IKEA blackout curtains: dark when you want it dark
Harsh sunlight, a full moon, nosy neighbours, passers-by walking right past a ground-floor window? Our blackout curtains let you shut all of that out. Light protection, privacy and a sense of security – all in one. Discover IKEA curtains that really block the light.
Our blackout curtains draw a line between you and the outside
IKEA blackout curtains shut out light and prying eyes whenever you want them to, giving you real privacy and proper rest, whenever you need it. The room stays dark in the morning, however bright it gets outside. Or that the glaring sun outside never again ruins your Sunday binge-watching on the sofa. And for all their practicality, they look good too. From beige and grey to green and black: blackout curtains add character to a room, even when they're not drawn.
Key features and benefits of our blackout curtains (depending on the model):
- Effective light blocking: blackout curtains reduce up to 99 per cent of incoming light for undisturbed sleep, even in broad daylight.
- Temperature regulation: they keep rooms pleasantly cool in summer and reduce heat loss in the colder months.
- Plenty of colours: a blackout curtain in beige or grey works in almost any room. Go for green if you want a splash of colour.
- Good for children's rooms: a blackout curtain for the child's room is ideal for a deep afternoon nap and makes for peaceful nights.
- Easy-care materials: most models are machine-washable at 40 degrees and keep their shape well after multiple washes.
- Ready-made blackout curtains: ready to hang straight away with no sewing or adjusting – just put them up and enjoy the dark.
- Simple to shorten: just iron on IKEA hemming tape to take your blackout curtains up to the right length without any sewing.
- Easy to combine: blackout curtains pair well with sheer or room darkening curtains for flexible light control.
Turn your bedroom into a retreat that feels calm and comfortable. With our wide range of blackout fabrics, you can create the perfect frame for your windows and enjoy a pleasantly dark, relaxed atmosphere.
Do blackout curtains actually work?
Yes, a blackout curtain blocks the light reliably. The effect comes from a special blackout coating on the back of the fabric or from a particularly dense weave, and both methods block light effectively. The degree of darkness varies slightly depending on the material and construction. Whether it's an afternoon nap on the sofa or a proper night's sleep in bed, unwanted light sources don't stand a chance.
Do blackout curtains block 100 per cent of the light?
Most blackout curtains block between 95 and 99 per cent of the light. A curtain with a full blackout function comes closest to complete darkness. For the best effect, the curtain should be wider than the window and overlap at the sides. How you hang it matters too: with our tracks and curtain poles, you can fit the curtain close to the wall so less light creeps in at the edges. To bring some warm light inside despite the blackout, take a look at our lights. Floor lamps, ceiling lights, wall lights or table lamps will all add a warm glow. Or make it really cosy and light a few (scented) candles and tea lights.
Do my blackout curtains let air through?
Yes, most models are breathable. Curtains in cotton or cotton-viscose blends allow air to circulate and contribute to a comfortable indoor climate. Synthetic coatings can reduce breathability slightly, but in return they offer additional insulating properties. That can be very handy if you want to keep warmth in during winter and keep the sun's heat out in summer. Pair your blackout curtains with a soft, fluffy rug and you'll make a real difference to the temperature in the room.
What's the difference between a blackout curtain and a thermal curtain?
A blackout curtain is designed specifically to block almost all outside light. A thermal curtain, on the other hand, focuses on insulation, keeping the cold out in winter and the heat out in summer. The good news: many of our blackout curtains do both. The dense fabrics insulate against temperature fluctuations at the same time.
How wide should my blackout curtain be?
For effective blackout and a modern look, your blackout curtain should be about one and a half to two times the width of the window. That gives you a nice fullness and lets the curtain close tightly at the sides. Alternatively, measure the window width and allow 15 to 20 centimetres of overlap on each side. A tip: flank your new curtain with a few houseplants, a good-looking light or a side table with some decorative pieces on it.
How do I wash my blackout curtains properly?
Most models can go in the washing machine. A gentle cycle at 40 degrees is usually fine. Avoid bleach to protect the coating. A low spin speed and air-drying preserve the shape and function of your blackout curtain for a long time. For the exact care instructions for your new curtains, check the care label.

















