In 2025, more people in the UK are using blackout curtains to make their homes more peaceful, comfortable, and energy-efficient. These curtains are made with thick fabrics that block sunlight, reduce street noise, and help save money on energy bills. Many homes in cities and towns have bright lights at night, which can make sleeping hard. Blackout curtains solve this problem by making the room dark, quiet, and private. They are also useful in nurseries, home cinemas, or work-from-home spaces. Some even come with smart features and eco materials. With so many types and designs available in stores like Dunelm, IKEA, and John Lewis, choosing the right blackout curtain is easier than ever. In this article we are going to explain the different types of blackout curtains, how they work, and how to pick the best ones for your home in the UK.
What Are Blackout Curtains and What Do They Do?
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Blackout curtains are special curtains that stop most or all light from coming into a room. They are made using thick or layered fabrics like triple-weave polyester, foam backing, or thermal lining. These materials can block 95% to 99% of sunlight and even reduce outside noise. Unlike normal curtains, blackout curtains create a true dark-room feel, which helps improve sleep and comfort. Many UK homes now use blackout curtains not just in bedrooms, but also in nurseries, offices, living rooms, and home theatres. In 2025, more blackout curtains come with extra features such as eco-friendly fabric, flame resistance, and smart controls that work with Alexa or Google Home. Some curtains also help control room temperature by keeping heat inside during cold months and blocking it during hot months. They are available in many styles like eyelet, pencil pleat, and tab top. You can find them in every major UK curtain shop or online store.
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Why People in the UK Are Using Blackout Curtains in 2025
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Many families and renters in the UK are choosing blackout curtains because of the real-life benefits they offer. First, they help people sleep better. When the room is dark, your body makes more melatonin—a hormone that helps you sleep. This is very helpful for shift workers, babies, or people who live near bright street lights. Second, blackout curtains help save money. Curtains with thermal layers trap heat during the winter and block sun in the summer. This means you don’t need to use the heater or fan as much, which lowers your electricity bill. Third, they reduce outside noise like car horns, barking dogs, or loud neighbours. They also protect your furniture from sun damage by blocking UV rays. In cities like London, Manchester, and Birmingham, many homes now use blackout curtains for privacy and energy savings. They are a simple and smart way to make your home more peaceful and cosy.
Different Types of Blackout Curtains You Can Buy
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There are several types of blackout curtains available in the UK in 2025, each with its own features. Thermal blackout curtains are the most popular and are best for keeping rooms warm in the winter and cool in the summer. Noise-reducing blackout curtains have extra layers that help block outside sounds, making them good for homes near busy roads or schools. Portable blackout curtains can be fixed using suction cups or Velcro and are great for people who rent or travel often. Smart blackout curtains can be controlled with your phone or voice and are useful in modern homes. Decorative blackout curtains come in prints and fancy fabrics like velvet, making them great for living rooms. Layered blackout curtains combine sheer and blackout fabric in one set, so you can let light in during the day and block it at night. Flame-retardant blackout curtains meet UK safety rules and are good for nurseries or kitchens. Eco-friendly blackout curtains are made from recycled fabric or organic cotton and are a great choice for green homes.
Choosing the Right Blackout Curtains for Each Room
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Each room in your home may need a different type of blackout curtain. For bedrooms, choose full blackout curtains with thermal lining. These block light and keep the room warm and dark for a better night’s sleep. In nurseries, look for soft, fire-safe, and washable curtains made without cords for child safety. For living rooms, pick something stylish that matches your furniture but still blocks light well. In home offices or study spaces, blackout curtains with sound-blocking features can help you focus. In kitchens, flame-resistant curtains are a better choice. If you move often or live in a rental flat, portable blackout curtains are a smart idea since they don’t need any drilling. Also, measure your window correctly before buying. Curtains should be 15 to 20 cm wider than the window and reach all the way to the floor. The curtain should match your room style, but also do the job well.
Best Places to Buy Blackout Curtains in the UK
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In 2025, blackout curtains are easy to find in many UK shops and websites. Dunelm is known for good-quality and budget-friendly blackout curtains like the Luna range. John Lewis offers more stylish curtains, such as velvet blackout curtains that are perfect for living rooms. IKEA sells simple and safe blackout curtains like MAJGULL that are great for children’s rooms. Argos has thermal curtains that are good for quiet workspaces and cost less than many others. Wilko is the best place to find cheap blackout curtains starting from just £15. Amazon UK sells smart blackout curtains from brands like SwitchBot and Aqara, which can be controlled using apps. M&S and Habitat offer decorative and eco blackout curtain options that match modern homes. These stores also offer seasonal sales, and most of them provide home delivery and return options, making shopping easy for everyone in the UK.
