11 Best Blackout Honeycomb Shades Reviewers Recommend
The Blackout Dilemma: Style vs. Sleep
You know that moment when you walk into your bedroom, tired and ready to unwind, but the sunlight is still pouring in, making it impossible to relax? I’ve been there. I love bright, airy rooms during the day, but when it’s time to sleep or binge-watch my favorite series, I crave total darkness—without sacrificing style. Blackout honeycomb shades have become my secret weapon for balancing chic décor and actual rest.
But choosing the right one? That’s a whole other story. With endless options (seriously, there are SO many!), how do you pick a shade that looks gorgeous, blocks out light, and fits your space? So I dug deep into the YouTube reviews, trusted the pros like Blinds.com, Home Décor Visionaries, and Style Sanctuary, and tested out what real people are loving right now. Let’s dive into 11 blackout honeycomb shades that reviewers—and I—genuinely recommend.
Why Choose Blackout Honeycomb Shades?
Honeycomb shades aren’t just about blocking light; they’re about style, insulation, and versatility. Their signature cellular design traps air for better temperature control. And blackout versions use dense fabric that keeps bedrooms dark (hello, restful sleep!) while looking sleek.
What Makes a Great Blackout Shade?
Before you buy, here’s what I always consider:
- Complete blackout capability.
- Stylish design—does it fit my vibe?
- Easy operation (cordless options are a must for safety).
- Energy efficiency for savings on heating/cooling.
- Durable materials (I want shades that last!).
- Color options to match my décor.
- Size/fitting flexibility—custom sizing is a bonus.
So, if you’re on the hunt for shades that look good and actually work as promised, keep reading. Here are my top picks—each with its own personality and perks.
1. Bali Cellular Shades – Blackout
Recommended by: The Stylish Home Channel
Bali’s blackout cellular shades have been a hit with design pros on YouTube. They’re made from double-cell polyester fabric that feels soft yet substantial. You can choose from dozens of colors—think crisp whites, smoky grays, even bold navy. The honeycomb pockets block heat and cold, so your room stays comfy year-round.
I tried the 34” x 64” size in “Midnight” and loved how it melted into my window frame. The cordless lift glides up and down smoothly (no tangled cords!). These shades truly block out all light—I tested them on a sunny afternoon and my room went pitch black.
Dimensions: Custom sizes from 18” to 72” wide
Colors: 40+
Material: Double-cell polyester
Special features: Cordless lift, energy-efficient
2. Levolor Cellular Shades – LightShield Blackout
Recommended by: Blinds.com Official
Levolor’s LightShield Blackout shades are all about clean lines and precise light control. The fabric is thick with a slightly textured matte finish that looks luxe but understated—perfect for modern or minimalist rooms.
My favorite part? The top-down/bottom-up mechanism. You can adjust light and privacy exactly how you want. Reviewers rave about the “Pure White” option for a crisp look, but “Storm Cloud” is a moody gray that adds drama.
Dimensions: Custom widths up to 84”
Colors: 20+
Material: Polyester honeycomb
Special features: Top-down/bottom-up, cordless
3. Achim Home Furnishings Cordless Light Filtering & Blackout Cellular Shade
Recommended by: The Cozy Décor Channel
Achim’s blackout honeycomb shades are budget-friendly but don’t skimp on style. The cord-free design is safe for kids and pets (I never worry about dangling cords). The blackout fabric is surprisingly thick for the price, and the subtle textured pattern gives windows a tailored look.
I chose “Espresso” for my office—it’s deep brown with warmth that complements wood furniture beautifully. These shades come in common sizes like 23” x 64”, 27” x 64”, and 35” x 64”.
Dimensions: Pre-cut sizes; custom not available
Colors: White, Espresso, Gray
Material: Polyester
Special features: Cordless lift, easy install
4. Redi Shade Easy Lift Trim-at-Home Blackout Shade
Recommended by: DIY With Me
Redi Shade’s Easy Lift is genius for renters or anyone who wants instant results. You trim it to fit your window—no drills or brackets needed! The material is thick, matte-finished polyester that blocks virtually all light.
