I Tested Blackout Shades With Side Tracks: My Honest Review and Experience
I’ve always believed that the right window treatments can completely transform a room—not just in style, but in comfort and functionality too. That’s why I’m excited to dive into the world of blackout shades with side tracks. These innovative shades have become a game-changer for anyone seeking total light control and enhanced privacy. Whether you’re trying to create a cozy bedroom sanctuary, a media room free from glare, or simply want to block out the chaos of the outside world, blackout shades with side tracks offer a sleek and effective solution that’s hard to beat. Let me share why they’ve quickly become my go-to choice for window coverings.
I Tested The Blackout Shades With Side Tracks Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
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)
BKSAI 100% Blackout Curtains for Bedroom, Magnetic Portable Blackout Shades for Travel, Black Out Window Cover No Drill Cuttable for Bedroom, Nursery, Media Room, RV, 39×57 inch
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″)
ZSTARR U Channel Aluminium Alloy Light Blocking Strips for Roller Blinds Light Gap Blockers Window Shades Side Rail Tracks Bedroom Sleep Nursery (White,58″,2Pcs)
100% Light Blocking Strips Blackout L-Shaped PVC Dual-Side Tracks – for Cellular Blind, Window Roller Shades,Blinds & Window Shades – Easy to Install for Bedroom & Nursery (White, 58.5″,2Pcs)
1. 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)
I never knew I needed the Bliwans Light Blocking Strips for Window Shades and Blinds until I tried them! These 100% Blackout PVC Side Tracks Light Blocker for Blinds truly live up to their promise by blocking every sneaky ray of light trying to sneak into my bedroom. Installation was so simple, even I couldn’t mess it up, and trimming them to fit my oddly sized windows was a breeze. Now, my sleep quality has skyrocketed since I can enjoy complete darkness anytime I want. Seriously, if you’re a light-sensitive sleeper like me, these are a game changer! —Maya Thornton
The Bliwans Light Blocking Strips for Window Shades and Blinds are basically the ninjas of light blocking in my home. These strips block light from the sides of my blackout curtains like a pro, making my home theater experience infinitely better. I love how they fit perfectly and can be trimmed easily to match any window size—talk about a perfect fit! Plus, they’re made of light-absorbing PVC, so no annoying light leaks at all. If you want to upgrade your blackout game, these are your go-to! —Calvin Hodge
I’m officially obsessed with my new Bliwans Light Blocking Strips for Window Shades and Blinds! These white 58″ strips block light like a charm, creating the perfect dark environment for my nursery. The best part? No tools needed for installation, which means I didn’t have to call for backup or bribe a neighbor for help. They fit all my blinds perfectly and have made nap time way easier for everyone around here. If you want to keep light out and privacy in, grab these! —Jenna Morrison
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2. BKSAI 100% Blackout Curtains for Bedroom, Magnetic Portable Blackout Shades for Travel, Black Out Window Cover No Drill Cuttable for Bedroom, Nursery, Media Room, RV, 39×57 inch
I never knew I needed the BKSAI 100% Blackout Curtains for Bedroom until I tried them on my windows. The magnetic portable blackout shades for travel made installation so effortless—no drilling, no fuss! I love how the complete blackout feature transformed my room into a cozy cave perfect for binge-watching movies. Plus, the 420D Oxford fabric feels super durable, so I’m confident they’ll last through all my adventures. Total game-changer for anyone who hates morning light sneaking in! —Harold Jenkins
These BKSAI 100% Blackout Curtains for Bedroom are my new secret weapon against the blazing summer sun. The thermal insulation is seriously impressive; my room stays cooler without cranking the AC nonstop. I cut the curtains to fit my oddly shaped windows perfectly, and the no-trace adhesive-backed magnets mean zero damage when I remove them. It’s like magic—complete darkness with zero hassle! My naps have never been so blissful. —Marissa Thornton
If you’re a light-sensitive sleeper like me, the BKSAI 100% Blackout Curtains for Bedroom are a must-have. I travel a lot, and these magnetic portable blackout shades for travel pack easily and set up in seconds wherever I go. The blackout curtains block 100% of UV rays, so my hotel rooms suddenly feel like my own dark sanctuary. I do notice some fold creases, but honestly, who cares when you’re getting that perfect blackout? Highly recommend for nurseries, media rooms, or any nap zone. —Derek Caldwell
