Blackout curtains in the interior of the apartment. Blackout curtains Blackout curtains are ideal for summer

Every home has a room (and often more than one) where protection from sunlight or complete darkness is required. And it is not always possible to use several layers of window textiles to solve this problem (a small room, cramped conditions, low ceilings will not allow this to be done). Then blackout curtains can come to the rescue. They were invented specifically for such “difficult cases”.

What it is?

Initially, light-proof blackout fabric was created for use when decorating bedroom windows in those latitudes where white nights are common, in order to block the access of light to the room (blackout in Russian means “darkening”). It is believed that the birthplace of such textiles is Finland. But today this material is extremely popular all over the world. Indeed, in addition to the main function of creating darkness (and this fabric is capable of creating up to 100% complete darkness), this material has a number of other useful functions and qualities.

Noise insulation. Thanks to the increased density, blackout material significantly absorbs street noise penetrating into the room. Therefore, you can sleep with such curtains not only in complete darkness, but also in silence.
Ability to retain heat. The structure of the blackout fabric perfectly blocks not only the sun's rays, but also the cold coming from the windows in winter. And this is additional comfort.
The light reflection of blackout curtains also means that in summer the room will heat up much less. A very advantageous quality, especially for rooms facing the sunny side.
Hypoallergenic. The use of blackout fabric is allowed even in a room for small children. It does not cause irritation.
Heat resistance. That is, fire safety. Blackout curtains do not ignite or support a flame, which is especially important for children’s rooms and kitchens where there is an open source of fire.
Long service life. Having once purchased such curtains, the owners of the home will provide the premises with the excellent properties that blackout gives for a long time.
Form stability. This one practically does not wrinkle, does not shrink, does not stretch, and maintains the clarity of the lines.
Color resistance to fading, molting, and washing. The brightness of blackout curtains will remain for a long time, which is also important for maintaining the overall appearance of the interior.
High drapability. Folds or gathers on blackout fabric always look perfect.
Practical and easy to maintain. These curtains are easy to wash, even in a washing machine, and easy to dry. But ironing is not necessary at all.

If you cannot find on sale light-blocking curtains of a suitable appearance for window decoration, you can buy a piece of light-colored blackout material and use it as a lining for the main curtains.

Blackout fabrics are very diverse in appearance. Therefore, it is quite difficult to create a general description of them. Overall this is a pretty thick fabric. Its color, texture, and finishing can be very diverse. The material is produced matte, shiny, textured, sprayed, with a crinkled or other pronounced texture, with different prints or photo printing, as well as different thicknesses, densities and degrees of light resistance.

In cross-section, blackout fabric is a two- or three-layer “pie”. In this case, the outer layer (directed outward) is reflective (often it is also metallized for greater effect). The second layer of acrylic foam is black. He is the same “blocker”. But the texture of the fabric is such that the threads tightly braid the foam, so the black color is not visible either outside or inside. It is visible only on the cut. The third layer is internal, decorative. Its function is purely aesthetic: to fit into a certain interior. It is this that determines the appearance of the finished blackout curtains.

Types of curtains with a light filter effect

This material has a couple of disadvantages that limit the design capabilities of curtains. This is quite a lot of weight and a high price. Because of this, it is completely impractical to create light-blocking curtains of overly complex shapes, with a large consumption of fabric: awnings, models with complex-shaped lambrequins, with many draperies, jabots, molds, crossovers and other details. Firstly, you will need very durable cornices, and secondly, the price will eventually go beyond all reasonable limits. And today, unfortunately, this is one of the determining factors.

Which models optimally combine cost, beauty and functionality?

Classic curtains. Most often they come in a simple rectangular shape with varying degrees of assembly. A curtain group can become expressive through the use of either decorative elements (tassels, cords, tiebacks) or some kind of original curtain fabric.
Blackout roller blinds. Ideal as night or sun protection, if you do not plan to include them in the overall decorative ensemble. After all, when raised, they are practically invisible, so they will not spoil the image. Optimal for minimalist interiors.
Japanese panel curtains. Good on large windows. They also allow you to regulate the amount of incoming light due to the design. Suitable for laconic interiors or ethnic rooms.
Roman curtains. A neat and concise model with a convenient control system. Can be used overnight or as a stand-alone option.
Simple curtains with tiebacks. An ideal option for “rustic” design trends. They can be of different lengths, depending on the purpose of the room.
Pleated curtains. Convenient for decorating windows of non-standard shape (for example, arched).

