Blackout curtains are a popular choice for homeowners looking to block out light and improve their sleep or energy efficiency. When we first started in the blackout curtain industry (my partner has insomnia and light sensitivity and we need something 100% blackout for sleeping) we were shocked to learn about some of the toxic chemicals used in cheaper blackout curtains.
The materials used in many cheaper blackout curtains, such as synthetic fabrics and chemicals, can off-gas and release harmful pollutants into the air. There are also concerns that these curtains may contain harmful chemicals that can be absorbed through the skin or inhaled. In this blog post, we will explore the potential risks of some blackout curtains and discuss how to choose a safe and non-toxic option.
The topic of blackout curtains and their potential toxicity is important and relevant to readers for several reasons. First, our homes should be safe and healthy environments, and it is important to understand any potential risks associated with the products we use in our homes. Second, many people use blackout curtains to improve their sleep and reduce their exposure to light, and it is crucial to know if these curtains may be harmful to our health. Finally, the use of synthetic materials and chemicals in home products is a growing concern, and it is important to be aware of the potential impacts on our health and the environment.
What are blackout curtains?
Blackout curtains are a type of window treatment designed to block out light. They are often made of heavy, thick fabrics that are lined with a special coating or layer to block light. Blackout curtains are different from regular curtains in that they are specifically designed to block out light, whereas regular curtains may allow some light to pass through. Blackout curtains can be used in bedrooms to improve sleep, in media rooms to enhance the viewing experience, or in offices to reduce glare on screens. They are also often used in hotels and other commercial buildings. Overall, blackout curtains are a useful tool for creating a dark and restful environment.
Blackout curtains have several benefits that make them popular among homeowners and commercial building managers. One of the primary benefits of blackout curtains is improved sleep. When we designed the Sleepout Curtain, we knew we needed something that would create the best sleep environment possible (every Sleepout Curtain blocks light, excess heat, and sound) and we got to work over the course of 2 years to create our one-of-a-kind fabric.
Are blackout curtains toxic?
There are several potential health concerns associated with blackout curtains. One of the main concerns is off-gassing, which is the release of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from certain materials. Blackout curtains are often made of synthetic fabrics, such as polyester or nylon, which can release VOCs into the air. These chemicals can be harmful to human health and can cause symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, and nausea. In addition to off-gassing, there are also concerns about chemical exposure from the materials and coatings used in blackout curtains. These chemicals can be absorbed through the skin or inhaled, and can cause a range of health problems, including respiratory issues and allergic reactions. It is important to be aware of these potential health concerns and take steps to reduce your exposure to toxic chemicals in your home.
While the potential health concerns associated with blackout curtains are concerning, it is important to evaluate the evidence supporting these concerns. Some studies have found that synthetic fabrics, such as polyester, can release VOCs into the air, and that these chemicals can be harmful to human health. However, the extent of the risks and the specific health effects of VOCs from blackout curtains are not well-studied. More research is needed to fully understand the potential risks and determine safe levels of exposure. In addition, the chemicals used in blackout curtains are not well-regulated, and it can be difficult to know exactly what chemicals are present and in what quantities. As a result, it is important to be cautious and consider the potential risks when choosing blackout curtains for your home.
How to choose a safe blackout curtain?
If you are concerned about the potential health risks of blackout curtains, there are several steps you can take to choose a safe and non-toxic option. First, look for curtains made of non-toxic materials such as cotton or linen, which are less likely to release VOCs. Avoid curtains made of synthetic fabrics, such as polyester or nylon, which are more likely to off-gas. Second, look for curtains that are certified as safe and non-toxic by reputable organizations, such as the Greenguard certification. This certification indicates that the curtains have been tested and found to meet strict standards for VOC emissions and other health-related criteria. Finally, consider the environmental impact of your curtains. Choose curtains made from sustainable materials and produced in a environmentally-conscious manner to reduce your carbon footprint and protect the planet.
Even though our fabric was more expensive than traditional cheaper options, we knew we had to go with something that not only was extremely effective at creating a better sleep environment but was also Greenguard & OEKO-TEX certified non-toxic with absolutely no offgassing into bedrooms.
In Summary
When choosing a safe and non-toxic blackout curtain, there are several factors to consider. First, pay attention to the materials used in the curtains. As mentioned above, natural materials such as cotton and linen are safer and less likely to release VOCs. Avoid curtains made of synthetic fabrics, such as polyester or nylon, which are more likely to off-gas. Second, look for certifications that indicate the curtains have been tested and found to be safe. The Greenguard Gold certification is a reputable and widely-recognized certification that verifies the curtains meet strict standards for VOC emissions and other health-related criteria. Finally, consider the environmental impact of the curtains. Choose curtains made from sustainable materials and produced in an environmentally-conscious manner to reduce your carbon footprint and support the planet.
The easiest way to make your bedroom better for sleep (and safe from any toxins) is to add the most recommended blackout curtain by sleep specialists in North America! (Use code WELCOME10 for $10 off).
