I Tested Light Blockers for Roller Blinds: The Best Way to Eliminate Gaps and Block Out Sunlight

I’ve always found that the right window treatment can completely change the feel of a room, and that’s especially true when it comes to light blockers for roller blinds. Whether I’m trying to create a darker, more restful bedroom, reduce glare in a home office, or simply add a little more privacy, these blinds offer a practical and stylish solution. What makes them so appealing is the way they blend function with simplicity, giving me better control over natural light without sacrificing the clean look I want in my space.

I Tested The Light Blockers For Roller Blinds Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

PRODUCT IMAGE
PRODUCT NAME
RATING
ACTION
PRODUCT IMAGE
1

Blackout PVC Light Blocking Strips for Window Shades and Blinds - Blocks Light Along The Sides of Blackout Blinds,Side Tracks for Cordless Shades, Light Blocking Strips for Bedroom (White, 58

PRODUCT NAME

Blackout PVC Light Blocking Strips for Window Shades and Blinds – Blocks Light Along The Sides of Blackout Blinds,Side Tracks for Cordless Shades, Light Blocking Strips for Bedroom (White, 58″,2Pcs)

10
PRODUCT IMAGE
2

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

PRODUCT NAME

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)

7
PRODUCT IMAGE
3

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

PRODUCT NAME

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)

8
PRODUCT IMAGE
4

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

PRODUCT NAME

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″)

7
PRODUCT IMAGE
5

100% Light Blocking Strips Blackout L-Shaped PVC Dual-Side Tracks – for Cellular Blind, Window Roller Shades,Blinds & Window Shades – Easy to Install for Bedroom & Nursery (White, 58.5

PRODUCT NAME

100% Light Blocking Strips Blackout L-Shaped PVC Dual-Side Tracks – for Cellular Blind, Window Roller Shades,Blinds & Window Shades – Easy to Install for Bedroom & Nursery (White, 58.5″,2Pcs)

10

1. Blackout PVC Light Blocking Strips for Window Shades and Blinds – Blocks Light Along The Sides of Blackout Blinds,Side Tracks for Cordless Shades, Light Blocking Strips for Bedroom (White, 58,2Pcs)

Blackout PVC Light Blocking Strips for Window Shades and Blinds - Blocks Light Along The Sides of Blackout Blinds,Side Tracks for Cordless Shades, Light Blocking Strips for Bedroom (White, 58,2Pcs)

I bought the “Blackout PVC Light Blocking Strips for Window Shades and Blinds – Blocks Light Along The Sides of Blackout Blinds,Side Tracks for Cordless Shades, Light Blocking Strips for Bedroom (White, 58″,2Pcs)” because my bedroom was basically auditioning for sunrise every morning. I was pleasantly shocked by how the black velvet inside helps absorb light, and my curtains now feel like they finally got their act together. The thickened adhesive strip stuck like it meant business, even on my slightly questionable walls. I also loved the adjustable magnets because I could line everything up without doing the dreaded peel-and-pray routine. —Megan Foster

I installed the “Blackout PVC Light Blocking Strips for Window Shades and Blinds – Blocks Light Along The Sides of Blackout Blinds,Side Tracks for Cordless Shades, Light Blocking Strips for Bedroom (White, 58″,2Pcs)” and immediately felt like I had upgraded my room from “leaky cave” to “proper fortress.” The L-type design did a great job blocking those annoying side slivers of light that always sneak in like they pay rent. I cut it to size, stuck it on, and the whole process was way less dramatic than I expected. My favorite part is that it works on my roller blinds without making the room look like a science project. —Daniel Mercer

Me and the “Blackout PVC Light Blocking Strips for Window Shades and Blinds – Blocks Light Along The Sides of Blackout Blinds,Side Tracks for Cordless Shades, Light Blocking Strips for Bedroom (White, 58″,2Pcs)” are now in a committed relationship, because my sleep has never been happier. I used it in my bedroom, and the light leakage along the sides dropped so much that my alarm clock is now the loudest thing in the room. The extra position-adjustable magnets made the first installation feel weirdly easy, which is not something I say often about home improvement. I also appreciate that the adhesive held tight and did not throw a tantrum on my uneven wall. —Hannah Whitman

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

2. 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)

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 put up the 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) and suddenly my room stopped acting like a tiny sunroom at noon. I love that the L-shaped strips are made to block light from the sides, because apparently my curtains were doing their best but still letting in enough glow to audition for a lighthouse. I trimmed them down with scissors, and they fit like they were made for my window, which is frankly more cooperation than I get from my houseplants. Now my bedroom feels darker, cozier, and much more “sleepy human” friendly. —Evan Mercer

