Let’s be real: sunlight is overrated. Unless you’re a houseplant or a vampire-wannabe like me, you probably want to control when, where, and how much light invades your space. But here’s the kicker—your blinds alone aren’t cutting it. They’re like that one friend who tries to help but just makes things worse.
Enter blackout curtains over blinds, the dynamic duo of darkness. I’ve battled leaky blinds in four apartments (thanks, cheap landlords), and I’ve learned the hard way how to layer curtains like a pro. No jargon, no fluff—just actionable tips, a few laughs, and maybe a cautionary tale about my DIY drill mishap. Let’s do this.
Why Should You Hang Blackout Curtains Over Blinds?
Before we grab the toolkit, let’s answer the big question: Why not just yeet the blinds and start fresh? Short answer: Because two layers are better than one. Think of it like sunscreen and a hat—double protection. Here’s why this combo slaps:
Controls Temperature (AKA “Bye-Bye, Sweaty Summer Nights”)
Blinds alone have the insulation power of a paper napkin. Add thermal blackout curtains, though, and suddenly your room stays cooler in summer and cozier in winter. My energy bill dropped by $40/month after I layered up. Mic drop
Light Control (For People Who Hate Mornings)
Blinds have gaps where light creeps in like a nosy neighbor. Blackout curtains? They’re the bouncer at Club Darkness. Install them right, and you’ll block 99.9% of light. Perfect for:
- Night owls who despise sunrise.
- Parents clinging to nap-time sanity.
- Movie buffs tired of glare ruining the climax.
Enhanced Privacy (No More “Free Shows”)
Sheer blinds = a front-row seat for strangers to watch you dance to ABBA in pajamas. Blackout curtains add a “mind your business” layer. Now you can live your best (and weirdest) life in peace.
Design Ideas for Hanging Blackout Curtains Over Blinds
Don’t just block light—do it with style. Here’s how to pair curtains with any blind type without your room looking like a cave:
Curtains Over Horizontal Blinds
Horizontal blinds are practical but boring. Elevate them with floor-length velvet curtains in deep jewel tones (emerald, navy). Pro tip: Hang the rod close to the ceiling to fake taller windows. My living room went from “college dorm” to “moody Instagram aesthetic” overnight.
Curtains Over Roman Shades
Roman shades are chic but often lack blackout power. Layer them with semi-sheer blackout curtains for diffused light. In my home office, I paired ivory linen curtains with white shades—soft light for Zoom calls, darkness for post-meeting naps.
Curtains Over Cellular Shades
Cellular shades (aka honeycomb shades) are great for insulation but can look clinical. Add textured blackout curtains like burlap or tweed. The contrast adds warmth, and the curtains hide the shades’ “office building” vibe.
Curtains Over Vertical Blinds
Vertical blinds belong in a 1990s office park. Modernize them with patterned blackout curtains. I used geometric black-and-white panels to distract from the plastic slats. Now my dining room looks intentional, not like a corporate meeting space.
Curtains Over Roller Shades
Roller shades are sleek but minimal. Pair them with bold, floor-to-ceiling curtains for drama. Pro tip: Use a double rod—keep the shades down for daytime, close the curtains at night. My bedroom feels like a boutique hotel (minus the $500/night price tag).
How to Install Blackout Curtains Over Blinds
Time to get your hands dirty. Here’s your step-by-step guide, complete with my personal disasters so you can avoid them.
Choose Your Mount
Your rod’s placement is everything. Too low, and light leaks in. Too narrow, and the curtains squish the blinds. Follow this formula:
- Height: Mount the rod 4–6 inches above the window frame (or near the ceiling if you’re extra).
- Width: Extend the rod 3–6 inches wider than the blinds on both sides.
Types of mounts:
- Ceiling-mounted rods: Sleek and ideal for tall windows.
- Wall-mounted rods: Classic and sturdy. Use heavy-duty brackets if your curtains weigh more than your cat.
