8 Best Blackout Side-slat Blinds Reviewers Praise

The Luxe Life: Why Blackout Side-Slat Blinds Are a Game-Changer

When I think about creating a space that oozes luxury, comfort, and a sense of sanctuary, window treatments are always at the top of my list. Let’s face it—nothing says “high-end” quite like a room where you control every drop of sunlight and maintain total privacy. That’s why I’m obsessed with blackout side-slat blinds. These aren’t just functional; they’re the secret weapon for anyone who wants their home to look stunning and feel peaceful.

I’ve scoured YouTube for the best recommendations from design pros like House & Home, Lone Fox, and The DIY Mommy. Their advice? Side-slat blackout blinds are the ultimate blend of style and practicality. Whether you’re fighting glare in your living room or craving those hotel-level sleep vibes in your bedroom, these are the products reviewers (and I) can’t stop raving about.

1. Levolor Trim+Go Room Darkening Vinyl Blind

The YouTube Buzz

If you watch Lone Fox or The DIY Mommy, you’ll see Levolor pop up again and again. These blinds are a staple for folks who want customizable options without losing the blackout effect.

Why I Love Them

Material: Durable vinyl slats—easy to clean and resistant to humidity (perfect for kitchens!)
Color: Classic white, alabaster, and slate gray
Sizes: Available from 20” to 72” wide, up to 72” long
Features: Cordless lift system (so safe for kids and pets) and room-darkening side slats that block out almost all light

The cordless feature is a life-saver for clutter-free spaces. They glide up and down with just a gentle push. In my guestroom, the crisp white blends perfectly with soft beige walls, creating that “boutique hotel” feel.

Personal Tip: If you have wide windows, try layering them with sheer curtains for daytime softness.

2. Bali Customiser Blackout Faux Wood Blinds

Recommended by House & Home YouTube Channel

Bali’s faux wood blackout blinds come up in almost every “window treatments for modern homes” video. They’re the go-to for design lovers who want wood texture without the high maintenance.

Standout Features

Material: Premium PVC faux wood with embossed wood grain
Colors: Espresso, Snow White, and Warm Maple
Dimensions: Custom widths up to 96” and lengths up to 84”
Blackout Level: Side-slat design with overlapping edges—virtually no light peeks through

I installed these in my living room last winter. The espresso finish adds such a rich contrast against pale walls and velvet sofas. Plus, faux wood is moisture-proof—great for busy family rooms or bathrooms.

Why You’ll Love Them: They pair perfectly with transitional or farmhouse decor styles, giving that “expensive but approachable” vibe.

3. Achim Home Furnishings Cordless Blackout Side-Slat Blinds

As Seen on The DIY Mommy

Achim blinds are often featured in “budget-friendly makeover” videos because they deliver blackout performance without breaking the bank.

Details You Need

Material: Vinyl slats with thick blackout coating
Colors: Pearl White, Mocha Brown
Sizes: Ranges from 23” to 72” wide; 64” long
Design: Cordless lift with hidden brackets for a sleek finish

I tried these in my daughter’s nursery, and they made naptime so much easier. No more stray beams of sunlight waking her up! The mocha brown is warm but neutral—ideal for soft pastel palettes.

Style Tip: Add a decorative valance for a designer touch.

4. Home Decorators Collection 2.5 in. Cordless Blackout Composite Blind

Endorsed by The Sorry Girls (YouTube)

This is the blind I recommend if you want maximum blackout plus bold style. The Sorry Girls used it in their “Rental Apartment Glow-Up” series, and I was hooked.

What Stands Out

Material: Composite wood with textured finish
Colors: Snow Drift White, Ash Gray
Dimensions: Widths from 22” to 72”, lengths up to 72”
Key Feature: 2.5-inch side slats for extra darkness and privacy

I love how these blinds feel substantial—not flimsy at all. The thick slats overlap tightly at the sides, so even city lights stay outside at night. Snow Drift White creates a crisp backdrop for my emerald green accent wall.

Buying Advice: Measure your window width carefully! These are heavy-duty and need solid mounting.

5. Chicology Cordless 2-Inch Vinyl Mini Blinds

Praised by Daniel Kanter (Manhattan Nest YouTube)

Daniel’s channel is all about small-space magic, and Chicology’s blackout blinds get his stamp of approval for apartments and studios.

Features That Wow

Material: Vinyl mini-slats with UV-blocking finish
Colors: Gloss White, Taupe Beige
Sizes: Widths from 24” to 72”; standard length 64”
Highlights: Cordless lift and extra-tight side rails

I put these in my kitchen window where afternoon sun used to pour in. Now, I get full privacy while cooking, and the taupe beige makes my subway tile backsplash pop.

Pro Tip: For rentals, these are easy to install and remove without damaging walls—landlords love them!

