The Best Ways to Darken a Room

We often focus on letting natural light into our homes, as science has proven that enjoying sunlight benefits our physical and mental health. However, we also need to be able to “flip the switch” to darkness when we need sleep or rest. In this post, we take a look at some of the best ways to shut out external light.

Is Darkness as Important as Light in a Room?

Just as light makes us active and sets the mood for productivity, darkness promotes restfulness and healthy sleeping patterns. When our environment turns dark, our body starts secreting melatonin, the sleep hormone that tells us it’s time to recharge.

Darkness can create a safe and comfortable environment when we need rest and the world around us overstimulates us. Sleeping in the dark helps your body go into rest mode and enables you to maintain a healthy metabolism.

How Dark Should a Room Be?

Just how dark your room should be is up to you. Many people like to use nightlights when going to bed, just in case they need a glass of water or for some peace of mind. However, one of the best ways to get a good night’s rest is to sleep in a completely dark room. Here are some tips on how to block natural or artificial light from entering your bedroom at night or when you need to rest during the day:

Custom Curtains

Window treatments are the most effective way to block light from entering your room. Curtains are affordable and add colour and aesthetic value to your home. Room darkening curtains are a fantastic way to control the amount of light coming in. A set of opaque curtains will help you rest better.

What are Blackout Curtains?

Blackout curtains not only darken the room but create complete obscurity. They use a lining made from a tightly woven fabric that blocks light completely. When you draw blackout curtains, you create a perfectly dark bedroom at any time of the day.

Cellular Shades

Cellular or honeycomb shades are made of fabric that contracts and expands like an accordion, blocking out light and noise when they are closed. They are effective against brightness but can be hard to maintain.

Blackout Film for Windows

You can apply blackout film directly to windows to make a room permanently dark. The film comes in two colour variants, black and white. Blackout film can be applied by yourself, or you can hire a window maintenance company to do the task for you.

Tips for Applying Film to Windows

If you want to apply blackout film yourself, ensure the windows are thoroughly cleaned before sticking the film to the glass. Wash them with special detergent and wipe them dry with microfiber towels.

The Dark of Night, the Light of Day

Regardless of how you choose to control the amount of light that enters your home, it’s crucial for you to ensure that your windows are in good shape. Valley Windows is a leading provider of custom timber and aluminium windows in Melbourne and the surrounding areas. Contact us today for all your window-related needs!