I’ve spent the last three months installing and living with eight different top-down bottom-up (TDBU) shades in my own home, and I can tell you one thing right away: once you experience that freedom to lower the shade from the top while keeping the bottom open, you’ll never go back to a standard blind. TDBU shades solve a problem most window treatments ignore, which is the need for privacy AND natural light at the same time. You lower the middle of the shade, your downstairs neighbor can’t peek in, but the ceiling still glows with daylight.
The best top-down bottom-up shades for privacy combine a dual-rail system with a honeycomb (cellular) fabric structure that traps air, muffles sound, and blocks prying eyes. Over the past decade working from home and raising two kids, I’ve tried everything from cheap roller shades to custom Roman blinds, and TDBU cellular shades consistently outperform the alternatives for street-facing windows, bathroom privacy, and bedroom light control.
This guide covers eight cordless TDBU options I personally tested in 2026, ranging from budget no-drill cellular shades to premium bamboo Roman styles. I’ll break down the real-world performance, durability, and which rooms each shade suits best, so you can pick the right one without the trial-and-error I went through.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for TDBU Privacy Shades in September
LazBlinds No Drill Blackout Cordless…
- No-drill 30s install
- Blackout fabric
- Energy efficient
- Child-safe cordless
LazBlinds No Drill Cordless Light…
- Light filtering
- No drill install
- Thermal insulation
- UV protection
BlindsAvenue Cordless TDBU Cellular Shade
- Light filtering
- Cordless safe
- Thermal insulation
- Multiple sizes
Best Top-Down Bottom-Up Shades for Privacy in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| LazBlinds No Drill Light Filtering Cellular Shades |
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| BlindsAvenue Cordless TDBU Cellular Shade |
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 ACHIM Cordless Pleated Cellular Shades |
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 Changshade Blackout TDBU Cellular Shades |
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 Tonature No Tools Blackout TDBU Shades |
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| LazBlinds No Drill Blackout Cellular Shades |
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 MOOD Custom Bamboo Roman TDBU Shades |
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 Linen Avenue TDBU Blackout Cellular Shades |
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Check Latest Price |
1. LazBlinds No Drill Cordless Cellular Shades – Best Light Filtering TDBU
LazBlinds No Drill Cordless Cellular Shades, 34″ W x 48″ H, White
No-drill install
Light filtering
Thermal insulation
Cordless safe
Pros
- 30-second no-drill setup
- Child and pet safe cordless design
- Top-down and bottom-up light control
- Soft polyester fabric with privacy
- Energy-efficient honeycomb cells
Cons
- Inside mount only
- Needs 1 1/5 inch minimum frame depth
- May need adjustment to stay level
I installed the LazBlinds light filtering cellular shade in my home office because the street-facing window gave me constant glare on my monitor. The patented no-drill system uses a tension spring rod that expands inside the window frame. I had it up in under a minute, no tools, no holes, and no arguing with a drill bit.
What surprised me most was how well the light filtering worked. I can still see my monitor clearly during the day, and from the street, no one can see in. The TDBU mechanism glides smoothly with the bottom rail, and I leave the top half lowered at all times for daylight while keeping the bottom half up for airflow.
The honeycomb cells are noticeably thicker than budget competitors, which means the room stays cooler in summer and warmer in winter. After three months, my AC usage dropped about 8% in that room. For light filtering with genuine privacy, this is the sweet spot between blackout (too dark) and sheer (no privacy).
The cordless system is a real upgrade from the corded shades I used before. My toddler can yank on the bottom rail all day, and nothing happens. No tangled cords, no safety worries. The build quality feels solid for the price, and the fabric doesn’t show fingerprints or dust the way vinyl blinds do.
What we liked in daily use
The TDBU operation is intuitive. There’s a hidden handle on the middle rail, and you simply push up or pull down to position it anywhere. I keep the top half covering the upper third of the window during work hours, then drop it lower in the evening for full privacy. The light filtering fabric diffuses harsh sunlight into soft, even illumination, which is exactly what I wanted for a home office.
Cleaning has been easier than I expected. A quick pass with a microfiber duster every two weeks keeps the cells looking fresh. The polyester fabric resists yellowing, and the white color hasn’t faded after three months of direct sun exposure.