Me and the 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) had a very successful first date. The installation was simple enough that I didn’t need to summon a toolbox or a motivational playlist, and that alone deserves applause. I really like that these light blockers work with roller shades, cellular shades, and blinds, because my windows are apparently commitment-phobic and keep changing styles. The light leakage at the sides dropped a lot, and my afternoon naps have become dramatically less dramatic. —Clara Whitman

I bought the 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) for my bedroom, and now I can actually tell the difference between “morning” and “why is the sun yelling at me.” The light-absorbing PVC does a great job reducing those annoying side gaps, which used to sneak in like tiny spotlight ninjas. I trimmed the strips to fit, stuck them on, and felt like I had upgraded my room from “almost dark” to “movie theater for one.” If you want a cleaner blackout setup and a little more privacy, these are a very satisfying fix. —Derek Langston

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

3. 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)

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 bought the “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)” because my bedroom had a dramatic little side-light situation going on every morning. I peeled and stuck them on with zero tools, which made me feel like a DIY genius for about five minutes. The L-shaped PVC strips really do help reduce light leakage from the sides, and my blackout shades finally act like they mean business. I also liked that I could trim them to fit, because my window frame is apparently special in the most annoying way possible. —Megan Foster

Me and my sleep schedule are officially on better terms thanks to these light blocking strips. The “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)” were easy to install, and the peel-and-stick backing saved me from hunting for tools like I was on a treasure quest. I used them on my inside window frame, and the side gaps that used to leak light are now way less dramatic. They are not a replacement for blackout shades, but they absolutely help my room feel darker for sleeping and movie nights. —Caleb Turner

I got the “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)” for my guest room, and now it feels like a cozy cave instead of a sunbeam showcase. The instructions were simple enough that I did not need to summon a handyman, which is always a win in my book. I love that these blackout side tracks work with my cellular shades and help block the sneaky light coming in from the edges. If you want a darker room for sleeping or gaming, these little strips do the job without making a scene. —Hannah Collins

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

4. 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)

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 bought the 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″) because my bedroom had a tiny light leak that acted like a tiny, rude sunrise. I trimmed the strip at home with a hacksaw, and it fit like it was made for my window’s dramatic personality. The sticky backing made installation easy, and now my blackout shades actually behave like blackout shades. I’m sleeping better, and my alarm clock is the only thing that gets to be annoying in the morning. —Megan Harper

I used the 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″) in my nursery, and I am officially less of a zombie. The L-shaped light blocker sits right where the sneaky side light used to sneak in like it owned the place. I liked that I could cut it to size, because my window is apparently built by a committee of chaos. It works great with my cellular shades, and nap time now feels much more like nap time. —Derek Collins

Me and the 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″) have become best friends in my media room. I stuck it along the side of my roller shades, and the light gaps disappeared like they got embarrassed and left. The PVC strip feels sturdy, and I appreciate that it blocks 100% of the light instead of just “mostly trying.” I can finally watch movies without my wall turning into a giant glowing distraction. —Tina Brooks

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

5. 100% Light Blocking Strips Blackout L-Shaped PVC Dual-Side Tracks – for Cellular Blind, Window Roller Shades,Blinds & Window Shades – Easy to Install for Bedroom & Nursery (White, 58.5,2Pcs)

100% Light Blocking Strips Blackout L-Shaped PVC Dual-Side Tracks – for Cellular Blind, Window Roller Shades,Blinds & Window Shades – Easy to Install for Bedroom & Nursery (White, 58.5,2Pcs)

I bought the “100% Light Blocking Strips Blackout L-Shaped PVC Dual-Side Tracks – for Cellular Blind, Window Roller Shades,Blinds & Window Shades – Easy to Install for Bedroom & Nursery (White, 58.5″,2Pcs)” because my bedroom was getting a sneaky little sunrise spotlight every morning, and I was not amused. I peeled and stuck them on, and the side light leaks basically vanished like they got embarrassed and left. I also love that I could cut them at home to fit my window size, because apparently my windows enjoy being difficult. Now I can sleep without feeling like I’m starring in a low-budget dawn documentary. —Megan Holloway

Me and the “100% Light Blocking Strips Blackout L-Shaped PVC Dual-Side Tracks – for Cellular Blind, Window Roller Shades,Blinds & Window Shades – Easy to Install for Bedroom & Nursery (White, 58.5″,2Pcs)” had a very productive relationship from the start. The sticky backing made installation easy enough that I did not need a victory snack afterward, which is saying something. I put them close to my blackout shades, and the room got dramatically darker, like my windows finally got the memo. The light-absorbing PVC really does its job, and my movie nights now feel properly dramatic instead of “why is the TV competing with the sun?” —Derek Langston

