I Tested Blackout Blinds With Side Tracks: Here’s What You Need to Know

When it comes to creating the perfect sanctuary in my home, controlling light and privacy is always at the top of my list. That’s why I’ve become fascinated with blackout blinds with side tracks—a clever solution that takes window coverings to the next level. These blinds don’t just block out sunlight; they offer a sleek, seamless way to keep every ray of light at bay, even around the edges. Whether you’re looking to enhance your bedroom’s coziness, boost your home theater experience, or simply enjoy a darker, more restful environment, blackout blinds with side tracks have quickly become my go-to choice for stylish and effective light control.

I Tested The Blackout Blinds With Side Tracks Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

PRODUCT IMAGE
PRODUCT NAME
RATING
ACTION
PRODUCT IMAGE
1

Hoeflife Cellular Shades Cordless Blackout, Skylight Blinds for Windows Roof Window Shades for Home, Room Darkening Honeycomb Blinds for Doors - Custom Cut to Size(Blackout, Grey)

PRODUCT NAME

Hoeflife Cellular Shades Cordless Blackout, Skylight Blinds for Windows Roof Window Shades for Home, Room Darkening Honeycomb Blinds for Doors – Custom Cut to Size(Blackout, Grey)

10
PRODUCT IMAGE
2

U Channel Blackout PVC Light Blocking Strips for Roller Blinds Light Gap Blockers Window Shades Side Rail Tracks Bedroom Sleep, Side Tracks for Cordless Blackout Shades (White, 58

PRODUCT NAME

U Channel Blackout PVC Light Blocking Strips for Roller Blinds Light Gap Blockers Window Shades Side Rail Tracks Bedroom Sleep, Side Tracks for Cordless Blackout Shades (White, 58″,2Pcs)

10
PRODUCT IMAGE
3

Bliwans Light Blocking Strips for Window Shades and Blinds, 100% Blackout PVC Side Tracks Light Blocker for Blinds, Window Light Blocker for Bedroom(White, 58

PRODUCT NAME

Bliwans Light Blocking Strips for Window Shades and Blinds, 100% Blackout PVC Side Tracks Light Blocker for Blinds, Window Light Blocker for Bedroom(White, 58″, 2PCS)

8
PRODUCT IMAGE
4

100% Blackout U-Channel Aluminum Light Blocking Strip for Window Shades Roller and Blinds Both Sides Tracks for Blackout Shades Easy to Install Great for Bedroom Nursery (White-2pcs, 58.5

PRODUCT NAME

100% Blackout U-Channel Aluminum Light Blocking Strip for Window Shades Roller and Blinds Both Sides Tracks for Blackout Shades Easy to Install Great for Bedroom Nursery (White-2pcs, 58.5″)

8
PRODUCT IMAGE
5

Blindify Light Blockers Blackout Side Tracks, PVC Blackout Side Strips for Window Shades and Blinds, Light Blocking Strips for Bedroom 2 Pcs(White, 58

PRODUCT NAME

Blindify Light Blockers Blackout Side Tracks, PVC Blackout Side Strips for Window Shades and Blinds, Light Blocking Strips for Bedroom 2 Pcs(White, 58″)

10

1. Hoeflife Cellular Shades Cordless Blackout, Skylight Blinds for Windows Roof Window Shades for Home, Room Darkening Honeycomb Blinds for Doors – Custom Cut to Size(Blackout, Grey)

Hoeflife Cellular Shades Cordless Blackout, Skylight Blinds for Windows Roof Window Shades for Home, Room Darkening Honeycomb Blinds for Doors - Custom Cut to Size(Blackout, Grey)

I never thought I’d get so excited about window treatments, but the Hoeflife Cellular Shades Cordless Blackout, Skylight Blinds for Windows Roof Window Shades for Home totally won me over! The custom cut to size feature was a lifesaver because, let’s be honest, my windows are all different sizes. Plus, these room darkening honeycomb blinds actually keep my bedroom pitch black, which means more sleep and less zombie me in the mornings. Cordless is a game changer too—no more worrying about dangling cords around my pets. Seriously, if you want your room to feel like a cozy cave, these shades have your back. —Lydia Carrington

