You have probably heard the term “Blackout curtains” before. But what exactly does it mean, and why are blackout curtains so popular today? How would you go about buying the type of blackout curtain that is the best fit for your needs? Let our JCPenney experts answer some of these important questions to guide you with your purchase.
What are Blackout Curtains?
As the name suggests, blackout curtains block 98%+ of the sunlight. This feature makes them a popular choice for light-sensitive sleepers who prefer minimal light in their bedrooms to assure uninterrupted peaceful sleep. Blackout curtains are also ideal candidates for baby nurseries, theater or media rooms, or any other place in the house where you want to keep light intrusion to a minimum. The curtains are usually made of heavier fabrics that are tightly interwoven and often have an additional lining to ensure maximum light blockage. It used to be that blackout curtains only came in black or dark colors, but improved design and manufacturing changed all that, and now blackout curtains come in White or Light shades that perform just as well as their color counterparts. At JCPenney, we offer you an exclusive collection of Blackout curtains in various colors and styles at a great price.
 |  |
Maxx Blackout Prescott 100% Blackout Grommet-Top Single Curtain Panel | Eclipse Ambiance Floral Draft Stopper Energy Saving 100% Blackout Grommet-Top Single Curtain Panel |
Various degrees of Blackout – Explained
At JCPenney, we took a two-tiered approach to differentiate between levels of Blackout in your curtains. You might have noticed the two terms and their icons below when shopping on our site or in stores (on new curtain packaging), so here is the explanation of what they stand for:
The Blackout level means that these curtains block out 98-99.9% of the light; also minimize exterior noise, and act as a thermal barrier. A great example of this curtain is our bestselling JCPenney Home line with Sullivan, Wallace, and Malone collections. Many customers find these versatile curtains completely satisfy their blackout needs while bringing style and comfort to the homes.
 |  |
| Blackout Curtains |
However, if you desire even more of a blackout effect, we recommend our Complete Blackout curtains. These curtains block 100% of the sunlight when hung properly, provide excellent privacy, and also reduce noise and help with energy savings. Our Maxx Prescott 100% Blackout line is an excellent example of this type of curtains.
 |  |
| Maxx Prescott 100% Blackout |
Benefits of Blackout Curtains:
Light Blockage
Blocking light well is the most important feature of blackout curtains. Our blackout curtains not only prevent sun rays from entering the house but also act as a safeguard to your furniture and home furnishings.
Energy Efficient
In a typical home, at least 10 to 25 percent of thermal energy loss happens through the windows. Blackout curtains block heat and light from coming in during summers and stop drafts and act as a thermal barrier to heat escaping in winters, thus being a popular choice for all seasons in minimizing your utility bills. Eclipse Ambiance Draft Stopper Energy Saving Complete Blackout collection is a bestseller in this category.
 |
| Blackout collection |
Minimize noise
Blackout curtains also help reduce exterior noise and reduce room echoes, due to their tightly interwoven heavy fabrics and extra lining.
Tips for Hanging Blackout Curtains to Achieve the Maximum Light Blockage
Often, customers will spend money on blackout curtains but forget to upgrade hardware or make minor installation changes that can further enhance light-blocking efforts. Here are some things to consider:
Hardware tips
Use blackout rods or curved rods to ensure curtains fit tightly around the curve and don’t let the light sip through on the sides. These curved rods are specially designed to work around the frame of your window. Also, consider purchasing a longer rod to hang a full 6-12” to the left and right of the trim to block even more light. Finally, if you can, install the rod closer to the ceiling.
 |  |
| Curved Rods | |
Curtain Tips
Hang your curtain closer to the ceiling and extend 6 inches past, trim, if possible. Consider buying and hanging longer panels than a normal length and hang the curtains to block ambient top or bottom light. For example, buy 95 inches curtains instead of 84 inches or 108 inches instead of 95 inches.
Curtain Top Tips
Curtains with Rod Pocket heading maximize light blockage better than the clip ring or tab-top curtains since the light will not bleed through the openings.
 |
Maxx Blackout Prescott Embroidered 100% Blackout Rod-Pocket Single Curtain Panel |
Shop your favorite blackout curtains from our versatile ranges at a great price and save big. Share your experience with us by clicking a picture of your room, and tag #AllAtJCP. Then follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram to see if you are featured.