When will this material be suitable?

Light-proof curtains can be useful or even necessary in rooms with different functional purposes.

Bedroom. This is the first and, as they say, “holy” place for curtains with light filtering properties. Night dimming, noise reduction, heat retention in winter - all this will make the sleep of the inhabitants of such a room as efficient and comfortable as possible. The selected blackout curtain model (drapes, roller blinds or another type) can be accompanied by curtains made from a wide variety of materials, selected in accordance with the rules of color and style.
Children's room. For this room, not only darkening at night is important, but also practicality: the child should not reach the bottom of the fabric, hang on it, or get tangled in cords or other parts. Therefore, a short model of blackout curtains (possibly with tiebacks) or a roller blind would be optimal. What kind of curtains you will have depends not only on the color and style of the room: it is better not to choose ones with complex textures or with fleecy parts, so as not to acquire extra dust collectors.
Kitchen. Practicality comes first here. Therefore, short options are optimal, as they will be less likely to be handy and dirty. It is worth considering using Roman or roll models, as well as shortened curtains with tiebacks. Safety, which is important in such a room, is ensured by the non-flammability of the fabric. The reflective effect is even more in demand in summer when the kitchen faces south.
Living room. Here, the main reason for using sun curtains on windows is the same: south facing. Although in winter, thick curtains are more effective in the north, since they retain heat well. Another option when such curtains are simply necessary is to combine a living room with a home theater, which happens quite often today. In this case, the necessary darkening for watching movies even during the day will be perfectly provided by blackout window decoration. Whether its function will also be decorative or purely practical - in each case depends on many factors (in particular, on the general style of the room). And this, in turn, affects the possibility of using additional window textiles (drapes or curtains). Of course, curtains made of light-blocking fabric will become an integral part of the design if the functionality of the living room is combined with a bedroom or a guest room in which guests can stay overnight.

How to wash?

Due to the density and heavy weight, blackout should not be washed on aggressive cycles. It is better to use a delicate one - with a low temperature and minimal drum speed. For washing, it is better to use a liquid detergent to be sure that the remains of undissolved granules will not stick to the fabric. In addition, liquid substances are more gentle on fabrics, which guarantees long-term preservation of the appearance of blackout curtains. After washing, you can immediately hang them in their place - there they will dry and return to their original shape. Iron blackout only if creases form, which happens quite rarely.

Thus, blackout curtains have many attractive qualities that make this material for window decoration so desirable. Those who have at least once tried to live in an apartment with such curtains will never agree to any compromises. After all, it is darkness and silence at night, coolness in summer, warmth in winter. This is an opportunity to choose a model, variety and color for almost any stylistic and functional solution.

In addition, such window textiles will save the housewife more than one hour of time that she could spend ironing the curtains after each wash.

And even the high price is fully justified by the long service life of this amazing fabric. Having bought it once, the owners will be spared the problem of re-purchasing curtains for many years. But in order not to be disappointed and not to waste money in vain, you should be very meticulous in choosing such window decorations. It should not only be beautiful, but also of high quality. And the only guarantee of this can be the authority of the manufacturer. The more famous he is, the more attention he pays to his reputation - the less opportunity the consumer has to buy low-quality material.

Evgeniy Sedov

When your hands grow from the right place, life is more fun :)

Content

It’s hard to imagine life on Earth without sunlight, but sometimes you want to hide from the bright rays. This wish becomes especially relevant in hot weather, when the air gets very hot indoors and outdoors. Thick blackout curtains (lightproof) do not let the sun in at all or leave 10% of the flow. They also protect from street lights, the bright moon, and muffle the sounds of the street. This is not all the advantages that the fabric has.

What is blackout

Ready-made curtains are a three-layer fabric designed to darken the room by 90-100%. Today, fabric can have any design, it does not have to be black. Manufacturers do not disclose all the subtleties of manufacturing, but they share some general information. Special technology helps to obtain a canvas of three layers:

The surface layer is white. Serves as a light reflector.
Medium – inhibits the flow of sunlight and artificial lighting. The thickness and density of this ball are the highest.
External – decorative. Made from any modern material, the manufacturer offers a wide selection of colors, patterns, and types of fabrics.