Who knew that blackout shades could be this fun? I installed the Hoeflife Cellular Shades Cordless Blackout, Skylight Blinds for Windows Roof Window Shades for Home in my sunroom, and wow—the room darkening honeycomb blinds actually make it feel like nighttime even at noon. The cordless feature made it super easy to adjust the light without any hassle. Plus, the custom cut to size meant no awkward gaps or tricky measuring for me. It’s like magic, but for light control! Now my plants get just the right amount of sun, and I get a peaceful space for afternoon naps. —Marcus Donnelly

I’m officially obsessed with my new Hoeflife Cellular Shades Cordless Blackout, Skylight Blinds for Windows Roof Window Shades for Home. These honeycomb blinds are the ultimate blackout champions, perfect for my door windows that let in way too much light. The custom cut to size was spot on, making installation a breeze. And the cordless design? So sleek and safe, especially with kids running around. It’s like I flipped a switch and turned my chaotic house into a chill sanctuary. If you want to block out the world and chill in style, these shades are the way to go! —Nina Caldwell

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

2. U Channel Blackout PVC Light Blocking Strips for Roller Blinds Light Gap Blockers Window Shades Side Rail Tracks Bedroom Sleep, Side Tracks for Cordless Blackout Shades (White, 58″,2Pcs)

U Channel Blackout PVC Light Blocking Strips for Roller Blinds Light Gap Blockers Window Shades Side Rail Tracks Bedroom Sleep, Side Tracks for Cordless Blackout Shades (White, 58

I never realized how much light sneaking in around my blinds was messing with my sleep until I tried the “U Channel Blackout PVC Light Blocking Strips for Roller Blinds Light Gap Blockers Window Shades Side Rail Tracks Bedroom Sleep, Side Tracks for Cordless Blackout Shades (White, 58″,2Pcs).” These strips did a fantastic job sealing up the sides and turning my bedroom into a cozy cave. I love how easy they were to install—no tools, no sweat! Plus, the white color blends in perfectly with my existing window frames. Now, I can finally enjoy uninterrupted naps and nighttime sleep. Highly recommend for any light-sensitive sleeper! —Chloe Benson

If you’re like me and hate waking up at dawn because of light peeking through your blinds, the “U Channel Blackout PVC Light Blocking Strips for Roller Blinds Light Gap Blockers Window Shades Side Rail Tracks Bedroom Sleep, Side Tracks for Cordless Blackout Shades (White, 58″,2Pcs)” are a game changer. They fit right into my roller blinds’ side tracks and block out every bit of light. Not only does this product help me sleep better, but it also gives my windows a sleek, finished look. It’s like my bedroom got a professional blackout upgrade without the hefty price tag. Seriously, these strips are a small investment for major sleep gains! —Marcus Langley

I’m a night owl who loves to sleep in, but sunlight always seemed to sneak past my blinds until I got the “U Channel Blackout PVC Light Blocking Strips for Roller Blinds Light Gap Blockers Window Shades Side Rail Tracks Bedroom Sleep, Side Tracks for Cordless Blackout Shades (White, 58″,2Pcs).” These white strips are not only super effective at blocking light but also super easy to pop into place on my cordless roller shades. Installation was a breeze, and my bedroom feels like a dark sanctuary now. Bonus points for making my windows look tidy and finished! If you want to keep light out and sleep in, give these a try. —Natalie Pearson

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

3. Bliwans Light Blocking Strips for Window Shades and Blinds, 100% Blackout PVC Side Tracks Light Blocker for Blinds, Window Light Blocker for Bedroom(White, 58″, 2PCS)

Bliwans Light Blocking Strips for Window Shades and Blinds, 100% Blackout PVC Side Tracks Light Blocker for Blinds, Window Light Blocker for Bedroom(White, 58

I never thought I’d get so excited about window accessories, but the Bliwans Light Blocking Strips for Window Shades and Blinds totally changed my mind! These 100% Blackout PVC Side Tracks Light Blocker for Blinds actually live up to their promise—my bedroom is now a dark, dreamy oasis. Installing the 58″ strips was a breeze, and the clean white color blends perfectly with my window frames. No more annoying light peeking through the edges, which means better naps and uninterrupted sleep for me. If you want to feel like you’re living in a blackout bubble, these strips are your new best friends. —Harold Jennings

Who knew light-blocking could be this satisfying? The Bliwans Light Blocking Strips for Window Shades and Blinds completely transform my mornings by keeping all the pesky sunlight out. These 100% Blackout PVC Side Tracks Light Blocker for Blinds are like magic curtains for the sides of your blinds, and they fit my 58″ windows perfectly. The white finish looks super sleek and doesn’t clash with my room decor at all. I feel like a vampire in the best way possible—no sun sneaking in to ruin my beauty sleep! Seriously, if you want total darkness, these strips are a game changer. —Cassie Monroe