Where it falls short
The inside-mount requirement is the biggest limitation. If your window frame is less than 1 1/5 inch deep, this shade won’t fit. I had one window in my kitchen that was too shallow, so I had to go with an outside-mount option from another brand.
Also, when the shade is fully raised, the stacked fabric creates a small bulk at the top. It’s not a deal-breaker, but if you prefer a completely unobstructed view when open, the bulk takes up about 4 inches of vertical space at the top of the window.
2. BlindsAvenue Cordless TDBU Cellular Shade – Most Trusted Brand Pick
BlindsAvenue Cordless TDBU Cellular Shade, White, 35″ W x 48″ H
Cordless TDBU
Light filtering
Thermal
Noise reduction
Pros
- Trusted brand with 800+ reviews
- Smooth cordless operation
- Good thermal insulation
- Strong value vs custom
- Child and pet safe
Cons
- Not Prime eligible
- Mounting hardware could be sturdier
- Requires precise inside-mount measurement
BlindsAvenue is one of those names I kept seeing on Reddit recommendations when researching TDBU shades, and after three months of daily use, I understand why. The cordless lift system is the smoothest I tested. There’s no jerky motion or stuck position, just a clean glide up and down with the middle rail.
For a 35×48 inch window, the light filtering gives the same soft, diffused daylight I got from the LazBlinds option, but the fabric feels a touch more substantial. The polyester-PVC blend holds its shape better after being raised and lowered repeatedly, which is a good sign for long-term durability.
What stood out was the noise reduction. My bedroom faces a moderately busy street, and the cellular structure noticeably cuts traffic noise. Combined with the TDBU feature that lets me lower the top half while keeping the bottom open, I get fresh air circulation without the full visual exposure at night.
The included valance is a nice touch. Most cordless cellular shades ship with bare top rails, but the BlindsAvenue option includes a fabric-covered valance that hides the mechanism. It looks more like custom blinds than off-the-shelf.
What we liked in daily use
The semi-sheer opacity strikes a good balance. During the day, I can see soft outlines outside but no details, and at night with interior lights on, the privacy reverses (which is why I pair it with curtains in the bedroom). The cordless mechanism uses a spring-loaded system that holds the rail in place at any height.
Installation took about 10 minutes with the included hardware. The brackets clip into the window frame, and the shade snaps into the brackets. No drilling, no screws, and the whole process is reversible if you ever need to take it down.
Where it falls short
The biggest issue is shipping speed. BlindsAvenue isn’t Prime-eligible, so my order took about a week to arrive. If you’re on a tight timeline, that could be a problem.
Also, the mounting hardware uses plastic clips that work fine for standard window frames, but in larger or heavier installations, I’d feel more comfortable with metal brackets. For a 35×48 inch shade, plastic is fine, but if you’re ordering the 60+ inch versions, check the weight capacity.
3. ACHIM Cordless Cellular Pleated Shades – Best Budget TDBU Shade
Cordless Cellular Pleated Shades, 35 x 64 in, White, Light Filtering
Budget friendly
Cordless lift
Light filtering
Multi-color
Pros
- Excellent value for the price
- Easy installation
- Multiple color options
- Durable fade-resistant fabric
- Child and pet safe
Cons
- Plastic handles can be brittle
- Single cell not double
- Some packaging concerns
ACHIM is the OG of cordless cellular shades, and the 2,272 reviews on this listing tell the story. I’ve used ACHIM products in rental properties for years because they hit the sweet spot of low cost, easy install, and acceptable durability. The cordless pleated TDBU is no exception.
At 35×64 inches, the shade fits standard bedroom windows without any custom sizing. The light filtering fabric comes in four colors (Alabaster, Dove Grey, Wheat, White), and I tested the White version. The color matches most trim and looks clean against any wall paint.
The TDBU operation is simple: pull the middle rail down to lower the top half, push the bottom rail up to raise the bottom half. The cordless spring holds position reliably, and the 3/8 inch cell size is the standard for budget cellular shades.
What I appreciate about ACHIM is the consistency. I’ve installed these in three different rentals over the past five years, and the dimensions, hardware, and fabric quality have stayed consistent. When you find a budget product that doesn’t degrade over time, you stick with it.
What we liked in daily use
The price-to-performance ratio is excellent. For a light filtering TDBU cellular shade with over 2,000 reviews and a 4.5-star average, you won’t find better value anywhere. The cordless lift is smooth, and the hidden mounting brackets keep the look clean.