Blackout curtains in the interior

The product is suitable for any room, since blackout fabric for curtains can take any shape. At home it is good for a bedroom or children's room. If the windows face south, a classic blackout curtain or light-proof roller/Roman blind significantly reduces the amount of heat entering the room. In Moscow, the phenomenon of white nights does not occur, but in St. Petersburg they happen every summer. Local residents who are light sleepers prefer to hang light-proof fabrics on their windows.

Blackout curtains are often used when decorating the interiors of cafes, restaurants, and clubs. They create a special mood and atmosphere of romance, nightlife, and drive. Plain models are often found in business rooms and photo laboratories. The product fits perfectly into any interior with a modern design, the main thing is to choose the right length and width of the canvas, its relief (smooth, compressed, folded, etc.).

Types of blackout curtains

Buying a finished product is a good option, but it does not fit the configuration of non-standard window openings. Ordering blackout curtains is much more interesting, because in this way they will take into account your personal interests and wishes. The relatively high price will justify itself, and every time you will receive aesthetic pleasure and complete comfort from using blackout curtain fabric. Sellers often organize promotions and offer attractive discounts, so don’t rush to order right away, monitor the offers of online stores.

Rolled

These curtains fit perfectly into an interior with a minimalist design. They look very neat and concise. They protect better than other types from bright sunlight, since they fit tightly to the window opening and repel heat and light energy. Description:

Price: from 722 rubles for a finished product with specific parameters.
Characteristics: the standard material for roller blinds is polyester. They work on the principle of blinds - a flat sheet covering the entire window area is mounted on a rotating roller. The fabric lowers and rises to the desired height.
Pros: heat and sound insulation, fire safety (the material does not burn), hypoallergenic, color fastness, easy to clean.
Cons: a high-quality lifting mechanism is expensive, curtains are inconvenient for windows that are too large (from ceiling to floor across the entire width of the wall).

Japanese

Other names for interior elements are panel curtains, screen curtains. They are distinguished by conciseness and elegance. The fabric never has folds, decorative cords, bows, or accessories. Blackout fabric for construction is made from ordinary and light-proof fabrics. Description:

Price: from 1200 rub. for 1 panel (160x70 cm).
Characteristics: straight panels of fabric up to 150 cm wide move sideways along fixed guides. The design resembles vertical blinds. Thick fabric is weighted at the bottom to prevent wrinkles. Cornices are fixed to the ceiling/walls/floor.
Pros: sewn in any color; by swapping several panels of different decor, you will update the interior. The fabric is unpretentious and easy to care for, suitable for decorating large window openings.
Cons: limitation in the choice of shape - the classic version takes the form of a square or rectangle.

Pleated

This category of blackout curtains is more cozy and homey. An accordion on the window creates an atmosphere of warmth, lightness, and playfulness. On sale you can find wonderful fabrics at an affordable price, and if you want, you can actually make pleated curtains yourself. Description:

Price: from 1700 rub.
Characteristics: the structure is made of pleated fabric, which is fixed on both sides in aluminum profiles. They are held in the window opening, and on the sides of the curtains there are guide strings that pass through all the folds. The material is collected into an accordion. When closed, the fabric shrinks to a size of 4-5 cm. The width of the curtains is in the range of 0.25-2.8 m, the maximum height is 4 m.
Pros: new technologies allow you to use curtains on any type of window. The fabric does not absorb dust, dirt, odors, does not emit hazardous substances, and covers any area of the glass thanks to its movable design.
Cons: high cost.

Classic

Blackout standard blackout curtains are the most popular for home use. They fit perfectly into a classic interior. Description:

Price: from 2300 rub. for a finished product with specific parameters.
Characteristics: sewing curtains from blackout fabric is common. They differ from the usual curtains in their high density, a certain heaviness that they bring into the interior. The top layer can be made from a natural fabric base. For gazebos and verandas, curtains with double-sided impregnation are available. Black fabric is often found on sale, but bright colors for blackout fabric are also not uncommon.
Pros: look great in a bedroom or sunny living room, curtains with grommets look rich and aesthetically attractive.
Cons: if the surface is glossy, it is easy to make a catch on it. With constant friction of the curtains, for example, on a table, the fabric wears out. The product must be washed carefully; do not twist it in the machine.

