Traveling by RV can be an exciting adventure. The open road and new experiences are what draw people into this exciting lifestyle. An RV is a home on wheels. Privacy is a big concern for most RVers. With the best RV blinds, privacy is no problem.
Shopping for RV window shades is not easy. With this review, you will know what to look for. Allow us to help you purchase the right ones for your RV. We have done the research and conducted tests and trials. This RV blind review makes purchasing easier.
RV blinds allow you to travel with full privacy. Keeping your family and belongings shielded from prying eyes is important as is achieving optimal light control. The following are a pick of 6 of our favorites.
In a hurry? This is our Winner!
RecPro RV Camper Pleated Blind Shades Cappuccino for Motorhomes
- Offers true privacy
- Blocks out most light
- Neutral and attractive design
- Can easily be raised or lowered
- Protects against UV rays for less fading
- Side tie-back buttons offer stability during travel.
RV Blinds – Top Model Compared
| Image | Product | Features | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
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OUR TOP PICK
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RecPro RV Camper Pleated Blind Shades Cappuccino for Motorhomes |
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Check Price On Amazon |
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EDITOR’S CHOICE
|
RecPro Black RV Roller Shades Blackout Covers |
|
Check Price On Amazon |
|
TOP VALUE
|
Irvine Shade and Door Pleated Motorhome Blinds |
|
Check Price On Amazon |
|
RUNNER UP
|
Day & Night Pleated Shades Cotton/Sand Stitchbond |
|
Check Price On Amazon |
|
RUNNER UP
|
Rollerhouse DIY Electric Roller Blind Tubular Motor Kit |
|
Check Price On Amazon |
|
RUNNER UP
|
Car Sun Shade Double Thickness Rear Side Window Auto Windshield (Universal Fit for RV truck UV protection) |
|
Check Price On Amazon |
Our Leading 6 Options for Traveling with Privacy
1. OUR NUMBER 1 PICK: RecPro RV Camper Pleated Blind Shades Cappuccino for Motorhomes
Summary
This pleated suggestion are attractive. They are made of thick material for supreme privacy. These shades can be raised to allow for views and lowered for privacy. This RecPro version comes with mounting hardware.
They offer UV protection. Protecting against the sun keeps your interior from fading. In the summer, they block the sun’s heat. In the winter, they keep heat in. Proper light control matters when you spend a fair amount of time in your RV. The beautiful cappuccino color goes with any RV décor.
We thought these were easy to install. They look nice and are simple to use. We feel these are the best option because of their craftsmanship. The thick material offers true privacy and blockage.
The design is simple and the thick materials will hold up for many years. With the included hardware, mounting is super-simple. These work better than the metal ones our vehicle came with. They measure 32 inches X 34 inches.
Pros
- Offers true privacy
- Blocks out most light
- Neutral and attractive design
- Can easily be raised or lowered
- Protects against UV rays for less fading
- Side tie-back buttons offer stability during travel.
Cons
- Slower gear ratio of 5:0:1
2. EDITOR’S CHOICE: RecPro Black RV Roller Shades Blackout Covers
Summary
After traveling all night, getting good sleep in an RV is difficult. These shades block out the light meaning you can sleep anytime. They also block harmful UV rays. They keep your interior from fading.
They are perfect for larger windows. They measure 38 inches wide X 60 inches long, and are crafted with 4-ply material for extreme privacy. We love that they keep the RV cooler.
They are easy to clean and require little maintenance. We found the installation to be a breeze. These will make you feel comfortable during travel.
RV roller options are perfect for larger windows. They should be installed on windows that seem to get the most sun. Sun exposure causes fading and damage. These protect your investment.
RecPro is a name we rely on shade options. These are made of thick materials that are bonded and made to last for many years.
