Are you torn between choosing thermal or blackout curtains? You’re not alone! Both curtain types offer fantastic benefits, but they serve different purposes. To help you make the best choice for your home, we’ve broken down the key differences between thermal and blackout curtains in simple terms—so you can decide with confidence.
in this guide:
- Are thermal or blackout curtains better?
- What is the downside of blackout curtains?
- Do blackout curtains make your room hotter or cooler?
- Is thermal the same as blackout?
Are thermal or blackout curtains better?
It depends on your needs. Blackout curtains are better if your priority is total darkness, privacy, or improved sleep. Thermal curtains are better if you want to save energy, reduce drafts, and maintain a comfortable room temperature. For both benefits, thermal blackout curtains are the best option.
What is the downside of blackout curtains?
The main downside is that blackout curtains can make a room too dark, even during the day, which some people find gloomy. They are also less energy-efficient compared to thermal curtains and may not insulate as well against heat or cold.
Do blackout curtains make your room hotter or cooler?
Blackout curtains help regulate temperature to some extent. In summer, they block sunlight to keep rooms cooler, while in winter they help retain warmth. However, they are not as effective as thermal curtains for insulation and energy efficiency.
Is thermal the same as blackout?
No, thermal and blackout curtains are not the same. Blackout curtains are designed to block 100% of light, while thermal curtains are made to insulate your home by keeping heat in during winter and out during summer. Some curtains combine both features, offering thermal insulation and blackout light control.
What’s the Difference Between Blackout and Thermal Curtains?
The main difference lies in their primary purpose:
Blackout curtains are made to block out light, giving you total darkness in a room.Thermal curtains are made to insulate your home, helping to keep the heat in during winter and out during summer.But here’s the twist: many thermal curtains can also block light, and many blackout curtains offer some insulation—so the lines can get blurry.
What Are Blackout Curtains?
Blackout curtains are specially designed to stop light from entering a room. Whether it’s the morning sun, street lights, or passing cars, blackout curtains keep your room dark.
Benefits of Blackout Curtains:
- 100% light blockage – ideal for bedrooms, nurseries, or home cinemas.
- Better sleep – perfect for night-shift workers or light-sensitive sleepers.
- Noise reduction – helps quieten outside sounds.
- Energy efficiency – helps retain heat in winter and keep rooms cooler in summer.\
- Privacy – no one can see into your home once they’re drawn.
How Do Blackout Curtains Work?
Our blackout curtains use triple-weave technology. A layer of tightly woven black yarn is sandwiched between two layers of fabric, completely blocking out any incoming light. This means total darkness, even during daylight.
What Are Thermal Curtains?
Thermal curtains are designed to help control the temperature in your home. They reduce drafts, conserve heat, and improve energy efficiency.
Benefits of Thermal Curtains:
- Keeps rooms warmer in winter and cooler in summer.
- Lower energy bills – less need for heating or air conditioning.
- Thicker material can help reduce light and noise.
- Stylish, voluminous look – due to added fabric layers.
How Do Thermal Curtains Work?
Thermal curtains are made with multiple thick fabric layers—typically cotton, polyester, or wool—and often feature a special foam backing to reflect heat. In winter, they keep heat inside your room. In summer, they reflect sunlight, helping keep the room cool.
| Feature | Blackout Curtains | Thermal Curtains |
|---|---|---|
| Main Purpose | Block out light | Control temperature |
| Material | Triple weave fabric | Thick multi-layered fabric |
| Light Blocking | 100% blackout | Partial blackout |
| Energy Efficiency | Moderate | High |
| Noise Reduction | Yes | Yes |
| Privacy | Excellent | Moderate |
| Best For | Bedrooms, nurseries, home cinemas | Living rooms, drafty windows, energy savings |
Pros of Blackout Curtains:
- 100% darkness
- Better sleep
- Excellent privacy
- Some insulation
- Helps reduce outside noise
Cons of Blackout Curtains:
- May make a room too dark
- Less energy-efficient than thermal curtains
Pros of Thermal Curtains:
- Keeps heat in (or out)
- Energy-saving
- Reduces noise
Adds a luxurious, full look to your window
Cons of Thermal Curtains:
- Doesn’t block 100% of light
- Less privacy at night compared to blackout curtains
So, Which Curtain Should You Choose?
If your main concern is light (for sleeping, watching movies, or privacy), go with 100% blackout curtains.If your focus is on saving energy and staying warm or cool, thermal curtains are the better choice.Want both benefits? Look for thermal blackout curtains – the best of both worlds!
Final Thoughts
Choosing between blackout and thermal curtains doesn’t have to be hard. It really depends on your lifestyle and your home’s needs.
At the end of the day, blackout curtains are the most versatile and popular choice—but thermal curtains are perfect for drafty rooms or energy-conscious households.
