The Ultimate Guide to Blacking Out Windows in an Apartment

Living in an apartment often means limited control over privacy and light exposure. Loud neighbors, sunlight streaming into bedrooms, and lack of window treatments can make getting good sleep a real challenge.

But don‘t worry – with the right techniques, products, and a little DIY spirit, you can transform even the brightest, loudest apartment into your own personal sleep sanctuary. Let‘s explore all your options for blacking out apartment windows!

Why You May Need to Black Out Your Windows

There are many good reasons to block light from entering your apartment:

Improve sleep quality. According to sleep studies, even small amounts of light can suppress melatonin production and disrupt circadian rhythms. Blackout treatments can mean the difference between poor sleep and restful slumber.
Allow daytime sleep. If you work night shifts as a nurse, pilot, or other worker, blackout windows are a must for sleeping during daylight hours.
Gain privacy. Prevent peeping toms from seeing inside, especially on ground floor units. Blackout window film is a quick and affordable solution.
Control light sensitivity issues. From migraines to autism, various health conditions can cause light sensitivity. Blocking sunlight creates a soothing environment.
Reduce noise. Well-installed blackout curtains and blinds also provide sound dampening by insulating against outside noise pollution.
Protect furnishings. Blocking UV rays coming through windows will help protect furniture, art, and interiors from fading.

Take a moment to think about your specific needs. Bedroom blackout is often top priority, but also consider living spaces where daytime sleep or privacy may be needed.

Now let‘s look at all your options for blacking out apartment windows.

Blackout Window Treatment Methods

There are a variety of products and techniques that provide varying levels of light blocking:

By Installation Type

Temporary: Foil, cardboard, cling film

Semi-permanent: Removable curtains, no-damage film

Permanent: Securely installed curtains, blinds, shutters

By Light Blocking Level

Sheer: Some dimming of light

Room Darkening: Noticeably reduces light

Blackout: Blocks out nearly all light

By Location

Inside treatments: Curtains, shades, blinds

Outside treatments: Shutters, awnings

Window glass treatments: Blackout film

Consider your needs, living situation, and budget to select the best blackout treatments for your apartment.

Budget Considerations for Blackout Window Treatments

Achieving blackout on a budget is very doable. Here are some price considerations:

Lower Budget

Removable blackout window film ($20-$40 per window)
Temporary cardboard covering ($0)
Tension rod with blackout curtains ($40 – $75 per window)

Mid-range Budget

Blackout curtains from major retailers ($50 – $150 per window)
Cordless blackout shades ($100 – $300 per window)

Higher Budget

Custom blackout curtains/shades ($200+ per window)
Exterior shutters ($300+ per window)
Professionally installed treatments (Varies greatly by project)

Look for sales on blackout curtains and shades at major retailers. Layering inexpensive temporary methods can also provide good blackout on a budget.

Start with affordable upgrades to your bedrooms for the best sleep benefits, then move on to other rooms as your budget allows.

Aesthetic Options for Blackout Treatments

While function is important, you also want blackout window treatments to look good. Consider these aesthetic factors:

Colors/Patterns: Choose options that match your decor from soothing neutrals to bold patterns.
Light Filtering: Let in just a touch of soft light when a 100% blackout isn‘t needed.
Inside vs Outside: Do you prefer interior or exterior mounted options?
Automation: Go high-tech with motorized blackout shades.
Cleanup: Easily remove/open treatments when blackout is not needed.
Window Visibility: Allow some light through the top portion of curtained windows.

With the wide variety of products available, you can certainly find blackout window treatments that blend seamlessly into your apartment‘s decor.

Blackout Curtains: A Popular Choice

Blackout curtains are a tried-and-true solution for their combination of effectiveness, affordability, and aesthetic options.

Pros of Using Blackout Curtains

Available in endless colors, patterns, and styles
Offer full blackout when properly installed
Can layer over existing curtains easily
Relatively affordable, starting around $20 per window
Customizable to your taste and decor

Cons of Using Blackout Curtains

Can be heavy and prone to sagging over time
Not as insulating as hard window treatments
Light leakage possible if hung improperly
Limited width options may require special order

Installing Blackout Curtains: Tips for Success

Installing your blackout curtains properly is key to maximizing their effectiveness.

Extend curtain rods several inches beyond window frame on each side
Use floor-to-ceiling long curtains whenever window height allows
For maximum coverage, overlap curtains in the middle
Use weights or hem tape at bottom edges to prevent lifting and light gaps
Seal edges with manufactured curtain tape or temporary tricks like binder clips
Layer with additional normal curtains if more density is needed

Measuring correctly, choosing the right hardware, and taking time to install properly will ensure your blackout curtains successfully block light.

Roll Down Blackout Shades

Looking for convenient day-to-night light control? Blackout roller shades are a great option.

Benefits of Using Blackout Shades

Easily lower and raise to control light
Offer insulation against cold and heat
Available in many colors/materials like faux wood or vinyl
Can layer with existing window treatments

Drawbacks of Using Blackout Shades

More expensive than curtains – $75+ per window
Must be measured and mounted correctly to prevent light gaps
Can be damaged by pets, young children
Limited width options may require special order

Tips for Installing Blackout Shades

A professional installation is best for shade hardware, but use these DIY tips:

Mount shade hardware as close to window frame as possible
Check that shade width exceeds total window opening
Make sure shade roll is level for proper operation
Layer shades behind existing curtains for added blackout effect
Keep all dangling cords and beads out of reach of children

Blackout shades provide sleek, adjustable light blocking in a wide variety of styles.