Pros
- Better for larger windows
- Easy to install in minutes
- Can be adjusted in length
- Easy to clean and maintain
- Attractive design lies flush with the window
- Fully block out light for greater comfort and privacy
Cons
- Available in only one color
3. TOP VALUE: Irvine Shade and Door Pleated Motorhome Blinds
Summary
These pleated ones offer a beautiful look. The neutral color blends with all designs. These are easy to hang. They come with all of the mounting hardware.
Irvine Shade and Door has been making blinds for RVs for years. These are made from a strong material that lasts.
They are perfect for smaller RV windows. They measure 26 inches X 24 inches.
We loved the classy look these gave our RV. They block out most light but are not blackout ones. The neutral color of Cappuccino blends with most RV designs. We found they helped keep our interior at a comfortable temperature.
If you are looking to replace your outdated metal RV blinds, these are a great choice as they hang perfectly. These are easy to install in minutes. They do not require major maintenance, and are easy to clean, making them one of the best rv blinds option to consider.
Pros
- Beautiful color
- Easy to operate
- Low maintenance
- Thick material helps block light
- Blocks UV rays for less fading inside
- Comes with all of the necessary hardware
Cons
- Does not come with instructions for installation (Helpful how-to videos are available)
4. RUNNER UP: Day & Night Pleated Shades Cotton/Sand Stitchbond
Summary
This pleated option perfect for large and small windows. The length can be adjusted to match your needs.
We consider this one of the better day night options on the market. These pleated shades come in the following sizes.
- 14 inch X 24 inch
- 26 inch X 24 inch
- 32 inch X 24 inch
- 38 inch X 24 inch
- 44 inch X 38 inch
- 50 inch X 24 Inch
- 50 inch X 32 inch
- 50 inch X 38 inch
This option come in two colors: Cotton and Sand. The cotton side is for day use. The sand side is for nighttime use. The thick fabric is opaque. These can help to block harmful UV rays. We thought they added an attractive design.
We loved the versatility of these night/day blinds. They add insulation to your windows. They help your RV stay at a comfortable temperature.
These come with mounting hardware. Measure your window width and length to order. The neutral colors blend with all décor.
Pros
- Easy to install
- Day and night options
- Easy maintenance and cleaning
- Thick fabric is completely opaque
- Attractive design with neutral colors
- Easy to switch between day and night
Cons
- Lack of installation instructions
5. RUNNER UP: Rollerhouse DIY Electric Roller Blind Tubular Motor Kit
Summary
With this kit, you can raise or lower your RV shades and blinds. This kit includes everything that is needed for installation. The electric shade motor is easy to install.
This kit is hard-wired for greater power. It can be used with all types of window coverings. This roller motor perfectly operated them.
Even if you do not have installation experience, it is easy. The roller motor hardwires with a positive and negative wire. These can be installed in almost any RV window.
These shade motor kits are available in the following:
- 5 channel transmitter in black
- 5 channel transmitter in white
- DC 12 Volt – controlled by a switch (one and a half-inch tube)
- DC 12 Volt – controlled by remote (one and a half-inch tube)
- DC 12 Volt – controlled by a switch (1.18-inch tube)
- DC 12 Volt – controlled by remote (1.18-inch tube)
If you want to raise and lower your blinds, this is the perfect kit and has a quiet motor. It’s not difficult to see why this is one of the best rv blinds available on the market at the moment.
Pros
- Easy to install
- Quiet operation
- Dependable service
- Includes all hardware
- Many replacement options
- Models work with remote or switch
Cons
- Cannot handle extremely heavy weight
6. RUNNER UP: Car Sun Shade Double Thickness Rear Side Window Auto Windshield (Universal Fit for RV truck UV protection)
Summary
To shield your front RV windows at night, these are the perfect shields. They block over 97% of harmful UV rays. You can use these shields for your RV and other vehicles. These are super-easy to install. The strong magnets keep them in place.
These fold up for easy storage and can be put in place when needed. These RV window covers feature a silver lining for protection.
