Best Light Blocking Side Tracks for Blinds: Top Picks for Darker Rooms
Achieving true blackout conditions often depends on the right side tracks or light blockers for blinds. The products below are designed to seal side gaps and block stray light, helping bedrooms, nurseries, and media rooms stay dark and private. This guide highlights five strong options, covers installation basics, and compares key features to help you choose the best fit for your window treatments.
Summary of chosen products:
| Product | Brand | Length | Material | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bliwans Light Blocking Strips | Bliwans | 58″ | PVC | Trim to fit; adhesive-backed |
| DRSART Light Blocking Strips | DRSART | 58.5″ | PVC | Cut to size; hacksaw; adhesive backing |
| Miideayin Light Blocking Strips | Miideayin | 58″ | PVC | Adhesive-backed; easy trim |
| ZSTARR Light Blockers | ZSTARR | 79″ (4 pcs) | PVC | Can be cut to fit; peel & stick |
| WINSMAR U-Channel Strips | WINSMAR | 58.5″ | PVC | Cut-to-fit; screw or adhesive options |
Bliwans Light Blocking Strips
The Bliwans strips are designed to seal the sides of blinds and curtains with an L-shaped profile. Made from light-absorbing PVC, they reduce light leakage from the perimeters and help maintain privacy. The product comes in a 58″ length and can be trimmed to fit various window sizes using common tools. It is particularly suited for bedrooms, home theaters, and nurseries where a dark environment supports sleep or media viewing. A straightforward install process makes these blockers a practical choice for temporary or semi-permanent setups.
DRSART 100% Light Blocking Strips
DRSART offers a 58.5″ x 1.6″ x 0.9″ light blocking strip designed to seal side gaps along blinds and shades. The PVC construction provides effective light blocking, and the strips are designed to be trimmed at home with a hacksaw. The system is positioned to block side light leaks, making it a strong option for offices, nurseries, and bedrooms where undisturbed rest is needed. Easy cut-to-size installation supports a range of window widths and configurations.
Miideayin Blackout Strips for Window Shades
Miideayin’s PVC light-blocking strips feature a black velvet interior for light absorption and softer edges on curtains. The package includes a thickened adhesive strip for strong bonding and a position-adjustable magnet to fine-tune the alignment after initial installation. The 58″ length can be trimmed to fit, and the kit provides guidance for mounting. This option emphasizes robust adhesion and adjustability to address uneven walls and ensure continuous coverage along the sides.
ZSTARR PVC Light Blockers for Windows
ZSTARR provides large, four-piece sets of L-shaped PVC blockers designed to seal the sides of blinds and shades. With a 58″ by 1.6″ by 0.9″ profile per piece, these blockers are meant to be cut and placed close to the window frame for maximum coverage. The installation is intended to be simple—peel off the backing and press into position. This option is well-suited for homeowners seeking a flexible, scalable solution for larger or multiple windows.
WINSMAR 100% Blackout U-Channel Strips
WINSMAR’s U-channel light blockers are designed to seal both sides of roller shades and other window treatments. The standard 58.5″ length is designed for easy trimming and offers a choice between adhesive and screw-on installation. The U-channel design helps prevent light leaks on both sides, aiming to improve privacy and sleep quality. They are particularly compatible with inside-mount setups and work well for bedrooms and nurseries where complete darkness is desired.
Buying Guide: Key Considerations and How to Choose
When selecting light blocking side tracks, consider installation needs, window size, and the type of window coverings. Here are essential factors and how they influence your choice:
- Coverage and fit: Look for products that can be trimmed to your window’s exact length and width. L-shaped or U-channel designs often provide the best seal along the sides.
- Material and finish: PVC is common for light blocking strips due to its rigidity and light absorption. A black interior or velvet lining can further reduce reflections and wear on edges.
- Adhesion vs. screws: Adhesive-backed strips are quick and reversible; screw-on options offer stronger, more permanent installation. Some sets include both methods or reusable mounting hardware.
- Compatibility: Ensure the blockers suit your window treatment type (cellular shades, roller shades, blinds, etc.) and mounting style (inside vs. outside mount).
- Ease of installation: If you’re trimming at home, verify the recommended tools (saw vs. scissors) and any installation videos provided by the manufacturer.
- Durability and cleaning: PVC blockers with reinforced adhesive are preferable for high-traffic areas or damp rooms. Consider how easy it is to wipe or renew if needed.
- Number of pieces: For larger windows or multiple windows, a kit with several long pieces provides better coverage with fewer seams.
- Noise and wear: Some designs include soft bristles or extra padding to minimize wear on edges and reduce noise when shades move.
Practical recommendations: for bedrooms or media rooms where total darkness is essential, prefer models that seal both sides, offer precise trimming, and provide secure adhesion or a robust screw-on option. If you rent or anticipate repositioning windows, adhesive-backed strips may be preferable for easy removal. For permanent home installations, screw-on variants can provide long-lasting stability and maintain alignment after repeated use.