Blind Fabric Opacities Explained: Voile, Light Filter, Dimout & Blackout

When it comes to choosing the perfect blinds for your home or workspace, it’s not just about style – it’s also about how much light and privacy you want. From soft and sheer to near-total darkness, blind fabrics come in a range of opacities to suit every room and requirement. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the four main types of blind fabrics – Voile, Light Filtering, Dimout, and Blackout – explaining how each one works, where they shine, and what to consider before you buy. Whether you're chasing sunshine or shutting it out, there's a fabric to match your needs.

Voile Blinds

What Is Voile? Understanding Its Unique Character

Voile is the go-to fabric when you want to soften a space without shutting out the light. Lightweight, delicately woven, and semi-transparent, voile is often made from cotton, linen, polyester, or blends of these fibres. It’s cherished for its airy texture, translucent quality, and elegant drape, making it a favourite in homes where a bright, breezy feel is desired.

One of the most defining features of voile is its sheer nature. The fabric’s loose, open weave allows a generous amount of natural light to filter through, bathing the room in a gentle glow while still offering a touch of privacy. Think of voile as a soft lens for your windows – it diffuses light beautifully, softens sharp sunlight, and creates a tranquil ambiance.

With its naturally soft hand feel and graceful fall, voile brings a refined, romantic aesthetic to windows. Whether gently flowing as a panel or structured within a blind, voile adds an effortlessly stylish finish to any interior.

Why Choose Voile Blinds? The Key Benefits

Voile isn’t just pretty to look at – it’s a practical powerhouse for homes and light-filled spaces. Here are the top reasons to consider voile blinds:

• Maximises Natural Light
  Let the sunshine in! Voile blinds invite daylight into your room, helping create a sense of openness and warmth without the harshness of direct rays.


• Softens Glare, Not Your View
  While voile allows light in, it also helps tone down the intensity. It’s great for reducing glare on screens and surfaces, keeping the light gentle and ambient.


• Enjoy Your View – With Privacy
  Voile lets you see out while making it harder for people to see in during daylight hours. It’s ideal for living areas where you want to maintain a connection to the outside world without feeling on display.


• Improves Airflow
  Because it’s so lightweight, voile pairs perfectly with open windows. It flutters gently in the breeze and allows better air circulation, unlike heavier fabrics that block airflow.


• Great for Layering
  One of voile’s standout features is its versatility. It layers beautifully under heavier curtains or blackout blinds, giving you greater control over light and privacy.


• Subtle and Stylish
  With its soft texture and graceful appearance, voile adds a touch of elegance to any space. Whether you’re going for coastal calm or classic chic, voile blends in beautifully with a range of design styles.

What to Keep in Mind When Choosing Voile

Before you dive in, here are a few key things to consider to make sure voile is the right fit for your window dressing needs:

• Sheerness Varies
  Not all voile is created equal. Some fabrics are more transparent than others depending on weave and thickness. If privacy is a concern, look for voile with a slightly denser weave.


• Fabric Matters
  Voile comes in various materials like cotton, linen, and polyester – each with its own feel and upkeep. Cotton and linen have a more natural look and feel, but polyester tends to be more durable and easy to maintain.


• colour and Pattern
  Lighter voile colours will let more light pass through, while darker shades offer a touch more privacy. Patterns and textures can add visual interest without significantly affecting the fabric’s filtering properties.


• Weave Density
  A slightly tighter weave will still let in light but with an added degree of privacy. This is great for rooms like home offices or kitchens where function and style need to strike a balance.


• Cleaning and Maintenance
  Due to its delicate structure, voile needs gentle care. Regular light dusting or vacuuming with a soft brush attachment is ideal. Some types may be machine washable, but always check the care label – snagging can be a risk with finer threads.


• Best Room Uses
  Voile blinds work wonders in living rooms, kitchens, dining areas, and home offices – essentially, any space where you want to embrace natural light while retaining a level of privacy.

Voile in Blind Form: Types to Know

Voile fabric is beautifully adaptable and can be integrated into various blind types. Here's how it shines across different styles:

• Voile Roller Blinds
  Clean, simple, and practical – voile roller blinds offer a sleek look while still delivering that all-important light filtering.


• Voile Vertical Blinds
  Perfect for patio doors or wide windows, these blinds offer the flexibility of angle adjustment and a slightly more modern feel.


• Voile Roman Blinds
  Add a touch of softness and sophistication. When raised, they form elegant folds that suit traditional and contemporary interiors alike.