Blackout Blinds: A Structural Solution

For enhanced insulation and durability, consider installing blackout blinds.

Advantages of Blackout Blinds

Adjustable slats offer customizable light control
Offer increased insulation over shades and curtains
Chain controls remain safely out of child‘s reach
Provide structural impact protection in storms

Disadvantages of Blackout Blinds

More expensive than curtains at $100+ per window
Makes windows slightly harder to clean
Slats can potentially bend or break over time

Blackout Blind Installation Tips

Carefully measure and mount inside window openings
Close slats completely and tilt blinds down for total blackout
Add blackout curtains or shades for enhanced light blocking
Check cords for proper length and use tension device for safety
Clean slats periodically with vacuuming and dusting

With proper installation and care, you‘ll enjoy the benefits of both adjustable light control and insulation from durable blackout blinds.

Blackout Film: An Affordable Temporary Solution

Removable blackout window film offers an easy, non-damaging blackout solution.

Pros of Using Blackout Window Film

Inexpensive at around $20-$40 per window
Easy "peel and stick" application with included adhesive
Won‘t damage apartment walls or window glass
Available in blackout and light-filtering versions
Easily removed and reapplied as needed

Cons of Using Blackout Window Film

Can reflect light oddly at night from exterior
Less effective insulating qualities than curtains/shades
Potential to peel off over time with improper installation
Limited aesthetic appeal

Applying Blackout Window Film

Follow these steps for a smooth, effective application:

Thoroughly clean window surface with included prep liquid
Carefully apply film without bubbles, wrinkles, or gaps
Use included smoother to press film firmly to glass
Trim excess film around edges with utility knife
Can apply film underneath curtains or shades for added blackout

With some patience, blackout window film can provide temporary relief even for oddly shaped windows.

Exterior Blackout Options

For maximum effectiveness, consider installing exterior blackout treatments.

Benefits of Exterior Blackout Treatments

Shutters, awnings, and screens block all direct sunlight before it enters window
Allow fresh air circulation and light when treatments are open
Provide excellent insulation, soundproofing, and storm protection

Drawbacks of Exterior Blackout Treatments

Very expensive, with professionally installed shutters costing $300+ per window
Require professional installation for proper fit and operation
Could violate apartment complex rules and regulations
Subject to weathering and potential storm damage

While complex to orchestrate, exterior blackout solutions are the gold standard for impenetrable light blocking, sound dampening, and insulation.

Creative DIY Blackout Methods

If funds are limited, get creative with homemade blackout solutions:

Heavy blankets, quilts, or comforters hung over windows
Removable spray window tint or tint film
Multiple layers of dark towels, sheets, or curtains
Rigid cardboard or foam boards fitted into frames
Aluminum foil covering windows (highly effective but not decorative!)

Use removable mounting methods like adhesive hooks, binder clips, and velcro tabs so treatments can be easily removed and won‘t damage apartment walls or windows.

DIY options work best for temporary blackout needs. But in a pinch, they can transform any apartment into a soothing sleep sanctuary.

common Blackout Scenarios and Solutions

Let‘s look at blackout recommendations for a few typical apartment situations:

Blacking Out Bedrooms

Achieving total darkness is critical for healthy, restful sleep. Install room-darkening cellular shades paired with full length blackout curtains for an impenetrable sleep cocoon. Mount curtain rods high and wide for maximum light blocking coverage.

Blacking Out Living Rooms

Living spaces need flexible lighting. Use light-filtering sheer drapes to dim daylight when needed, while still allowing some softened natural light.

Blacking Out for Shift Workers

Install temporary blackout window film on bedroom windows to quickly darken rooms for daytime sleeping after night shifts. Use a white noise machine to block outside noise pollution as well.

Blacking Out for Light Sleepers

Seal any gaps allowing light infiltration with weather stripping, and layer multiple methods like blackout shades with blackout curtains for pitch black bedrooms ideal for light sleepers.

Blacking Out Nurseries

Hang cordless blackout roller shades well above cribs to protect infants. Pair with noise reducing curtains to dim both light and sound for peaceful naps and nighttime.

Extra Tips for Maximum Blackout

To ensure complete darkness, use these extra tips:

Caulk any window cracks/gaps allowing light infiltration
Paint walls dark colors with matte finishes to prevent light bouncing
Install door sweeps and seals to cover gaps under doors and block hallway light
Use a comfortable sleep mask if needed to block stray light from cracks
Open blackout treatments during awake hours for mental health benefits
Consider outside light and noise levels before choosing an apartment

With diligent prep work sealing any leaks, you can achieve satisfyingly pitch black interiors for peaceful sleep and privacy even in the brightest, loudest apartments.

Conclusion: Choose the Best Blackout Options for Your Needs

Transforming any apartment into a dark sleep sanctuary is very achievable with the right mix of blackout techniques. As we‘ve discussed, options range from inexpensive do-it-yourself tricks to more complex professionally installed treatments.

Prioritize bedroom blackout first to start reaping the sleep quality and health benefits. Then expand your light blocking solutions to other rooms as needed and as your budget allows. Proper installation is key to success, so don‘t skip important steps when hanging curtains and mounting shades.

With some diligence assessing your needs, available products, and installation factors, you can outsmart problematic windows and start sleeping deeply and peacefully even in the brightest, loudest apartments.