They are easy to clean and maintain. This RV shade is opaque and helps block light. No one will be able to see in
Install them at night when parked. Remove in the morning for safe travel. Can be used on all types of vehicles. These are ideal for the front RV windows. They help insulate the windows for comfortable temperatures in the RV.
Pros
- Lightweight and compact design
- Reversible design blocks UV rays
- Easily folds away for quick storage
- Easy to install with the included magnets
- Helps protect your family from prying eyes
- Can be used on all types of vehicles, including RVs
Cons
- Only available in one pattern
Considerations to Make Before You Make a Purchase!
Blinds or Shades: Which Is Better?
Many RVs come with metal blinds. Although these are sturdy and durable, they are not attractive and they can be a safety hazard for young children. We recommend upgrading to pleated or solid shades.
Fabric is best for motorhome blinds. We find they are easier to clean and control. Metal versions have sharp edges that can make them dangerous, whereas fabric is more pleasing to the eye. Another drawback is they let light in through the slats inside the RV. With shades, no one can see inside, whether it be day or night.
All of the selections we chose in our top 6 are perfect for RV use. We love the neutral colors and designs. If measure correctly, you should have no problems. Fabric is better than blinds because they block UV rays. UV rays fade the fabrics and other materials in your RV.
Before You Buy: What Exactly Should You Look For?
Purchasing high quality shades for RV will protect your family from prying eyes. There are a few things you should consider before making a purchase. We have outlined the criteria that are important. We want to help you make a wise choice.
Dense Material
Choosing the right type for RV, fabric denseness is important. The thicker the fabric, the better the protection. Thick materials keep light out. The thicker the material, the better the privacy level.
An RV shade should be made of layers of material to block light and offer insulation. Four-ply are the preferred option for many people.
UV Protection
UV rays from the sun break down many materials over time. The sun’s rays can cause fading inside your RV. Protection against UV rays is essential. If the material does not block UV rays, it will not be able to offer full protection.
RVs need to be protected from UV rays at all times. This protection preserves the beauty of your RV. Blackout shades are best for blocking UV rays. These keep your RV cooler in the hot summer. Darker materials are stronger in blocking rays. Any material can be treated with UV protection.
The Right Fit
Getting the right fit is important before shopping for RV window blinds. We recommend you carefully measure before shopping. Make sure to measure the width and length of the window. The width must be exact, but the length can be adjusted.
Once you know the measurements of your window, you can easily shop. Our picks include RV pleated options and window coverings. We did all the research. You can easily shop. Get your measurements ready before you click.
Easy Installation
Installing these should not be a pain. All of our picks come with hardware. With the right hardware, installation should be a breeze.
Some do not come with instructions for installation. We recommend looking up installation videos before starting.
Frequently Asked Questions
What tools are needed for installation?
Most of them come with the hardware. The hardware consists of two small metal brackets and screws. If you are replacing your existing ones, you will need a Phillip’s screwdriver. If it is a new install, you made need a drill for pilot holes. We found the installation of all super simple.
How do you clean pleated RV shades?
Regularly vacuuming helps keep them clean. Spot stains can be cleaned with a gentle spot remover. Test first for color changes. If they are very dirty, remove them. They can be soaked in a soap and water solution. Scrub tough stains with a brush. Never use bleach or a washing machine. Do not dry in a dryer.
How can RV blinds be made safe for children?
Blinds do pose a risk to young children due to the cords. All of our recommendations are safe. The cords can be tucked away and secured. With the automated motor, cords will not need to be used. Always follow safety rules for proper use. Cords should be kept out of reach of children.
Conclusion
You have all the information you need for shading options for your motorhome. Feel free to click through our links. Happy travels!
In a hurry? This is our Winner!
RecPro RV Camper Pleated Blind Shades Cappuccino for Motorhomes
- Offers true privacy
- Blocks out most light
- Neutral and attractive design
- Can easily be raised or lowered
- Protects against UV rays for less fading
- Side tie-back buttons offer stability during travel.