Currently we are in the process of yet another bedroom make-over and this time it’s Eliana’s turn… For years our girls shared a room but as they grow older, they need a space to call their own. So, Eliana moved into what used to be the playroom and we are working together to turn her “little girl’s” room into a teen dream!

We have the “bones of the bedroom” sorted – walls, floors, wardrobe and lighting. However, we still need to look at one VERY important bedroom consideration… Creating a dark and cozy sleep environment.

Sleeping in the dark is important!

Sleeping in complete darkness optimises rest, boosts health, and improves overall well-being. It also triggers the body’s natural sleep processes.

Tips for Sleeping in Darkness:

• Use blockout blinds or curtains to block outside light.
• Avoid screens (phones, TVs, tablets) at least an hour before bed and eliminate Indoor light sources by covering LEDs – Tape over or turn off small LED lights on electronics, such as alarm clocks, chargers, and power strips.
• Use a sleep mask if complete darkness isn’t possible.
• Avoid overhead ceiling lights before bed. Rather use Smart Bulbs that gradually dim in the evening and use warm or red tones.
• Keep nightlights dim and avoid blue or white light. If you need a nightlight, opt for a dim, red one, as red light is less disruptive to melatonin production.

By combining these strategies, you can create a pitch-dark bedroom that promotes deep, restful sleep.

Custom-made blockout blinds work BEST

It’s important to make sure your blockout blind perfectly fits the window it’s intended for. Especially if you want to improve sleep quality. A perfectly fitted blind will keep out streetlights, headlights, and early morning sunlight, helping you fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer. They’re ideal for kids’ rooms and nurseries ensuring better daytime sleep too.

Blockout blinds block more than light and contribute to a better overall sleep environment. Many blockout curtains have thermal insulation, keeping rooms cooler in summer and warmer in winter. This can lower energy bills by reducing the need for heating and cooling. They also reduce noise – heavier fabrics dampen outside noise, making them great for city living or noisy neighbourhoods

Blockout blinds protect furniture by blocking UV rays that can fade furniture, carpets, and wall art and provide complete privacy, especially at night when lights are on inside.

Why we recommend Varilux above the rest

Since renovating our first home back in 2010 we have used many different blockout blind suppliers. We have been happy customers and together, with our kids (ages between 1 and 13) we all definitely benefit from sleeping in a dark environment. Our only complaint would be the hassle of ordering a custom-made blockout blind… Getting someone out to measure, looking at fabric samples, long waiting periods and then being available for installation.

Varilux makes things hassle-free and for the past 16 years, this family-owned business has been dedicated to offering a range of top-quality products designed to enhance energy efficiency, acoustic and aesthetics in commercial and residential spaces. They specialise in Verosol energy saving blinds and makes ordering SUPER easy!

The quality of Varilux blinds are also far better than other options. Stainless steel and Aluminium European standard hardware is used and blinds can be motorised using Somfy motorisation.

Varilux used Geneva Blockout material which is PVC and lead free. It has anti-fade and anti-fungal properties. Plus the material is easy to clean – simply wipe down your blinds with a damp cloth to remove any dirt or dust and they’ll look as good as new.
The insulating material used in Geneva Blockouts won’t tear or discolour either and when it comes to colour options they have a great selections of neutrals sure to cozy-up any space.

I researched far and wide and couldn’t find more affordable blinds without us having to compromise on quality. Varilux also offers a variety of payment terms that include payflex, JUSTPAYNOW and float.

Best of all, everything can be viewed, ordered and paid for online. The website is fantastic! It’s like having an interior designer by your side guiding you through the measuring and ordering process (as well as easy installation instructions afterwards). Photos, videos and detailed descriptions of all the products on offer helped us choose the correct blinds for Eliana’s room and within a few days her custom-made blockout blinds were delivered straight to our door.

Mr. Perfect quickly installed the blinds after work and specifically told me to mention the quality of the accessories we received to instal the blinds. No cheap knock-in-nails.

Varilux is a 10/10 and we won’t be looking anywhere else for future blockout blind needs.

Eliana’s room isn’t done yet. Now it’s time for all the fun decor. Be sure to keep an eye on the blog for the big reveal. In the meantime she’s enjoying a warm, cozy and dark night’s rest thanks to her new custom-made blockout blinds.

CLICK HERE for more home decor inspiration.

PHOTO CREDIT | Photos by Celeste van der Berg Photography