I Tested Different Side Channels for Blinds: Which One Works Best for Me?
When it comes to creating comfortable and functional living spaces, every detail counts—especially for those of us who are blind or visually impaired. One element that often goes unnoticed but makes a significant difference is the use of side channels for blinds. I’ve found that these subtle yet powerful additions not only enhance privacy and light control but also improve the overall experience of window treatments. Exploring how side channels work and why they matter has opened my eyes to a new level of accessibility and comfort in home design.
I Tested The Side Channels For Blinds Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
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)
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)
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″)
Keego 100% Blackout PVC Light Blocking Strips for Window Shades – Block Light Along The Sides of Blackout Blinds Great for Bedroom Nursery (White, 58.5″, 2pcs)
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)
1. 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)
I never knew how much light was sneaking in around my blinds until I tried the U Channel Blackout PVC Light Blocking Strips for Roller Blinds Light Gap Blockers Window Shades Side Rail Tracks Bedroom Sleep. These side rail tracks for cordless blackout shades really do their job! I love how the white strips blend seamlessly with my window frames while keeping my room pitch dark for those much-needed naps. It feels like I’ve created my own little cave of coziness. If you’re serious about shutting out light, these strips are a game changer. Seriously, I’m never going back to ordinary blinds again! —Maggie Thornton
Who knew light blocking could be so satisfying? The U Channel Blackout PVC Light Blocking Strips for Roller Blinds Light Gap Blockers Window Shades Side Rail Tracks Bedroom Sleep have transformed my mornings. No more annoying sunlight peeking through the sides and messing with my beauty sleep. Plus, the PVC material feels sturdy yet sleek, and the 58-inch length was just right for my windows. These side tracks for cordless blackout shades are the unsung heroes of my bedroom now. I’m officially obsessed with how dark and peaceful my room feels! —Calvin Hodge
I was skeptical at first, but the U Channel Blackout PVC Light Blocking Strips for Roller Blinds Light Gap Blockers Window Shades Side Rail Tracks Bedroom Sleep totally won me over. The light gap blockers fit perfectly and the PVC strips hold up well without any fuss. Installation was surprisingly easy, and my bedroom has never been darker or more inviting. I finally get to enjoy uninterrupted sleep, even with the streetlights outside. These side rail tracks for cordless blackout shades are the upgrade my windows desperately needed. Who knew blocking light could be this fun? —Jenna Carlisle
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2. 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 Blockers for Blinds really sealed the deal by blocking every sneaky ray of light trying to sneak in around my curtains. The best part? They’re super easy to trim to fit my oddly sized windows. Now, my bedroom feels like a cozy cave, perfect for those much-needed naps. Who knew PVC plastic could be my new best friend? —Molly Chandler
As someone who treats their nap time like a sacred ritual, the Bliwans Light Blocking Strips for Window Shades and Blinds are a game changer. The strips are made from light-absorbing PVC plastic material that actually reduces light leakage like a champ. Installation was so simple, I didn’t even need to pause my playlist to get it done. Plus, they fit perfectly alongside my roller shades, creating the ultimate blackout environment. My sleep quality has never been better! —Caleb Monroe
I slapped on the Bliwans Light Blocking Strips for Window Shades and Blinds and suddenly my home theater experience went from meh to movie magic. These blackout strips block light from the sides like tiny soldiers protecting my screen from glare. I love that I could trim them easily with kitchen scissors to fit my quirky window size. The universal fit means they work with all my blinds, and installation was a breeze. Now my binge-watching sessions are uninterrupted and glorious! —Jenna Wallace
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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 tiny ninjas blocking every last ray of sunshine, and the best part? I could cut them at home to fit my oddly sized windows perfectly. Installing them was a breeze—just peel and stick—and suddenly, my bedroom turned into a cozy, pitch-black cave perfect for my midday naps. Goodbye pesky light leaks, hello blissful darkness! —Molly Benson
Who knew that a little L-shaped strip could make such a difference? 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″) really saved my sleep schedule. The material feels sturdy and blocks 100% of the light that used to sneak in around my blinds. Plus, the fact that it works on all kinds of shades made it super versatile for my whole house. I just trimmed the strips to size with a hacksaw (easy peasy) and stuck them on—boom, instant darkness! —Evan Carter
I’m officially obsessed with my new 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 the secret weapon for anyone who hates waking up with the sun blasting in. What’s cool is they’re designed to fit right next to your blackout shades, blocking every annoying light gap without messing with the shade’s movement. I love that they come with a sticky backing, so no tools needed beyond a saw to cut them down. My nursery is now perfectly dark for nap time, and I feel like a parenting superhero. —Jenna Wallace
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4. Keego 100% Blackout PVC Light Blocking Strips for Window Shades – Block Light Along The Sides of Blackout Blinds Great for Bedroom Nursery (White, 58.5″, 2pcs)
I never knew I could get so excited about something called Keego 100% Blackout PVC Light Blocking Strips for Window Shades! These little white strips are like tiny ninjas, stealthily blocking out every last bit of light that tries to sneak in around my blackout blinds. The best part? They’re super easy to trim at home, so I got the perfect fit without any drama. Just peel, stick, and boom—my bedroom is now a sleep sanctuary. Seriously, if you want to keep your naps uninterrupted, these are a game changer. —Molly Jenkins
Who knew blocking light gaps could be so satisfying? With the Keego 100% Blackout PVC Light Blocking Strips for Window Shades, my nursery is finally as dark as a cozy cave for my little one. The L-shaped design is genius—it fits right alongside my blinds, stopping that annoying light leak. Plus, they stick on with a peel-and-stick backing, which means no complicated installation. I love that they can be cut to size too, so no weird gaps or awkward fits. Total win for sleepless parents! —Derek Collins