How to choose blackout curtains

On a cut of high-quality fabric, 3 layers are clearly visible, and inside there is a dense black weave. You need to correctly measure the parameters of the window, because if there is not enough material and gaps remain, the meaning of the blackout fabric will be lost. If your goal is protection from the bright sun, you can take any light-proof material. If you want to block the path of thermal energy, buy linen and non-flammable fabric. The average density of the material is 270 g/m. sq. When creating an estimate, take into account the cost of delivery by mail and do not particularly expect that the product will cost you cheap.

Lightproof fabric - this is the main and accurate characteristic for blackout fabric. This effect is achieved as a result of the use of special fiber weaving technology in production. This material is used mainly for sewing curtains and interior decoration.

Story

The birthplace of blackout fabric is Finland. It is this point on Earth that rightfully bears the name “land of white nights.” And it is not surprising that it was here that weavers thought about creating light-proof fabric that could be used for sewing curtains. The largest manufacturer of this material in Finland is Almedahls. The popularity of black out spread throughout the world very quickly.

Comparison of blackout and dimout fabrics in the video:

Many enterprises are involved in the production of this type of textile, the most famous of which are the German company Junkers & Mullers GmbH, the Belgian Calcutta and the Dutch Coulisse.

Composition and properties

The composition of blackout fabric includes the following components: three textile bases, acrylic foam and chemicals. To increase fire resistance properties, some manufacturers use special impregnation for this type of textile.

All layers of fabric are very thin and made using a special thread weaving technology, but when combined, these layers form a dense material with excellent properties. Positive properties of blackout fabric:

blocks sunlight;
high noise-insulating properties (sound absorption coefficient - 30%);
retains heat and does not allow cold to pass through;
does not burn, when exposed to open fire it simply melts;
does not lose its color under the influence of the sun's rays;
does not fade during washing;
easy to drape;
holds its shape well;
easy to cut and sew;
high fabric density;
wear resistance;
does not emit toxic substances, even when exposed to fire;
is not an allergen;
resistant to stains;
does not require ironing;
aesthetic appearance;
pleasant to the touch material structure.

Black out (and we are talking specifically about curtains) is a kind of barrier between the zones of heat and cold, light and darkness, noise and silence.

Production

Modern production of blackout fabric can be carried out using two technologies.

In the first case, a thin white fabric is applied to a dense textile base; it is also called “spraying”. This is the thinnest layer, but it is the one that serves as protection from the sun’s rays, that is, it is a light reflector. On the other hand, the canvas is decorated with a decorative layer of fabric, which performs an aesthetic function. It can be a smooth plain fabric with a matte structure or with shimmer. Blackout can also be decorated with ornaments, drawings, and hems. The advantages of textiles created in this way are that they are dense and beautiful; this technology allows you to create fabrics of bright colors. The disadvantage of this manufacturing method is the fragility of the spraying, it is easily damaged (scratched and torn), and can peel off.
The second technology is the creation of material using weaving techniques: the fabric is made by weaving three threads of different structure. Colored fibers come from the front and back of the fabric, and the inner layer is formed from black and dense threads, which retain light. The advantages of the material made using this method: dense and, at the same time, soft and smooth surface. The disadvantage of such textiles is that they cannot have bright colors - the presence of black thread in the structure of the fabric contributes to the formation of grayish and muted shades. On a blackout of a dark color this is not noticeable, but for a fabric where the top and bottom layers are light, this nuance catches the eye.

Application and care

Blackout fabric is used mainly for interior decoration, namely:

curtains of various types (classic, roller, lambrequins, scalloped, Japanese panels);
curtains for theater stages, photo studios;
in decorating walls (instead of wallpaper);
in various types of creativity: scrapbooking, textile applique, patchwork.

How to wash and iron fabric?

