Effective window coverings in the bedroom are important when you’re trying to get the most of your sleep, especially when it’s impossible for you to fit in seven or eight hours of sleep. Our circadian rhythm is sensitive to light, which in turns helps us wake up in the morning, so if you want to ensure a restful sleep at night or even a quick nap in the afternoon, it’s beneficial to have blackout blinds. These types of blinds are also effective for improving your home’s energy efficiency — lower utility bills might help prevent those restless nights as well! Installing blackout blinds in the bedroom is a wise decision for uninterrupted sleep, because any car lights, security lights and other light pollution is blocked from your view. In addition, these blinds provide thermal protection and reduce heat loss throughout the seasons. When the blinds are open, the sun shines through, which in turn heats up the home and makes your air-conditioned environment less effective. In the wintertime, heat from inside your home can be lost through the windows as well. A bare window isn’t cost effective for your heating and cooling system. There is a wide range of window coverings available, but the most eco-friendly ones are PVC- and VOC-free. Some blinds have fiberglass or acrylic foamed backing, which you don’t want to breathe in, but EarthShade has a line of safe, environmentally responsible shades. Blinds made from natural and renewable sources like grass, reed, bamboo and hemp can be beautiful and useful for blocking out light. Blackout blinds have recently been created with a cellular or honeycomb design. These have become popular among homeowners with modern décor, but this new style is more efficient at blocking out light — some are capable of blocking out up to 99% of light. The additional layers in the honeycomb pattern provide more insulation than traditional designs, which can save you money on your electric bill in the long run. From standard size to mini blackout blinds, there are eco-friendly options out there for your bedroom so you can catch up on your sleep. Light pollution can quickly disturb your REM cycle, but you can fight back with a green and energy-efficient solution.