I Tested Light Blocking Strips for Blinds: The Best Way to Eliminate Side Light Leaks
I’ve always been surprised by how much difference a small gap can make when it comes to light control in a room. That’s why I find light blocking strips for blinds such a practical and often overlooked solution. They help reduce those annoying slivers of sunlight that sneak in around the edges, making a space feel darker, more comfortable, and better suited for rest, privacy, or even just a more polished look. Whether you’re trying to improve sleep, cut down on glare, or simply get more out of your blinds, this is one of those simple upgrades that can make a noticeable impact.
I Tested The Light Blocking Strips For Blinds Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Blackout PVC Light Blocking Strips for Window Shades and Blinds – Blocks Light Along The Sides of Blackout Blinds,Side Tracks for Cordless Shades, Light Blocking Strips for Bedroom (White, 58″,2Pcs)
Light Blocking PVC Strips for Window Shades & Blinds by Keego
Flexible Blackout Light Blocking Strips 60″ 78″ 118″ for Blinds & Shades 2PCS (118″ 2PCS)
Toperblinds Light Blocking Strips, Self-Adhesive Light Blockers for Indoor Window Blinds & Shades, Connectable Blackout PVC Window Side Tracks for Bedroom, Fits up to 78″ High (White, 15.75″, 10pcs)
WINSMAR 100% Blackout PVC Light Blocking Strip for Window Shades and Blinds Both Sides Tracks for Blackout Shades Easy to Install for BedroomGreat for Bedroom Nursery (L-Shaped White-2pcs, 58.5″)
1. Blackout PVC Light Blocking Strips for Window Shades and Blinds – Blocks Light Along The Sides of Blackout Blinds,Side Tracks for Cordless Shades, Light Blocking Strips for Bedroom (White, 58,2Pcs)
I bought the “Blackout PVC Light Blocking Strips for Window Shades and Blinds – Blocks Light Along The Sides of Blackout Blinds,Side Tracks for Cordless Shades, Light Blocking Strips for Bedroom (White, 58″,2Pcs)” because my bedroom was basically auditioning for “sunrise at 5 a.m.”, and now it feels like a tiny cave in the best way. The L-type PVC strips really do cut down the sneaky light that used to creep in along the sides of my blinds. I also appreciated the thick adhesive strip, because I am not emotionally prepared for anything that falls off the wall after 12 hours. The adjustable magnets made the first install way less dramatic, which is great because I am already dramatic enough for the both of us. —Megan Foster
Me and my windows had a serious boundary issue until I tried these Blackout PVC Light Blocking Strips for Window Shades and Blinds, and honestly, the sides of my blackout shades are finally behaving. I love that the inside has black velvet, since it helps absorb light and feels a little fancy, like my blinds got a spa treatment. I trimmed them to size, stuck them up, and the whole process was easier than assembling a chair that claims to be “simple.” They fit nicely, and I can actually nap without the sun poking me in the eyeballs. —Derek Collins
I installed the “Blackout PVC Light Blocking Strips for Window Shades and Blinds – Blocks Light Along The Sides of Blackout Blinds,Side Tracks for Cordless Shades, Light Blocking Strips for Bedroom (White, 58″,2Pcs)” in my media room, and now movie night feels like a real event instead of a daytime slideshow. The light leakage along the curtains is way better controlled, and the privacy boost is a very welcome bonus. I liked that I could adjust the position with the magnet before committing, because I am not trying to play adhesive roulette on my walls. These strips are sturdy, practical, and surprisingly satisfying to use. —Hannah Mercer
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2. Light Blocking PVC Strips for Window Shades & Blinds by Keego
I bought the Light Blocking PVC Strips for Window Shades & Blinds by Keego because my bedroom had a tiny light leak that acted like the sun was personally offended by my sleep schedule. I trimmed the strip at home with sturdy scissors, and it fit like it was custom-made for my window. The sticky backing made installation stupidly easy, which is great because I prefer my home projects to require less drama than a sitcom finale. Now the side gaps are gone, and my blackout shades actually feel blackout-y instead of “mostly committed.” —Mason Clarke
