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10 Best Window Coverings To Keep Heat Out 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

rabbitgoo Blackout Window Film, Sun Blocking Privacy Cover for Glass, Removable Opaque Room Darkening Dark Black Out Window Covers Tint Shades for Home Day Sleep Light Blocker 17.5 x 78.7 Inches

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,447
Material
Opacity
Functionality

Most important from
33139 reviews

Material
The film’s thin, vinyl material is easy to cut with a sharp blade, though patience and steady hands are needed for straight lines.
Opacity
The film provides complete blackout and excellent privacy, preventing any visibility from outside while maintaining a clear view out.
Functionality
Installation is straightforward and forgiving, with the film’s static cling allowing easy adjustments and repositioning during application.
Insulation
It effectively reduces sunlight and heat, making rooms noticeably cooler without adding bulk or heavy window treatments.

The rabbitgoo Blackout Window Film is made of vinyl and comes in a solid black color, providing full opacity that effectively blocks out light and heat. Its static cling design means you can apply it easily without sticky glue or chemicals, making it reusable and simple for DIY installation. This film is excellent at blocking 100% of UV rays, which helps protect your skin and prevents furniture from fading, a useful feature for anyone wanting to keep their home cooler and more comfortable. It also offers strong privacy by preventing outsiders from seeing inside.

The film’s size (17.5 by 78.7 inches) fits many windows but might not be suitable for double-pane windows due to risk of cracking, so it’s best used on single-pane glass. While it doesn’t provide heavy insulation like thick curtains, it does reduce sunlight and heat entering the room, which can help lower cooling costs. Its lightweight and slim profile mean it won’t add bulk or block your window view when you want light in.

The main downside is that it requires careful installation to avoid bubbles and gaps, but the included tips help with that. This product is a cost-effective and stylish option for anyone looking to darken their room, increase privacy, and reduce heat without the hassle of heavy window treatments.

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,447
Material
Opacity
Functionality

Most important from
33139 reviews

Material
The film’s thin, vinyl material is easy to cut with a sharp blade, though patience and steady hands are needed for straight lines.
Opacity
The film provides complete blackout and excellent privacy, preventing any visibility from outside while maintaining a clear view out.
Functionality
Installation is straightforward and forgiving, with the film’s static cling allowing easy adjustments and repositioning during application.
Insulation
It effectively reduces sunlight and heat, making rooms noticeably cooler without adding bulk or heavy window treatments.
#2

INSULATION MARKETPLACE SmartSHIELD -3mm 48inx10ft ReflectiveINSULATION roll, Foam Core Radiant Barrier, ThermalINSULATION Shield - Engineered Foil

Rating
9.8
Material
Functionality
Insulation

Most important from
7018 reviews

Material
SmartSHIELD Reflective Insulation is lightweight, easy to cut, and simple to install, making it perfect for custom sizing.
Functionality
Offers reliable performance for both home and industrial applications, enhancing energy efficiency year-round.
Insulation
Raised basement area temperature by 15 degrees F, creating a stable and warm environment for seed starting.

The INSULATION MARKETPLACE SmartSHIELD Reflective Insulation roll is designed to be an effective thermal barrier, making it useful for keeping heat out. Its material is a 3mm closed-cell polyethylene foam core, sandwiched between highly reflective engineered foil on both sides. This construction ensures durability and efficiency, as it reflects 95% of radiant energy, which is excellent for heat insulation.

Moreover, the product is unaffected by humidity and moisture, making it versatile for both indoor and outdoor uses. Additionally, it acts as a sound barrier and is non-toxic, which means it won't cause irritation to the skin, eyes, or throat, making it safer to handle and install. It's also lightweight and easy to cut and clean, which adds to its convenience.

However, while it excels in insulation and ease of use, its primary function is as a radiant barrier rather than a traditional window covering. This means it may not provide the desired aesthetics or opaqueness of typical window coverings. It is best suited for spaces like attics, ceilings, walls, and other areas where robust thermal insulation is needed more than visual appeal.