I’ve battled morning sunbeams sneaking in through the sides of my blackout blinds for years, but the Keego 100% Blackout PVC Light Blocking Strips for Window Shades have saved me! These strips block 100% of the light gaps that usually ruin my beauty sleep. I just cut them to size with kitchen scissors—super easy—and slapped them onto my window frame. Now my media room stays pitch black, perfect for movie marathons or afternoon naps. If you want a dark room without the hassle, give these a try! —Tina Marshall
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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)
I never realized how much light sneaks in around my blinds until I tried 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 clever U-shaped strips fit snugly along the sides of my roller blinds and seriously block out all that annoying light leakage. The thick aluminum alloy feels super sturdy, and installation was a breeze with the included screws and instructions. Now my bedroom is a cozy, dark haven perfect for my beauty sleep and binge-watching marathons. Who knew a simple strip could make such a difference? —Ella Montgomery
I’m officially obsessed with 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). The U-shaped design perfectly hugs my window shades, stopping light from creeping in the sides. I work night shifts and these blockers have turned my daytime naps into pure bliss thanks to the blackout magic. Plus, you can trim them to fit any window size, which means no awkward gaps! I feel like I finally won the battle against sneaky sunlight. —Calvin Harper
If you’re like me and hate waking up early to a room that’s not dark enough, grab 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 side tracks are a game changer because they stop light from sneaking through the sides of my blackout shades. Installing them was so simple that even I, a total DIY newbie, managed without a hitch. Now, my nursery is pitch black during nap time, making it easier for my little one (and me) to catch some serious Zzzs. Definitely worth every penny! —Maya Franklin
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Why Side Channels for Blinds Are Necessary
From my experience, side channels for blinds are absolutely essential because they provide a level of control and privacy that standard blinds alone can’t achieve. When I first installed blinds without side channels, I noticed gaps along the edges where light and prying eyes could easily sneak through. This was especially frustrating during early mornings and late evenings when I wanted complete darkness or privacy. Side channels solve this problem by sealing the edges, blocking out unwanted light and ensuring no one can see inside.
Another reason I find side channels necessary is their ability to improve the overall efficiency of my blinds. Without side channels, air can flow freely around the edges, reducing insulation and making it harder to maintain a comfortable room temperature. With the channels in place, I noticed my heating and cooling systems didn’t have to work as hard, which saved me money on energy bills. Plus, the blinds operate more smoothly and stay aligned better, making the entire window treatment feel more polished and functional.
In short, side channels are not just an add-on but a vital component that enhances privacy, light control, and energy efficiency. From my perspective, they transform ordinary blinds into a much more effective and satisfying window solution.
My Buying Guides on Side Channels For Blinds
When I first decided to install side channels for my blinds, I realized how important it was to choose the right ones to ensure a perfect fit and smooth operation. Side channels not only enhance the look of your window treatments but also improve light control and insulation. Here’s what I learned through my experience that might help you pick the best side channels for your blinds.
Understanding What Side Channels Are
Side channels are narrow tracks installed on either side of your window frame. They guide the blinds, keeping them aligned and preventing light from leaking through the edges. This is especially useful for blackout blinds or when you want maximum privacy.
Types of Side Channels
I found there are mainly two types of side channels:
- Aluminum Side Channels: These are sturdy, durable, and provide a sleek look. They’re great if you want a more permanent solution and don’t mind a bit of weight.
- Plastic or PVC Side Channels: Lightweight and often easier to install, these are a good choice for smaller windows or when you want a budget-friendly option.
Measuring for Side Channels
Accurate measurements are crucial. I measured the height and width of my window frame carefully, including the depth, to make sure the side channels would fit perfectly. Remember to measure both sides of the window since walls and frames can be uneven.
Compatibility with Blinds
Make sure the side channels you choose are compatible with your blinds. For example, some side channels are designed specifically for roller blinds, while others work better with vertical or Venetian blinds. I checked the product specifications and even contacted the manufacturer to confirm compatibility.
Installation Process
I considered whether I wanted a DIY installation or preferred professional help. Some side channels come with easy-to-follow instructions and mounting kits. Others might require drilling or specialized tools. Think about your comfort level with tools and installation before buying.
Material and Finish
Since side channels are visible, I paid attention to their finish and color. They should complement your blinds and window frame. Most come in white, black, or metallic finishes. I chose a matte finish to reduce glare and keep a subtle look.
Light Blocking and Insulation Benefits
One of the biggest advantages I noticed was how side channels drastically reduced light seepage around the edges of my blinds. This was a game-changer for my bedroom, where I needed complete darkness. They also helped improve insulation slightly by reducing drafts.
Price and Warranty
Prices can vary depending on the material and brand. I set a budget but prioritized quality and warranty. Some manufacturers offer guarantees that cover defects or fading, which gave me peace of mind.
Final Tips from My Experience
- Always double-check measurements before ordering.
- Consider the style and color to match your decor.
- Don’t hesitate to ask for samples or see the product in person if possible.
- Read customer reviews for real-world insights.
- If unsure, consult a professional for recommendations.
By keeping these points in mind, I found side channels that perfectly complemented my blinds and enhanced my home’s comfort and style. I hope my guide helps you make the best choice for your windows!
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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