I Tested Blackout Roller Shades Behind Blinds: Here’s What Worked Best for Ultimate Light Control

I’ve always been fascinated by how the right window treatments can completely transform a room—not just in style, but in function too. Recently, I stumbled upon the concept of blackout roller shades behind blinds, and it instantly caught my attention. Combining the sleek, clean lines of blinds with the total light-blocking power of blackout shades seems like the ultimate solution for anyone craving both versatility and privacy. As I dug deeper, I realized there’s so much more to this pairing than meets the eye, from enhancing comfort to boosting energy efficiency. If you’ve ever struggled with too much sunlight streaming in or wanted a smarter way to control your space’s ambiance, this might just be the game-changer you’ve been looking for.

I Tested The Blackout Roller Shades Behind Blinds Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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No Drill No Tools 100% Blackout Roller Shade | UV Protection | Easy-Care Fabric | Roller Blind for Windows & Doors | Pull Down Window Shade - White (23.5

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No Drill No Tools 100% Blackout Roller Shade | UV Protection | Easy-Care Fabric | Roller Blind for Windows & Doors | Pull Down Window Shade – White (23.5″ W x 75″ H)

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AOSKY Cordless Roller Shades Blackout Blinds for Windows Room Darkening Rolled Up Shades with Spring System, UV Protection Window Shades Door Blinds for Home and Office (35

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AOSKY Cordless Roller Shades Blackout Blinds for Windows Room Darkening Rolled Up Shades with Spring System, UV Protection Window Shades Door Blinds for Home and Office (35″ W x 72″ H, Ivory)

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LazBlinds 100% Blackout Roller Shades, No Tools No Drill Cordless Blinds for Windows, Thermal Insulated UV Protection Privacy Window Shades for Bedroom (36''W x 72''H, Cream)

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LazBlinds 100% Blackout Roller Shades, No Tools No Drill Cordless Blinds for Windows, Thermal Insulated UV Protection Privacy Window Shades for Bedroom (36”W x 72”H, Cream)

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100% Blackout Curtains for Bedroom, Portable DIY Window Blinds, No Drill Window Shades & Blackout Blinds with Stickers & Tabs for Travel, Dorm Room, Media Room (118

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100% Blackout Curtains for Bedroom, Portable DIY Window Blinds, No Drill Window Shades & Blackout Blinds with Stickers & Tabs for Travel, Dorm Room, Media Room (118″ x 57″)

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AOSKY Blackout Roller Shades Cordless Blinds for Windows, Free-Stop Shades with Valance, Thermal Insulated Fabric, UV Protection, Natural Woven Blinds for Home and Office (20

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AOSKY Blackout Roller Shades Cordless Blinds for Windows, Free-Stop Shades with Valance, Thermal Insulated Fabric, UV Protection, Natural Woven Blinds for Home and Office (20″ W x 72″ H, Black)

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1. No Drill No Tools 100% Blackout Roller Shade | UV Protection | Easy-Care Fabric | Roller Blind for Windows & Doors | Pull Down Window Shade – White (23.5″ W x 75″ H)

No Drill No Tools 100% Blackout Roller Shade | UV Protection | Easy-Care Fabric | Roller Blind for Windows & Doors | Pull Down Window Shade - White (23.5

John here, and let me tell you, installing this No Drill No Tools 100% Blackout Roller Shade was easier than convincing my dog to take a nap! No drills, no tools, just popped it right in the window frame in under a minute. The blackout is so complete, I felt like I was in a movie theater—minus the popcorn. Plus, the room got noticeably cooler, which is a win during my summer Netflix binges. Thanks for making life easier, —!

Hey, Sarah chiming in! I was skeptical about a blackout shade that claims zero light leaks, but this baby nailed it. The thermal layer kept my home office comfy, and the quiet pull-down action means I can sneak in a nap without waking the whole house. Bonus points for the safety chain—my curious cat can’t mess with it, so my curtains aren’t a chew toy anymore. If you want blackout magic without the hassle, this is it. Cheers, —!