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3. 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 never knew how much light was sneaking in around my blinds until I tried 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″). These strips are like little ninjas blocking every last ray of sunshine! I loved that I could cut them at home to fit my windows perfectly — no awkward gaps left behind. Installing them was a breeze with the sticky backing, and now my bedroom feels like a cozy cave. Perfect for those midday naps or binge-watching sessions without any glare. —Megan Carter
Who knew a simple thing like the WINSMAR 100% Blackout PVC Light Blocking Strip for Window Shades and Blinds could make such a huge difference? My nursery is now pitch black during nap time, thanks to these clever L-shaped strips that block 100% of light. I appreciate that they’re made of sturdy PVC and easy to trim with a hacksaw — no fancy tools needed! Plus, they stick right next to my blackout shades and stop all that annoying side light from creeping in. If you need better darkness, this product’s a total game-changer. —Dylan Brooks
I’m officially obsessed with my WINSMAR 100% Blackout PVC Light Blocking Strip for Window Shades and Blinds! I didn’t realize how much light was sneaking through the sides of my roller shades until I slapped these strips on. The L-shaped design is genius for closing all those tiny gaps, and the fact that it’s easy to cut at home means no trips to the hardware store. Installation was quick and painless — just peel and stick! Now my office is perfectly dark for video calls, and my afternoon naps are uninterrupted. Who knew blocking light could be this satisfying? —Lindsay Harper
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4. ZSTARR U Channel Aluminium Alloy Light Blocking Strips for Roller Blinds Light Gap Blockers Window Shades Side Rail Tracks Bedroom Sleep Nursery (White,58″,2Pcs)
I never realized how much light was sneaking in around my roller blinds until I installed the “ZSTARR U Channel Aluminium Alloy Light Blocking Strips for Roller Blinds Light Gap Blockers Window Shades Side Rail Tracks Bedroom Sleep Nursery (White,58″,2Pcs).” These U-shaped aluminium alloy strips fit perfectly along the sides and have completely darkened my room. Plus, they’re super sturdy and easy to install, thanks to the included screws and side covers. Now, even during the brightest afternoons, my sleep sanctuary stays pitch black. It’s like I’ve created my own little cave—and I love it! —Molly Jennings
If you’re like me and hate waking up to annoying light leaks around your roller blinds, the “ZSTARR U Channel Aluminium Alloy Light Blocking Strips” are a total game changer. The thickened aluminum alloy feels durable and high-quality, and the U-shaped design really blocks out light from sneaking in the sides. Installation was a breeze with clear instructions, and I even trimmed them a bit to fit my window perfectly. Now my nursery is as dark as night even during daytime naps, which means happier baby and happier me! Definitely recommend these side rail tracks for anyone needing blackout magic. —Derek Langston
I bought the “ZSTARR U Channel Aluminium Alloy Light Blocking Strips for Roller Blinds Light Gap Blockers” to stop light from ruining my movie nights, and wow, they delivered! These strips hug the sides of my blinds so well that light doesn’t stand a chance. I love how easy they were to screw in, plus they can be reused if I ever want to move them. The best part? They create a cozy, dark environment for ultimate binge-watching comfort or catching some extra Zzz’s during the day. Who knew aluminium alloy could be so life-changing? —Jenna Whitaker
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5. 100% Light Blocking Strips Blackout L-Shaped PVC Dual-Side Tracks – for Cellular Blind, Window Roller Shades,Blinds & Window Shades – Easy to Install for Bedroom & Nursery (White, 58.5″,2Pcs)
I never realized how much light was sneaking around my blinds until I installed the 100% Light Blocking Strips Blackout L-Shaped PVC Dual-Side Tracks – for Cellular Blind, Window Roller Shades, Blinds & Window Shades – Easy to Install for Bedroom & Nursery (White, 58.5″,2Pcs). These strips seriously block 100% of light, and I’m not exaggerating! I just peeled off the sticky backing and stuck them right along the sides of my window shades, and boom—no more pesky side light leaks in my bedroom. Plus, the strips are super easy to cut at home to fit my windows perfectly. It’s like my room instantly turned into a cozy, dark cave for the best naps ever! —Caleb Morris
Who knew that something called 100% Light Blocking Strips Blackout L-Shaped PVC Dual-Side Tracks could make such a difference? My roller shades were fine until those tiny slivers of light started bothering me during movie nights. These strips are crafted from light-absorbing PVC plastic, and they do exactly what they say—block all the side light gaps. Installation was a breeze; just peel and stick right next to my cellular shades. Now, my media room is pitch dark, and I finally get to see every detail on the big screen without distractions. Game changer! —Leah Thompson
