How To Block Light From Top of Curtains
So, you’re ready to wind down and get a good night’s rest as you draw the curtains shut and turn off the lights.
The only problem is that there’s a glorious line of light streaming in from the top of the curtain.
Having thick or wide curtains may have provided a decent amount of light coverage but when light is blaring from the top of the curtain, be it nighttime or daytime, this can be incredibly frustrating and annoying.
When you want a good night’s rest in a dark room or if you’re someone who has light sensitivity issues, having a curtain that provides adequate coverage is absolutely essential.
The best way to block light from the top of a curtain is to install a valance or use magnetic tape or magnets to close the gap. These two methods tend to work best but if you invest in a wrap-around curtain rod, you’ll be able to ensure full coverage from the sides and top of the curtain. Otherwise, changing the curtain to a wider and longer one may be the final solution that gives you peace of mind.
By implementing any of these actionable steps and methods, it’s quite simple to control the amount of light that enters the space.
If you’d like to take a closer look at the easy and effective solutions to forge the darkness in your room again, they are as follows:
Table of Contents
Ways To Block Light From The Top of A Curtain
Valance
A valance is a window treatment that can be used to easily control and block light from the top of the curtains.
Once you draw the curtains together, it’s lights out for you!
This is a decorative drapery that is attached to and hung above a window and it can be paired with curtains.
A valance is an excellent, low-cost, and simple-to-install solution for providing comfort, protection, and escape from sunlight. They work for just about any space.
There’s a variety of styles, designs, patterns, and colors suitable for any style of decor and can be customized accordingly, which will add an extra layer of detail to your space.
A valance may also help to block the light coming from the sides of the curtain at the top.
Magnetic Tape/Magnets
Your next best option is magnetic tape or magnets.
This quick, easy, and useful solution is great at blocking out light while also protecting your privacy.
The magnetic tape can be applied to the side and top of the curtain which can then be attached to the wall or window.
This should cover the gaps in which the light passes through at the top of the curtain.
The only downside to magnetic tape is that it may not adhere to certain types of materials.
This could be easily solved by attaching and securing the tape to the curtain with super glue, but be careful not to damage the curtain.
Another similar solution is to use small round magnets to block the light from the top of the curtain.
Wrap a thread around the magnet and attach it to the curtain to accomplish this.
You can use double-sided adhesive tape or glue to stick the other magnet to the wall.
With this, you can use as many round magnets as needed to completely cover the top of the curtain.
Wrap Around Rod
If you’d like to skip having to attach tape or change the entire curtain, consider installing a new type of rod that will help eliminate the light that streams from the top.
This curtain rod is known as a wrap-around rod and it is designed to basically wrap around the window.
It provides full light coverage and the curtain can be pulled all the way to the wall which is ideal for blocking light and providing an adequate amount of privacy.
The wraparound rod is suitable for any type of decor and style, and is available in wood (pine, oak, and mahogany), metal, or plastic.
They usually retail for around $20–60, and this is a worthwhile investment to help improve your sleep quality without the distribution of light.
Wraparound rods are remarkably useful for those with sleep or light sensitivity issues.
If you want to completely block the light from the top of the curtain, install the curtains and the rod slightly higher than the window frame.
Wider Curtains
Investing in wider curtains will also solve the problem.
This adds extra height to the top of the curtain which will be useful in blocking light.
Additionally, this will guarantee that no light enters the room through the sides of the curtains.
So, it’s really a win-win. However, since this means wider curtains, you’ll probably have to adjust the length or ensure you choose a curtain that is simply wider and longer at the top but still the ideal length for the window.
A new curtain can be a fresh opportunity to redecorate and give the space a new, distinctive look.
Cheapest Ways To Blackout Windows
Now, if you’re in a jam and you need cheap and creative ways to blackout the windows, there are a few smart solutions that are worth taking a look at:
Cardboard
Cardboard is a cheap, easy, and affordable method that can block out most of the light in the room.
Cardboard can also be found for free at a local grocery store or small shops.
Asking around will help you find the cardboard, so you don’t necessarily need to spend money to cover your windows.
They can also be cut down to size or joined to cover a large area at once.
To ensure that the windows are totally darkened, you should take precise measurements.
Use strong masking tape to attach the cardboard to the windows or the window frames and you’re good to go.
If you want complete coverage, consider layering at least two cardboards that will completely darken the space.
Black Fabric/Curtains/Blinds
The next best option is to go with a thick black fabric to black out the windows.
This could be done by covering the windows with black fabric or purchasing blackout curtains made for this purpose.
They are affordable but you should consider the type of material and the thickness to ensure it can be used to fully block out light.
If you choose this method, take accurate measurements of the width, length, and coverage.
Blinds can also be a useful way to blackout windows.
Window Film
A window film is another cost-effective way to insulate windows, provide privacy, and blackout windows.
Not only is this item simple and quick to install, but it might also save you money.
Matte black block-out window films are suitable for use in cars, offices, homes, and other buildings to provide privacy during the day and at night.
Certain window films can only be applied to laminated glass, clear float glass, and toughened glass, so do check the label to find the one that will be suitable.
Final Thoughts
Installing a valance, which is a decorative drapery, can be the best solution for blocking light from the top of the curtain.
It may also be possible to effectively solve the problem by using magnetic tape or magnets to close the opening where the light enters.
Other solutions, like spending money on a wraparound rod or getting a fresh set of curtains that will completely solve this issue, also sound awesome.
Any of these solutions will undoubtedly be helpful, depending on which option best fits your needs and problem.
See also:
How To Keep Outdoor Curtains From Blowing (Easy Fixes)