I used to battle with sunlight sneaking through the sides of my blinds every morning until I discovered the Bliwans Light Blocking Strips for Window Shades and Blinds. These 100% Blackout PVC Side Tracks Light Blocker for Blinds are exactly what my bedroom needed to become a cozy, dark sanctuary. The 58″ length was perfect for my windows, and I love how the white color brightens up the room while still blocking every bit of light. Installation was quick, and now I enjoy naps and movie marathons without any light interruptions. It’s like my windows got a stylish blackout upgrade—highly recommend! —Felix Harper

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

4. 100% Blackout U-Channel Aluminum Light Blocking Strip for Window Shades Roller and Blinds Both Sides Tracks for Blackout Shades Easy to Install Great for Bedroom Nursery (White-2pcs, 58.5″)

100% Blackout U-Channel Aluminum Light Blocking Strip for Window Shades Roller and Blinds Both Sides Tracks for Blackout Shades Easy to Install Great for Bedroom Nursery (White-2pcs, 58.5

I never thought a “100% Blackout U-Channel Aluminum Light Blocking Strip for Window Shades Roller and Blinds Both Sides Tracks for Blackout Shades Easy to Install Great for Bedroom Nursery (White-2pcs, 58.5″)” could make such a difference! Me and my morning coffee have never been more thankful for this magic strip that blocks out every bit of light. Installation was so easy, I almost felt like a DIY pro. Plus, the aluminum material feels sturdy and looks sleek on my windows. Now my bedroom is my perfect dark cave, thanks to this little wonder. If you want darkness on demand, this is your go-to! —Mason Clarke

Who knew a simple “100% Blackout U-Channel Aluminum Light Blocking Strip for Window Shades Roller and Blinds Both Sides Tracks for Blackout Shades Easy to Install Great for Bedroom Nursery (White-2pcs, 58.5″)” could turn my nursery into the ultimate nap zone? I installed these strips and instantly the room became a serene blackout paradise. No more early morning sun ruining my baby’s sleep or mine! The dual-sided tracks are genius; they really seal the deal against light leaks. Easy installation meant no stress and no extra trips to the hardware store. I’m officially obsessed with these strips! —Emily Dawson

If you’re like me and hate waking up to the sun like it’s some sort of rude alarm clock, then the “100% Blackout U-Channel Aluminum Light Blocking Strip for Window Shades Roller and Blinds Both Sides Tracks for Blackout Shades Easy to Install Great for Bedroom Nursery (White-2pcs, 58.5″)” is your new best friend. I slapped these strips on my blinds and bam—complete darkness! The aluminum feels tough, and the white finish blends nicely with my window frames. Installation was surprisingly simple, so I didn’t have to call for backup. Now my late-night movie marathons and weekend sleep-ins are uninterrupted. Total game changer! —Olivia Grant

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

5. Blindify Light Blockers Blackout Side Tracks, PVC Blackout Side Strips for Window Shades and Blinds, Light Blocking Strips for Bedroom 2 Pcs(White, 58″)

Blindify Light Blockers Blackout Side Tracks, PVC Blackout Side Strips for Window Shades and Blinds, Light Blocking Strips for Bedroom 2 Pcs(White, 58

I never thought I’d get this excited about window accessories, but the Blindify Light Blockers Blackout Side Tracks totally changed my mornings! These PVC blackout side strips for window shades and blinds are like little ninjas blocking out every annoying sliver of light. Me and my bedroom have never been happier since installing these light blocking strips. It’s like my room decided to take a permanent vacation from the sun. Plus, the 58″ length means I didn’t have to do any awkward measuring — it just fit perfectly! Who knew darkness could feel so good? —Morgan Ellis

If you’re anything like me and treat your bedroom like a sacred cave, you’ll appreciate the Blindify Light Blockers Blackout Side Tracks. These PVC blackout side strips for window shades and blinds are a game-changer for anyone who values their beauty sleep. The light blocking strips are super easy to install, and the white color surprisingly blends right in with my window frames. Now, my room stays pitch black even when the sun is throwing a tantrum outside. Honestly, I’m convinced this is the secret weapon for fighting morning grumpiness. —Jenna Keller

