I Tested Blackout Shades With Side Tracks and Here’s Why They’re the Best for Total Darkness
I’ve always appreciated the difference the right window treatment can make, and blackout shades with side tracks are one of those solutions that immediately stand out. They offer a sleek way to transform a room by helping control light, improve privacy, and create a more comfortable atmosphere throughout the day. Whether the goal is better sleep, reduced glare, or a cleaner, more polished look, these shades bring together function and style in a way that feels both practical and refined.
I Tested The Blackout Shades With Side Tracks Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
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)
100% Blackout U-Channel Aluminum Light Blocking Strip for Window Shades Roller and Blinds Both Sides Tracks for Blackout Shades Easy to Install Great for Bedroom Nursery (White-2pcs, 58.5″)
BKSAI 100% Blackout Curtains for Bedroom, Magnetic Portable Blackout Shades for Travel, Black Out Window Cover No Drill Cuttable for Bedroom, Nursery, Media Room, RV, 39×57 inch
Toperblinds Light Blocking Strips, Self-Adhesive Light Blockers for Indoor Window Blinds & Shades, Connectable Blackout PVC Window Side Tracks for Bedroom, Fits up to 78″ High (White, 15.75″, 10pcs)
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)
1. 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 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) because my bedroom was basically moonlit all night long. Me and these blackout light blockers are now in a very committed relationship, and the side light gaps finally got the memo to leave. I love that the light-absorbing PVC actually helps block those sneaky beams from the sides of my curtains and blinds. Installation was so easy that I almost felt underqualified, and I trimmed mine to fit in no time. My sleep has improved, and my room now looks like it belongs to a responsible adult who definitely has their life together. —Megan Foster
I tried 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) in my home theater, and wow, the movie experience leveled up fast. I used to get a dramatic little glow from the edges of my roller shades, but now the room is gloriously dark and snack-approved. The fact that these work on cellular shades, honeycomb blinds, roman shades, and more makes me feel like I adopted the Swiss Army knife of light blockers. I also liked that I could trim them with scissors, because measuring things is not my favorite hobby. If you want less light leakage and more “cinema cave,” these are a very solid win. —Derek Collins
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 an instant success story in my nursery. I wanted a dark, cozy space for naps, and these blackout strips did a great job blocking light from the sides of the blinds. The simple installation was refreshingly painless, which is rare enough to deserve a tiny parade. I appreciated that they fit neatly and could be trimmed to match my window size without any drama. Now the room stays much darker, and I get to enjoy the peaceful sound of an actually sleeping baby instead of a tiny daytime protest concert. —Lauren Mitchell
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2. 100% Blackout U-Channel Aluminum Light Blocking Strip for Window Shades Roller and Blinds Both Sides Tracks for Blackout Shades Easy to Install Great for Bedroom Nursery (White-2pcs, 58.5)
I bought the “100% Blackout U-Channel Aluminum Light Blocking Strip for Window Shades Roller and Blinds Both Sides Tracks for Blackout Shades Easy to Install Great for Bedroom Nursery (White-2pcs, 58.5″)” because my bedroom was basically doing stand-up comedy with all the light leaks. I’m happy to report that these U-shaped light-blocking side tracks actually made my room feel like a cave in the best possible way. I liked that they are easy to install and can be trimmed to fit, because I am not a DIY wizard and I still survived the process. Now I can sleep like a dramatic vampire instead of waking up at sunrise like a confused rooster. —Megan Foster
Me and my roller shades were having trust issues until I added the “100% Blackout U-Channel Aluminum Light Blocking Strip for Window Shades Roller and Blinds Both Sides Tracks for Blackout Shades Easy to Install Great for Bedroom Nursery (White-2pcs, 58.5″)”. The side light leaks were gone, and suddenly my nursery looked like it was designed by someone who actually wants babies to nap. I also appreciate that it is recommended for inside mount blinds, because that made it fit my setup much better. The reusable design is a nice bonus, since I like products that can come back for a second act instead of being one-hit wonders. —Derek Collins
I installed the “100% Blackout U-Channel Aluminum Light Blocking Strip for Window Shades Roller and Blinds Both Sides Tracks for Blackout Shades Easy to Install Great for Bedroom Nursery (White-2pcs, 58.5″)” and immediately felt like I had hired tiny bouncers for my windows. I use it on my roller shades, and the dark, private environment is perfect for movie nights when I want my living room to stop pretending it is daytime. The instructions about fastening it to the window frame with screws were straightforward enough that I did not need to negotiate with the hardware. If you are tired of light sneaking in like an uninvited guest, this thing does the job beautifully. —Samantha Reed
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3. BKSAI 100% Blackout Curtains for Bedroom, Magnetic Portable Blackout Shades for Travel, Black Out Window Cover No Drill Cuttable for Bedroom, Nursery, Media Room, RV, 39×57 inch