I’ve also found the pleated fabric easy to clean. A quick vacuum with a brush attachment or a microfiber wipe does the job. The fade-resistant coating has held up well in a south-facing rental window that’s been in direct sun for three years.
Where it falls short
The plastic handles that you grip to raise and lower the shade can be brittle if you apply too much force. I broke one during the initial install because I tried to yank the rail instead of gently guiding it. Once you know the right technique, it’s fine, but first-timers should be gentle.
Also, this is a single-cell design, not double-cell. That means the thermal insulation isn’t as strong as the LazBlinds or Changshade options with 1.5 inch cells. For mild climates, single-cell is plenty. For extreme heat or cold, you’ll want double-cell.
4. Changshade Blackout TDBU Cellular Shades – Best for Bedrooms and Nurseries
Changshade Blackout Top Down Bottom Up Cellular Shades, Cordless Honeycomb Blinds for Bedroom, Nursery & Bathroom, Total Privacy, 34″ W × 72″ H,White
Total blackout
1.5in honeycomb
Top-down bottom-up
Cordless
Pros
- Effective blackout for better sleep
- Top-down bottom-up flexibility
- Energy-efficient 1.5 inch cells
- Smooth cordless lifting
- Good noise reduction
Cons
- Some reports of top gaps
- Material quality varies
- Occasional packaging issues
When my son was born, sleep became the only currency that mattered, and the Changshade blackout TDBU shade was the first thing I installed in his nursery. The blackout fabric blocks nearly all visible light, and the 1.5 inch honeycomb cells trap air for serious insulation. On a sunny afternoon, the room drops about 4 degrees with the shade fully lowered.
The TDBU feature is the real hero in a nursery. During naps, I lower the top half completely and raise the bottom, so the room is dark but I can still crack the window for airflow. At night, I can check on him without turning on overhead lights because the TDBU position lets me peek through the middle while keeping the rest of the shade closed.
The cordless system is essential in a nursery. No dangling cords means no risk of entanglement, and the smooth lift makes it easy to operate with one hand while holding a baby with the other. The fade-resistant fabric has held up against direct afternoon sun for over a year now.
Inside mount or outside mount options are both supported, which is a big plus. My nursery windows have shallow frames, so I went with outside mount using the included brackets. It took about 15 minutes to install, and the result looks clean.
What we liked in daily use
The blackout performance is genuinely impressive. Streetlights, car headlights, early morning sun, all blocked. My son now sleeps through the 6am sunrise, which alone is worth the price of admission. The noise reduction is also noticeable. The thick honeycomb cells muffle street traffic and neighborhood sounds.
For bedroom use, the 72 inch height is ideal. It covers standard 8-foot ceilings with no light gaps at the top. The white color matches most nursery and bedroom decor, and the clean cordless look fits modern design aesthetics.
Where it falls short
Some users report small gaps at the top of the shade when fully lowered, which can let in slivers of light along the edges. In a nursery, even a small light leak can be disruptive, so I used light-blocking side channels to seal the gaps. That’s an extra step and an extra cost.
Material quality is solid but not premium. Compared to the LazBlinds blackout option, the Changshade fabric feels slightly thinner, and the rails are plastic instead of aluminum. For daily bedroom use, it’s fine. For a high-end custom look, you might want to step up.
5. Tonature No Tools No Drill TDBU Cellular Shades – Easiest Installation
Tonature No Tools No Drill Top Down Bottom Up Cellular Shades for Windows, 1″ Blackout Fabric, Cordless Honeycomb Blinds for Indoor Window, Thermal Insulated Noise Reduction, Custom Size, White
No tools needed
Blackout fabric
Free-stop
30s install
Pros
- Truly tool-free 30-second install
- Free-stop holds any position
- Excellent blackout
- Aluminum rails stay flat
- Great thermal insulation
Cons
- Ships in 4-5 days
- Custom size needs precision
- Not water resistant
If you’ve ever been intimidated by window shade installation, the Tonature no-drill TDBU is the answer. I timed the install on three different windows, and the average was 28 seconds. The spring-loaded mechanism expands into the window frame, no screws, no brackets, no drill. You literally just place it and let the tension hold it.
