Darkening Windows For Day Sleep: Effective Methods For Peaceful Slumber

Getting a good night's sleep is essential for our health and well-being. However, for those who work night shifts or struggle with insomnia, achieving quality sleep during the day can be challenging due to the presence of sunlight and external noise. Here are some tips to help you darken your windows and create a more conducive environment for daytime sleep.

One effective method is to use blackout curtains or blinds. These are designed to block artificial light and UV rays, providing a dark and comfortable space for rest. Alternatively, you can apply tinted window film, which not only blocks light but also offers insulation during extreme temperatures. If you're looking for a more temporary solution, aluminium foil or cardboard cut-outs can be secured to your windows with painter's tape, creating an inexpensive and effective barrier against light. For those who rent or are unable to make permanent modifications, portable blackout travel blinds with suction cups are a great option. They are easy to install, lightweight, and can be taken with you on your travels. Lastly, don't underestimate the power of a good eye mask. It's a cheap and effective way to block out light, and it won't affect anyone else you may be sharing the room with.

Install blackout blinds or shades

Installing blackout blinds is an effective way to ensure no light enters your room and disturbs your sleep. Here is a step-by-step guide to installing blackout blinds or shades:

Step 1: Measure Your Windows

Before purchasing your blackout blinds, you must measure your windows to ensure a snug fit. You will need to measure the width and height of your window frame. It is recommended to take three measurements for each dimension (width and height) at the top, middle, and bottom of the frame. Record the shortest width measurement and the longest height measurement. When measuring for an inside mount, measure from the inside edge to the inside edge of the frame. For an outside mount, measure from the outside trim of the frame. It is also a good idea to measure the depth of your window frame, especially if you plan to install an inside mount, as some blinds may require more depth.

Step 2: Choose Your Mount Type

You can choose to install your blackout blinds or shades as an inside mount or an outside mount. An inside mount will give your window a more streamlined look, but an outside mount will be easier to install and provide better light coverage. If you opt for an inside mount, ensure there are no obstructions and check for any electrical cabling near the window.

Step 3: Choose the Placement of the Roller Chain

Decide on which side of the window you want the roller chain to be placed. Typically, if you are right-handed, you would choose the right side, and vice versa. However, consider any obstructions that may make it difficult to operate the blinds, and choose the placement that offers the easiest access.

Step 4: Choose the Direction of the Roller

It is generally recommended to roll the roller blind under the roller. However, if you have objects protruding from the window, such as a windowsill or ornaments, you may opt to roll the blind over the roller to avoid any impediments when pulling the blind down.

Step 5: Gather the Necessary Tools and Materials

For installing your blackout blinds, you will typically need a ruler or spirit level, a hand drill (optional), rawlplugs (optional), and the blinds installation parts, including screws, wall anchors, brackets, and headrails. If you are installing an outside mount, you may also need a power drill.

Step 6: Install the Brackets

Follow the instructions provided with your blackout blinds for assembling and fitting the brackets. For an inside mount, screw the brackets to the top of the window recess. If you are installing an outside mount, screw the brackets to the wall. Ensure the brackets are level, as installing them at an angle may cause the blinds to hang or operate incorrectly. Before fixing the brackets, place them in position to ensure the blind will be installed correctly and make any necessary adjustments.

Step 7: Trim the Blind (Optional)

If your blind is too large for the window, you will need to trim it before installation. Unroll the blind on a flat, smooth surface and slide the fabric out of the tube. Remove the bottom bar and mark the measurement, leaving a gap of approximately 25mm between the brackets. Cut the fabric and tube accordingly, then cut the bottom bar to suit the new width of the fabric and reinsert it into the pocket. Ensure the fabric is secured perfectly horizontally to allow for correct rolling.

Step 8: Fit the Blind

Follow the manufacturer's instructions to fit the blind into the installed brackets. Place the corded wheel and pin plunger into the ends of the roller blind tube, then fit the ends into the wheel bracket. Remember to install the included tension device to avoid hazards for children.

Additional Tips:

• Always double-check that you have the correct parts, tools, and instructions before starting the installation.
• If you are renting or do not want to drill holes in your walls, consider using command hooks, NoNo Brackets, or tension rods to hang your blackout blinds or curtains.
• For a temporary solution, you can use aluminium foil, blackout fabric, or black trash bags to cover your windows and block out light.

