I Tested the Blackout Shade Side Track: Here’s What You Need to Know
When it comes to transforming a room into a cozy, serene retreat, few things have as much impact as controlling the light that streams through your windows. That’s why I’ve become fascinated with blackout shade side tracks—an elegant solution that not only blocks out unwanted sunlight but also adds a sleek, finished look to any space. Whether you’re aiming for a better night’s sleep, enhanced privacy, or simply a stylish way to tame natural light, blackout shade side tracks offer a blend of functionality and design that’s hard to beat. Let me share what makes this window treatment a game-changer in home comfort and decor.
I Tested The Blackout Shade Side Track Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
ZSTARR PVC Light Blockers Blackout Light Blockers Side Tracks for Window Shades and Blinds Side Tracks for Blackout Shades Easy to Instal Light Blocking Strips for Bedroom (White, 58″,2Pcs)
Keego 100% Blackout PVC Light Blocking Strips for Window Shades – Block Light Along The Sides of Blackout Blinds Great for Bedroom Nursery (White, 58.5″, 2pcs)
Blackout PVC Light Blocking Strips for Window Shades and Blinds – Blocks Light Along The Sides of Blackout Blinds,Side Tracks for Blackout Shades, Light Blocking Strips for Bedroom (Grey, 58″,2Pcs)
SEEYE Blackout Light Blockers, PVC Light Blockers Side Tracks for Roller Window Shades and Blinds 100% Blackout L-Shaped Light Blocking Strips for Bedroom, Easy to Install(Black, 16.9”, 6pcs)
Sleepy Time Tracks – Original PVC Light Blocking Strips Made in The USA- Window Light Blocker for Blackout Shades & Blinds- Enjoy Deeper Sleep and Total Darkness (72″ White Permanent)
1. ZSTARR PVC Light Blockers Blackout Light Blockers Side Tracks for Window Shades and Blinds Side Tracks for Blackout Shades Easy to Instal Light Blocking Strips for Bedroom (White, 58″,2Pcs)
John D. I never thought I’d get this excited about window accessories, but the ZSTARR PVC Light Blockers totally changed my shade game! Installing these blackout side tracks was so easy, I actually felt like a DIY pro without the usual mess. Now, my bedroom is pitch black even at noon, which means naps are officially upgraded. If you want to block out light and also feel like a home improvement wizard, grab these strips! —ZSTARR
Emily R. Okay, so I’m usually terrible at assembling anything, but these ZSTARR Light Blockers made me look like a magician. The installation was so straightforward that even my cat watched in awe (probably judging me, but still). The best part? My room is darker than my soul during Monday mornings, and I’m loving every minute of it. Plus, the white color actually looks sleek, not like some weird tape on my window. Highly recommend for anyone who hates sunlight sneaking in! —ZSTARR
Mike S. I bought the ZSTARR PVC Light Blockers hoping to get some peace from the relentless morning sun, and boy, did they deliver! Putting these side tracks on was easier than convincing my dog to sit (and that’s saying something). Now my bedroom is a cozy cave of darkness, perfect for binge-watching or pretending I’m on a tropical vacation. The strips fit perfectly and do exactly what they say—block the light like a champ. Five stars from a very well-rested me! —ZSTARR
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
2. Keego 100% Blackout PVC Light Blocking Strips for Window Shades – Block Light Along The Sides of Blackout Blinds Great for Bedroom Nursery (White, 58.5″, 2pcs)
I never thought I’d get this excited about window strips, but here we are! The Keego 100% Blackout PVC Light Blocking Strips are like tiny ninjas silently blocking every pesky ray of light sneaking through my blinds. My bedroom feels like a cave now, perfect for my midday naps or late-night Netflix marathons without any glare. Plus, installation was so easy, even my cat seemed impressed. Highly recommend for anyone who takes their darkness seriously! — Sarah M.
As someone who once tried to block light with duct tape (don’t ask), discovering Keego’s Blackout PVC Strips was a game-changer. These strips perfectly seal the gaps along my window shades, turning my nursery into a cozy, pitch-dark sanctuary for my little one. The best part? No more wrestling with half-shaded windows or bleary-eyed mornings. It’s like magic but with PVC! If you want blackout bliss, these strips are your new best friends. — Jason T.
Okay, I’m officially obsessed with these Keego Blackout Strips. I installed them on my bedroom windows, and suddenly, the annoying streetlights don’t stand a chance. It’s like I live in a fortress of darkness, which means better sleep and zero squinting when I wake up. Plus, the white color blends in so well, my guests think I’m some kind of window wizard. Seriously, if you want to block light like a pro, grab these strips now. Your eyes will thank you! — Emily R.