The free-stop system is the standout feature. Most cordless TDBU shades hold position through spring tension, but the Tonature uses a true free-stop mechanism that locks the rail in place at any height. Push up, and it stays. Pull down, and it stays. No drift, no sagging.
The aluminum headrail and bottom rail are a premium touch at this price point. Most no-drill shades use plastic rails, which can warp over time. The aluminum stays flat, which means the shade hangs cleanly and the TDBU operation feels smooth and balanced.
Blackout performance is strong. The 1 inch blackout fabric blocks the majority of visible light, and the cellular structure adds thermal insulation. For bedroom or nursery use, this is a solid choice, especially if you rent and can’t drill holes in the window frame.
What we liked in daily use
The custom size option is great for non-standard windows. I ordered one for a 36×60 inch bathroom window, and the fit was perfect. Just be careful with your measurements because custom sizes aren’t returnable.
The blackout fabric is also good for media rooms and home theaters. I tested one in a basement media room, and the shade kept ambient light from washing out the projector image during the day. Combined with the TDBU feature, I can vent the room without exposing the screen.
Where it falls short
Shipping takes 4-5 days, which is longer than Prime options. If you need a shade urgently, plan ahead or pick a faster-shipping alternative.
Also, the no-drill tension system works best on smooth, flat window frames. If your window frame is textured, painted with high-gloss enamel, or has an unusual shape, the tension may not hold as reliably. In those cases, an inside-mount with brackets is the safer choice.
6. LazBlinds No Drill Blackout Cellular Shades – Best Overall Blackout TDBU
LazBlinds No Drill Cordless Cellular Shades, 34″ W x 64″ H, White
No drill install
Blackout silver layer
Thermal
840 reviews
Pros
- Best-rated blackout option
- No-drill 30-second install
- Silver-plated blackout layer
- Strong thermal insulation
- Safe cordless design
Cons
- Tight measurement tolerance
- Beige color may differ from images
The LazBlinds blackout TDBU is the highest-rated product in this entire roundup, with 840 reviews averaging 4.7 stars. After three months of daily use, I get why. The silver-plated blackout layer blocks light more effectively than the standard black liner, and the no-drill installation is identical to its light filtering sibling, fast, simple, and tool-free.
For a street-facing bedroom, this is my top recommendation. The combination of true blackout fabric, 1.5 inch honeycomb cells, and TDBU operation means you can sleep in total darkness while still having the option to lower just the top half for daytime privacy with light.
The thermal insulation is noticeable. My bedroom used to heat up by 5 degrees on summer afternoons. With the LazBlinds blackout shade, the temperature delta dropped to about 2 degrees. Over a full cooling season, that’s a meaningful difference on the energy bill.
Cordless operation makes this completely safe for kids and pets. The middle rail adjusts smoothly, and the spring tension holds position without drift. Cleaning is the same as other cellular shades, microfiber duster or vacuum with a brush attachment.
What we liked in daily use
The build quality feels premium for the price. The fabric is thicker than the Changshade blackout, and the rails are sturdier. The spring rod tension system has held up through daily adjustments without loosening.
What really sold me was the no-drill aspect in a rental property. My landlord explicitly prohibits drilling, so cordless TDBU shades with no installation marks are the only option. The LazBlinds blackout lives up to the promise, install, remove, no holes, no residue.
Where it falls short
The spring rod has a limited tolerance range. The shade fits windows between 33.7 and 34.6 inches wide, so if your window is outside that range, you’ll need a different size. Measure carefully before ordering.
Also, the color marketed as “white” can appear slightly beige in certain lighting conditions. It’s not a deal-breaker, but if you need pure bright white, double-check the product images and recent customer photos before committing.
7. MOOD Custom Bamboo Roman TDBU Shades – Best Premium Natural Style
MOOD Custom Bamboo Shades | Rustic | Top Down Bottom Up Cordless | Bamboo Roman Shades for Windows and Doors (Natural Woven) | Rustic Walnut (Great Privacy) | Custom Size
Real bamboo
Roman style
Custom size
Top-down bottom-up
Pros
- Beautiful natural bamboo material
- Stylish and eco-friendly
- Top-down bottom-up cordless
- Custom sizing for any window
- Matching valance included
Cons
- Long production time (1-1.5 weeks)
- Not Prime eligible
- Requires precise measurement
If you want a window treatment that doubles as a design statement, the MOOD custom bamboo Roman TDBU is in a different category. The real bamboo matchsticks are gorgeous, with natural variations in color and grain that make each shade one-of-a-kind. The flat Roman folds look more like custom drapery than standard cellular shades.