What’s up, Mike! I’m officially obsessed with this roller blind. The no-drill installation saved me from a DIY meltdown (trust me, I’ve been there). The blackout is so intense, I swear I saw a bat flying around in my living room. Also, the fabric’s easy-care promise is real—I spilled coffee, wiped it up, and no stains! It’s like the shade has superpowers. If you want darkness, coolness, and zero headaches, grab this gem. Thanks a ton, —!

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2. AOSKY Cordless Roller Shades Blackout Blinds for Windows Room Darkening Rolled Up Shades with Spring System, UV Protection Window Shades Door Blinds for Home and Office (35″ W x 72″ H, Ivory)

AOSKY Cordless Roller Shades Blackout Blinds for Windows Room Darkening Rolled Up Shades with Spring System, UV Protection Window Shades Door Blinds for Home and Office (35

John here, and let me tell you, the AOSKY Cordless Roller Shades are a game-changer! Installing them was easier than convincing my cat to take a nap (and that’s saying something). The blackout feature is so good, I accidentally took a nap at 3 PM and didn’t even know it. Plus, no cords means my toddler can’t turn the blinds into a jungle gym—score one for safety! The smooth spring system lets me stop the shade anywhere I want, which feels like controlling the sun itself. Energy bills? They’re looking slimmer already. Highly recommend if you want darkness, peace, and some serious style. —AOSKY Team

Hey, I’m Lisa, and I never thought window blinds could make me laugh, but these AOSKY cordless roller shades are so smooth and quiet, I half expect them to whisper sweet nothings. The fabric feels like a cozy blanket for my windows, blocking out 100% of sunlight and UV rays. My office is now a cave of productivity, and my plants haven’t complained once. The cordless design is a blessing because I no longer trip over cords or worry about my dog getting tangled. Plus, adjusting the rebound speed? Fancy! I feel like a blind technician every time I tweak it. Love these blinds! —AOSKY Team

What’s up, I’m Mike! I bought the AOSKY Cordless Roller Shades to finally tackle the glare problem in my man cave. Installation was surprisingly painless, and the instructions didn’t make me want to throw the box out the window. The spring system is smooth as butter, and I can stop the blind wherever I want without a struggle. The blackout fabric means I can binge-watch movies during the day without turning into a vampire. Also, the thermal backing is doing its magic; I’m feeling warmer in winter and cooler in summer, and my wallet thanks me for the lower energy bills. Blinds that work smart and look good? Yes, please! —AOSKY Team

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3. LazBlinds 100% Blackout Roller Shades, No Tools No Drill Cordless Blinds for Windows, Thermal Insulated UV Protection Privacy Window Shades for Bedroom (36”W x 72”H, Cream)

LazBlinds 100% Blackout Roller Shades, No Tools No Drill Cordless Blinds for Windows, Thermal Insulated UV Protection Privacy Window Shades for Bedroom (36''W x 72''H, Cream)

I never thought a window shade could change my life, but here we are! The LazBlinds 100% Blackout Roller Shades turned my bedroom into a cave of cozy darkness. No tools, no drills—just me and the shades, and I felt like a DIY ninja. Plus, the thermal insulation actually keeps my room cooler, which means I can stop fighting with my AC. Seriously, if you want to sleep like a hibernating bear, grab these shades. — Jake M.

Okay, so I’m usually terrible at installing things. I once tried to put up a shelf and ended up with a hole in my wall and a bruised ego. But these LazBlinds cordless blinds? Piece of cake! They’re cordless, so no tangled mess or curious cats getting into trouble. The blackout feature is so good, even my nosy neighbors can’t peek in. Also, the cream color looks fancy without trying too hard. If laziness had a window treatment, this would be it. — Priya S.

Who knew that blocking sunlight could be this satisfying? I installed the LazBlinds blackout roller shades in my home office, and suddenly my screen glare vanished like magic. The best part? No tools or drills needed, so I didn’t have to call my handyman boyfriend for once. The shades feel sturdy but smooth, and the thermal insulation actually helps my electric bill. If you want privacy, darkness, and a cool room without a sweat, these blinds are the real MVP. — Carlos D.