• Voile Curtains and Panels
  While technically not blinds, voile curtains and panels serve a similar function. They're especially popular layered over blinds or used alone for maximum light diffusion.

Where Voile Blinds Truly Shine

Voile blinds are incredibly versatile and can be a transformative addition to many spaces:

• Privacy Without the Darkness
  Perfect for daytime privacy, voile allows you to enjoy your space without feeling closed in.


• Light, Bright Interiors
  Want to create a space that feels bigger, lighter, and more uplifting? Voile blinds can help open up the room visually.


• Perfect for Layering
  Team voile with blackout curtains or blinds to enjoy day-to-night flexibility. You get soft daylight by day and complete privacy at night.


• Design Freedom
  Whether you're decorating a cosy cottage or a modern flat, voile offers a subtle sophistication that works across the board.

Clearing Up Common Voile Misconceptions

Let’s bust a couple of myths about voile so you know exactly what to expect:

• “Voile offers complete privacy.”
  Not quite. Voile is best for daytime privacy – but when it’s dark outside and lights are on indoors, it becomes see-through. For night-time privacy, pair it with another blind or curtain.


• “All voile is the same.”
  Far from it! Voile varies in sheerness, texture, material, and weave, which all affect its performance and style. There’s plenty of room to tailor it to your exact needs.

Light Filtering Blinds

What Are Light Filtering Blinds?

Light filtering blinds strike the ideal balance between brightness and privacy. Designed to gently diffuse natural daylight, these fabrics allow a generous amount of sunlight into your space while obscuring the view from the outside. The result? A soft, inviting glow that keeps interiors bright and comfortable – without putting your privacy at risk.

If voile is the sheerest option and blackout the most opaque, light filtering fabrics sit comfortably in the middle. Think of them as the “just right” choice – bright enough to make a room feel open and fresh, but private enough for peace of mind during the day.

Technically speaking, these fabrics have a tighter weave than voile, yet remain lighter than dimout materials. This construction allows light to pass through, but in a softened, diffused way – eliminating harsh glare without darkening the room entirely.

Why Choose Light Filtering Blinds? Key Benefits

Light filtering blinds are one of the most popular choices for homeowners – and for good reason! They offer a smart mix of style, practicality, and comfort:

• Soft Natural Light
  These blinds let in plenty of daylight without overwhelming your space. Perfect for creating a cheerful, uplifting atmosphere in any room.


• Daytime Privacy
  While they welcome sunlight, light filtering blinds also help shield your interiors from prying eyes – making them great for ground floor rooms or overlooked windows.


• Glare Reduction
  Say goodbye to squinting at your screen! Light filtering fabrics diffuse direct sunlight, reducing glare on TVs, monitors, and reflective surfaces.


• Energy Efficiency
  By making the most of natural daylight, you can cut back on artificial lighting during the day – potentially lowering your electricity use and saving on energy bills.


• Stylish Versatility
  Available in a wide range of colours, patterns, and textures, light filtering blinds can complement virtually any décor – from minimalist and modern to cosy and classic.


• Great for a Range of Rooms
  Light filtering fabrics are wonderfully versatile and work especially well in living rooms, dining areas, kitchens, and home offices – anywhere you want natural light without full exposure.

What to Consider When Choosing Light Filtering Fabrics

To get the most out of your light filtering blinds, here are a few factors to keep in mind:

• Level of Light Filtration
  Not all light-filtering fabrics let in the same amount of light. Some are slightly more sheer, others lean closer to dimout. Check product specs or sample the fabric to get the right fit for your space.


• Privacy Expectations
  These blinds offer good daytime privacy, but at night, when lights are on indoors, silhouettes may become visible. For bedrooms or bathrooms, consider layering with blackout curtains or pairing with a liner.


• Material Matters
  Light filtering blinds are often made from polyester, cotton blends, or synthetic weaves. Polyester is durable and low-maintenance, while natural fibres offer a more organic look and feel.


• colour and Pattern
  Lighter colours brighten up a space and let in more light, whereas darker shades will filter light more heavily and add a bit of visual weight. Patterns can add texture and interest without significantly impacting performance.


• Weave Density
  Fabrics with a tighter weave provide slightly more privacy and light control. These are great for rooms facing neighbours or busy streets.


• Cleaning and Care
  Most light filtering blinds are easy to maintain – a quick dust or gentle vacuum usually does the trick. Always follow the manufacturer's care instructions for best results.