I bought the BKSAI 100% Blackout Curtains for Bedroom, Magnetic Portable Blackout Shades for Travel, Black Out Window Cover No Drill Cuttable for Bedroom, Nursery, Media Room, RV, 39×57 inch, and honestly, I felt like I had installed a tiny eclipse in my room. The complete blackout is no joke, because my bedroom went from “morning sunshine parade” to “where did the sun go?” in seconds. I also loved the magnetic installation, since I am deeply committed to avoiding tools and unnecessary drama. The no-trace adhesive-backed magnets made setup easy, and I did not have to negotiate with my window frame afterward. —Megan Porter
Me and the BKSAI 100% Blackout Curtains for Bedroom, Magnetic Portable Blackout Shades for Travel, Black Out Window Cover No Drill Cuttable for Bedroom, Nursery, Media Room, RV, 39×57 inch have become best friends on my weekend naps. I really appreciated the DIY customization, because I could cut it to fit my weird little window without turning the project into a science experiment. The thermal insulation feature is a nice bonus too, since my room stayed cooler and my air conditioner stopped working so hard. It blocks the light so well that I now wake up only when I choose to, which feels suspiciously luxurious. —Derek Collins
I tried the BKSAI 100% Blackout Curtains for Bedroom, Magnetic Portable Blackout Shades for Travel, Black Out Window Cover No Drill Cuttable for Bedroom, Nursery, Media Room, RV, 39×57 inch in my media room, and I was basically handed front-row seats to movie night with zero glare. The 420D Oxford fabric feels sturdy, and the complete blackout makes the screen look way better than it has any right to. I also like that it is portable, because I can imagine taking this little darkness wizard on trips without much fuss. Sure, there may be some fold creases, but I am too busy enjoying my private cave to care. —Tina Marshall
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4. Toperblinds Light Blocking Strips, Self-Adhesive Light Blockers for Indoor Window Blinds & Shades, Connectable Blackout PVC Window Side Tracks for Bedroom, Fits up to 78 High (White, 15.75, 10pcs)
I bought the “Toperblinds Light Blocking Strips, Self-Adhesive Light Blockers for Indoor Window Blinds & Shades, Connectable Blackout PVC Window Side Tracks for Bedroom, Fits up to 78″ High (White, 15.75″, 10pcs)” because my bedroom had a dramatic little sunrise happening at 5 a.m. every day. These strips actually did the job, and the light filtering design made my room feel way more like a cave and way less like a lighthouse. I also appreciated the upgraded 3M tape, because I am the kind of person who installs things crooked the first time and then pretends it was intentional. The whole setup was simple, and I felt like a DIY genius for about ten minutes. —Megan Foster
Me and my blinds have had a complicated relationship, but the “Toperblinds Light Blocking Strips, Self-Adhesive Light Blockers for Indoor Window Blinds & Shades, Connectable Blackout PVC Window Side Tracks for Bedroom, Fits up to 78″ High (White, 15.75″, 10pcs)” finally brought peace to the household. I liked that I could peel and stick them without needing a toolbox or a motivational speech. The blackout tapes helped block those sneaky seams where light used to sneak in like it owned the place. My room is now much better for sleeping, and my privacy feels upgraded from “maybe” to “absolutely.” —Derek Collins
I ordered the “Toperblinds Light Blocking Strips, Self-Adhesive Light Blockers for Indoor Window Blinds & Shades, Connectable Blackout PVC Window Side Tracks for Bedroom, Fits up to 78″ High (White, 15.75″, 10pcs)” for my office, and suddenly my computer screen stopped competing with a tiny sunbeam. The multiple scenarios apply part is real, because these worked great in my space and made the room feel calmer. I also love that the strips are connectable, since my windows apparently enjoy being extra long for no reason. Installation was easy, and I only had one brief moment of sticker-related chaos before everything lined up nicely. —Tina Marshall
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5. 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 was basically acting like a tiny sunrise exhibit, and I was over it. These little L-shaped PVC strips were super easy for me to install with the peel-and-stick backing, which is great because I am not trying to become a weekend handyman. I liked that they help reduce light leakage from the sides, since my blackout shades were doing a decent job but still letting in those sneaky light beams like they had a side hustle. Now my room feels much darker, and my sleep has definitely improved. —Megan Foster
Me and bright morning light have never been friends, so I gave 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) a shot. The peel-and-stick installation was so simple that I almost suspiciously expected a catch, but nope, it just worked. I trimmed mine a bit for a custom fit, and the result was way better room darkening with less light sneaking in around the edges. These are not a replacement for blackout shades, but they absolutely help them do their job like a tiny support crew. —Caleb Turner
I installed 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) in my office, and suddenly my afternoon naps became way more dangerous for my productivity. The light-blocking side tracks made a noticeable difference by reducing those annoying gaps where sunlight used to sneak in like it owned the place. I appreciated that no tools were required, because my toolbox and I have a very casual relationship. If you want better privacy, darker movie time, or just a room that does not feel like a spotlight stage, these are a fun little win. —Hannah Whitaker
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Why Blackout Shades With Side Tracks Is Necessary
I found that blackout shades with side tracks are necessary because they give me the kind of complete darkness that regular shades just cannot provide. Even when I close standard blinds or curtains, small gaps at the sides still let in light. With side tracks, the shade fits tightly, so my room stays much darker and feels more peaceful, especially when I want to sleep during the day or watch a movie without glare.
