Roller Blinds: Check These 4 Things Before You Buy
A roller blind is a panel of fabric that rolls up on a tube at the top of a window. It only works well if its width and drop suit the window, it fixes in a way your frame, wall or glass allows, you can reach the side or bar you operate it from, and the fabric blocks as much light as you need. Use these checks before choosing one. This guide is a planning aid, not a compatibility guarantee.
Jump to the products to check against this list (affiliate links)
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1. Window size
Measure the width and drop of the glass or the recess in three places and use the smallest figure. IKEA's FRIDANS 120 cm blind has a fabric width of 120 cm, a roller width of 125 cm and a length of 195 cm; IKEA says it "Can be cut to the desired width" but "The top rail can be cut max. 20 cm." A reviewer on IKEA's Ireland page titled their review "Blind too small". Both blinds we checked are sold 40 to 68 cm wide, most with a 125 cm drop.
2. Fixing
IKEA says FRIDANS "Can be mounted inside or outside the window recess, or in the ceiling", with "2 brackets for wall or ceiling mounting included"; screws and wall plugs are not included. For best effect IKEA suggests mounting it "inside the window recess, or as close to the window as possible to prevent gaps." Both blinds we checked hold on to the glass with suction cups instead, which need clean, smooth glass.
3. Pull side
Check what sits below and beside the window: a sink, taps, a desk or a bed can block your reach. FRIDANS has its "Rod to be mounted on the right-hand side of the roller blind", and a reviewer on IKEA's UK page noted it "Can only be opened and closed from the right side of the blind." IKEA adds that "The blind is cordless for increased child safety." One suction blind we checked lists "Manual control by pulling the bottom".
4. Light and gaps
Decide whether you need darkness for sleep or just privacy. IKEA says FRIDANS's "block-out coating prevents all light from coming in", yet light can still get round the edges: a reviewer on IKEA's UK page found it "best that they installed over the entire window opening and attached flush to the wall". Both listings we checked say "Blackout" in the title, but one listing's photos show a dotted fabric you can partly see through, so ask the seller.
Before you order
Keep the window or recess width and drop, the fixing you can use, the side you can reach and how dark the room must be next to the blind's fabric width, drop, fixings included, operating side and fabric. After fitting, pull it down fully and check the side gaps and that it stays in place. If a figure is missing, ask the seller.
Products to check against this list
The links below are affiliate links. If you buy through one, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Specifications are as listed by the seller on the date shown; we have not measured, tested or approved these products for your space.
- No-drill suction-cup roller blind, 40 to 68 cm wide. Seller-listed: Sizes: 40x60, 40x125, 45x125, 50x125, 58x125 or 68x125 cm. Photos: suction cups on the top bar and the bottom bar. Text: 'Manual control by pulling the bottom; smooth spring mechanism'. The title says blackout; check the fabric in the photos. (checked 2026-09-29). View on AliExpress (affiliate link)
- Suction-cup roller blind, 40 to 68 cm wide, no drilling. Seller-listed: Sizes: 40x60 to 68x125 cm. Images: 'Install the two suction cups on the window and exhaust air'; a third cup at the bottom; soak the cups in warm water for 3-5 minutes first. The title says blackout, but photos show a dotted fabric you can partly see through. (checked 2026-09-29). View on AliExpress (affiliate link)
Your fit worksheet
Use centimetres or inches consistently. These cells are intentionally unfilled: we have not measured your space or approved a product for it.
| Check | Your space or equipment | Product requirement | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Window size | Record your measurement or observation | Confirm with the maker | Not checked |
| Fixing | Record your measurement or observation | Confirm with the maker | Not checked |
| Pull side | Record your measurement or observation | Confirm with the maker | Not checked |
| Light and gaps | Record your measurement or observation | Confirm with the maker | Not checked |
Reference and evidence limits
Retailer example: IKEA FRIDANS block-out roller blind, Ireland listing.
The linked retailer page and its public customer feedback supplied research leads, not independent performance evidence. Comments can reflect individual experiences. We have not independently reproduced them or verified compatibility, stock, price, load limits or current numerical specifications. Check the product page and instructions for your market before buying. Source reviewed on 2026-09-29.