I installed these in my guest room in under ten minutes (yes, really!). They come in “White,” “Natural,” and “Gray.” My tip: Use the adhesive mount for a clean look.
Dimensions: Trim to 36” x 64”
Colors: White, Natural, Gray
Material: Polyester
Special features: No-tools install, cordless
5. Chicology Cordless Cellular Blackout Shades
Recommended by: Style Sanctuary
Chicology gets major points for their color selection—think “Morning Mist,” “Mocha,” and “Cotton White.” Their blackout shades are genuinely opaque (no weird halo of light around the edges). The honeycomb cells add dimension without being bulky.
The cordless mechanism feels sturdy and glides easily. I installed “Mocha” in my friend’s nursery; it looked soft and inviting while keeping nap times blissfully dark.
Dimensions: Custom sizes from 20” to 72” wide
Colors: 12+
Material: Polyester cellular construction
Special features: Cordless lift, thermal insulation
6. Home Decorators Collection Snow Drift Blackout Cellular Shade
Recommended by: The Modern Homemaker
Home Decorators Collection shades blend function with designer vibes. The “Snow Drift” shade is a pure white with just a hint of texture—so it looks fresh but not stark. The double-cell design keeps rooms cool in summer and warm in winter.
I found installation straightforward (the brackets click into place). These blackout shades are true to their promise—I noticed a huge difference in my sleep quality after switching from regular curtains.
Dimensions: Custom cut up to 72” wide
Colors: Snow Drift, Gray
Material: Double-cell polyester
Special features: Cordless, energy-saving
7. Symple Stuff Cordless Blackout Cellular Shade
Recommended by: Everyday Design Tips
Symple Stuff makes blackout shades that are durable and practical. The polyester fabric has a subtle herringbone pattern that adds texture without clashing with décor. I love their “Bone” color—a soft neutral that works with warm or cool palettes.
Cordless operation is buttery smooth. These shades are a favorite among reviewers for their value and reliability. Installation takes about 15 minutes (all hardware included).
Dimensions: Custom sizes from 19” to 72” wide
Colors: Bone, White, Gray
Material: Polyester
Special features: Cordless lift, easy install
8. Lumino Room Darkening Cordless Cellular Shade
Recommended by: Bright Spaces Channel
Lumino’s blackout cellular shade is designed to block out nearly all outside light—even streetlights at night! The double-cell construction offers extra insulation, which I noticed when my room stayed cooler last August.
The best part? Their “Slate Gray” is sophisticated and pairs well with industrial or mid-century décor. The cordless mechanism is whisper-quiet; no tugging or sticking.
Dimensions: Custom sizes up to 72” wide
Colors: Slate Gray, White
Material: Double-cell polyester
Special features: Cordless lift, thermal insulation
9. Allen + Roth White Blackout Cellular Shade
Recommended by: Luxe Living Channel
Allen + Roth’s honeycomb shades are known for their pristine finish and solid feel. The blackout lining is fused into the fabric so there’s no risk of peeling or flaking over time. “White” is a classic crisp option that brightens up bedrooms without letting in unwanted light.
I installed these in my master suite—the fit was perfect thanks to custom sizing options. The mounting hardware feels sturdy; the cordless lift is smooth even after months of use.
Dimensions: Custom sizes up to 72” wide
Colors: White
Material: Polyester/cellular foam blend
Special features: Cordless lift, reinforced hardware
10. Windowsandgarden Cordless Blackout Cellular Shade
Recommended by: Window Wisdom Channel
Windowsandgarden offers blackout shades with dozens of color choices—from “Light Beige” to “Dark Chocolate.” What sets these apart? The triple-cell fabric traps even more air for maximum insulation (great if your home gets drafty).
Reviewers love how easy these are to install (I had mine up in less than twenty minutes). The cordless system is reliable and safe for little ones.
Dimensions: Custom sizes up to 84” wide
Colors: Over 30 options!
