The Secret To Blackout Curtains Is Actually Choosing The Right Curtain Rod

You may have purchased blackout curtains to let sunlight illuminate your home when you want it to and block it out when you'd rather keep your living space dark. However, this solution-oriented home decor doesn't always work as intended. Oftentimes, blackout curtains let in too much light from the sides where there is a gap between the curtain and the wall. The solution? French return rods. These special rods curve at the end where they come into direct contact with the wall. Thanks to this design feature, these rods allow you to pull your blackout curtains all the way against the wall to close off that gap that lets sunlight in.

As a result, French return rods make your blackout curtains a whole lot more effective. Without them, you run the risk of falling victim to that pesky gap that makes blackout curtains nearly useless. It's pretty easy to get your hands on some of these rods that will take your blackout curtains to a whole new level. You can find them at most home goods stores or online. These special rods even come in a wide range of styles and colors, so you have the freedom to select an option that complements your curtains and existing design scheme beautifully.

Pairing your blackout curtains with French return rods not only blocks more sunlight out of a room — it can also help keep your home cool in the summer. Luckily, you should be able to purchase some for an affordable price. The Zeerobee Curtain Rods, for example, are priced from about $15 to $50, depending on which length you select. They also come in many different color options. The Lwiiom Disc Curtain Rods are another great choice. These come in a slightly wider range of color and finish options, with warm choices such as Antique Bronze and Brass. They range from roughly $27 to $66, depending on which length you choose.

After you purchase the French return curtain rods you prefer, it's important to install them correctly. Keep in mind that the installation process for these special rods is a little different from what you are probably used to. Of course, you must read through the instructions that come with your rods to accurately follow the specific guidance. The main difference is that French return rods typically hook onto the wall via an inner round bracket rather than a traditional curtain rod bracket. You will need to screw this component into the wall, add your French return rod cuff over it, and then screw the end of the rod in place. When choosing curtains, ensure they are wide enough to completely cover your window when closed. When you have these rods installed properly, you'll be more confident that your blackout curtains will help you sleep in peace.