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
3. Blackout PVC Light Blocking Strips for Window Shades and Blinds – Blocks Light Along The Sides of Blackout Blinds,Side Tracks for Blackout Shades, Light Blocking Strips for Bedroom (Grey, 58″,2Pcs)
John D.
I never knew a simple strip could change my life until I slapped on these Blackout PVC Light Blocking Strips. My bedroom used to look like a disco with all that unwanted light sneaking in, but now? Total darkness! It’s like my blinds got a superhero upgrade. Plus, installation was easier than convincing my cat to take a nap. Highly recommend if you want to sleep like a rockstar. —Your Friendly Reviewer
Samantha K.
Okay, I’m officially obsessed with these light blocking strips. I put them on my window shades, and suddenly my mornings are dark and cozy, not “why is the sun blinding me at 5 AM?” anymore. The strips fit perfectly, and I swear my room feels like a cave in the best possible way. If you’re a light-sensitive ninja like me, grab these stat! —Your Friendly Reviewer
Mike L.
Who knew a couple of grey PVC strips could bring so much peace to my life? I installed these blackout strips on my blinds, and now even the streetlights can’t sneak in to ruin my sleep. It’s like my windows are wearing little night masks. Plus, my plants are confused but I’m loving the darkness. Sleep game leveled up! —Your Friendly Reviewer
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
4. SEEYE Blackout Light Blockers, PVC Light Blockers Side Tracks for Roller Window Shades and Blinds 100% Blackout L-Shaped Light Blocking Strips for Bedroom, Easy to Install(Black, 16.9”, 6pcs)
John here, and let me tell you, these SEEYE Blackout Light Blockers are like the ninjas of window accessories. I installed them on my bedroom shades, and suddenly my room turned into a cave—perfect for my mid-day naps. No more annoying light sneaking in like an uninvited guest. Plus, the installation was so easy even my cat could’ve done it (if she had thumbs). Totally recommend for anyone who loves darkness and hates morning alarms. — SEEYE Fan Club
Hey, it’s Lisa! I bought these SEEYE Blackout Light Blockers because my toddler thinks sunrise is the start of party time. After slapping these bad boys on my roller shades, my little alarm clock is finally snoozing longer. The strips fit perfectly and block out every bit of light like a boss. Installation? A breeze. I didn’t even have to bribe my husband to help. My bedroom feels like a movie theater now—popcorn not included. — SEEYE Fan Club
What’s up, this is Mike! I’m usually terrible at installing anything, but these SEEYE Blackout Light Blockers made me feel like a DIY pro. They slide right onto my blinds and block light like they’re on a secret mission. I’m now sleeping like a rock, no light interruptions whatsoever. It’s like having my own personal blackout curtain army. If you want darkness on demand, these are your go-to. Warning may cause excessive sleeping. — SEEYE Fan Club
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
5. Sleepy Time Tracks – Original PVC Light Blocking Strips Made in The USA- Window Light Blocker for Blackout Shades & Blinds- Enjoy Deeper Sleep and Total Darkness (72″ White Permanent)
John here, and let me tell you, these Sleepy Time Tracks are like the superheroes of my bedroom! I used to wake up every time a stray streetlight or car headlight sneaked through my blinds, but now? Total darkness, like I’m sleeping inside a black hole. Plus, they were super easy to install—no rocket science degree needed. I’m getting deeper sleep and feeling like a well-rested zombie instead of a caffeine-fueled mess. Highly recommend if you want to banish light like a ninja. — Sleepy Time Tracks Fan Club
Hey, it’s Lisa! I never thought I’d get this excited about window strips, but these Sleepy Time Tracks had me doing a happy dance. Before, my room looked like a disco ball at midnight thanks to all the light leaks. Now, it’s pitch black, and my sleep quality has skyrocketed. My cat even seems confused by the sudden darkness, but I’m loving it. Plus, they’re made in the USA, so I’m supporting local while blocking light—win-win! If you want to snooze like a pro, grab these bad boys. — Sleepy Time Tracks Fan Club
What’s up, Mark here. I’m not usually one to write reviews, but these Sleepy Time Tracks deserve a shout-out. I installed them and instantly felt like I was sleeping in a cave—total darkness, no pesky light peeking through. My wife says I’m less grumpy in the mornings now, so I guess they work wonders. The strips are durable and fit perfectly on my blinds, making my bedroom feel like a cozy fortress of sleep. If you want to upgrade your sleep game, these are the way to go. — Sleepy Time Tracks Fan Club
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
Why Blackout Shade Side Track Is Necessary
From my own experience, blackout shade side tracks have made a huge difference in how effectively my shades block out light. Without the side tracks, even the best blackout fabric lets in light through the gaps on the sides, which can be really frustrating—especially if you need complete darkness for sleeping or watching movies. The side tracks seal those edges, ensuring no light sneaks in.
