Best Side Tracks for Cellular Shades: 5 Top Light-Blocking Options
When cellular shades let in unwanted side light, side tracks and light blockers can dramatically improve darkness, privacy, and comfort. This guide highlights five popular, easy-to-install side-light blocking strips designed for cellular blinds and roller shades. Each choice focuses on simple trimming, strong adhesion, and effective light sealing, so you can choose the best fit for bedrooms, nurseries, media rooms, or home theaters. Below, you’ll find practical details, product features, and a buying guide to help compare options side-by-side.
| Product | Brand | Length | Color |
|---|---|---|---|
| DRSART Light Blocking Strips (58.5″) | DRSART | 58.5″ | White |
| Bliwans Light Blocking Strips (58″) | Bliwans | 58″ | White |
| Sleepy Time Tracks Light Blockers (60″) | Sleepy Time Tracks | 60″ | White |
| DRSART Light Blocking Strips (80″) | DRSART | 80″ | Black |
| Sleepy Time Tracks Light Blocking Strips (72″) | Sleepy Time Tracks | 72″ | White |
DRSART 58.5″ White Light Blocking Strips
These 58.5″ white light blockers install along the sides of blackout blinds to eliminate side light gaps. Made from light-absorbing PVC, they’re designed to block 100% of light when mounted flush against the window frame. The strips can be cut at home to fit standard window sizes, ensuring a customized fit for both cellular and roller shades. Ideal for bedrooms, nurseries, or offices seeking undisturbed darkness.
Key features
- Standard size: 58.5″ x 1.6″ x 0.9″, trim to fit using a hacksaw or strong scissors
- Blocks side light and reduces glare
- Light-absorbing PVC construction for reliable performance
Bliwans 58″ White Light Blocking Strips
These 58″ L-shaped PVC strips are designed to seal the sides of window coverings, including cellular shades, to minimize light leakage. They’re compatible with various shade types and can effectively create a darker environment for better sleep and privacy. The strips are easy to trim to the exact window width, enabling precise customization for different window sizes.
Key features
- 58″ length, easy to trim to fit
- Works with cellular shades, honeycomb blinds, and more
- Light-blocking PVC for reliable side sealing
Sleepy Time Tracks 60″ White Light Blocker
These removable, magnetic light blockers are designed for cellular and roller shades. A patented foam gasket fills uneven gaps, delivering a tighter seal and true blackout. The strips are easily removable for cleaning or window cleaning, minimizing wall damage during removal. Available in multiple lengths, they suit a range of bedroom, nursery, and media room layouts.
Key features
- Removable and magnetic with foam gasket seal
- Adheres with minimal wall damage when removed
- Available in 60″ lengths, trim as needed
DRSART 80″ Black Light Blocking Strips
This 80″ black version from DRSART offers the same foundational design as the 58.5″ model, but extended length for larger windows. The strips are cut-to-fit, easy to install with a hacksaw, and crafted from light-absorbing PVC to block side light leaks along blackout window blinds. They work well for offices, media rooms, and bedrooms needing enhanced darkness and privacy.
Key features
- 80″ length to match larger windows
- PVC light-blocking strips seal side gaps
- Easy trim and simple installation
Sleepy Time Tracks 72″ White Light Blocker
The 72″ version features a patented foam gasket seal that improves side sealing for blackout shades. The strips can be trimmed to fit, and the adhesive is designed to remove with minimal wall damage while maintaining a tight fit against the window. This option is well-suited for larger rooms or windows requiring a robust blackout solution.
Key features
- 72″ length for larger windows
- Foam gasket seal for better side coverage
- Damage-free removal and easy trimming
Buying Guide: How To Choose The Right Side Tracks For Cellular Shades
To pick the best side tracks for your cellular shades, consider window size, installation method, and how easily you want to trim or adjust after mounting. The following perspectives help compare options:
- Fit and compatibility: Check whether the track works with cellular shades, honeycomb blinds, or roller shades. Some products advertise broad compatibility, but verify it matches your window treatment.
- Length and trim: Longer strips can cover more area on larger windows, but ensure you can trim accurately with a hacksaw or scissors. Some products offer 60″, 72″, or 80″ options so you can tailor fit.
- Adhesive and wall impact: Look for products with strong adhesive that minimizes wall damage upon removal. Foam gaskets or velvet interiors can improve sealing and reduce wear on the shade edges.
- Light sealing performance: Side blockers should fill gaps on both sides and resist light leaks. Foam gaskets and L-shaped PVC designs typically provide better blackout results.
- Removability and cleaning: If you need to frequently clean blinds or windows, removable tracks or magnetic options can offer easier maintenance without harming walls.
Durability and installation effort vary by material and length. PVC-based tracks with foam gaskets commonly deliver reliable blackout results with straightforward trimming, making them a practical choice for most residential settings. For renters or spaces requiring periodic window cleaning, removable or magnetic options may be preferable, even if they require occasional reapplication.