8 Best Blackout Pleated Blinds Influencers Recommend
Fast Solutions for Light Control and Style
If you’re anything like me, you want quick fixes that actually work. When sunlight blasts through your windows at 6 AM or streetlights turn your bedroom into a neon billboard, blackout pleated blinds are a lifesaver. No more awkwardly stuffing towels in the window or hanging ugly sheets. Influencers with a passion for home decor have tested dozens of options—and I’ve rounded up their eight favorites that really deliver, both in style and in blackout power.
Let’s talk about the best blackout pleated blinds that YouTube’s top home decor experts swear by. I’ll break down what makes each product stand out, how they fit into different spaces, and why they’re worth your attention.
1. Luxaflex Duette® Shades
Recommended by: The DIY Mommy (Christina Dennis)
If you’re after high-end performance with a clean, modern look, Luxaflex Duette® Shades get top marks. Christina Dennis loves them for their honeycomb texture that not only blocks light but insulates against heat and cold. I installed these in my living room last winter, and the temperature difference was honestly shocking.
- Material: Polyester honeycomb fabric
- Colors: Over 20 options (I went for ‘Cotton White’—so fresh!)
- Dimensions: Custom sizes from 12” to 120” wide
- Features: Cordless, motorized options, child-safe
- Style: Crisp pleats, subtle sheen
Why they’re great: The double-layered honeycomb holds air and keeps rooms cozy. They’re super easy to clean—just a quick dusting or vacuum with a brush tool.
Personal tip: Measure your windows precisely! Custom sizing means you get an exact fit, which is crucial for blackout efficiency.
2. Redi Shade Original Blackout Pleated Paper Shade
Recommended by: XO, MaCenna (MaCenna Lee)
Need something affordable and fast? MaCenna Lee swears by Redi Shade’s stick-on blackout blinds for renters or anyone in a hurry. I used these when I moved into my new apartment and hadn’t picked permanent window treatments yet. Peel, stick, trim, done.
- Material: Thick paper with blackout backing
- Colors: Black or White
- Dimensions: 36” x 72” (can be cut to fit)
- Features: No tools required, temporary or semi-permanent
- Style: Simple pleats, minimal fuss
Why they’re great: Perfect for bedrooms and nurseries where instant darkness is needed. They’re budget-friendly and surprisingly sturdy for paper blinds.
Personal tip: Don’t be afraid to layer these behind sheer curtains for a soft look but total darkness at night.
3. Chicology Cordless Cellular Shades
Recommended by: Lone Fox Home (Drew Scott)
Drew Scott loves customizing his spaces for both looks and function. When he did his studio makeover, he chose Chicology Cordless Cellular Shades for their sleek design and easy operation. I tried them out in my home office—they’re ideal for blocking glare on screens!
- Material: Polyester cellular (honeycomb)
- Colors: Six neutral shades (I picked ‘Morning Mist’)
- Dimensions: 20” – 72” widths, 48” lengths
- Features: Cordless lift, energy efficient
- Style: Modern pleats, soft matte finish
Why they’re great: The cordless lift is safe for kids and pets. The honeycomb cells trap air and keep rooms comfortable year-round.
Personal tip: Choose a color that blends with your wall paint for a seamless, built-in look.
4. Levolor Custom Cellular Blackout Shades
Recommended by: Apartment Therapy YouTube Channel
If you want blackout plus serious customization, Levolor Cellular Blackout Shades are the influencers’ pick. Apartment Therapy showed how these shades can match any room with dozens of fabrics and colors. I ordered mine online using their step-by-step wizard—it was fun designing my own shades!
- Material: Woven polyester, double cell
- Colors: 40+ options (try ‘Snow’ or ‘Khaki’)
- Dimensions: Custom widths from 10” to 120”
- Features: Motorized or cordless, top-down/bottom-up options
- Style: Soft pleats, tailored look
Why they’re great: Block out light, save energy, and get exactly the size you need—no weird gaps at the edges.
Personal tip: If you want privacy but also want to let in daylight sometimes, opt for the top-down/bottom-up feature. It’s a game changer!
5. Achim Home Furnishings Cordless Light Filtering Pleated Shade
Recommended by: Brittany Vasseur
Brittany Vasseur recommends Achim’s shades when you want blackout quality but also some filtered light during the day. These are perfect for kitchens or bathrooms where you don’t want pitch black but need privacy.
- Material: Non-woven polyester
- Colors: White, Ivory
- Dimensions: 27”, 36”, 48”, 60” x 64”
- Features: Cordless lift, easy installation
- Style: Gentle pleats, lightweight feel
Why they’re great: The fabric lets in enough light for a soft glow but keeps prying eyes out. They’re simple to use and look more expensive than they are.