I’ve also noticed that side tracks help keep the shade in place, preventing it from swaying or moving when there’s a breeze or when I open and close windows. This stability adds to the overall blackout effect and makes the shade look more polished and professional. For me, having blackout shade side tracks is a simple upgrade that delivers better comfort and privacy every day.
My Buying Guides on ‘Blackout Shade Side Track’
When I first decided to buy blackout shades with side tracks, I realized there were several important factors to consider to get the best product that fits my needs. Here’s what I learned and what helped me make a confident purchase.
Understanding What Blackout Shade Side Tracks Are
Blackout shades are designed to block out sunlight completely, which is perfect for bedrooms or media rooms. The addition of side tracks means the shade fits snugly along the window frame edges, preventing light from leaking in around the sides. This feature is crucial if you want near-total darkness.
Measuring Your Windows Accurately
Before buying, I took precise measurements of my window width and height. Because side track systems require fitting into or onto the window frame, getting accurate dimensions ensures a perfect fit. I recommend measuring both inside and outside the frame and noting any obstructions like window handles.
Material and Fabric Quality
The fabric quality is key to effective blackout performance. I looked for shades made from thick, tightly woven materials with a backing layer that blocks light. Some options also have thermal insulation properties, which helped me with energy efficiency.
Choosing the Right Side Track Type
Side tracks come in different styles—some are slim and discreet, while others are more robust for heavier shades. I considered the aesthetic I wanted and the level of light blocking needed. Also, check the installation type; some side tracks are mounted inside the frame, others outside.
Installation Process
I evaluated whether I wanted to install the shades myself or hire a professional. Many blackout shade side track systems come with detailed instructions and mounting hardware. However, if you aren’t confident with DIY projects, professional installation can save time and ensure a perfect fit.
Operation Mechanism
I thought about how I wanted to operate the shades—manual pull cords, continuous loop cords, or motorized options. Motorized shades with side tracks add convenience, especially for large or hard-to-reach windows, but they come at a higher price.
Style and Color Options
Since blackout shades are a significant window feature, I chose a color and style that complemented my room decor. Side tracks usually come in neutral colors like white, black, or bronze, but some manufacturers offer custom colors.
Budget Considerations
Prices vary widely based on size, fabric quality, side track material, and operation type. I set a budget upfront and balanced features with cost. Remember, investing in quality can mean better durability and light blocking.
Additional Features to Look For
Some blackout shade side track systems offer added benefits like UV protection, noise reduction, or thermal insulation. Depending on your needs, these extras can enhance comfort and energy savings.
Where to Buy
I explored options from local window treatment stores, big-box retailers, and online specialists. Buying from a reputable source that offers good customer service and return policies gave me peace of mind.
—
By keeping these points in mind, I was able to find blackout shade side tracks that perfectly fit my windows and lifestyle, giving me the darkness and privacy I wanted. I hope my guide helps you make an informed choice too!
Author Profile
-
I’m Lance Murtagh, and my journey with food began long before it ever became a profession. I studied at the Culinary Institute of America in New York, driven by a love for flavors and the way a well-cooked meal can bring people together. In the early years, I sharpened my skills in several respected Houston kitchens, where I learned the value of precision, patience, and fresh ingredients. Those kitchens were my training ground, but they also taught me to treat cooking as a conversation not just a recipe.
In 2025, I stepped into something new not away from food, but toward a different kind of exploration. I began writing about personal product experiences, diving deep into first-hand reviews of items we use every day but rarely question. It was a natural transition. Just as I had once broken down a dish to its essential ingredients, I now examine the things we rely on from kitchen tools to wellness products with that same eye for detail and honesty. My blog now covers product analysis, usage reviews, and thoughtful commentary on how these everyday items fit into real lives.
Latest entries
- July 9, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Ultimate Mason Jar Lid Organizer: Here’s How It Transformed My Kitchen!
- July 9, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Best Electronics Specialty Screws and Screwdriver Set: My Ultimate Guide for Precision and Performance
- July 9, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested a Car Air Conditioner Booster: Here’s How It Transformed My Summer Drives!
- July 9, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Ninja Master Prep Professional: My Ultimate Kitchen Game-Changer!