• Budget Considerations
  Light filtering blinds tend to be mid-range in price – more affordable than full blackout options, but often slightly pricier than basic voiles. However, their functionality and flexibility offer excellent value.

Blind Types Available in Light Filtering Fabrics

Light filtering fabrics can be integrated into a wide range of blind styles to suit your space and preferences:

• Roller Blinds
  Sleek and simple, light filtering roller blinds are an easy way to enjoy soft daylight without sacrificing privacy.


• Vertical Blinds
  Perfect for large windows and sliding doors, they offer excellent light control with a clean, modern finish.


• Roman Blinds
  Add a decorative touch with structured fabric folds that look just as elegant raised or lowered.


• Pleated Blinds
  A compact, space-saving option that delivers subtle light diffusion and neat aesthetics.


• Panel Blinds
  Great for wide expanses or room dividers, panel blinds offer smooth movement and a contemporary look.


• Fabric Venetian Blinds
  While less common, some fabric-slat Venetians provide a hybrid approach – light filtering with adjustable slat angles.

Where Light Filtering Blinds Work Best

Because of their adaptable design, light filtering blinds are suitable for a variety of rooms and uses:

• Living Rooms
  Keep your lounge bright and welcoming while blocking out harsh sunlight and glare.


• Home Offices
  Maintain natural lighting without screen glare – perfect for those working from home.


• Dining Areas
  Set the tone for relaxed mealtimes with diffused light and subtle privacy.


• Kitchens
  Enjoy daylight while cooking or entertaining – with no need to compromise on ventilation or visibility.


• Layering for Flexibility
  Pair light filtering blinds with blackout curtains or voile panels for a layered window treatment that adapts to your needs throughout the day.

Common Misunderstandings – Cleared Up

Let’s clarify a couple of common misconceptions about light filtering blinds:

• “Light filtering means complete privacy.”
  While these blinds offer great daytime privacy, they’re not designed for full coverage at night. If night-time privacy is essential, layer with blackout curtains or opt for dimout fabrics.


• “All light filtering fabrics are the same.”
  Definitely not! The degree of light control and privacy varies by fabric, weave, colour, and material. Always check product specifications or request samples to ensure you're getting the right level of coverage.

Dimout Blinds

What Is Dimout Fabric?

Dimout fabric is designed to significantly reduce the amount of light entering a room, creating a darkened environment without completely blocking out the daylight. It’s the perfect middle ground between light filtering and blackout – ideal for those who want to enjoy a more subdued, restful space without being plunged into pitch darkness.

These fabrics are specially constructed to dim the room rather than fully darken it. Typically, they’re made with a tight weave or contain a layer of dark or opaque yarns sandwiched between outer layers. This structure effectively blocks a large portion of sunlight while still allowing a subtle glow to seep through – especially around the edges or when exposed to strong sunlight.

Dimout vs. Blackout – What’s the Difference?

It's important to distinguish between dimout and blackout fabrics. While blackout blinds aim for near-total light elimination (often up to 99% or more), dimout blinds provide substantial but softer light reduction. You’ll still have some ambient light in the room, making it more inviting and less stark – perfect for daytime naps, screen time, or simply winding down.

Benefits of Choosing Dimout Blinds

Dimout fabrics offer a wide range of practical and aesthetic benefits, making them a smart choice for many households and workplaces:

• Excellent Light Control
  Dimout blinds greatly reduce sunlight, helping you create a calm, relaxing environment without total darkness. Ideal for anyone wanting a gentler lighting atmosphere.


• Increased Privacy
  These blinds are opaque enough to block the view from outside, even during the day, offering excellent privacy for street-facing or overlooked windows.


• Energy Efficient
  The thicker fabric of dimout blinds helps insulate windows, reducing heat transfer and potentially lowering your energy bills in both summer and winter.


• Glare-Free Living
  Dimout fabrics are brilliant at minimising screen glare, making them perfect for living rooms, home offices, and media rooms where visibility matters.


• Stylish and Versatile
  Available in a vast selection of colours, textures, and patterns, dimout blinds blend easily into any décor – from soft neutrals for a minimalist look to bold tones for a statement finish.


• Perfect for Multiple Spaces
  Whether you’re dressing a bedroom, living room, nursery, or even a boardroom, dimout blinds provide the ideal balance between comfort, control, and style.

What to Consider When Choosing Dimout Fabrics

Not all dimout fabrics are the same, so it’s worth exploring your options before settling on the perfect one:

• Opacity Levels Vary
  Dimout fabrics can block out anywhere from 60% to 95% of light, depending on the material. Always check the product specs or ask for light transmission percentages to get exactly what you need.