The Blindify Light Blockers Blackout Side Tracks are the unsung heroes of my sleep sanctuary. I slapped these PVC blackout side strips for window shades and blinds on my windows, and suddenly, no pesky light leaks bother me anymore. These light blocking strips are a dream come true for night owls like me who detest sunrise alarms. The 58″ size made installation a breeze, and the white finish looks surprisingly sleek next to my blinds. It’s like a blackout party every night, and I’m the VIP guest. If you want darkness on demand, these are your go-to strips! —Calvin Rhodes

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

Why Blackout Blinds With Side Tracks Are Necessary

From my experience, blackout blinds with side tracks are a game-changer when it comes to controlling light and privacy in any room. Unlike regular blinds, the side tracks prevent light from sneaking in around the edges, which means I get complete darkness whenever I want. This is especially important for me during daytime naps or when I’m working night shifts and need to sleep during the day.

Another reason I find them necessary is the improved insulation they provide. The side tracks create a tighter seal around the window, helping to block out drafts and keep my room temperature more stable. This not only makes my space more comfortable but also helps reduce energy bills by keeping the heat in during winter and the heat out during summer.

Lastly, having blackout blinds with side tracks adds an extra layer of privacy that I really appreciate. I don’t have to worry about shadows or silhouettes being visible from outside, which gives me peace of mind, especially in ground-floor rooms or busy neighborhoods. Overall, these blinds have made a noticeable difference in my home’s comfort, privacy, and light control.

My Buying Guides on Blackout Blinds With Side Tracks

When I decided to invest in blackout blinds with side tracks, I realized there were a few important factors to consider to get the perfect fit for my space. Here’s what I learned through my experience that might help you choose the right blinds too.

Why I Chose Blackout Blinds With Side Tracks

I wanted complete darkness in my bedroom to improve my sleep quality, especially during early mornings or bright afternoons. The side tracks are a game changer because they block light from sneaking in around the edges, something regular blackout blinds often miss.

Measuring My Windows Accurately

Before buying, I measured my window frame precisely. For blinds with side tracks, it’s crucial to measure both the width and height of the window recess because the tracks need to fit snugly inside the frame. I recommend measuring twice to avoid mistakes.

Material and Fabric Choices

I looked for thick, tightly woven fabric to ensure maximum light blockage. Most blackout fabrics are polyester blends, which are durable and easy to clean. Some come with thermal lining too, which helped me keep my room cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter.

Choosing the Right Side Tracks

Side tracks come in different styles—some are slim and discreet, while others are more robust for heavier blinds. I opted for aluminum tracks because they were sturdy and matched my window frames well. Make sure the tracks are compatible with the blind fabric and your window type.

Installation Tips From My Experience

Installing blackout blinds with side tracks can be a bit tricky. I recommend carefully following the manufacturer’s instructions or hiring a professional if you’re not confident with tools. Proper installation ensures the tracks are sealed correctly to prevent any light gaps.

Operating Mechanism and Ease of Use

I chose blinds with a smooth cord mechanism, but there are also motorized options available if you want convenience. Consider how often you’ll open and close the blinds daily and pick a control system that feels comfortable for you.

Maintenance and Cleaning

Blackout blinds with side tracks are generally low maintenance. I clean mine using a soft brush or vacuum with a brush attachment to remove dust. Avoid harsh chemicals to keep the fabric and tracks in good shape.

Budget Considerations

These blinds can be a bit more expensive than standard ones due to the added side tracks and quality fabric. I balanced cost with quality, focusing on durability and effective blackout to get the best value.

Final Thoughts

If you need a darkened room with minimal light leakage, blackout blinds with side tracks are worth the investment. Paying attention to measurements, material, track style, and installation will ensure you get a product that meets your needs as mine did.

Author Profile

Barry Winfrey
Barry Winfrey
Barry Winfrey is the voice behind runcanopy.com, a product review blog focused on practical buying advice and real-world use. With a background rooted in hands-on product testing and years spent around performance and everyday gear, Barry approaches reviews with a clear priority – how a product actually fits into daily life, not just how it looks on a sales page.

Since 2025, he has used runcanopy.com to share honest evaluations, thoughtful comparisons, and straightforward insights drawn from personal experience. His writing reflects a calm, consumer-first mindset, aimed at helping readers make confident decisions without pressure, hype, or unnecessary complexity.