There is no doubt that curtains enhance the beauty of living space, but their primary function is to block sunlight and ensure privacy. If light passes through the curtains, it can make you feel uncomfortable. Many people struggle with curtains that don’t fully block sunlight, as light leaks through the top and sides. As a result, they can’t enjoy a healthy and restful sleep.
For a peaceful sleep and complete blackout in your room, it’s essential to choose the best curtains and install key accessories to block light from above the curtains. In this guide, we’ll explain how to block light from the top and sides of curtains to create a dark, restful environment.
Why Light Leaks From Top & Sides Of Curtains?
Curtain light leakage can occur due to several common reasons. Let’s explore the key factors that contribute to this issue.
1. Curtain Measurement Errors
The most basic cause of light leakage from the top and sides of curtains often starts with the curtain size. This happens when the curtain panel is too narrow for the window frame.
The solution is simple, choose a curtain panel that is 1 to 2 inches wider than the window frame on both sides to effectively block light.
2. Unskilled Curtain Fitting
When things get complicated, it’s always a good idea to hire a professional. An improperly fitted curtain panel can also lead to light leaks. If you’ve installed the curtain yourself, you may have missed some crucial fittings.
3. Curtain Installation Mistakes
Another cause of light leakage from the top and sides of curtains is installation errors. These mistakes can include issues like incorrect curtain panel width or the wrong bracket length.
How To Block Light From The Top Of Curtains?
When you hang curtains or drapes, gaps are often left at the top, allowing light to come into your living space. To effectively block this light, you’ll need a more specific solution. Here are some useful methods to prevent sunlight from coming through the top of your curtains.
1. Use A Valance
A valance is a piece of a curtain used to cover to top of the window. These valances enhance the beauty of your curtains and stop light coming through top of curtains. Valances have a shape like cornice boards. Scarf-style valances are also used sometimes.
These valances cover the top of the window and block a part or all of the light depending upon the valance’s thickness. Another advantage of using valance is that you don’t need to drill holes in your wall.
2. Blackout Curtains
Blackout curtains are usually not black, despite what their name suggests. In fact, they are thicker, multi-layered curtains designed to block out sunlight completely. These layers are sewn with a special light-blocking lining, which helps to prevent light from entering the room.
To use them, simply measure your window size, hang your blackout curtains, and enjoy the benefits. In addition to blocking light, blackout curtains also help maintain the room’s temperature due to their thickness. This feature also helps you to save money on heating costs. And if you’re wondering how to stop cat from climbing curtains, these can be the perfect solution, as they are also great cat proof curtains.
3. Use Privacy Film
A great way to block sunlight from the top of your curtains is by using a privacy film. This film is made of a mesh-like material. Privacy film effectively keeps sunlight out while also providing the privacy you need.
4. Wrap Around Curtain Rod
When windows are left open, curtains can shift toward the center, allowing unwanted light to enter the living space. You can easily fix this by wrapping your curtains around the rod. This method doesn’t require any extra accessories.
Simply tie the ends of the curtain panel to the curtain rods to prevent light from coming through the top. You can cover the entire window from top to bottom, keeping the curtains in place and stopping them from slipping toward the center. Just make sure your curtains are wide enough to wrap around the rods on both sides.
5. Use Tin Foil
A creative and effective way to block sunlight is by using tin foil on your windows. While this method may not suit everyone, it can be surprisingly effective. To avoid any sticking issues, simply use painter’s tape to secure the tin foil in place. This DIY sunlight blocker solution can help block out sunlight while adding a unique touch to your windows.
6. Use Cornice Boards
A cornice board is a decorative wooden cap that covers the top of a curtain panel. In addition to adding style and sophistication, cornice boards also help block light that may seep in from the top of the curtains.
Cornice boards are designed to fit over your curtains and the rod they hang from. They come in various styles, including straight, curved, and arched designs, so you can easily find one that complements your room’s decor.
7. Pair Up the Curtains & Blinds
Another effective way to prevent light from coming through the top of your curtains is to add blinds or shades to your windows. These window coverings are made from thick fabrics that block light more effectively. This is an excellent solution for creating complete darkness in your room. As mentioned earlier, curtains alone may not be sufficient to block out all sunlight, so combining them with blinds or shades will ensure a fully darkened space.
There are many types of blinds and shades to choose from, including cellular shades, Roman shades, thermally insulated blinds, and blackout blinds. Of these, cellular blinds are the most efficient and effective for blocking light. When selecting blinds or shades, it’s important to consider factors such as maintenance, color, price, style, and quality.