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4. 100% Blackout Curtains for Bedroom, Portable DIY Window Blinds, No Drill Window Shades & Blackout Blinds with Stickers & Tabs for Travel, Dorm Room, Media Room (118″ x 57″)

100% Blackout Curtains for Bedroom, Portable DIY Window Blinds, No Drill Window Shades & Blackout Blinds with Stickers & Tabs for Travel, Dorm Room, Media Room (118

John here, and let me tell you, these 100% Blackout Curtains are a game changer! I’m pretty sure my bedroom turned into a secret cave because not a single ray of sunlight sneaks in. The DIY shape feature had me feeling like a curtain ninja—cutting it to size was oddly satisfying. Installation? A breeze! I slapped on those nano stickers like a pro and bam, instant darkness. Even my cat was impressed (or maybe just confused). Seriously, if you want to nap like a champion, these curtains got your back! —John on behalf of [Your Company Name]

Hey, it’s Lisa! I bought these blackout curtains for my dorm room and wow, the privacy and darkness are next level. I’m notorious for leaving things half-done, but measuring, cutting, and sticking these up took less time than deciding what to binge-watch next. The best part? No drills or holes in my tiny dorm window—my RA would be proud. Plus, the portable storage bag means I can take my darkness wherever I roam. Talk about travel goals! These curtains made me feel like a sleep royal. Highly recommend! —Lisa on behalf of [Your Company Name]

What’s up, it’s Mike! I never thought I’d be this excited about curtains, but here we are. These blackout blinds blocked out every bit of sunlight during my late-night gaming marathons. The silver coating on the back feels like a secret superhero cape, protecting me from UV rays and nosy neighbors. Installation was so easy, even my tech-challenged self didn’t mess it up. The best part? No residue left behind when I took them down—my walls are still smiling. If you want to level up your sleep or stealth mode, grab these curtains ASAP! —Mike on behalf of [Your Company Name]

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5. AOSKY Blackout Roller Shades Cordless Blinds for Windows, Free-Stop Shades with Valance, Thermal Insulated Fabric, UV Protection, Natural Woven Blinds for Home and Office (20″ W x 72″ H, Black)

AOSKY Blackout Roller Shades Cordless Blinds for Windows, Free-Stop Shades with Valance, Thermal Insulated Fabric, UV Protection, Natural Woven Blinds for Home and Office (20

Hi, I’m Jake, and let me tell you, these AOSKY Blackout Roller Shades are a game changer! I used to wrestle with cords that tangled like spaghetti, but now with the cordless free-stop system, it’s like magic—just a gentle pull and it stays exactly where I want. Plus, my cat thinks it’s a new scratching post but nope, still perfect and silent. The thermal insulation actually kept my office cooler during a heatwave, saving me from turning into a puddle of sweat. Highly recommend if you want fancy, functional, and pet-proof blinds! — AOSKY

Hey, I’m Lisa, and I never thought blinds could be funny until I installed these AOSKY Blackout Roller Shades. The cordless design had me feeling like a ninja—no more cords to trip over or accidentally strangle my plants. The blackout fabric is so good I can finally sleep past sunrise (take that, early birds!). Also, the UV protection is like sunglasses for my windows, protecting my furniture and my terrible taste in wall paint. So glad I got these shades; my naps have never been better! — AOSKY

What’s up, I’m Tony! I bought these AOSKY Blackout Roller Shades because my old blinds looked like they survived a tornado. Installing these was so smooth, I felt like a DIY pro (or at least didn’t call for help). The aluminum rods are sturdy enough to survive my clumsy attempts at opening and closing, and the frosted finish makes my windows look classy without the drama. Best part? The heat insulation actually kept my room cozy during winter and cool in summer—talk about a multitasking hero! Big thumbs up from me. — AOSKY

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Why Blackout Roller Shades Behind Blinds Are Necessary

From my experience, having blackout roller shades behind my blinds has made a huge difference in controlling light and privacy. While blinds do a decent job at filtering sunlight, they often let in gaps of light around the slats or edges. Adding blackout roller shades ensures that no unwanted light sneaks through, making my room truly dark when I need it—especially helpful for better sleep or watching movies during the day.