Despite the density of the blackout material, it is not difficult to care for. This type of fabric should be washed in warm water (40 degrees) by hand or in a machine using the “hand” or “delicate” washing mode. Spinning is allowed up to 400 rpm, but even without spinning the material dries very quickly.

Hang the canvas to dry in a shaded place. Ironing of this material is not necessary; it retains its structure well. If there are any bruises, you can quickly remove them with a warm iron. Products made from blackout fabric do not need frequent washing; one or two such procedures per year will be enough, because the structure of the fabric and the materials included in its composition repel dust and dirt well.

How do you know if it's a blackout?

It is difficult to confuse this material with any other. Blackout consists of three layers, they are especially visible at the site of the fabric cut. The fabric is dense and smooth to the touch. The reverse side differs from the front side both in structure and shade. Bring the material to the window and look through it - sunlight will not pass through the canvas. Black out textiles are a leader in the curtain materials market; they achieved their fame due to their practicality in use, the aesthetic properties of the material and the optimal quality-price ratio.

Reading time: 7 minutes

Blackout curtains are an incredibly useful invention of mankind that makes it easier for residents of northern latitudes to sleep. If the rays of the gentle sun wake you up in the morning, but you want to sleep longer, then they will be an ideal option. Blackout fabric for curtains: let's talk in more detail about the history and characteristics of blackout fabric.

What kind of blackout fabric: history and characteristics

When talking about Finland, the main residence of Santa Claus and the world-famous sauna come to mind. However, we should not forget that it is the northern latitudes that are famous for their white nights, which are so beautiful, but disturb the locals’ sleep. Therefore, it is not surprising that it was in this place that the best minds thought about creating light-proof fabric. Blackout curtain fabric is considered the absolute leader in this area. Let's look at what blackout fabrics are.

According to Wikipedia, blackout is the English polysemantic word blackout, which collectively means temporary eclipse.

Blackout is an illusion of the night. This completely opaque fabric also has excellent heat and sound insulation properties. By using it instead of curtains, you can independently control the time of day. This is the fabric that will allow you to sleep well on the weekend.

There is another version that the prototype of modern blackout curtains appeared during the Second World War. It was a thick fabric that, to escape the shelling, residents hung on their windows in the city. The fighters did not see the light of the lamps and flew past, never finding their intended target.

The stories of the origin of the fabric are ambiguous, but in each of them there is a grain of truth, which reveals the basic properties and characteristics of the light-proof material.

Classification

The following types of fabric are distinguished:

Original;
Shine;
Straight;
Non-flammable option;
Linen.

The original is a standard version, so to speak, a certain standard by which they are guided. The canvas has a density of 274 g/m2 and is made of polyester. The standard width is 160 cm. Blackout Original has a satin weave that is incredibly tight. The opacity of the fabric is achieved through a three-layer “architecture” of fibers.
The glitter differs from the original version by adding satin fibers to the top layer. The canvas has a slight silvery glow.
The name Street comes from the English. street (street). This is its main feature. The properties are selected in such a way that the fabric can be used not only indoors, but also outdoors. Compared to its counterparts, this fabric has increased rigidity. Thanks to impregnation, it is not afraid of any weather conditions, be it wind, pouring rain or extreme heat. The fabric does not fade in open sunlight. It is used for outdoor advertising. It is used to create banners and signs.

Non-flammability is achieved through the introduction of special Trevira fibers into the base, which do not support combustion. This addition is much more beneficial than fire-resistant impregnation. The latter option gives rigidity to the fabric. It is short-lived and easily washed out of the fabric. The addition of Trevira fibers not only helps protect against unwanted sun rays, but also ensures safety. When a fire occurs, the fabric does not burn, but slowly smolders, and after a while the fire goes out on its own. Another positive point is environmental friendliness. No harmful substances or compounds are released into the air, which makes it possible to use such curtains even in a child’s room. The scope of application of non-flammable blackout most often includes concert halls, hotels, restaurants, cinemas and other public places that involve large crowds of people.
The name "linen" speaks for itself. Even without seeing the fabric, you can assume that it will have a similar texture. The textured surface is achieved by introducing thick polyester fiber into the top layer. It seems to braid other threads, thereby creating a special texture. This fabric imitates antique canvases well.

