The main difference between light filtering vs blackout/room darkening shades is light control. Blackout shades use fabrics that blocks out 100% of all incoming light. Room darkening usually refers to any shade that uses fabrics that blocks between 95% and 99% of the light that enters your room. Treatment that block less than 95% of the light is typically referred to as light filtering.

Light filtering blinds and shades are created with semi-opaque fabrics or materials that allow only small amounts of light even when closed, while still preserving your privacy. Light filtering window treatments transform a full blast of sunlight into a soft, warm glow inside your home! However, a good blackout blind eliminates all incoming light and can completely block out or reduce the amount of outside noise entering your bedroom. This means you can sleep without any unwanted interruptions.