Rating
9.8
Material
Functionality
Insulation

Most important from
7018 reviews

Material
SmartSHIELD Reflective Insulation is lightweight, easy to cut, and simple to install, making it perfect for custom sizing.
Functionality
Offers reliable performance for both home and industrial applications, enhancing energy efficiency year-round.
Insulation
Raised basement area temperature by 15 degrees F, creating a stable and warm environment for seed starting.
#3

CHICOLOGY Roman Shades for Windows , Window Treatments , Roman Shades , Roman Window Shades , Room Darkening Shades , Window Shades , 36"W X 64"H , Belgian Denim (Privacy & Light Filtering)

Rating
9.6
Color
Functionality

Most important from
3462 reviews

Color
Be careful when choosing a color; the actual shade might differ significantly from what is advertised.
Functionality
They open and close very easily and are easy to maintain, even if they get dirty during installation.

The CHICOLOGY Roman Shades in Belgian Denim are a stylish and practical choice for various rooms. These shades are made from polyester, which is a durable material. The Belgian Denim color offers a modern look that can complement different interior styles. In terms of opacity, these shades are designed for room darkening, which means they provide excellent privacy and block out a significant amount of light. However, they are not entirely blackout shades, so some light may still filter through, which might not be ideal for those looking for complete darkness.

These shades do not require batteries and come with a cordless control type, making them safe around children and easy to operate. They are also easy to install and come with the necessary mounting hardware for both inside and outside mounts. While they offer good insulation to keep heat out, they are not water-resistant, so they may not be suitable for areas with high moisture. The shades are easy to maintain, requiring only light dusting or spot cleaning.

These Roman shades are a solid option for adding style and some level of light filtering and heat insulation to your windows, but they may not be suitable for rooms where complete darkness or maximum privacy is required.

Rating
9.6
Color
Functionality

Most important from
3462 reviews

Color
Be careful when choosing a color; the actual shade might differ significantly from what is advertised.
Functionality
They open and close very easily and are easy to maintain, even if they get dirty during installation.

Buying Guide for the Best Window Coverings To Keep Heat Out

Choosing the right window coverings to keep heat out is essential for maintaining a comfortable indoor temperature, especially during hot weather. The right window coverings can help reduce heat gain, lower energy bills, and protect your furniture from sun damage. When selecting window coverings, consider factors such as material, color, and functionality to ensure you get the best fit for your needs.
MaterialThe material of the window covering plays a crucial role in its ability to block heat. Heavier materials like blackout fabrics, thermal curtains, and cellular shades are excellent at insulating and preventing heat from entering your home. Lighter materials like sheer curtains may not be as effective. If you live in a particularly hot climate, opt for materials specifically designed to reflect sunlight and insulate against heat.
ColorColor affects how much heat a window covering can block. Lighter colors reflect more sunlight and heat, making them more effective at keeping your home cool. Darker colors, on the other hand, tend to absorb heat, which can make your space warmer. If your primary goal is to keep heat out, choose window coverings in light or reflective colors.
OpacityOpacity refers to how much light can pass through the window covering. High-opacity coverings like blackout curtains or shades can block nearly all sunlight, providing maximum heat reduction. Medium-opacity options like lined curtains or blinds can still offer significant heat reduction while allowing some natural light. Low-opacity coverings like sheer curtains provide minimal heat reduction. Consider your need for natural light versus heat reduction when choosing the opacity level.
FunctionalityFunctionality includes how easy the window coverings are to use and adjust. Some coverings, like motorized blinds or shades, offer convenience and can be adjusted with a remote or smartphone app. Others, like traditional curtains or manual blinds, require more effort to open and close. Think about how often you'll need to adjust the coverings and choose a style that fits your lifestyle and preferences.
InsulationInsulation refers to the window covering's ability to prevent heat transfer. Cellular shades, also known as honeycomb shades, are particularly effective at insulating because their unique structure traps air in pockets, creating a barrier against heat. Thermal curtains also provide good insulation. If insulation is a top priority, look for window coverings specifically designed to enhance energy efficiency.
UV ProtectionUV protection is important for preventing sun damage to your furniture, flooring, and other interior elements. Some window coverings come with a UV-blocking layer that can protect your home from harmful rays. If you have valuable or sensitive items near your windows, consider coverings with high UV protection to prolong their lifespan.

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