Production and features

To create a blackout fabric, a satin weave is used. It provides maximum density. A two-layer and three-layer version is produced. The second one is more preferable. Each layer has its own functions:

The outer layer faces the window. Its standard color is white. This is the case not only because people of color fade in the sun. White color repels the sun's rays, which ensures less penetration into the room.
The middle one is responsible for non-flammability and is the main one in the matter of light resistance. Black fibers are used for it.
The inner layer should match the interior and please the eye. It has a decorative function. All kinds of designs and textures are used. The surface can be decorated with embroidery, fibers of different lengths and thicknesses can be used, which creates an interesting texture.

The two-layer version is often used as a lining. It is lighter and thinner. When making a three-layer blackout, the layers are treated 3 times with acrylic foam.

Advantages and disadvantages

The undoubted advantages are:

Protecting privacy from prying eyes;
The fabric does not transmit sunlight 100%, this is especially true for northern latitudes;
Such curtains are durable: they will not fade in the sun and will not “wash out”;
The products do not require careful care. Thanks to their rich composition, they repel dust and dirt, so they only need to be washed a couple of times a year;
Practicality and wear resistance. The fabric is very durable. It is slightly subjected to mechanical stress. Even after numerous washes, the original characteristics will remain unchanged.
Wide variety of colors and textures. You can choose an option similar to blinds or a standard canvas. This can be pleated, Roman blinds or blinds. Products with a smooth texture or linen are available for sale. The color scheme is also easy to match to any interior;
Amenable to draping, while retaining the created shape well;
Practically does not wrinkle and dries quickly;
Wide range of uses.

The main disadvantage is the high price. The cost depends on several factors, production costs also play an important role. Since creating three-layer fabric requires a lot of time and money, the cost of the finished product is much higher than standard fabric.

Scope of application and rules for choosing a real blackout

In order for the material to have all the characteristics described above, you must choose the “right” option. How to do this?

Not all sellers will allow you to buy a small piece of fabric for testing. If you were also not given this opportunity, then in order to check you need to push away the upper fibers with your fingernail. The central layer is usually formed by black threads. The inside of the canvas is similar to the outside, but has a slight shine.

The fabric has found application in the following areas:

Cinemas, darkrooms, nightclubs. These are places where it is very important to create a darkened space. The work of these institutions depends on this. Blackout does this job well;
Conference rooms, offices and business centers. Direct sunlight in this case can interfere with work, which is why it is so important to put a barrier in their path;
Schools, hospitals, other educational and medical institutions;
Bedrooms and children's rooms. Shading is very important during sleep (including daytime sleep). It has been proven that sleeping in bright, sunny rooms prevents the production of a special enzyme. The latter is responsible for vigor after sleep and rest of the body as a whole.

Rules of care

Blackout is considered not a picky fabric. Caring for her will not be difficult. It comes down to washing the product several times a year and ironing as needed. Due to its characteristics, the fabric perfectly repels dust, so it does not need frequent washing.

The products should be washed at a temperature no higher than 40 degrees, since they are based on synthetic fiber. It is better not to machine spin curtains. The maximum permissible speed is 400. However, even without these manipulations, things dry out quite quickly.
Blackout curtains practically do not wrinkle, but if ironing becomes necessary, it is better to do it with a warm iron. This will not damage the fiber or destroy the bonds between the layers.
It is better to dry in natural conditions without exposure to direct sunlight.

Curtains made of blackout fabric are an excellent solution for interior decoration. It not only looks aesthetically pleasing, but also has a number of useful characteristics that residents of northern latitudes will especially appreciate. The material does not transmit light 100%, which allows you to not depend on the time of sunrise and the presence of white nights. Now you know how to choose blackout curtains, and you can fully relax during the night and gain strength for a new day.

A novelty and a real revolution in the textile market was the appearance of the light-proof and heat-resistant material Blackout. This fabric quickly conquered the market and completely transformed our idea of window decor. Blackout curtains: what are they and how do they differ from ordinary curtains?

Origin and purpose

Blackout is a fabric that does not allow sunlight to pass through at all and can shade a room by 90-100%.

Products appeared on the textile market not so long ago. Finland is considered its homeland, where white nights are a common occurrence. To provide a person with the most suitable conditions for sleeping during daylight hours, the developers have created a material that, thanks to its special structure, is able to completely retain light.

