How do I stop my curtains from letting in light?

If you live on the Costa del Sol, you know that the sun is one of our greatest assets—until it’s 6:00 AM and you’re trying to sleep. Whether it's the intense morning glare or the intrusive glow of streetlights at night, "light leakage" is a common problem for homeowners in Spain.

How do I stop my curtains from letting in light?

If your current curtains aren't doing the job, here is how to reclaim your sleep and stop light from entering your room.

1. Upgrade to 100% Black-Out Curtains

The most effective solution is to replace standard curtains with dedicated black-out options. Many curtains are "room darkening," which only filters light. For total darkness, you need a 100% Black-Out rating. Our Austin range, for example, uses a triple-layered fabric technology that ensures zero light penetration through the material itself.

2. The "Wrap-Around" Technique

A common mistake is hanging curtains on a pole that sits too far from the wall. This creates a "halo effect" where light leaks from the sides. To fix this:

• Use a wraparound curtain rod that curves at the ends, allowing the fabric to touch the wall.
• Alternatively, use a small piece of Velcro to secure the outer edge of the curtain to the wall, sealing the gap.

3. Mind the Header: Eyelets vs. Pencil Pleats

While eyelet curtains are modern and stylish, the "holes" at the top can sometimes allow light to escape above the pole. If you are a very sensitive sleeper, consider Pencil Pleat curtains hung on a track. This allows the curtain to sit higher and tighter against the top of the window frame, minimizing the "light crown" effect.

4. Add a Black-Out Lining

If you love your current curtains but they are too thin, you don't have to throw them away. You can purchase detachable black-out linings. These hook onto the back of your existing curtains, adding an extra layer of protection and thermal insulation without changing the look of your room.

5. Overlap the Middle

Light often peeks through the center where the two curtain panels meet. Ensure your curtain pole or track is wide enough to allow for a significant overlap (at least 10-15cm) in the middle.