Hang blackout curtains

Hanging blackout curtains is a great way to block out light and improve your sleep. Here are some detailed instructions on how to do it:

First, you'll need to purchase the right curtains. Look for curtains specifically marketed as "blackout" curtains, rather than just "light filtering" or "room darkening". Curtains with a combination of blackout fabric, such as a polyester-cotton combination, will be most effective at blocking out light. You'll also want to make sure you have enough curtain panels for optimal coverage. It's recommended to double up, so if you think you need one panel for each side of the window, get two panels per side.

Once you have your curtains, it's time to install the curtain rod. Measure the width of your window and choose a rod that is at least a few inches wider than the window frame. This will ensure that the curtains can be drawn fully across the window for full coverage. Install the rod 4-5 inches above the window, so that the curtains cover the glass completely.

Now you're ready to hang your blackout curtains. Secure the curtains to the rod, making sure that they fully cover the window. You can also use painter's tape or command strips to secure the edges and corners of the curtains to the wall, creating a light-tight seal.

If you want to increase the light-blocking ability of your curtains, consider using a double rod to hang multiple layers of curtains. You can also pair your curtains with blackout blinds for maximum darkness.

By following these steps, you'll be able to create a dark and restful sleep environment, even during the day. Remember to combine your curtains with other sleep-promoting habits, such as avoiding screens before bed and keeping the room cool.

Apply window film

If you're looking to darken your windows to improve your sleep during the day, window film is a great option. It's affordable, blocks out 100% of light, and is easy to install.

Window film is a good alternative to blackout curtains or blinds, which can be heavy, limit ventilation, and be difficult to clean. With window film, you can choose between a complete blackout or a tint that still lets in some natural light.

If you want a complete blackout, opt for polyvinyl chloride (PVC) window film. Installation is simple and usually just involves spraying the window with water and applying the film. For a tint, it's best to contact a professional, as this is more difficult to install.

Window film is a great way to improve your sleep, maintain privacy, and regulate the temperature in your room. It's also maintenance-free, so you won't need to worry about cleaning it.

• Measure the window: Before purchasing the window film, measure the height and width of your window to ensure you buy the correct size.
• Clean the window: Make sure the window is clean and free of dust or debris before applying the film.
• Cut the film to size: Once you have the film, cut it to the size of your window, adding a little extra around the edges to ensure full coverage.
• Spray the window: Lightly spray the window with water to help the film adhere.
• Apply the film: Carefully apply the film to the window, smoothing out any bubbles with a squeegee or a credit card.
• Wipe away excess water: Use a cloth to wipe away any water that may have seeped out from under the film.

Window film is a cost-effective and efficient way to darken your windows and improve your sleep. With these simple steps, you can create a more comfortable and private space.

Cover windows with cardboard

Covering your windows with cardboard is a good option if you're looking for a temporary solution to darken your room during the day. It is a budget-friendly option that can be easily implemented and customized for different window sizes and shapes.

To start, you will need to measure your window panes. Cut the cardboard to fit the size of your window, making sure it covers the entire window frame to block light from all angles. You can use display cardboard, which is corrugated and can be taken in and out without the need for adhesive. Alternatively, you can secure the cardboard with thick painter's tape or Velcro dots to ensure no light seeps through.

While this method is effective in blocking out light, it may not be aesthetically pleasing and is not a long-term solution. Cardboard may also bend due to direct sunlight, and the adhesive tape may not hold. Additionally, it may look suspicious or unflattering from the outside, detracting from the style or décor of your room.

If you are looking for a more permanent solution, consider investing in blackout blinds or curtains, window film, or suction cup blackout curtains. These options offer better light-blocking capabilities and can improve your window's energy efficiency. However, they may be more costly and require installation.

Cover windows with foil

Covering your windows with foil is a budget-friendly and effective way to block out light from your room. It is also a temporary solution, which is useful if you don't want to make any permanent installations.

To cover your windows with foil, you will need the foil itself (aluminium foil works) and some painter's tape. First, measure the dimensions of your window panes and trace these measurements onto the foil. Cut out the foil to size. Then, using painter's tape, stick the foil to your window. If the foil isn't wide enough to cover the whole window, overlap several sections of foil and secure them together with tape.

While this method is effective, it is not aesthetically pleasing. It is also worth noting that applying foil to your windows may void their warranty, and in some cases, it can lead to overheated glass and a broken seal.

If you want to avoid these potential issues, you could try a different method, such as installing blackout curtains or blinds, using window film, or cardboard cut-outs.

Frequently asked questions