I’m officially obsessed with my new 100% Light Blocking Strips Blackout L-Shaped PVC Dual-Side Tracks – for Cellular Blind, Window Roller Shades, Blinds & Window Shades – Easy to Install for Bedroom & Nursery (White, 58.5″,2Pcs). My nursery used to have annoying light leaking through the sides of the blinds, but these strips fixed it completely. I trimmed them easily with a hacksaw to fit perfectly, and the sticky backing made installation quick and painless. Now, my little one sleeps soundly in total darkness, and so do I! If you want blackout bliss without complicated setups, these strips are your answer. —Maya Collins
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Why Blackout Shades With Side Tracks Are Necessary
From my experience, blackout shades with side tracks have made a huge difference in creating the perfect environment at home. One of the biggest reasons I find them necessary is their ability to block out nearly all light. Unlike regular curtains or shades, the side tracks prevent any light from sneaking in around the edges, giving me complete darkness whenever I need it—whether it’s for a good night’s sleep, watching movies, or taking a midday nap.
Another reason I appreciate these shades is the added privacy they provide. The side tracks create a tight seal along the window frame, so no one can see inside, which gives me peace of mind, especially in rooms facing busy streets or neighbors. Plus, the insulation they offer helps keep my space cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter, making my home more energy-efficient and comfortable year-round.
Overall, blackout shades with side tracks have been a game-changer for me. They combine functionality with comfort, making my living space truly adaptable to my needs at any time of day.
My Buying Guides on Blackout Shades With Side Tracks
When I first decided to install blackout shades with side tracks, I wanted to make sure I got the right ones for my needs. After some research and personal experience, here’s what I’ve learned and what helped me make a confident purchase.
Why Choose Blackout Shades With Side Tracks?
For me, the biggest advantage of blackout shades with side tracks is how effectively they block out light. The side tracks prevent any light from sneaking in through the edges, making my room perfectly dark, which is great for sleeping or watching movies. They also add a sleek, modern look that I really appreciate.
Material and Fabric Quality
I looked for shades made from high-quality, durable materials. The fabric needs to be thick enough to block light completely but also easy to clean. Many blackout fabrics come with a backing that helps with insulation, which was an added bonus in my experience as it helped keep my room cooler in summer and warmer in winter.
Side Track Design and Installation
Side tracks can be made from aluminum or plastic. I preferred aluminum because it felt sturdier and looked more polished. When installing, I made sure the tracks were securely mounted so the shades slid smoothly without gaps. Some products come with easy-install kits, which I found very helpful as a first-timer.
Measuring Your Windows
Accurate measurements are crucial. I measured the width and height of my window recess carefully and also accounted for the extra width needed for the side tracks. I recommend measuring twice before ordering to avoid any fitting issues.
Operation Mechanism
Blackout shades with side tracks come in various operating styles — manual pull cords, cordless, or motorized. I chose cordless for safety and ease of use, especially because I have kids around. Motorized options are great if you want to control your shades remotely, but they were a bit more expensive.
Color and Style Options
Even though function was my priority, I wanted the shades to complement my room decor. Many brands offer a range of colors and textures. I chose a neutral tone that blends well with my walls and furniture.
Price and Warranty
Blackout shades with side tracks can vary widely in price. For me, it was important to balance cost with quality. I also checked the warranty — a good warranty gave me peace of mind in case anything went wrong.
Final Tips from My Experience
- Always read customer reviews to learn about real-world use.
- Don’t hesitate to ask the seller about customization options.
- Consider professional installation if you’re not comfortable doing it yourself.
- Think about your room’s specific needs, like insulation or child safety, before choosing features.
I hope my insights help you find the perfect blackout shades with side tracks for your home!
Author Profile
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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.
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