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Price Guide and What UK Buyers Prefer in 2025
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Prices for blackout curtains in the UK in 2025 range from £15 to £200 depending on the type and features. Budget curtains from shops like Wilko and Argos start at £15–£30 and work well for renters or small rooms. Thermal blackout curtains cost around £45 and are a top pick for people trying to reduce heating bills. Noise-reducing curtains cost about £55, while stylish decorative curtains with velvet or linen finishes can cost between £60 and £90. Smart blackout curtains that work with your phone or voice start at £90 and can go over £140 depending on brand and motor quality. Eco blackout curtains made with recycled materials cost around £65 to £80. Many people choose based on price, energy savings, or smart features. Popular styles in 2025 include eyelet curtains in grey, navy, or cream, and longer curtains that hang to the floor for full coverage.
How to Install and Maintain Blackout Curtains
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Installing blackout curtains is simple if you follow a few steps. First, measure the window carefully. Curtains should be wider than the window and touch the floor. Choose the right curtain rod that can hold heavy fabric. Styles like eyelet and tab-top are easier to hang, while pleated styles look more formal. Make sure the curtain blocks the sides and bottom of the window to stop light from leaking in. If you use smart curtains, follow the manual to connect them to your smart speaker or phone. For cleaning, always read the label. Some blackout curtains can be machine-washed at low temperatures. Others may need dry cleaning. Use a vacuum brush once a month to remove dust. If they look wrinkled, use a steamer or warm iron. Keeping them clean and hanging properly will make them last longer and keep your room looking nice.
Eco-Friendly Blackout Curtains: A Smart and Green Choice
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More UK homes are going green in 2025, and blackout curtains are part of that change. Eco-friendly blackout curtains are made from materials like organic cotton, bamboo, or recycled plastic bottles. These curtains use low-impact dyes and avoid harmful chemicals. They are just as good at blocking light, keeping rooms warm, and reducing noise. Some brands like IKEA and Habitat have special eco product lines. You can also find green blackout curtains on websites like The Green Station or Ethical Superstore. These curtains may cost a little more, but they last longer and are safer for families and the environment. If you care about the planet, eco blackout curtains are a smart buy. They also meet the same safety rules as normal blackout curtains and work well in every room of the house.
Should You Buy Blackout Curtains in 2025?
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Yes, blackout curtains are a very good home upgrade for people in the UK in 2025. They help you sleep better, lower your heating bills, and make your home more private and quiet. Whether you live in a flat, house, or shared room, blackout curtains can make a big difference. They are useful in all kinds of rooms—from bedrooms to living rooms to nurseries. You don’t need to spend a lot to enjoy the benefits. Even simple blackout curtains under £30 work well. If you want more features, there are smart or eco-friendly options too. They’re easy to install, safe for children, and available everywhere in the UK. With better sleep, energy savings, and more comfort, blackout curtains are one of the best things you can add to your home in 2025.
Conclusion
Blackout curtains are one of the best things you can add to your home in 2025. They keep your room dark, quiet, warm, and private. Whether you want better sleep, lower bills, or less noise, blackout curtains can help. There are many styles, colours, and prices to choose from, so everyone can find a good fit. From babies and shift workers to people living in busy cities, blackout curtains make life easier and more comfortable. You can buy them from stores like Dunelm, IKEA, John Lewis, or even online from Amazon. Some are smart, some are eco-friendly, and all of them help improve your home. If you’re looking for a simple upgrade that brings real value, blackout curtains are a smart and helpful choice for UK homes in 2025.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. Are blackout curtains safe for children’s rooms?
Yes, they are safe if you choose cordless or flame-retardant ones. Look for curtains marked as child-safe or fire-safe.
Q2. Can blackout curtains help me sleep better?
Yes, they block light from outside, which helps your body rest and makes it easier to sleep, even during the day.
Q3. Do blackout curtains save energy?
Yes, thermal blackout curtains help keep rooms warm in winter and cool in summer. This can lower your heating or cooling costs.
Q4. Can I wash blackout curtains at home?
Most blackout curtains can be machine-washed, but some need dry cleaning. Always check the care label before washing.
Q5. Where can I buy blackout curtains in the UK?
You can find them at Dunelm, John Lewis, IKEA, Wilko, Argos, M&S, Habitat, or online on Amazon UK.
Q6. Are blackout curtains easy to install?
Yes, most are simple to hang using curtain rods. Portable blackout curtains don’t need drilling and are good for rented homes.
Q7. Do blackout curtains block sound too?
They don’t fully soundproof your room, but noise-reducing blackout curtains can make your room much quieter.
Q8. What’s the best type of blackout curtain for a living room?
Decorative blackout curtains, like velvet or printed ones, are best for living rooms because they block light and look stylish.