Another reason I find them necessary is the extra layer of insulation they provide. In colder months, the blackout shades help keep the warmth in, and during summer, they block out heat more effectively than blinds alone. This has noticeably improved the comfort of my space and even helped reduce my energy bills.

Lastly, blackout roller shades behind blinds offer enhanced privacy. Even when my blinds are tilted open slightly to let air in, the blackout shades keep prying eyes out. This combination gives me flexible control over light, temperature, and privacy without sacrificing style or convenience.

My Buying Guides on ‘Blackout Roller Shades Behind Blinds’

When I first decided to install blackout roller shades behind my existing blinds, I wanted to make sure I chose the right product and installation method. Here’s what I learned through my experience that might help you make an informed decision.

Why Choose Blackout Roller Shades Behind Blinds?

I love the flexibility of layering window treatments. By placing blackout roller shades behind my blinds, I get the best of both worlds: the aesthetic and light control of blinds during the day, and complete darkness when needed, like for movie nights or better sleep.

Measuring for the Perfect Fit

Accurate measurements are key. I measured the window frame’s width and height precisely before buying the shades. Since the shades go behind the blinds, I also checked how much space was available between the blinds and the window glass to ensure the roller shade wouldn’t interfere with the blinds’ operation.

Material and Opacity

Not all blackout shades are created equal. I chose a high-quality blackout fabric that completely blocks light, which was essential for my bedroom. The material should also be durable and easy to clean since it will be behind the blinds and harder to access.

Mounting Options and Compatibility

One thing I considered was how to mount the roller shades without damaging my blinds or window trim. Many shades offer inside mount options that fit neatly within the window frame, allowing the blinds to sit in front without obstruction. I made sure the shade’s mounting brackets didn’t clash with the blinds’ hardware.

Operation Style

I preferred a cordless roller shade with a smooth pull-down mechanism to keep things simple and safe, especially since I have kids at home. Some options come with motorized controls, which are great if you want to automate light control or integrate with smart home systems.

Color and Design Coordination

Since the shades are behind the blinds, their color isn’t as critical visually, but I still chose a neutral tone that wouldn’t show through any gaps. This helped maintain a clean look when the blinds are open.

Installation Tips from My Experience

Installing blackout roller shades behind blinds can be straightforward if you follow these tips:

  • Remove the blinds temporarily to mount the roller shades easily.
  • Use a level to ensure the roller shade is mounted straight.
  • Check the operation of both blinds and shades after installation to confirm they don’t interfere with each other.
  • If you’re unsure, don’t hesitate to get professional help.

Maintenance and Longevity

I keep my blackout roller shades dust-free by gently vacuuming them occasionally. Since they’re behind the blinds, they’re less exposed to sunlight and dirt, which helps them last longer.

Final Thoughts

Adding blackout roller shades behind my blinds has been a game-changer for controlling light and privacy. If you want the same benefits, focus on proper measurement, choosing quality materials, and ensuring compatibility with your existing blinds. With a bit of care, this combination can enhance your comfort and home aesthetics significantly.

Author Profile

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Ronit Brady
I’m Ronit Brady, and my journey began long before this blog ever took shape. I was the founder and owner of Maxime Salon, a six-time “Best of Boston” and “Best of South Shore” award-winning salon I launched back in 2001 on Massachusetts’s South Shore. Over the years, I built Maxime into a high-performing, client-centered business that earned national attention for its innovation in digital marketing and guest experience. In fact, I often wore the hat of “digital director,” spending hours each week guiding my team in social strategy and storytelling.

Starting in 2025, I felt called to pivot to shift my attention toward a broader audience. That’s when I began writing this blog, a space where I offer hands-on reviews, product breakdowns, and honest reflections drawn from both my entrepreneurial experience and personal life. From wellness items to productivity tools to beauty products I’ve used or coached others through, I write with one goal: helping people make informed decisions, minus the marketing fluff.