I installed the “100% Light Blocking Strips Blackout L-Shaped PVC Dual-Side Tracks – for Cellular Blind, Window Roller Shades,Blinds & Window Shades – Easy to Install for Bedroom & Nursery (White, 58.5″,2Pcs)” in my nursery, and honestly, I think these strips deserve a tiny cape. The side light gaps were driving me bonkers, but these blockers turned the room into a cozy cave of calm. I appreciated the easy-to-use peel-and-stick setup, and the option to reinforce with screws made me feel like I had backup if my wall decided to be dramatic. If you want better naps for a baby or just for yourself, I am officially on team darkness. —Tina Caldwell

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

Why Light Blockers for Roller Blinds Is Necessary

I’ve found that light blockers for roller blinds are necessary because they make a big difference in how comfortable a room feels. Without them, sunlight can sneak in around the edges of the blind, especially early in the morning or when the sun is at an angle. That small gap may not seem like much, but it can be enough to disturb sleep, create glare on screens, or make a room feel too bright when I want it dark and calm.

I also like light blockers because they help improve privacy. Even when my roller blinds are down, I don’t want people outside to see shadows or movement inside my home at night. Light blockers close those gaps and give me more confidence that my space feels private and secure.

Another reason I consider them necessary is energy efficiency. By reducing the amount of light and heat that enters through the sides, they help keep my room cooler in summer and more stable overall. For me, that means better comfort, less strain on air conditioning, and a cleaner, more finished look around the window.

My Buying Guides on Light Blockers For Roller Blinds

What I Look For First

When I shop for light blockers for roller blinds, the first thing I check is how much light I actually want to block. If I need a room to stay dark for sleeping, I look for blackout options. If I only want to reduce glare and soften sunlight, I usually choose room-darkening or light-filtering styles instead. I also pay attention to the fit, because even the best material won’t work well if light leaks around the edges.

Types of Light Blockers I Consider

I usually compare a few main types before buying:

  • Blackout roller blinds: Best when I want maximum darkness for bedrooms or media rooms.
  • Room-darkening blinds: Good when I want privacy and reduced light, but not total blackout.
  • Light-filtering blinds: Useful when I want natural light without harsh glare.
  • Side channels or guides: Helpful if I want to stop light from leaking in around the edges.

Material Matters to Me

The material makes a big difference in performance. I look for thick, tightly woven fabrics or coated materials if I want stronger light blocking. In my experience, polyester fabrics with blackout backing are common and effective. I also check whether the blind has a reflective or thermal layer, since that can help with heat control too.

Fit and Measurements Are Critical

I never skip measuring carefully. A light blocker only works well if it fits the window properly. I measure the width and height of the window opening and decide whether I want an inside mount or outside mount. If I want the darkest result, I usually prefer an outside mount because it covers more of the window frame and reduces side gaps.

Installation Style I Prefer

I think about how easy the blind is to install. Some products are simple enough for me to put up myself, while others may need extra brackets or side tracks. If I want better light control, I look for options with:

  • cassette tops that reduce top light gaps
  • magnetic or velcro side seals
  • side channels for a tighter blackout fit

Privacy and Room Use

I choose based on the room. For bedrooms, I want strong privacy and darkness. For living rooms, I may prefer a lighter option that still blocks glare. For nurseries or home theaters, I usually go for the highest level of light blocking possible. I always ask myself how the room is used during the day and night before I decide.

Energy Efficiency I Keep in Mind

I like light blockers that do more than just block sunlight. Some roller blinds help insulate the room by reducing heat in summer and keeping warmth in during colder months. If energy savings matter to me, I look for thermal-backed materials or thicker blackout fabrics.

Style and Color Choices

Even though function comes first, I still want the blinds to look good. I usually choose colors that match my room decor. Darker colors often block light more effectively, while lighter colors can blend better with the space. I check whether the backside is white or reflective, since that can affect both appearance and performance.

My Final Buying Tips

Before I buy, I always compare light-blocking level, fit, material, and installation method. I also read reviews to see whether other buyers mention light leakage, durability, or ease of use. In my experience, the best light blocker for roller blinds is the one that fits my window well, suits the room, and gives me the right balance of darkness, privacy, and style.

Final Thoughts

I’ve found that light blockers for roller blinds are one of the simplest ways to improve both comfort and privacy in a room. My key takeaway is that choosing the right fabric, fit, and side coverage can make a big difference in how much light gets through. If I want better sleep, less glare, or a more polished finish, light blockers are definitely worth considering.

Author Profile

Maya Ellison
Maya Ellison