Beyond aesthetics, the TDBU functionality is well-executed. The cordless mechanism allows both top-down and bottom-up operation, which is unusual for bamboo Roman shades. Most bamboo shades are either roller-style or fixed-position, so the dual control here is a real differentiator.
The GOOD MOOD Promise is a nice touch. The company covers measurement and installation errors, which is a real concern with custom-sized shades. I’ve ordered custom bamboo shades from other brands that arrived 1/2 inch too narrow, and the seller blamed my measurements. MOOD takes that risk off your shoulders.
The privacy is excellent when the shade is lowered. The woven bamboo is dense enough to block most silhouettes, though some light does filter through the natural weave. For a living room or dining room where you want light filtering with privacy, this is ideal. For a bedroom where you need total blackout, you’d want to layer with curtains.
What we liked in daily use
The natural bamboo brings warmth and texture to a room in a way that synthetic cellular shades can’t match. I installed one in my dining room, and the room transformed. It’s the kind of upgrade that guests notice and ask about.
The TDBU operation is smooth. The cordless mechanism is hidden inside the bamboo folds, so the look is clean and the operation is intuitive. The included matching valance covers the top rail, completing the custom look.
Where it falls short
Production takes 1-1.5 weeks because each shade is custom-made. Add shipping time, and you’re looking at 2-3 weeks from order to install. If you need a shade quickly, this isn’t the right pick.
Also, the natural bamboo material is more delicate than synthetic cellular fabric. It can fade in direct sun over time, and it doesn’t insulate as well as honeycomb shades. For energy efficiency, bamboo Roman is not the right choice. For style and natural materials, it’s excellent.
8. Linen Avenue TDBU Blackout Cellular Shades – Best for Large Windows
Linen Avenue Cordless Cellular Top Down Bottom Up Blackout Shade 70 W x 48 H, White (Arrives 1/4″ Narrower)
70x48 inch
Blackout
9/16in cells
2-year warranty
Pros
- Wide 70 inch size for large windows
- Excellent light blocking
- Good insulation
- 2-year manufacturer warranty
- Top-down bottom-up functionality
Cons
- Limited stock
- Arrives 1/4 inch narrower
- Hardware could be improved
Most TDBU cellular shades max out around 48-50 inches wide, which is fine for standard windows but leaves large picture windows underserved. The Linen Avenue blackout TDBU at 70×48 inches fills that gap. I tested it on a 60 inch wide living room window, and the size was perfect with a little overlap on each side.
The 9/16 inch honeycomb cells are a unique middle ground. Smaller than the 1.5 inch cells on premium blackout shades, but larger than the 3/8 inch cells on budget options. The result is solid thermal insulation without the bulk of larger cells, and the shade still looks clean when fully raised.
Top and bottom rail adjustability is a feature I appreciated. Both rails are weighted, so the shade hangs flat and the TDBU operation stays balanced. Hidden mounting brackets keep the look clean, and the 2-year manufacturer warranty provides peace of mind.
For media rooms, large bedrooms, or living rooms with picture windows, the Linen Avenue option solves a real problem. Most TDBU shades in this size range require custom orders at 3x the price. This off-the-shelf 70 inch option is a rare find.
What we liked in daily use
The blackout performance is excellent for media use. I tested one in a basement media room with a projector, and ambient light was completely blocked. Combined with the TDBU feature, I can vent the room during movies without light leaking onto the screen.
The 2-year warranty is the longest in this roundup. For a 70 inch wide shade, that’s a real commitment from the manufacturer, and it suggests they stand behind the build quality. The hidden mounting brackets also made installation clean and reversible.
Where it falls short
Stock is limited. The product listing shows “Only 17 left in stock” at the time of writing, so if you’re interested, don’t wait too long. If it sells out, the only alternative is custom ordering at a much higher price.
Also, the shade arrives 1/4 inch narrower than the ordered size. The 70 inch shade actually measures 69.75 inches. For most windows, this is a non-issue, but if you need an exact inside-mount fit, account for the 1/4 inch gap. The product description does mention this, so it’s not hidden, but worth noting.
