We have replaced the black out curtains in the master bedroom with blinds. The blinds have separate upper and lower sections, so you can close the bottom for privacy but keep the upper open for more natural light. I really enjoy being able to see that the sun has risen in the mornings. With the black out curtains I never knew what time is was outside and we usually left them closed making the bedroom very dark all the time. We love these new blinds and think you will too.