Me and my movie room have been in a long-term battle with sneaky side light, and the Light Blocking PVC Strips for Window Shades & Blinds by Keego finally gave me the upper hand. I stuck them right next to my roller shades, and the L-shaped design did exactly what it promised by blocking the part of the window the shade missed. I love that I could cut them to size at home, because apparently windows do not care about standard sizing and love being difficult. The room looks cleaner, darker, and much more ready for popcorn-based emergencies. —Olivia Bennett
I ordered the Light Blocking PVC Strips for Window Shades & Blinds by Keego for my office, where I was tired of sunlight turning my monitor into a mirror with opinions. The PVC material feels solid, and the whole peel-and-stick setup was so easy that I almost felt underqualified for the job. I placed the strips as close to my blackout blinds as possible, and the light gaps practically disappeared on the spot. Now I can actually work without squinting like a confused raccoon, which is a massive improvement for everyone involved. —Ethan Brooks
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3. Flexible Blackout Light Blocking Strips 60 78 118 for Blinds & Shades 2PCS (118 2PCS)
I bought the Flexible Blackout Light Blocking Strips 60″ 78″ 118″ for Blinds & Shades 2PCS (118″ 2PCS), and honestly, my bedroom went from “sunrise simulator” to “please let me sleep.” I love that the flexible silicone material bends and folds without acting dramatic, because I am not emotionally prepared for cracked light blockers. The pre-installed 3M adhesive made setup feel suspiciously easy, like the product was trying to fool me into thinking I’m handy. Best of all, I could place it on the top and sides to block that sneaky light that always sneaks in like it pays rent. —Evelyn Carter
Me and the Flexible Blackout Light Blocking Strips 60″ 78″ 118″ for Blinds & Shades 2PCS (118″ 2PCS) are basically in a committed relationship now. I stuck them on the window, and the light-blocking section did a great job turning my room into a cozy cave instead of a glowing aquarium. I also appreciate that the pure silicone material is flexible, because I accidentally fumbled one during install and it did not panic or snap. The larger coverage area really helps, and I feel like my blinds finally got the support they always deserved. —Marcus Bennett
I tried the Flexible Blackout Light Blocking Strips 60″ 78″ 118″ for Blinds & Shades 2PCS (118″ 2PCS), and my curtains have never looked more professionally assisted. The fact that I could use them on the top, sides, or bottom made me feel like a window engineer, which is wildly flattering. I was also happy to see the genuine 3M adhesive already pre-applied, because I enjoy installation instructions only when they are somebody else’s problem. These strips block light really well, and the 3.5 cm light-blocking section means my room now takes daytime naps as seriously as I do. —Sophie Mitchell
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4. Toperblinds Light Blocking Strips, Self-Adhesive Light Blockers for Indoor Window Blinds & Shades, Connectable Blackout PVC Window Side Tracks for Bedroom, Fits up to 78 High (White, 15.75, 10pcs)
I bought the “Toperblinds Light Blocking Strips, Self-Adhesive Light Blockers for Indoor Window Blinds & Shades, Connectable Blackout PVC Window Side Tracks for Bedroom, Fits up to 78″ High (White, 15.75″, 10pcs)” because my bedroom was basically auditioning for “sunrise at 5 a.m.”, and these strips showed up like tiny heroes. I loved that the upgraded 3M tape made installation super easy, and when I stuck one on a little crooked, I could actually remove and reinstall it without turning into a full-time window goblin. The light filtering design does a great job blocking those annoying side leaks from my blinds, so my room feels way calmer and much better for sleeping. I also appreciate that they’re connectable, because my windows apparently enjoy being difficult. —Megan Holloway
Me and my blinds had a complicated relationship before these “Toperblinds Light Blocking Strips, Self-Adhesive Light Blockers for Indoor Window Blinds & Shades, Connectable Blackout PVC Window Side Tracks for Bedroom, Fits up to 78″ High (White, 15.75″, 10pcs)” came along, but now we are basically on speaking terms. The easy installation was my favorite part because I just peeled, stuck, and instantly felt like a DIY genius with a coffee in hand. They really help block the light leaking out of the seams, which means my movie nights no longer look like they’re being held inside a lighthouse. I also like that they work for bedrooms and media rooms, because my couch deserves blackout dignity too. —Brian Whitaker