• Fabric Weight and Feel
  Heavier, thicker fabrics generally block more light and hang with a more structured drape. Lighter dimout options may have a softer look but let in more ambient glow.


• colour and Pattern Choices
  Darker colours typically block more light, while lighter shades offer a softer dimming effect. Patterns can enhance a room’s look without dramatically affecting performance.


• Weave and Construction
  A tight weave or multi-layered structure is key to effective light reduction. You don’t need a science degree – just look for high-quality, purpose-built dimout fabrics.


• Easy Maintenance
  Most dimout blinds are low-maintenance – a quick dust or gentle vacuum is usually all that’s needed. Always follow the care label for fabric-specific advice.


• Price Point
  Dimout blinds tend to sit in the mid-to-premium price range, offering more functionality than light-filtering blinds but at a slightly lower cost than full blackout options.

Blind Styles Available in Dimout Fabrics

Dimout fabric can be adapted to a range of blind types, giving you flexibility in style and function:

• Roller Blinds
  Sleek and modern, roller blinds with dimout fabric are one of the most popular choices for practical light control.


• Vertical Blinds
  Ideal for large windows and patio doors, vertical dimout blinds provide privacy and adjustable light flow.


• Roman Blinds
  Add a sense of luxury and softness with the pleated folds of a dimout Roman blind – perfect for cosy bedrooms or elegant lounges.


• Pleated Blinds
  A space-saving option with a crisp, neat look – great for compact rooms or modern designs.


• Panel Blinds
  Excellent for wide glass expanses or as room dividers, panel blinds with dimout fabric offer both beauty and practicality.

Practical Applications – Where Dimout Blinds Shine

Dimout blinds are incredibly versatile and work well across both residential and commercial settings:

• Better Sleep, Less Disruption
  Ideal for shift workers, children, or anyone sensitive to light, dimout blinds help create a peaceful sleeping environment without complete darkness.


• Home Cinemas and TV Rooms
  Enjoy movie night without annoying glare. Dimout blinds provide the right setting for screen time without over-darkening the room.


• Children’s Bedrooms and Nurseries
  A great choice for naptime, dimout blinds help little ones wind down while still maintaining a gentle daytime glow.


• Productive Workspaces
  In home offices or meeting rooms, dimout blinds cut out distracting sunlight and improve concentration by reducing screen glare.

Clearing Up Common Dimout Misconceptions

Let’s tackle a few myths to help readers make informed decisions:

• “Dimout means total blackout.”
  Not quite! Dimout blinds significantly reduce light but don’t eliminate it completely. If total darkness is essential, blackout blinds are the way to go.


• “All dimout fabrics work the same.”
  There’s plenty of variety. Some block 60%, others up to 95% – so always check the details or request samples to get the right level of performance for your space.

Blackout Blinds

What Are Blackout Blinds?

Blackout blinds are the ultimate solution for those who want to eliminate light from a room entirely (when paired in cassette style). Designed with purpose-built materials, blackout blinds block 99–100% of external light, transforming even the brightest room into a shadowy sanctuary. Whether you’re aiming for restful sleep, screen-time perfection, or complete privacy, blackout is the gold standard.

So, how do they work? Blackout fabrics are made with dense weaves and often feature a special opaque backing – usually a layer of rubber, vinyl, or acrylic – which seals off light penetration. Unlike lighter fabrics, blackout materials don’t just filter light – they stop it completely.

💡 Key Fact: True blackout fabrics should specify 99% or more light blockage. Anything less is likely “room darkening” – not full blackout.

Why Choose Blackout Blinds? Major Benefits

There’s a reason blackout blinds are so popular – they combine serious functionality with everyday comfort:

• Complete Light Blockage
  The most obvious benefit: no more morning sunbeams or streetlights creeping in. Ideal for shift workers, light sleepers, or anyone who enjoys a dark room. Note that this can only be achieved by paired a blackout fabric in cassette roller blind style. By pairing blackout fabrics with side channels and a cassette allows you to block out any exterior light, as the blackout fabric stops light passing through and the cassette itself prevents light leaking in around the edges of the fabric.


• Improved Sleep Quality
  By mimicking night-time conditions at any hour, blackout blinds can support healthier sleep patterns – great for babies, children, and adults alike.


• Maximum Privacy
  Blackout blinds offer unbeatable privacy, ensuring no visibility from outside – day or night.


