How to Choose the Right Fabric for Every Room

When it comes to roller shades, the fabric you choose plays a big role in how a space feels and functions. Whether you're outfitting a cozy bedroom, a sunlit living room, or a busy office space, picking the right fabric can make all the difference in light control, privacy, and energy efficiency.

At Sunlo Corp, we stock three main types of roller shade fabrics—light-filtering, blackout, and sunscreen—each designed for a specific purpose. Here’s how to choose the right one for every room.

1. Light-Filtering Fabrics

Best for: Living rooms, kitchens, dining areas

Light-filtering fabrics allow natural light to enter while softening glare and maintaining daytime privacy. They’re ideal for shared spaces where you want brightness without direct sunlight or harsh shadows.

Key Benefits:

• Soft, natural light without sacrificing privacy

• Reduces glare on screens

• Available in a range of textures and patterns

Pro Tip: Choose a warmer tone to enhance comfort and ambiance in casual living areas.

2. Blackout Fabrics

Best for: Bedrooms, nurseries, media rooms

Blackout fabrics block out nearly all light, offering complete privacy and maximum light control. They’re the go-to choice for anyone who needs restful sleep or a dark environment during the day.

Key Benefits:

• Total light blockage

• Energy-efficient insulation

• Helps regulate temperature

Pro Tip: Pair with side channels or cassette systems for even better performance.

3. Sunscreen Fabrics

Best for: Offices, high-rise buildings, sunrooms

Sunscreen fabrics are engineered to reduce heat and UV exposure while preserving the outside view. They’re perfect for commercial spaces or any room with a strong sun presence.

Key Benefits:

• UV protection for furniture and flooring

• Maintains visibility while reducing glare

• Improves comfort without total darkness

Pro Tip: Look for openness factors between 1% and 5% depending on the level of visibility you want.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right fabric doesn’t just affect how your shades look—it influences how the room feels, how well it functions, and how much energy it consumes. If you're a fabricator or designer helping clients make the best decision, use this guide as a reference for combining performance and style.

Need help sourcing the perfect fabric? Sunlo Corp offers a wide range of roller shade fabrics in stock and ready to ship from Florida. Contact us today or browse our collections to get started.