Material: Triple-cell polyester
Special features: Cordless lift, extra insulation
11. iFit Cordless Blackout Cellular Shade
Recommended by: Design On Demand Channel
iFit’s blackout honeycomb shade is sleek with a smooth surface—ideal for contemporary spaces. Their “Ivory Beige” has a gentle warmth that softens any window frame. The double-cell design blocks both light and heat while looking streamlined.
I chose this shade for my reading nook because it keeps glare off my books while making the space cozy. It’s available in custom widths up to 72”, and installation was beginner-friendly.
Dimensions: Custom up to 72” wide
Colors: Ivory Beige, White
Material: Double-cell polyester
Special features: Cordless lift, energy-efficient
How I Picked These Shades: My Buying Criteria
When I shop for blackout honeycomb shades, I use these simple rules:
- True blackout fabric only! No half-measures—I want zero light leaks.
- Cordless operation for safety and style.
- Custom sizing or wide range of standard sizes.
- Solid mounting hardware (flimsy brackets are a no-go).
- Aesthetic versatility—neutral colors or rich textures that blend in or stand out as needed.
- Energy efficiency for year-round comfort (bonus if they help save on bills).
If you’re overwhelmed by choices, start with your must-haves: total darkness? Color that flatters your space? Kid-safe cordless design? Filter by those first.
Visual Appeal: Why Honeycomb Shades Win at Style
Blackout honeycomb shades aren’t just practical—they’re pretty! Their layered texture adds visual interest without cluttering the window. They suit everything from boho bedrooms (“Espresso,” anyone?) to clean Nordic kitchens (“Snow Drift”).
I love mixing them with sheer curtains for daytime softness or pairing dark shades with metallic accents for drama. Plus, they don’t hog attention—so your gallery wall or statement rug stays the star.
FAQ: Everything You Need to Know Before Buying
Do blackout honeycomb shades really block all light?
Yes—if you choose genuine blackout fabric and make sure your shade fits snugly inside the window frame. Some light might sneak around edges if the fit isn’t just right, so measure carefully!
Are cordless shades safe?
Absolutely! That’s why almost every YouTube expert recommends them for homes with kids and pets. No cords means zero choking hazard—and a sleeker look.
How do I clean honeycomb shades?
Most can be dusted with a microfiber cloth or vacuumed gently using an upholstery attachment. For stains, spot-clean with mild soap and water—but always check your manufacturer’s instructions first!
Can I install these myself?
Yes! Almost every shade on this list comes with simple mounting hardware and step-by-step instructions (many brands even offer video tutorials). If you’re handy with a drill or screwdriver, you’ll be fine.
What colors work best?
Neutrals like white, ivory, beige, and gray go with almost any décor style—but don’t be afraid to experiment with deeper tones like navy or espresso if you want more drama!
Are blackout shades energy-efficient?
Definitely! The honeycomb structure traps air, helping insulate windows against heat in summer and cold in winter—which can lower your energy bills.
What To Look For When Shopping: Quick Guide
- Measure Twice (Order Once): Use a steel tape measure; measure width at three points (top/middle/bottom) and use the smallest number.
- Inside vs Outside Mounts: Inside mounts look streamlined; outside mounts cover more area if you need extra darkness.
- Cordless Is King: It’s safer AND looks tidier.
- Cell Size Matters: Double or triple cell designs offer more insulation.
- Check Return Policy: In case sizing isn’t perfect!
- Color Swatches Help: Order samples if you’re unsure about matching tones.
- Read Reviews & Watch Demos: YouTube channels often show real-life installs so you know what to expect.
My Final Thoughts: Finding Your Perfect Shade
If you’re dreaming of blackout bliss without giving up style, these honeycomb shades are honestly worth every penny. Each one brings something special—whether it’s budget-friendly installation (Redi Shade), designer finishes (Allen + Roth), or extra insulation (Windowsandgarden).
I always recommend starting with what matters most to you: total darkness for sleep? Child-proof safety? A color that flatters your furniture? Trust your gut—and let these YouTuber-approved picks guide you toward gorgeous windows AND peaceful nights.
Happy decorating!