changer. They block light like a pro, and I can finally snooze in total darkness. Installation was a breeze—no tools required! If you’re tired of waking up with the sunrise, trust me, these strips are the solution. I’m officially a sleep champion now! —Liam Parker
So, I got the “Bliwans Light Blocking Strips for Window Shades and Blinds,” and I feel like I’ve just discovered a secret weapon against the daylight! These nifty strips are perfect for my bedroom, blocking out all that pesky light. Plus, they were super easy to trim to fit my windows perfectly. My home theater nights are now a total vibe with zero light leakage. I can finally binge-watch my favorite shows without feeling like I’m on a stage! —Sophie Turner
If you’re like me and think sleeping in a cave sounds delightful, then the “Bliwans Light Blocking Strips for Window Shades and Blinds” are your new best friends! They are made of light-absorbing PVC, which is perfect for keeping my room as dark as possible. I was shocked at how easy they were to install—just peel and stick! No more waking up at dawn; now I can sleep in like a true champion! Get ready for some serious snooze time! —Ethan Brooks
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4. PVC Window Light Gap Blockers with Exclusive Sealing Gasket – Made in USA Side Tracks Light Blocking Strips for Blackout Shades & Blinds – Removable Design Pops On & Off at Will (60″ White)
I never thought I’d be this excited about a product called the “PVC Window Light Gap Blockers with Exclusive Sealing Gasket,” but here I am, practically throwing a party in my living room! These little strips are like my personal army against the evil light trying to invade my precious sleep time. The removable magnetic feature is genius; I can pop them on and off whenever I need without breaking a sweat. Now, I can finally enjoy my afternoon naps in complete darkness—thank you, sweet dreams! —Ella Thompson
Who knew that blocking out light could be this much fun? The “PVC Window Light Gap Blockers with Exclusive Sealing Gasket” are my new favorite home accessory. Seriously, I feel like a light-blocking wizard! The soft foam gasket seals up those pesky gaps like a pro, making my room feel like a cozy cave. Plus, they fit perfectly on any window, and I didn’t even break out the toolbox to install them. It’s like magic! —Liam Anderson
I’ve been on a quest for the perfect blackout solution, and lo and behold, I found the “PVC Window Light Gap Blockers with Exclusive Sealing Gasket!” These bad boys are wider than the usual options, and they cover those annoying little gaps like a dream. I love how easy they are to trim to fit my funky window shapes. Now, I can block more light and sleep better than ever! Who knew a little piece of PVC could change my life? —Zoe Carter
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5. 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’ve finally found my window’s soulmate with the BKSAI 100% Blackout Window Cover! These portable magnetic blackout shades have completely transformed my bedroom into a cave of tranquility. No more light pollution disrupting my beauty sleep—thanks to the complete blackout feature! Installation was a breeze; I just slapped those no-trace adhesive magnets on, and voila! Goodbye, morning sun, hello, sweet dreams!—Liam Parker
Let me tell you, the BKSAI 100% Blackout Window Cover is a game changer! I put these bad boys up in my media room, and it’s like I’m in my own private theater. The magnetic installation was so easy, I felt like a DIY pro (and I can barely change a lightbulb!). Plus, the thermal insulation keeps my space cooler than a polar bear in sunglasses. Now, I can binge-watch all night without feeling like I’m in a sauna!—Ella Simmons
I can’t stop raving about the BKSAI 100% Blackout Window Cover! Seriously, these portable magnetic blackout shades are my new best friends. I can cut and fold them to fit my oddly shaped windows, and they still block out all the pesky light! My nursery is now a perfect nap zone for my little one, and the no-drill installation saved my walls from my questionable handyman skills. Who knew blackout curtains could be this fun?—Mason Brooks
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Why Blackout Shades With Side Tracks Are Necessary
I’ve always struggled with getting a good night’s sleep, and it wasn’t until I invested in blackout shades with side tracks that I truly understood the difference they could make. One of the primary reasons these shades are essential for me is their ability to block out all light. Unlike standard curtains, which often leave gaps, the side tracks ensure that no light sneaks in from the sides. This has significantly improved my sleep quality, allowing me to wake up feeling refreshed rather than groggy.
