When it comes to choosing the perfect window covering, it’s not just about style — it’s about how much light and privacy you want in each room. One of the most common questions homeowners ask is: Can I get blockout or light-filtering vertical blinds? The answer is yes — and that’s one of the main reasons vertical blinds remain such a versatile and practical option for Australian homes.

Both blockout and light-filtering vertical blinds are available in a wide variety of materials, colours, and textures. They look almost identical in design but perform very differently in terms of light control, temperature management, and privacy. Understanding the difference between the two will help you choose the right one for each space in your home.

Understanding vertical blind fabric options

Vertical blinds consist of tall, hanging blades (also known as slats or vanes) that rotate to manage light flow. The beauty of this design is that you can select from a range of fabrics depending on your lighting preferences — including both blockout and light-filtering materials.

Blockout fabrics are designed to completely block sunlight and provide full privacy, making them ideal for bedrooms or media rooms. Light-filtering fabrics, on the other hand, allow soft, diffused light to enter while reducing glare and maintaining daytime privacy.

With these options, you can easily tailor how bright or private each room feels simply by choosing the right fabric.

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What are blockout vertical blinds?

Blockout vertical blinds are made from dense or coated fabrics that prevent external light from passing through. They’re perfect for bedrooms, nurseries, or any space where you want to completely eliminate light and maintain full privacy.

Best suited for:

• Bedrooms and nurseries
• Media rooms or home theatres
• Street-facing rooms requiring privacy at night

Key benefits:

• Total privacy: Blocks light completely, even with lamps on indoors.
• Energy efficiency: Thicker fabrics reduce heat gain and loss.
• Protection from UV rays: Prevents furniture and flooring from fading.
• Complete darkness: Ideal for shift workers or those sensitive to light.

If you want to sleep better, protect your interiors, and reduce glare, blockout vertical blinds are an excellent solution.

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What are light-filtering vertical blinds?

Light-filtering vertical blinds are designed to soften and diffuse sunlight rather than block it completely. The fabric gently filters light, allowing it to brighten the room without harsh glare.

They’re ideal for spaces where you want to enjoy natural light but still maintain a level of privacy during the day. You can see out, but people outside can’t easily see in — making them perfect for open-plan living areas, kitchens, and home offices.

Best suited for:

• Living rooms and dining areas
• Kitchens
• Home offices
• Sunrooms

Key benefits:

• Natural illumination: Brightens rooms without glare.
• Daytime privacy: Prevents outsiders from seeing in while keeping your view.
• UV protection: Filters sunlight to protect décor and furnishings.
• Comfortable atmosphere: Creates a welcoming and open feel.

Light-filtering vertical blinds are the perfect choice for those who want airy, light-filled spaces without sacrificing comfort or privacy.

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Blockout vs light-filtering vertical blinds — which is better?

The best option depends entirely on your space and lifestyle. Both types share the same slimline design and smooth operation but serve different purposes based on your light and privacy needs.

Feature	Blockout Vertical Blinds	Light-Filtering Vertical Blinds
Light Control	Blocks 100% of external light	Softens and diffuses sunlight
Privacy	Full day and night privacy	Daytime privacy only
Energy Efficiency	High — helps insulate rooms	Moderate — allows warmth through
Best For	Bedrooms, nurseries, media rooms	Living areas, kitchens, offices
View Outside	None when closed	Partial view through fabric
Atmosphere	Cosy, dark, private	Bright, natural, inviting

Many homeowners install both — blockout blinds in bedrooms for complete rest and light-filtering blinds in living spaces for natural daylight.

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Combination systems — the best of both worlds

If you can’t decide between the two, some households pair vertical blinds with roller blinds or sheer curtains to achieve full control of light and privacy throughout the day.

For instance, you could install blockout vertical blinds layered behind light-filtering curtains. This way, you enjoy bright daylight when open and total darkness when closed. Alternatively, a dual blind system allows two fabrics — blockout and sunscreen — in one fitting for easy switching between light levels.

This flexibility ensures you don’t have to choose between the two — you can enjoy both benefits with strategic placement.

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Energy efficiency and insulation

Both fabric types help regulate indoor temperature. Blockout fabrics act as insulators, keeping rooms cooler in summer and warmer in winter. Light-filtering fabrics help reduce glare and heat without blocking natural brightness completely.

For households across Australia’s varying climates, this means improved comfort and lower energy costs.

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Style and colour options

Vertical blinds are a timeless choice, and both blockout and light-filtering fabrics come in a wide range of colours and finishes.

Choose from:

• Neutral tones for a clean, modern look
• Textured fabrics for warmth and depth
• Bold colours for a statement design

All blinds from The Blind Crew are custom-measured and crafted to fit your exact window dimensions, ensuring a sleek, cohesive appearance across every room.

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Maintenance and durability

Whether you choose blockout or light-filtering fabrics, both options are low-maintenance and built for daily use. A light dust or vacuum keeps them fresh, and stains can be easily spot-cleaned.

The Blind Crew provides long-lasting solutions using Australian-made fabrics, corrosion-resistant tracks, and precision mechanisms designed to glide smoothly for years.

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Why choose The Blind Crew

At The Blind Crew, we specialise in custom blockout and light-filtering vertical blinds that balance functionality and style. Every blind is made to measure, fitted with premium hardware, and installed with precision for a flawless finish.

We offer:

• A wide range of fabrics in both styles
• UV-resistant and easy-clean materials
• Custom slat sizes (89mm and 127mm)
• Manual or motorised control options
• Professional installation across the Central Coast

Whether you want a completely dark bedroom or a softly lit lounge, The Blind Crew delivers blinds that enhance your home’s comfort and style.

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Summary

So, can I get blockout or light-filtering vertical blinds? Absolutely — both are stylish, functional options that improve comfort, privacy, and energy efficiency. Blockout blinds provide total darkness and insulation, while light-filtering blinds create airy, sunlit spaces with privacy during the day.

With The Blind Crew’s expert installation and advice, your blinds will fit perfectly, operate smoothly, and look stunning — giving you the ideal balance of beauty, practicality, and performance.