How do you make a bedroom feel dark during the day?

To make a bedroom feel darker during the day, the biggest wins usually come from blocking window light and sealing the small gaps around the room.

1. Upgrade window treatments

• Blackout curtains with a wrap-around or return rod: Standard curtain setups can leave gaps at the sides, which lets in light. A rod that curves back toward the wall can help the curtain sit flatter and reduce those side leaks.
• Blackout cellular shades with side tracks: These fit tightly in the window opening, and side tracks can further reduce light leaking around the edges.
• Blackout window film: A static-cling or adhesive film can help if you want a simpler or temporary option, but results vary by product. It may reduce daylight a lot, but it usually won’t make a room perfectly black.

2. Seal light leaks

• Add edge seals or Velcro strips: If there are gaps around curtains, sealing the sides can reduce stray light.
• Use a door sweep or draft stopper: Light often comes in under the bedroom door, especially from a bright hallway.

3. Reduce internal light sources

• Cover LED indicators: Tiny lights from chargers, power strips, and appliances can be surprisingly noticeable in a dark room.
• Move reflective surfaces: Mirrors and glossy furniture can bounce light around the room, so repositioning them can help.

4. Use an eye mask if needed

• If you want near-total darkness for sleep, a well-fitting contoured sleep mask is often the fastest fix.

Extra note

If you use any type of window film, check the manufacturer’s guidance for your window type, especially on double-pane or low-E glass, because some films can trap heat and may not be recommended for every window. Exact compatibility can vary by product and window, so it’s worth checking the official product instructions.