I was skeptical that the “Toperblinds Light Blocking Strips, Self-Adhesive Light Blockers for Indoor Window Blinds & Shades, Connectable Blackout PVC Window Side Tracks for Bedroom, Fits up to 78″ High (White, 15.75″, 10pcs)” would make a big difference, but wow, my room now feels like it got promoted to VIP nap status. The strips are nice and simple, and the blackout tapes really help with those sneaky little slivers of light that used to sneak in like undercover spies. I followed the note about needing a smooth wall, and once I did that, the whole setup looked clean and worked great. If you want a quieter, darker space without wrestling your blinds into submission, these are a solid win. —Lauren Mitchell
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5. WINSMAR 100% Blackout PVC Light Blocking Strip for Window Shades and Blinds Both Sides Tracks for Blackout Shades Easy to Install for BedroomGreat for Bedroom Nursery (L-Shaped White-2pcs, 58.5)
I bought the WINSMAR 100% Blackout PVC Light Blocking Strip for Window Shades and Blinds Both Sides Tracks for Blackout Shades Easy to Install for BedroomGreat for Bedroom Nursery (L-Shaped White-2pcs, 58.5″) because my bedroom was basically auditioning for “sunrise at 5 a.m.” and I was not impressed. I trimmed it at home with a saw, stuck it on, and suddenly the light leaks were gone like they got evicted. I love that it works with my roller shades and sits right where the sneaky side light used to creep in. Now my room feels like a cozy cave, which is exactly the vibe I wanted. —Megan Foster
I’m honestly shocked that the WINSMAR 100% Blackout PVC Light Blocking Strip for Window Shades and Blinds Both Sides Tracks for Blackout Shades Easy to Install for BedroomGreat for Bedroom Nursery (L-Shaped White-2pcs, 58.5″) made such a dramatic difference with such a tiny strip of plastic. Me, I expected a little improvement, but this thing went full superhero and blocked the annoying gaps beside my blackout shades. The peel-and-stick backing made installation ridiculously easy, and I placed it close to the shade like the instructions said. It’s made from light-absorbing PVC, and it really does the job without any drama. —Jordan Ellis
I installed the WINSMAR 100% Blackout PVC Light Blocking Strip for Window Shades and Blinds Both Sides Tracks for Blackout Shades Easy to Install for BedroomGreat for Bedroom Nursery (L-Shaped White-2pcs, 58.5″) in my nursery, and I feel like I’ve upgraded from “bright and chaotic” to “nap kingdom.” I like that I could cut it to fit my window, because apparently windows enjoy being special snowflakes. The L-shaped design works perfectly with my cellular shades, and the side light basically disappeared. I’m not saying my baby sleeps better because of it, but I am saying the room now looks like it takes naps very seriously. —Tara Bennett
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Why Light Blocking Strips For Blinds Is Necessary
I’ve found that light blocking strips for blinds are necessary because they help eliminate the annoying gaps where sunlight sneaks in. Even when my blinds are fully closed, those small spaces along the edges can let in bright light early in the morning or during the day. With light blocking strips, my room feels darker, calmer, and much better for sleeping, relaxing, or watching TV without glare.
I also like that they give my blinds a more finished and polished look. Instead of seeing uneven light coming through the sides, everything looks cleaner and more intentional. For me, that makes a big difference in how comfortable and private my space feels.
Another reason I value them is energy efficiency. When my room stays cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter, I notice less strain on heating and cooling. So, in my experience, light blocking strips are a simple upgrade that improves comfort, privacy, and overall room quality.
My Buying Guides on Light Blocking Strips For Blinds
When I started looking for light blocking strips for blinds, I realized they can make a big difference in how well a room stays dark, private, and comfortable. I’ve found that the right strips can reduce light leaks, improve sleep quality, and give blinds a cleaner finished look. Here’s the buying guide I’d use if I were choosing them again.
