Blackout shades will ensure you get a good night's rest

Spring is here and if you're like some homeowners, you're in the midst of spring cleaning and trying to improve the look of your abode for the season. However, if there's one place that requires your undivided attention, it's your bedroom. If you've been looking to redesign your bedroom, window blinds and shades are some of the most cost-effective improvements that you can choose. Additionally, if you decide to choose from a wide variety of blackout shades, it will ensure that you get a restful night's sleep that will have you ready to face the day.

According to the National Sleep Foundation, about two-thirds of Americans say their weeknight sleep needs are not being met. These individuals reported that they normally get just under seven hours of sleep a night, which is well below what is required. Another interesting tidbit from the study found that almost 95 percent of those surveyed used some form of technology before going to sleep. Artificial light has been known to disrupt the release of the sleep-producing hormone melatonin, so it's best to avoid these activities before bedtime.

With this information in mind, creating a sleep environment within your redesigned bedroom will require a few lifestyle changes. Try to avoid using the computer or television before bed, and if you have TV in your bedroom, keep it off for an hour before you go to sleep. This will allow a brief wind-down period that will allow your body to recharge.

With these small changes, you can now concentrate on the amount of light your room receives during the night. Total darkness will allow your body to achieve deep sleep which will help you wake up feeling refreshed the next day. Blackout shades are the best option for this space, and many options will actually control air leakage as well. This will help cut down on your utility bills and help you to create a greener household.

If aesthetics are your only worry, then you have a wide world of decorating possibilities open to you. For instance, if you have a wealth of natural accents in your space, consider some bamboo woven wood shades. These products instantly add warmth and a unique charm to living spaces, and can be custom-made to fit any window. Best of all, they are available with a blackout liner that will help you get a restful night's sleep.

Energy-efficiency is a main concern for today's homeowners, as high utility bills have them changing their routines drastically. Air leakage is a problem in any season, and it could seriously effect your energy costs if left unchecked. Honeycomb cellular shades are the best option to reduce leaks, as they contain cell technology to increase your bedroom's insulation. They come in single or blackout dual-cell variants -single-cell shades are available in room-darkening varieties, but the blackout dual-cell is the best choice for homeowners looking to create a pitch black environment in their bedroom.

On the other hand, if you're a fan of fabric window coverings, roman shades are the ideal choice for any space. They hold room darkening capabilities, a timeless design and they can be found in countless colors to suit your décor.

No matter what you choose, let a good night's sleep inform your design choices. With the wide range of products on the market, you'll be well on your way to waking up refreshed and jazzing up your home for the spring.