• Better Home Cinema Experience
  Want to replicate the cinema feel? Blackout blinds remove screen glare and light reflection, letting you enjoy films the way they’re meant to be seen.


• Energy Efficiency
  Their thick, insulating fabric helps regulate indoor temperatures, keeping heat out in summer and warmth in during winter – which could help lower energy bills.


• Protects Interiors
  By blocking harsh UV rays, blackout blinds help prevent furniture, flooring, and artwork from fading over time.


• Minor Noise Reduction
  The dense construction may also help muffle outside sounds, creating a quieter, more peaceful space.

What to Consider When Choosing Blackout Fabrics

To get the most out of your blackout blinds, keep these key points in mind:

• Blackout vs. Room Darkening
  “Room darkening” blinds reduce light but don’t completely block it. For true blackout, look for products that specify 99%+ light exclusion.


• Fabric Composition
  Blackout fabrics are often made from polyester with a light-blocking coating (such as acrylic or polyurethane). This layered construction is what ensures complete opacity.


• colour Matters (A Bit)
  While the backing does most of the work, darker colours tend to absorb any residual light more effectively than lighter tones, resulting in a slightly darker room.


• Texture and Style Options
  Don’t worry – blackout doesn’t mean boring! These fabrics come in a wide range of textures, weaves, and front-facing patterns, so you can match them to your décor without compromising function.


• Cleaning and Maintenance
  Most blackout blinds are easy to clean with a damp cloth or light dusting. Just be cautious with harsh chemicals – they may damage the light-blocking layer.


• Budget Considerations
  Blackout fabrics are usually at the higher end of the pricing spectrum, but the long-term benefits in comfort, energy savings, and sleep quality make them well worth it.

Types of Blinds Available in Blackout Fabrics

There’s more than one way to bring blackout into your home. Here’s how blackout fabrics are commonly used:

• Blackout Roller Blinds
  One of the most effective and affordable blackout solutions. For best results, choose a cassetted blackout roller blinds.


• Blackout Vertical Blinds
  A smart option for large windows or sliding doors. When fully closed, the slats overlap to provide excellent light control.


• Blackout Roman Blinds
  These offer a softer, more decorative appearance. Just be mindful of potential light gaps around the edges – perfect when paired with curtains.


• Blackout Curtains & Drapes
  While technically not blinds, they remain a hugely popular blackout option – especially when layered with blinds for enhanced light blocking and insulation.


• Blackout Honeycomb/Cellular Blinds
  These blinds not only block light but also trap air in their honeycomb structure, boosting thermal efficiency.

Where to Use Blackout Blinds – Practical Applications

Blackout blinds have a wide range of uses, making them suitable for almost any room:

• Bedrooms
  An essential for restful sleep, especially if you're light-sensitive or have a window that catches early morning sun.


• Children’s Rooms and Nurseries
  Help babies and young children nap easily, whatever the time of day.


• Media Rooms and Home Theatres
  Eliminate glare for an immersive, distraction-free viewing experience.


• Photography Studios
  Blackout blinds are ideal for controlling light exposure during photoshoots.


• Home Offices and Living Rooms
  Reduce glare on screens and create a controlled environment for productivity or relaxation.

Solving Common Blackout Blind Issues

While blackout blinds are highly effective, a few challenges can pop up. Here’s how to overcome them:

• Light Gaps Around the Edges
  Even with blackout fabric, light may creep in around the sides. Try these solutions:


• Outside Mounts – Installing the blind outside the window recess can help cover the entire frame.


• Side Channels or Tracks – These form a seal along the edges of the blind, eliminating light leaks.


• Pelmets or Valances – Use these to block the light that can seep through the top of the blind.


• Aesthetic Concerns
  Some worry blackout blinds look too “plain” from the back (especially white or rubber-coated). Rest assured, many modern blackout fabrics come with stylish front-facing designs that blend seamlessly into your décor.

Shop The Correct Blind Now

Now that you understand the differences between voile, light filtering, dimout, and blackout fabrics, you're ready to make a more confident choice for your space. Whether you're softening natural light or shutting it out completely, DotcomBlinds has a stylish and practical solution to match your needs.

Explore our wide range of made-to-measure blinds online – including premium dimout and blackout fabrics – all crafted in our UK factory to the highest standards. Not sure which fabric is right for you? No problem. You can order free samples directly from our website and see how each option looks and feels in your home.

🔗 Browse the full range and order your free samples today at DotcomBlinds.com

Let’s get your windows dressed right – with the perfect blind, in the perfect fabric.