Blackout Curtains vs Thermal Curtains: Which Do You Actually Need?
These two get confused a lot, and it’s understandable – both are sold as “practical” curtains, both often look similar on a product page, and many are sold under both labels at once. But they do different things, and knowing which one you need saves you buying the wrong pair.
What blackout curtains actually do
Blackout curtains block light. A proper blackout curtain uses a tightly woven fabric – often with a special lining or coating – that prevents light from passing through. A good one will block 99% or more of incoming light, turning a bright room dark even in the middle of a sunny afternoon. They’re most commonly used in bedrooms, children’s rooms, and home cinemas.
What thermal curtains actually do
Thermal curtains insulate. They’re typically lined with a thicker, often acrylic or fleece-backed material that traps air between the curtain and the window, reducing heat loss. Some estimates suggest thermal curtains can reduce heat loss through windows by up to 25% – a meaningful saving on heating bills in a draughty room.
| Blackout Curtains | Thermal Curtains | |
| Blocks light | Yes – 99%+ | Not necessarily |
| Insulates against heat loss | Not necessarily | Yes |
| Works in summer | Keeps room dark | Helps keep room cool |
| Best for | Bedrooms, nurseries, shift workers | Draughty rooms, energy saving |
Can you get both?
Yes – and this is where Ooble’s range is worth knowing about. Some curtains are designed to be both blackout and thermally lined. Our Ambiance range does exactly this – blackout and thermal in one curtain, available in several colours.
At Ooble, we stock blackout curtains and combined blackout-thermal options at prices that make the switch an easy decision. Browse the curtains range.