The problem you are facing… is simple. It’s bright when it shouldn’t be.
You’ve already got the blinds up. Roller or Venetian, it doesn’t matter. And they looked sleek at first. But now, every morning, light creeps in from the sides. Slips under. The light flickers through the slats. Is that soft glow still present? The glow doesn’t seem as gentle when you’re only getting 4 hours of sleep.
Now you’re staring at the ceiling, wondering:
“Can I add blackout curtains on top of these blinds?” Yes, you can.
In this guide, we are going to show you exactly how to install blackout curtains over existing blinds. This method provides you with complete control over your light.
Why Add Blackout Curtains Over Existing Blinds?
Blinds alone don’t block all light, and they weren’t made to.
Even high-quality blinds leave small gaps along the sides. They let light pass through slats or perforations. If you’re trying to sleep in the morning, set the mood in a media room, or cool down a sun-drenched apartment, blinds won’t give you full control. That’s where you choose blackout.
Benefits of Adding Blackout Curtains
The first thing you are going to get is total control over light with your bedroom curtains. Then comes the sound. Thick blackout fabric softens outside noise (useful in busy areas like Downtown, JLT, or near major roads). Layered window coverings reduce indoor heat buildup. The curtains keep your rooms cooler. This is an essential feature for apartments facing the sun. Lastly, they give your living room a hotel-like aesthetic.
Things You’ll Need Before Installing
Installing blackout curtains over existing blinds only requires a few basic tools. First, you choose the curtain rod or ceiling track. Next, select the curtain panels, as off-the-shelf options often do not fit properly.
At Blackout Curtains Dubai, we tailor each panel to your exact measurements. Contact us
For accuracy, you might need a measuring tape. Next, proceed with the drill and anchors. Last but most important is a stepladder. First, you need to be stable to drill accurately and mount brackets level with each other. Don’t risk uneven curtains or cracked plaster by skipping this.
Step-by-Step Guide to Installing Blackout Curtains Over Blinds
You need to block light effectively. The process must be precise. Here’s how to do it right:
Step 1: Measurement
Don’t measure just the glass or the blinds. Measure the entire visual span of the wall space around the window. Extend the width at least 10 to 15 centimeters. For the height, start 10 to 20 cm above the blind headrail and end at least 10 cm below the window frame or sill.
Step 2: Choose the Right Mounting Type
You have two options.
Wall Mount (Rod Brackets):
The brackets are positioned directly above the blinds. These brackets are simple and ideal for standard bedrooms or living rooms.
Ceiling Mount (Curtain Track):
The curtain track is installed directly into the ceiling or a false ceiling. This technique gives a full blackout drop without light.
In sensitive spaces like hospitals, nurseries, or executive offices… Ceiling-mounted blackout curtains offer better privacy and hygiene. Additionally, they absorb the majority of sound and ensure a quiet environment.
Step 3: Install the Curtain Rod or Track
Once you’ve decided on the mounting style, proceed. You mark drill points, and you avoid hitting blind brackets or electrical circuits. Use wall plugs and screws. Always double-check the alignment. Improper alignment can ruin the luxury of your blackout curtains.
Step 4: Hang the Curtains Properly
Now your support is fixed. Time to hang blackout curtain panels. Choose a header style. Pinch pleats for tailored luxury, eyelets for easy movement, or wave folds for a modern ripple effect.
Custom blackout curtains from Blackout Curtains Dubai are always sized to your exact margins.
Step 5: Test and adjust.
Once hung, open and close the curtains fully. Check for light leaks near the rod or base. Curtain snagging on blind cords or fixtures. The panel may fall or the rod may tilt out of alignment. If needed, adjust rod height, bracket spacing, or panel width.
Ending With…
Yes, you can hang blackout curtains over blinds with a rod and a drill.
But if the panels don’t align… If there’s a gap left from the edges… if the fabric sags or swells in Dubai humidity. You’ll notice. So will everyone else.
At Blackout Curtains Dubai, we don’t guess. We measure. We design blackout curtains around your actual windows and your existing blinds. It can be for your master bedroom in JVC, a kids nursery in Business Bay, or a commercial office in Downtown. We are a reputable company for curtain installations, and Dubai residents trust our service.
Please feel free to contact us via WhatsApp to schedule a complimentary site visit.
We’ll handle the measuring, stitching, and installation.
You just choose the time you want to sleep in.