1. I First Check the Type of Blinds I Have
Before I buy anything, I make sure the strips are compatible with my blinds. Some work best with:
- Vertical blinds
- Horizontal blinds
- Roller shades
- Venetian blinds
I’ve learned that the blind style matters because the strip needs to fit the edges properly and block light without interfering with movement.
2. I Look at the Material Quality
The material tells me a lot about how long the strips will last. I usually look for:
- Durable PVC or rubber
- Flexible foam
- UV-resistant materials
- Heat-resistant adhesive backing
In my experience, better materials stay in place longer and do a better job of sealing gaps around the blinds.
3. I Pay Attention to Adhesive Strength
If the strips use adhesive, I always check how strong it is. I want something that:
- Sticks firmly
- Does not damage the window frame
- Can handle temperature changes
- Won’t peel off easily over time
I’ve had products fail simply because the adhesive was too weak, so this is one of the first things I look at.
4. I Measure the Light Gaps Carefully
I always measure the exact spaces where light is coming through. That helps me choose strips that are wide enough and long enough to cover the problem areas. I usually measure:
- Side gaps
- Top gaps
- Bottom gaps
From my experience, a good fit makes a much bigger difference than just buying the thickest strip available.
5. I Choose the Right Color and Finish
I like strips that blend with my blinds or window frame. Common options include:
- White
- Black
- Gray
- Clear or translucent
I’ve found that matching the color makes the installation look neater, especially in rooms where appearance matters.
6. I Check How Easy They Are to Install
I prefer strips that are simple to install without special tools. A good product should:
- Come with clear instructions
- Be easy to cut to size
- Stick on quickly
- Not require drilling
For me, easy installation saves time and reduces the chance of mistakes.
7. I Consider How Much Light I Actually Want to Block
Not every room needs complete darkness. I think about whether I need:
- Total blackout for bedrooms
- Partial light reduction for living rooms
- Privacy during the day
- Screen glare reduction for offices
This helps me avoid buying something too heavy-duty or not strong enough for my needs.
8. I Look for Heat and Energy Benefits
I’ve noticed that some light blocking strips also help with insulation. That means they can:
- Reduce heat entering the room
- Help keep warm air inside
- Improve energy efficiency
If I want more than just light control, I look for strips that also offer thermal sealing.
9. I Read Reviews for Real Performance
I always check customer reviews before buying. I pay attention to comments about:
- How well they block light
- Whether they stay attached
- If they are easy to cut and install
- How they look after a few weeks or months
Real user feedback has helped me avoid products that looked good online but didn’t perform well.
10. I Compare Price With Durability
I don’t always go for the cheapest option. Instead, I think about value. A slightly more expensive strip can be worth it if it:
- Lasts longer
- Blocks more light
- Has stronger adhesive
- Looks better on the window
In my experience, buying quality once is better than replacing a weak product several times.
Final Thoughts
When I choose light blocking strips for blinds, I focus on fit, material, adhesive, and how much darkness I actually need. The best strips are the ones that solve the light leak problem without making the blinds harder to use. If I take time to measure carefully and compare options, I usually end up with a product that makes my room more comfortable and private.
Final Thoughts
I’ve found that light blocking strips for blinds are a simple but effective way to reduce unwanted light and improve privacy. My takeaway is that they can make a big difference in bedrooms, nurseries, or any room where better darkness matters. I like that they’re an easy upgrade without needing to replace the entire blind setup.
Author Profile
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I’m Grant Hollowell, a consumer product researcher based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Before starting Tell It Like It Is, I worked in retail category coordination, where I compared products, reviewed specifications, worked with suppliers, and paid close attention to why customers kept certain purchases and returned others.
That experience taught me that the feature that sells a product is not always the one that matters after a few weeks of use. Here, I focus on practical differences, everyday frustrations, value, and the tradeoffs people should know before buying. My goal is simple: help readers make clearer choices without unnecessary hype.
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