8. Use A Pelmet Box
A pelmet is a decorative piece, made from wood or fabric, that sits above the top of your curtains to prevent light from leaking in. It can also be used to conceal curtain tracks or rods.
To install a pelmet, start by measuring and marking the center of the pelmet, then mark the wall where you’ll install the brackets. Next, drill holes and install the brackets, ensuring they are level. Finally, mount the pelmet onto the brackets.
Installing a pelmet not only blocks light from entering the room but also hides unsightly types of curtain tracks, creating a neater and more streamlined look.
9. Use Tension Rod
Using tension rods is an effective way to block sunlight. Simply choose a lightweight fabric, such as a curtain panel or scarf, and attach a tension rod to the inside of the window frame. Drape the fabric over the rod, covering the gap at the top of the window.
This simple solution helps keep sunlight out of the room. Plus, this renter-friendly curtain rod method can also be used to hang blinds without drilling holes.
10. Planting Trees
This is a natural approach to stop light. You can plant tall trees outside your window to block sunlight. This method also adds aesthetic appeal to your outdoor place.
How To Block Light From Sides Of The Curtains?
If sunlight is leaking through the sides of your curtains or window panel, there are several effective solutions you can try to fix the issue.
1. By Using Magnetic Tape
Magnetic tape is a convenient way to keep your curtains in place. It prevents light from leaking through the sides of your curtain panel. It’s easy to find at local stores.
To use it, simply attach the tape to the edges of your curtains with glue. This will secure the curtains to the sides, minimizing movement and blocking sunlight, creating a cozy atmosphere in your room.
2. By Using Velcro Strips
Velcro strips function similarly to magnetic tape in keeping your curtains in place. These adhesive-backed strips are available in various shapes, such as circular and square, so you can choose the one that best suits your needs.
3. By Using Cardboard Or Foam
This DIY method is an affordable way to block sunlight from entering through the sides of your curtains. However, it may not be the most durable option for curtains that are frequently opened and closed.
To use this method, simply cut pieces of cardboard or foam to fit and attach them to the back of the curtains. This will effectively block light from the sides while maintaining the overall appearance of your curtains.
Important Tips To Block Light Coming From Top & Sides Of Curtains
If you’re aiming for a complete blackout in your living space to ensure quality sleep, there are a few important factors to consider. First, make sure you have accurate measurements for your curtains before purchasing a panel.
Choose thick, high-quality fabrics with dense weaves to minimize light leakage. If you’re familiar with the proper curtain installation steps, you’re all set. If not, it’s best to hire a professional to avoid mistakes and ensure proper light blockage. By following these simple yet essential tips, you can achieve effective light control.
Why You Should Block Light Entering Through The Curtains?
Fixing light leaks in your curtains is essential, especially when you’re trying to relax or sleep. By addressing these leaks, you can enjoy several benefits.
1. Quality Sleep
Quality sleep is crucial for everyone, especially for day sleepers in today’s busy world. These light-blocking methods help create a completely dark room, ensuring restful and uninterrupted sleep.
2. Energize Your Day
Uninterrupted quality sleep recharges your body, strengthens your immune system, and boosts your physical health. As a result, you’ll be able to perform at your best in daily tasks with greater clarity and focus.
3. Peak Performance
Quality sleep improves mental clarity and focus and enhances your problem-solving skills. Good mental health will enhance your performance resulting in more productivity at work and in your daily life.
Conclusion
Apart from creating a cozy atmosphere and home decor, curtains also, block sunlight, and provide privacy, all while complementing your house design. However, many curtains struggle to block light from the top and sides.
To help, we’ve shared 13 effective methods to reduce and eliminate light leaks from the top and sides of your curtains. By using these light blocker methods, you can enjoy a peaceful atmosphere and perfect sleep.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How To Make Curtains Light Blocking?
Try hanging thermal or blackout curtains slightly higher and longer than the window frame.
What Covers The Top Of Curtains?
Valances, cornice boards, and pelmet boxes cover to top of the curtains to block sunlight from the top.
What Are Some Ways To Block Light From The Top Of Curtains?
Some ways to block light include using curtain hooks with built-in light blockers, installing a curtain rod with a built-in valance, or using a separate light-blocking panel.
How Do You Block The Light Side Of Curtains?
You can use Velcro strips, magnetic tape, cardboard, or foam to block light from the sides of the curtains.
Why Is Light Seeping From The Top Of My Curtains?
Light can seep from the top of curtains due to a gap between the curtain rod and the ceiling, or if the curtains are not long enough.