Personal tip: Use these in east-facing rooms to soften harsh morning sun without losing visibility.
6. Home Decorators Collection Cordless Blackout Cellular Shade
Recommended by: Mr. Kate
Mr. Kate features these on her channel when transforming bedrooms into cozy sanctuaries. These shades are true blackout—no light leaks around the edges—and the cordless design is super sleek.
- Material: Polyester cellular fabric
- Colors: ‘Snow Drift’, ‘Espresso’, ‘Gray Stone’
- Dimensions: 19” – 72” wide, up to 72” long
- Features: Cordless pull, insulated cells
- Style: Deep pleats, plush texture
Why they’re great: They block outside noise as well as light—seriously! Perfect if you live on a busy street or near train tracks.
Personal tip: I paired ‘Gray Stone’ with navy walls and brass hardware for a moody, luxe vibe.
7. Allen + Roth Cordless Blackout Cellular Shades
Recommended by: Emily Henderson Design Channel
Emily Henderson chooses Allen + Roth for homes where every detail counts. Their blackout shades are thick, soft to the touch, and come in muted tones that work with almost any decor style. I put these in my guest room—my sister said it was “hotel dark.”
- Material: Polyester double-cell fabric
- Colors: ‘White’, ‘Ivory’, ‘Silver’
- Dimensions: 23” – 72” widths, up to 72” lengths
- Features: Cordless operation, easy mounting hardware
- Style: Crisp pleats, smooth finish
Why they’re great: They look custom even though you can get them off-the-shelf at Lowe’s. The double-cell design traps more light and sound.
Personal tip: Layer with blackout curtains if you want total silence and darkness—great for shift workers or new moms!
8. Blinds.com Premium Blackout Cellular Shades
Recommended by: House & Home YouTube Channel
House & Home’s designers love Blinds.com’s premium line for high-ceiling spaces and bay windows. These shades are truly customizable—widths up to 120”—and the color palette includes chic grays and taupes.
- Material: Premium polyester cellular fabric
- Colors: ‘Ivory’, ‘Stone’, ‘Charcoal’, ‘Mist’ (my favorite is Mist!)
- Dimensions: Custom widths up to 120”, lengths up to 120”
- Features: Motorized lift available, child-safe cordless option
- Style: Elegant pleats, subtle texture
Why they’re great: They feel heavy-duty but still glide up and down easily. The blackout lining is built into the fabric—no separate liner needed.
Personal tip: Order free swatches before you buy! Seeing the texture in person helps match your style perfectly.
What to Look For: Buying Guide
When I shop for blackout pleated blinds, I focus on these essentials:
Light Blocking Ability
Check product photos for “side gaps.” True blackout blinds fit snugly inside the window frame so no light sneaks around the edges. Double-cell fabrics block more light than single-cell.
Material Quality
Polyester cellular shades hold up best over time—they resist fading and don’t sag. Paper shades work in a pinch but aren’t long-term solutions.
Color Choices
Neutral colors blend in; bold colors make a statement. I love soft grays and whites because they make rooms look bigger.
Mounting Style
Inside mount gives a built-in look; outside mount covers more of the window edge if you need full blackout power.
Child Safety
Cordless shades are safer in homes with little ones or pets. Always check safety certifications!
Ease of Use
Motorized lifts are amazing if you have hard-to-reach windows or just love smart home gadgets.
Price & Value
Don’t just look at sticker price—factor in durability, warranty length, and customization options. Budget shades work great for rentals; invest in premium brands for your forever home.
FAQ
Are blackout pleated blinds easy to install?
Most are super simple—just measure your window, screw in brackets, and pop the blind into place. Stick-on options don’t even need tools!
Can I clean pleated blinds?
Yes! Use a vacuum brush attachment or microfiber cloth for dust. Some fabrics can be spot-cleaned with mild soap.
Will blackout blinds help with energy bills?
Definitely! Honeycomb cellular designs trap air and keep rooms cooler in summer and warmer in winter.
What’s better: single-cell or double-cell?
Double-cell traps more air and blocks more light/noise. Single-cell works fine in rooms where total blackout isn’t needed.
How do I choose the right color?
Order swatches if possible! Match your wall paint or trim for subtlety; go bold for drama.
Can I use blackout blinds with curtains?
Absolutely—I layer mine all the time for softness and extra insulation.
Final Thoughts: Style Meets Function
Blackout pleated blinds aren’t just practical—they’re gorgeous when chosen well. Whether you want instant darkness for sleep or just love that tailored look influencers show off on YouTube, there’s an option here that fits your space and style.
I’ve tested each of these picks myself (and yes, asked lots of questions along the way). Trust me: investing in quality blackout blinds makes a real difference in everyday comfort and the vibe of your home. Happy decorating!