My fail: I once installed a rod too narrow. The curtains covered the blinds like a bad toupee. Don’t be me.
Install Your Mount
Grab a drill, level, and a snack (for emotional support). Here’s the drill—pun intended:
- Mark bracket spots with a pencil. Use a level unless you want crooked curtains.
- Drill pilot holes. For drywall, use anchors. (Skip anchors, and your curtains will nosedive faster than my last diet attempt.)
- Screw in brackets. Tighten firmly, but don’t Hulk-out—strip the screws, and you’re toast.
Hang Your Curtains
Slide those panels onto the rod. If they’re too long:
- Hem them.
- Let them “puddle” on the floor for drama (tripping hazard included at no extra charge).
Pro tip: Overlap two panels in the middle and use Velcro strips on the sides to seal gaps. Yes, like a spaceship door.
Mount a Tieback
For days you want sunlight (weird, but okay), install magnetic tiebacks. They’re renter-friendly and won’t leave holes.
How to Hang Blackout Curtains Without Nails or Drills
Renters, students, or people who fear commitment—this one’s for you.
Sturdy adhesive coat hooks can hold lightweight rods. I used these in my college dorm—just don’t overload them, or you’ll end up with curtains on your head (ask me how I know).
Command Hooks
3M’s Command Hooks hold up to 7.5 lbs. Pair them with a lightweight rod and curtains. FYI: They fail in humidity. RIP my shower curtain experiment.
Clip a rod to the ceiling with adhesive hooks. It’s bold, hides blinds, and feels like a theater curtain. Just avoid hanging plants nearby—trust me.
Twist these bad boys into place inside the window frame. Great for small windows but avoid heavy fabrics—they’ll sag like your resolve to quit caffeine.
Different Ideas for Window Treatments with Curtains
Mix and match for a custom look:
Window Shutters with Floral Curtains
Pair plantation shutters with airy floral curtains. It’s Southern charm meets functional darkness. My aunt’s sunroom uses this combo—cozy and bright when she wants it to be.
Aluminum Blinds with Light-Filtering Curtains
Aluminum blinds feel cold alone. Add linen curtains for softness. I did this in my kitchen—privacy without sacrificing sunlight for my herb garden.
Single-Cell Honeycomb Shades with Blackout Curtains
Honeycomb shades + blackout curtains = insulation heaven. My basement home theater uses gray curtains over white shades. It’s silent, dark, and perfect for Marvel marathons.
Benefits of Putting Curtains Over Blinds
Still skeptical? Let’s break it down:
- Versatility: Open blinds for light, close curtains for darkness.
- Cost-Effective: Way cheaper than motorized shades.
- Noise Reduction: Thick curtains muffle street noise. Goodbye, garbage trucks!
Style Upgrade: Blinds are basic; curtains are a personality flex.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Will this combo make my room look smaller?
A: Only if you use dark, heavy fabrics. Go light-colored and floor-to-ceiling to fake space.
Q: Can I use clip-on rings instead of a rod?
A: Sure, but they’re flimsier than my willpower near a pizza. Stick with grommets.
Q: Do thermal curtains actually work?
A: Yes! My bedroom stays 10°F cooler in summer. Check the label for “thermal lining.”
Q: How do I clean blackout curtains?
A: Most are machine-washable. Skip fabric softener—it wrecks the light-blocking coating.
Final Words
Let’s face it: sunlight is great—until it’s 5 a.m. and your cat uses your face as a sunrise alarm. Installing blackout curtains over blinds gives you control over your space, sleep, and sanity. Plus, it’s cheaper than therapy.
So grab that drill (or Command hook), channel your inner interior designer, and get to work. And if you mess up? Throw a plant in front of it. No one will notice.
Now go forth and conquer the sun. And when you’re basking in your new cave-like paradise, maybe send me a coffee. ☕
P.S. If all else fails, duct tape exists for a reason. Your secret’s safe with me. 😉