Articles & advice · Song Design Curtains
Wake easily because of light? Choosing bedroom curtains for better rest
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Early sunlight, streetlights or light from neighbouring buildings can be a distraction when you are trying to rest—especially if light wakes you easily or you need to sleep during the day.
Light-blocking curtains reduce outside light and help create a more sleep-friendly room. The result depends on the fabric, curtain dimensions and fitting, rather than the word “blackout” alone.
What does research say about bedroom darkness?
The US National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI) recommends a quiet, cool, dark bedroom. Its guidance for shift workers specifically suggests removing light distractions during daytime sleep, including using light-blocking curtains. [1]
A systematic review and meta-analysis published in 2023 combined seven observational studies involving more than 577,000 people. Higher exposure to light at night was associated with more sleep problems. These studies do not establish that light directly caused the problems, or prove that installing blackout curtains will improve everyone's sleep. [2]
The practical takeaway is to reduce unwanted light when you want to sleep, alongside attention to noise, temperature and a consistent sleep schedule.
Who might benefit from light-blocking curtains?
People who wake easily because of light
If streetlights or early sunlight disturb you, reducing light entering through the window is a sensible part of improving your bedroom environment.
Shift workers and people sleeping during the day
Light-blocking curtains make it easier to darken a bedroom while it is bright outside. NHLBI includes them in its advice for daytime sleep. [1]
Hotels, guesthouses and Airbnb properties
Easy-to-close curtains with good light control let guests choose the room atmosphere they prefer. Privacy, cleaning and ease of use also matter when choosing curtains for accommodation.
Look beyond the fabric
Check the room at the time you normally sleep and identify where light enters.
- Sides: Do the curtains extend far enough beyond the window?
- Top: Does light enter between the track and window?
- Centre: Is there a gap when both curtains are closed?
- Bottom: Is the curtain length appropriate for the window and room?
Even good light-blocking fabric can leave light gaps around the curtains. Fabric choice and track placement should suit the actual window. Layering sheers with light-blocking curtains can give you softer daylight when you want it and greater darkness when you need to rest.
What should you send when requesting a quote?
Send photos of the windows and room, and explain when light is a problem—for example, “streetlights shine into my room at night” or “I sleep during the day after a night shift.” Include the property location, number of windows and approximate budget.
This helps us discuss your needs for light control, privacy and appearance before arranging measuring and installation.
A darker room is one part of a sleep-friendly environment. Curtains do not treat insomnia. If sleep problems persist or affect daily life, speak to a healthcare professional.
Song Design Curtains provides measuring, curtain making and installation across Phrae Province for homes, hotels, guesthouses and Airbnb properties.
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