What Types of Window Coverings Can You Use in the Nursery

Different window coverings suit different needs and nursery setups:

Block-out Blinds

Adhesive block-out blinds stick directly to windows using static. This means no drilling, screws, or damage to walls. Perfect for renters or temporary setups. Cut to size for any window shape, and they're reusable and travel-friendly for holidays or visits to grandparents. The black side blocks light completely while the white side reflects heat, helping regulate room temperature.

Nursery Curtains

Traditional fabric curtains add softness and style to nurseries while blocking light. Choose thick, lined curtains for maximum darkness. Critical safety note: avoid curtains with accessible cords, dangling cords pose serious strangulation risks. Cordless options or those with inaccessible cord systems are essential for nursery safety.

Day & Night / Layered Options

Combine sheer curtains for daytime privacy with block-out blinds or heavy curtains for sleep times. Gives flexibility to control light levels throughout the day while creating a dark environment when needed for naps or early bedtimes.

Why Choose Block-out Blinds & Curtains for the Nursery?

Dark sleep environments generally help babies sleep better and longer:

• Improved sleep environment – From around 3-4 months, babies start producing melatonin. This is the sleep hormone that creates drowsiness. Sunlight suppresses melatonin production, which is why bright rooms may keep babies awake even when they're tired. Darkness triggers melatonin release, helping babies fall asleep and stay asleep. Have a look here for more tips on baby's sleep cycles.

• Light control for daytime naps – Babies often benefit from darkness for daytime naps too, not just nighttime sleep. Without block-out blinds, well-lit rooms may containdistractions and suppress the melatonin needed for quality naps.

• Temperature regulation – Block-out materials reflect heat in summer and insulate in winter, keeping nurseries more comfortable all year-round.

• Consistent sleep cues – Darkness becomes part of the sleep routine, signaling sleep time regardless of season, especially crucial in summer when it's still bright at 7pm.

For other tips and tricks on nailing the sleep situation, have a read of our sleep essentials.

What Key Features Should You Look For

Consider these factors when choosing nursery window coverings:

• Fabric opacity / blackout level – True block-out materials eliminate 99%+ of light. Test by holding fabric up to bright light (you shouldn't be able to see through it).

• Thermal and noise-reducing properties – Thicker fabrics and multiple layers provide better insulation and sound dampening than single-layer options.

• Safety-first design – No accessible cords, chains, or loops. Cordless designs or inaccessible cord mechanisms only. This is non-negotiable for nursery safety.

• Easy installation options – Adhesive blinds require no tools or wall damage. Traditional curtains need secure mounting and ensure the rods are properly anchored.

• Portability for travel – Adhesive block-out sheets pack easily for holidays, ensuring familiar dark sleep environments wherever you go.

• Easy cleaning – Wipeable blind materials or machine-washable curtain fabrics handle dust and inevitable nursery mishaps.

The Final Word

Will block-out blinds guarantee your baby sleeps through the night? No, sorry nothing can promise that miracle. But they help create optimal conditions for sleep by eliminating light disruptions, helping establish consistent sleep cues, and giving you control over the nursery environment.