Blockout curtains for light control and better sleep

They refer to the same thing. Blockout is the term commonly used in New Zealand and Australia; blackout is more common in the UK and US. Both describe curtains that use a lining or fabric construction to block light from entering a room.

A properly fitted blockout curtain blocks the vast majority of light through the fabric itself. However, light can still enter around the edges if the curtain does not extend sufficiently beyond the window frame. Your consultant will measure and position your curtains to minimise this as much as possible.

In rooms where some natural light is always wanted, such as living rooms and kitchens, blockout curtains can make the space feel too enclosed when shut. In these rooms, a triple weave or thermal option is often a better fit. Your consultant will advise on the right level of light control for each room.

Yes. The additional lining layer in a blockout curtain provides meaningful insulation. For maximum thermal performance, a separate thermal lining can be added. Your consultant will explain the options during the visit.

Blockout curtains reduce noise to a degree, particularly heavier fabrics with a lining, but they are not a soundproofing solution. If noise reduction is a priority, your consultant can advise on the fabric weights and lining combinations that perform best.

Yes. Research consistently shows that sleeping in a darker environment improves sleep quality and duration. Blockout curtains are one of the most effective ways to achieve the conditions needed for better sleep, particularly in summer when light levels remain high well into the evening.

Yes. Russells blockout curtains are custom-made to your exact window measurements in NZ. Your consultant takes every measurement during the in-home consultation, backed by our Guaranteed Perfect Fit.

Colour has less effect on light blocking than fabric weight and lining quality. A well-lined light-coloured curtain will outperform a heavy, dark curtain with no lining. Your consultant will guide you to the fabric and lining combination that delivers the best result for your room.

They’re one of the safest choices you can make. Curtains don’t need cords or chains to work, so there’s nothing dangling for little hands or curious paws. We’d steer you away from cord controls — and if you’d rather not draw them by hand (which can mark the fabric over time), a wand or automation keeps things easy and safe. Just ask and we’ll talk you through it.