6. Veneta Classic Blackout Horizontal Blinds

The Favorite of Living Big With Less (YouTube)

Veneta’s blinds are beloved by minimalist decorators who want less fuss but still crave darkness and style.

All the Details

Material: Aluminum slats with matte finish
Colors: Satin Silver, Charcoal Black
Sizes: Customizable widths up to 84”, lengths up to 72”
Feature: Side-slat attachment clips that seal out light

I chose the charcoal black for my home office—instant sophistication! Aluminum feels cool to the touch and is super easy to wipe clean (goodbye dust!).

Why These Work: Ideal if you love an industrial or contemporary look.

7. Project Source Cordless Vinyl Room Darkening Blinds

Reviewed by DIY Creators (YouTube)

Project Source side-slat blinds come up in “one-day makeover” videos because they’re quick to install and budget-friendly.

What Makes Them Special

Material: Lightweight vinyl
Colors: Pure White, Soft Gray
Dimensions: Widths up to 72”, lengths up to 64”
Design Perk: Updated cordless mechanism + blackout side channels

I used these in my laundry room where privacy is key but style matters too. The pure white makes my patterned wallpaper pop—so fresh!

Buying Tip: These work best for medium-sized windows; check your measurements before ordering.

8. Allen + Roth Blackout Faux Wood Blinds

Recommended by Mr. Kate (YouTube)

Mr. Kate’s channel is all about creative home transformations, and she swears by Allen + Roth’s blackout blinds for dramatic room makeovers.

Luxe Features

Material: Faux wood with embossed grain texture
Colors: Walnut Brown, Snow White
Sizes: Up to 72” wide; up to 72” long
Blackout Value: Side slat design hugs the window frame for no-light gaps

The walnut brown instantly elevates any space—I used them in my master bedroom for a moody, grown-up vibe. They’re thick enough to block out streetlights at night.

Style Advice: Match the color to your floor or trim for a cohesive look.

What Makes Side-Slat Blackout Blinds So Special?

I get asked all the time: Why side-slat? Here’s what makes them stand out:

Total Darkness: Side-slats seal off those sneaky gaps where light usually leaks in.
Privacy: Perfect if you live near neighbors or on a busy street.
Clean Lines: No messy cords or chains hanging down.
Safe for Kids/Pets: Cordless designs mean peace of mind.
Easy Maintenance: Most are wipe-clean—no more lugging curtains to the dry cleaner!

They’re not just practical; they’re also stylish enough for Pinterest-worthy bedrooms or Instagram-ready living rooms.

How To Choose Your Perfect Blackout Side-Slat Blind

Here’s what I look for before buying:

Material Quality
Faux wood or vinyl slats are durable and moisture-resistant—ideal for kitchens or bathrooms.
Blackout Performance
Check that side-slats overlap tightly with the window frame.
Cordless Operation
Safer and cleaner looking!
Color & Texture
Match your blinds to wall colors or accents for harmony.
Ease of Installation
Most come with simple mounting brackets; look for easy-to-follow instructions.
Price Point
Decide if you want premium style or budget-friendly function—there’s something for every wallet.

What To Look For: FAQs & Buying Guide

Q: Do blackout side-slat blinds really block all light?

A: If installed correctly, yes! Especially models with overlapping side channels like Allen + Roth or Bali—no annoying streaks of light at sunrise.

Q: Are faux wood blinds better than real wood?

A: For most rooms, yes. Faux wood resists warping in humidity and is easier to clean. Real wood looks luxe but needs more care.

Q: Can I install these myself?

A: Absolutely! Most come with simple step-by-step guides. I recommend measuring twice before drilling any holes—trust me on this one.

Q: Which colors are most versatile?

A: White or soft gray work everywhere. For drama or warmth, try walnut brown or espresso.

Q: How do I clean blackout blinds?

A: Just use a microfiber cloth or gentle cleaning spray—no soaking required!

Q: Will these fit my oddly-sized windows?

A: Many brands offer custom sizes (Bali and Veneta are top picks). Always check width/length options before ordering.

Value Propositions: Why These Brands Stand Out

Each of these brands brings something special:

Levolor: Best customization options
Bali: Luxe wood look without upkeep
Achim: Budget-friendly blackout performance
Home Decorators Collection: Heavy-duty style
Chicology: Perfect for apartments/rentals
Veneta: Minimalist chic
Project Source: Quick-install value
Allen + Roth: Designer-grade finishes

And let’s be real—your windows deserve more than just basic shades!

My Final Thoughts

Investing in blackout side-slat blinds isn’t just about blocking sunlight—it’s about creating a beautiful, functional home you love waking up in every day. After trying each of these in different rooms (and watching countless YouTube reviews from design experts), I can tell you they really do make a difference in how your space looks and feels.

Whether you crave total darkness for deep sleep or want your decor to shine day and night, there’s an option here that fits your style and budget. Ready to transform your home? Go ahead—your windows will thank you!