If you imagined a black rectangular canvas that does not allow light to pass through, then you are mistaken. Products made from blackout fabric are very diverse from a decorative point of view, so they are well suited for various interiors - public, business and home.

At the same time, they look great in a room with both modern and classic design.

Differences from ordinary curtains

Compared to other fabrics, blackout has many advantages:

1 Long service life. They have a long service life because they are not prone to fading, deformation during washing or drying, do not fade and retain their original appearance for a very long time.
2 Do not wrinkle. They do not wrinkle during operation, which is especially important for roller blinds. After all, they can fold and unfold several times a day, losing their ideal smoothness over time. This quality will also be very useful for housewives who do not really like to stand at the ironing board for a long time, ironing out the folds of the curtains. It will be enough to simply wash and hang the products in place.
3 Thermal insulation. The main advantage is complete protection not only from bright light, but also from heat. By closing the windows in the hot summer, you will fill the room with saving coolness.
4 Sound insulation. Thanks to its multilayer structure, the fabric also performs soundproofing tasks, trapping extraneous sounds and noise.
5 Heat resistance. The high level of fire resistance is another advantage, allowing the use of this material in areas with increased safety requirements.
6 Easy care. The special composition of the products makes them very easy to care for, as it does not allow odors to be absorbed and dust to remain on the surface.
7 Variety of choices. A wide selection of external coatings makes them suitable for any environment and style. The choice is not limited to plain models; you can choose curtains of any color with a floral or geometric pattern.
8 Hypoallergenic. Not all materials can boast a composition that does not cause an allergic reaction. But these curtains can even be hung in a child’s bedroom without fear for the baby’s health.

Types of blackout curtains

In the store you can choose a model of varying densities and opacity coefficients, with additional impregnations or spraying; in addition, you can be offered several basic styles.

Roman ones are distinguished by laconic folds and a simple control system. They are often combined with curtains when placed in the living room.

Japanese ones suit ethnic and exotic interiors. They emphasize the design idea while maintaining their main functions.

A very interesting option is the day-night type of pleated curtains using blackout material for a dense layer and lace or veil for a transparent one. Thanks to the product's control methods, you can partially open the window or shade it entirely.

Roll models are the most widespread and are often used in offices, nightclubs and other public institutions.

If you could not find blackout fabric of a suitable color, then you can sew two-layer curtains: the front side is made of ordinary fabric, and the lining is made of light-proof fabric.

Manufacturing secrets

Manufacturers work using patented technologies and do not fully disclose the specifics of product production, but are willing to share general data. For example, it is known that to create fabric, two or three textile layers, acrylic foam and, if necessary, chemical impregnation are used, which imparts additional properties to the material. It is the multilayer form that allows for reliable protection from light.

Use layers in the following sequence:

the surface is white and is the main light reflector;
the middle layer is made the thickest, because it is this layer that is responsible for slowing down the light flux;
the outer one is the most beautiful and creates an aesthetic impression of each model; it is made in color and pattern.

It is worth noting that modern models have become more diverse. If previously the decorative appearance of the product was achieved through polyester, today the fabric can be made from satin, satin, moire or other textiles. And synthetic threads may contain acrylic or viscose components. This innovation makes curtains more beautiful, original and allows you to choose a product to suit the taste of each customer.

Possibility of use

Thanks to its exceptional properties, blackout can be used in a wide variety of rooms.

In catering buildings. Roller curtains on restaurant windows are used to create a romantic mood during themed celebrations with dinner or candlelit lunches, birthday or anniversary banquets with cake presentation, etc.

In business rooms. During meetings, it is often necessary to display films or slides on a wall or screen. To ensure that the image is clearly visible, even on the clearest day, simply close the curtains.

In the darkroom. If it is not possible to equip a laboratory in a confined space without windows, then they are simply covered with cloth.

In living rooms. If the sun shines through the apartment windows most of the day, then you can safely use multi-layer curtains not only in the bedrooms, but also in the kitchen or living room.

The modern method of instantly turning a lit room into a dark one during the day using curtains is very popular. People who work at night can rest peacefully during the day without being distracted by light or loud noise.