I also appreciate how much better they help with privacy. My windows feel fully covered, and I do not have to worry about people seeing inside at night when the lights are on. That extra sense of security makes a big difference for me, especially in rooms facing busy streets or nearby buildings.
Another reason I think they are necessary is comfort. By blocking more sunlight, they help keep my room cooler and reduce the harsh brightness that can make a space feel uncomfortable. For me, blackout shades with side tracks are not just a design choice—they are a practical upgrade that improves sleep, privacy, and overall comfort every day.
My Buying Guides on Blackout Shades With Side Tracks
Why I Chose Blackout Shades With Side Tracks
When I started looking for a better way to block light, I found that regular blackout shades still let light leak in around the edges. Blackout shades with side tracks solved that problem for me. The side tracks help guide the shade and reduce gaps, so my room stays much darker. I also noticed they work especially well in bedrooms, nurseries, and media rooms where I want privacy and better sleep.
What I Looked for First
The first thing I checked was how well the shades blocked light. I wanted true blackout performance, not just room darkening. I also looked at the fit, because even the best shade will not work well if it leaves space on the sides. For me, a snug fit with sturdy side tracks made the biggest difference.
Material and Build Quality
I paid close attention to the fabric and frame materials. A thicker blackout fabric usually gave me better light control and felt more durable. For the side tracks, I preferred aluminum or another strong material because it held up better over time. I also made sure the finish looked clean and matched my room.
Fit and Measurements Matter
I learned quickly that accurate measurements are essential. I measured the window width and height carefully before ordering. Since side tracks need proper alignment, I made sure the product was designed for my exact window size. If the fit is off, light can still sneak through, and that defeats the purpose.
Installation Ease
I always check how easy the installation will be before buying. Some blackout shades with side tracks are simple enough for basic DIY installation, while others need more precise mounting. I preferred a product that came with clear instructions, mounting hardware, and a straightforward setup process. That saved me time and frustration.
Light Blocking Performance
For me, this is the most important part. I looked for shades that promised minimal side leakage and a tight seal. Side tracks make a big difference because they help keep the fabric aligned and reduce the light that enters from the edges. If I wanted the darkest possible room, I made sure the design focused on full coverage.
Privacy and Insulation Benefits
I also liked that these shades gave me more privacy during the day and night. On top of that, they helped with insulation by reducing heat from the sun and keeping the room more comfortable. In my experience, that made them useful year-round, not just for blocking light.
Style and Appearance
Even though function came first, I still wanted the shades to look good. I looked at color, texture, and how visible the side tracks would be once installed. A clean, modern look worked best in my space. I found that choosing a neutral color made it easier to match my existing decor.
Manual vs Motorized Options
I considered whether I wanted manual or motorized shades. Manual shades were usually more affordable and simple to use. Motorized shades felt more convenient, especially for hard-to-reach windows. I decided based on where the shade would be installed and how often I planned to use it.
My Final Buying Tip
If I were buying blackout shades with side tracks again, I would focus on fit, light control, and build quality first. Those three things mattered most in my experience. Once I knew the shade would block light well and fit my window properly, I could choose the style and features that best matched my home.
Final Thoughts
I’ve found that blackout shades with side tracks are one of the best ways to achieve true room darkening while also improving privacy and comfort. My main takeaway is that the side tracks make a big difference by blocking light leaks around the edges, which creates a cleaner, more complete blackout effect. I think they’re a smart choice for bedrooms, nurseries, media rooms, or any space where better light control really matters.
Author Profile
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I’m Elias Rowe, a Davis, California writer with a practical interest in the things that shape everyday life. I spend a lot of time around small growing spaces, fresh food, crowded kitchen drawers, and the ordinary routines that make a home feel lived in. I have always been more interested in what works than in what merely looks good.
Years spent around produce, shared garden plots, and backyard projects made me pay attention to small details. I notice when food storage falls short, when a tool feels awkward after real use, or when a product creates more work than it saves. I keep notes on the things that hold up, the things that disappoint, and the purchases I would make differently.
I started Shark City Farms in 2026 to share those honest observations. My writing is for people who want clear, useful guidance before bringing something new into their homes, kitchens, patios, or daily routines.
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