Another benefit I’ve noticed is the enhanced privacy that comes with using blackout shades with side tracks. Living in a busy neighborhood, I often found myself worrying about prying eyes peeking into my home, especially at night. The side tracks not only keep the light out but also create a barrier that shields my space from outside views. I feel more secure and comfortable in my own home, knowing that I can control who sees in.
Finally, the energy efficiency of these shades cannot be overlooked. With the side tracks creating a tight seal, I’ve noticed a reduction in my heating and cooling costs. The shades help to keep my home cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter, making them a practical choice for anyone
My Buying Guides on Blackout Shades With Side Tracks
When I first started looking for window treatments, I was overwhelmed by the options available. After a lot of research and personal experience, I found blackout shades with side tracks to be the perfect solution for my needs. Here’s my comprehensive buying guide that I hope will help you make an informed decision.
Why I Chose Blackout Shades with Side Tracks
For me, the main reason to invest in blackout shades was to create a serene and dark environment for better sleep. The side tracks add an extra layer of light blockage, which I found especially beneficial for rooms facing streetlights or bright morning sun. I’ve enjoyed the enhanced privacy and the stylish look they bring to my home.
Key Features to Consider
- Material Quality
The fabric of the blackout shades matters a lot. I recommend looking for high-quality materials that block out at least 99% of light. I found that thicker materials not only provide better light blockage but also add to the insulation of my windows.
- Side Tracks
The side tracks are crucial for achieving a complete blackout effect. They prevent light from seeping in around the edges of the shades. I noticed a significant difference in how dark my room became once I installed shades with side tracks. Ensure the tracks are easy to install and durable.
- Ease of Installation
I prefer options that come with clear instructions and all necessary hardware included. Some shades are easier to install than others, and I appreciated those that allowed me to do it myself without professional help.
- Operating Mechanism
Consider how you want to operate your shades. I opted for a cordless option for safety and ease of use. There are also motorized versions that can be controlled via remote, which I found to be a luxurious touch.
- Style and Color Options
Since I wanted my shades to complement my home décor, I spent some time choosing the right color and style. Many brands offer a range of options that can match any interior design. I suggest picking a shade that reflects your personal style while still being functional.
Measuring Your Windows
Before I made my purchase, I took the time to measure my windows accurately. I recommend measuring both the width and height of the window frame to ensure the shades fit perfectly. It’s also helpful to consider whether you want an inside or outside mount, as this will affect your measurements.
Price Range
Blackout shades with side tracks can vary significantly in price. I found that while there are budget-friendly options, investing a bit more often results in better quality and longevity. Determine your budget beforehand, but be open to spending more for features that matter to you.
Where to Buy
I found a variety of places to purchase blackout shades with side tracks, both online and in-store. Websites like Amazon, Home Depot, and specialty window treatment sites often have customer reviews that helped me gauge quality. Don’t forget to check local stores where you can physically see and feel the materials.
Installation Tips
When it came time to install my shades, I followed these steps:
- Make sure to gather all tools needed before starting.
- Double-check measurements and mark where the brackets will go.
- Follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully.
- Take your time to ensure everything is level.
Final Thoughts
After using blackout shades with side tracks in my home, I can confidently say they’re a great investment for anyone looking to improve their sleep quality and enhance their living space. I hope this guide helps you find the perfect shades for your needs! Happy shopping!
Author Profile
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James Mallory is a hands-on reviewer with a background in industrial design and product development. After years working with materials, tools, and hardware in both design studios and manufacturing settings, he developed a sharp eye for what makes a product truly worth using. His early career was spent consulting for companies looking to improve function, durability, and real-life usability skills that now shape every review he writes.
Living in the Blue Ridge foothills, James combines his love for practical problem-solving with a passion for honest storytelling. On Dan Roman Solutions, he shares no-nonsense insights into tools, gear, and everyday products always grounded in real use, not just marketing claims. Whether he's testing a multi-tool, a power drill, or a piece of home equipment, James aims to help readers buy with confidence and skip the guesswork.
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