Best blackout curtains: 6 top buys for light-sensitive sleepers

It's worth investing in the best blackout curtains if you're sensitive to light and often find yourself waking up much earlier than desired. While some people enjoy the feeling of being woken up by the sun, if you're a shift worker, have little ones who you'd prefer to sleep in a little later, or simply suffer from serious light sensitivity, blackout blinds are as good as essential.

It may seem like a small change, but blackout curtains have the ability to completely transform your sleep cycle. And you may be pleased to know that they've have come a long way, design-wise. It's now possible to choose from a range of styles and finishes, as opposed to being forced into purchasing a (rather unaesthetic) blackout curtain, or blind.

Check out our top picks below. Then, learn more about window treatments using our expert advice and design ideas.

Best blackout curtains available right now

If you prefer the idea of silk-effect curtains, as opposed to cotton, we recommend these blackout curtains from John Lewis. Available in seven stylish shades, these curtains not only work in a variety of spaces, but will be effective in clocking out light too.

• Shop the John Lewis & Partners Faux Silk Pair Blackout Lined Eyelet Curtains at John Lewis & Partners

Despite their pretty appearance – which we think would work perfectly in a home with a feminine, country style – these blackout curtains are also effective in blocking out light and protecting your space from the sun.

Style as part of a neutral scheme to add character to a space, or work into a kids room if you're after a subtly feminine feel.

• Shop the John Lewis & Partners Wisley Pair Blackout Lined Pencil Pleat Curtains at John Lewis & Partners

With their little glow in the dark stars, these blackout curtains are perfect for children’s bedrooms. Effective at blocking out early morning light and light pollution, its little stars will emit a subtle glow even in complete blackness – the perfect comforting presence for children scared of the dark. 

Part of John Lewis & Partners Little Home range, there are plenty of matching features for use throughout the rest of the scheme.

• Shop the Little Home Glow in the Dark Star Blackout Curtains at John Lewis & Partners

If you're looking for a simple blackout curtain that's guaranteed to work with almost every scheme – particularly if it's neutral – you can't go wrong with these cotton blackout curtains from Next.

Easy to put up, these curtains will instantly transform your sleep set-up, while effectively framing windows and adding a relaxed feel to your space. The 300 thread count features a stylish waffle design, for added texture, while blackout lining eliminates outside light and – to an extent – noise.

• Shop the Cotton Waffle 300 Thread Count Blackout Lined Eyelet Curtains at Next

If you're looking for blackout curtains with a little more interest, these might be for you. Geometric prints are pretty on-trend at the moment, and this option from Next allows you to make the most of this, while also benefitting from black out technology.

Whether you're looking for something bright and bold, the ochre finish might be for you. Otherwise, something in pink or grey is slightly more subtle.

• Shop the Optical Geo Jacquard Curtains at Next

While metal eyelets are sturdy in their design, these blackout curtains do allow a little light to filter through, which may or may not be enough to disturb your sleep.

Aside from that, these lightly patterned grey curtains are perfect for lifting neutral bedroom or living room spaces. Featuring a thermal blackout lining, they help to retain the heat in the winter months and block any unwanted draughts. 

• Shop the Geo Lines Blackout Curtains at Next

Want more bedroom inspiration? 

• Small bedroom decorating ideas
• How to choose bedroom furniture
• Bedroom curtain ideas