How Can I Make My Crib Darker?

To make a crib darker for better sleep, focus on blocking light from entering the room. Here's how:

Blackout Curtains: Essential for blocking external light. Choose thick, tightly woven fabrics for maximum effectiveness.
Blackout Shades: Adding these behind blackout curtains creates an extra layer of light blocking. Consider roller shades or cellular shades specifically designed for blackout.
Velcro: Use Velcro strips to secure curtains or shades tightly to the window frame, preventing light from seeping through the edges. Attach one strip to the window frame and another to the edge of the curtain/shade.
Door Draft Stoppers: These prevent light from entering under the door.

Here's a more detailed breakdown:

Window Treatments

Solution	Description	Benefits	Considerations
Blackout Curtains	Curtains made of dense, opaque fabric designed to block out light.	Effective at blocking most light, readily available in various styles and colors.	Ensure they extend beyond the window frame to minimize light leakage around the edges.
Blackout Shades	Shades made of blackout material, often installed behind curtains.	Provide an additional layer of light blockage, especially effective with curtains.	Consider the type of shade (roller, cellular) and its ease of use.
Combination Curtains & Shades	Using both blackout curtains and blackout shades together.	Maximizes light blockage for the darkest possible room.	Can be a more expensive option but highly effective.

Seal the Gaps: Inspect windows and doors for any gaps or cracks through which light can enter. Use weather stripping or caulk to seal these gaps.
Consider Room Color: While not a direct solution, darker colored walls and ceilings can absorb more light, contributing to a dimmer environment.

Nightlights: Once you've darkened the room effectively, consider using a very dim, red-toned nightlight if needed. Red light is less disruptive to sleep cycles.
Monitor Placement: Ensure any monitors (baby monitor, etc.) have their brightness turned down and are positioned so their light doesn't directly shine on the crib.