Spring is in full swing, and the days are getting noticeably longer. Sunlight wakes us up earlier and stays with us until well after 8 PM. While that might feel pleasant at first, it can quickly become disruptive – especially when you're trying to fall asleep or enjoy a lie-in. If your sleep patterns have worsened over the past few weeks, insufficient shading might be the culprit.

The impact of light on sleep: what science says

The human body operates on a natural circadian rhythm, a cycle of light and darkness that regulates melatonin production – the hormone that helps us fall asleep. As soon as it gets dark, our body begins to release melatonin. But light – whether natural or artificial – suppresses this process.

Research shows that even small amounts of light in the bedroom can negatively affect sleep quality. A study published in Sleep Health found that light exposure during sleep can increase heart rate and disrupt deep sleep phases, which are crucial for physical and mental regeneration.

And what about early morning sun? Rays entering the bedroom around 5:00 a.m. can prematurely stimulate the brain, leading to shorter and less restful sleep.

Blackout isn't a luxury – it's a health investment

Blackout solutions in the bedroom aren't just a luxury feature of modern homes – they're a scientifically supported way to improve both sleep quality and mental well-being. Especially in the spring and summer months, when daylight lasts longer and mornings are brighter, proper interior or exterior window coverings play a vital role.

Well-selected window treatments can:

• Block early morning sunlight and let you sleep longer
• Prevent rooms from overheating (especially with blackout fabrics or exterior venetian blinds)
• Reduce noise from the outside
  Improve privacy, which boosts peace of mind

Recommended window coverings by room type

Every room in the home serves a different purpose and should have its own shading strategy. When choosing, it's important to consider both room orientation and function.

In the bedroom, blackout is key for uninterrupted, restorative sleep. We recommend blackout roller shades or plisse blinds with opaque fabric, which effectively block both light and heat. If your bedroom faces south or west, also consider exterior venetian blinds or screen roller blinds, which prevent overheating at the facade level.

Children’s rooms require even more thorough protection. Kids are especially sensitive to light and often nap during the day. The best solution here is total blackout, ideally using blackout blinds or safe plisse blinds with concealed cords. For sunny rooms, exterior roller blinds are highly effective in keeping the room cool.

Home offices don’t need complete blackout but rather controlled lighting. The goal is to minimize glare on screens while still letting in enough daylight to stay focused. Vertical blinds, Japanese sliding panels, or screen roller blinds are excellent choices, as they filter sunlight and reduce heat without darkening the room entirely.

Exterior shading: not just for light, but also for heat

You might think indoor shading is enough. But as summer approaches, heat becomes a bigger problem than light alone. That’s where exterior shading systems come in.

Exterior venetian blinds, roller shutters, or screen roller blinds can reduce indoor temperatures by 4–7°C, all without using air conditioning. This makes your home more comfortable while also helping reduce energy consumption.

Mental comfort starts with the right environment

When you sleep better, you’re less irritable, more focused, and generally feel more balanced. Quality window coverings are not just a decorative or practical element – they’re an essential tool for taking care of your mental health.

They also give you better control over your living space – and in today’s fast-paced world, that’s a true luxury.