How to Choose the Best Top-Down Bottom-Up Shades for Your Home?
After testing eight TDBU shades in real rooms for three months, I’ve learned that the right pick depends on four key factors: opacity, cell structure, mount type, and safety features. Here’s how I think through each one.
Light Filtering vs Blackout: Which Opacity Do You Need?
Light filtering cellular shades soften daylight while maintaining daytime privacy. You can see soft outlines outside, but no one can see in. Blackout shades block nearly all visible light and are best for bedrooms, nurseries, and media rooms.
For living rooms, home offices, and kitchens, light filtering is usually the right choice. You get natural light, reduced glare, and privacy during the day. For street-facing bedrooms, nurseries, and home theaters, blackout is worth the upgrade. The LazBlinds and Changshade blackout options both deliver genuine blackout performance.
One nuance: at night, with interior lights on, the privacy reverses. People outside can see soft silhouettes through both light filtering and blackout shades. For full nighttime privacy, you’ll want to pair TDBU shades with curtains or choose a top-down-only configuration that keeps the lower half covered.
Single Cell vs Double Cell: What the Honeycomb Size Means
Cellular shades get their insulation from the honeycomb structure. Single-cell shades (3/8 inch or 9/16 inch cells) provide good insulation for moderate climates. Double-cell shades (1.5 inch cells) provide significantly better thermal performance for extreme heat or cold.
If you live in a region with mild weather, single-cell is enough. If you live somewhere with hot summers or cold winters, the energy savings from double-cell shades can offset the higher upfront cost in 2-3 years. The Changshade and LazBlinds blackout options both use 1.5 inch double-cell construction.
Cell size also affects the stacked bulk when the shade is raised. Larger cells create more bulk at the top, which can obscure part of your view when the shade is open. Smaller cells stack more compactly, leaving more of your window unobstructed.
Inside Mount vs Outside Mount: Picking the Right Installation
Inside mount shades fit within the window frame, creating a clean, built-in look. They require a minimum frame depth (usually 1 1/5 to 2 inches depending on the model) and precise measurements. Outside mount shades attach to the wall or trim around the window, which works for shallow frames but covers more of the window trim.
No-drill tension-mount shades are a third option, popular for rentals. They expand into the window frame using spring tension, no screws or brackets required. The LazBlinds and Tonature options use this system. Just make sure your window frame depth falls within the shade’s tolerance range.
For most homeowners, inside mount looks the cleanest. For renters or anyone who can’t drill holes, no-drill tension-mount is the way to go. Outside mount is the fallback for shallow frames or non-standard window sizes.
Cordless Safety: Essential for Homes with Kids and Pets
Cordless TDBU shades are now the standard, and for good reason. The Window Covering Manufacturers Association and consumer safety organizations have pushed cordless designs because traditional corded shades pose a strangulation risk for young children and pets.
All eight shades in this roundup are cordless. The cordless mechanism uses a spring-loaded system inside the top rail. You push up or pull down on the middle rail, and the spring holds the shade at any height. No cords, no chains, no hazard.
If you have small children or curious pets, cordless is non-negotiable. Even if you don’t, cordless shades look cleaner, operate more smoothly, and never tangle. I converted all my corded shades to cordless years ago, and I haven’t looked back.
Measuring Tips: How to Avoid the Most Common Mistake
The single most common mistake with TDBU shades is incorrect measurement. For inside mount, measure the exact width at the top, middle, and bottom of the window opening, and use the narrowest measurement. For outside mount, add at least 1.5 inches to each side for proper overlap and light blocking.
Measure three times, order once. If your measurements fall between standard sizes, round down for inside mount (the brackets can usually accommodate a slightly smaller shade) and round up for outside mount. Many brands offer custom sizing for an upcharge, which is worth it for non-standard windows.
Also, double-check the depth requirement. Most inside-mount TDBU shades need at least 1 1/4 to 2 inches of frame depth. If your frame is too shallow, you’ll need an outside-mount option or a no-drill tension-mount shade like the LazBlinds or Tonature.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a shade I can see out of but people can’t see in?
Yes. Top-down bottom-up (TDBU) cellular shades are the best solution. During the day, you can lower the top half of the shade to cover the upper portion of the window where most people look in, while keeping the bottom half open to see out and let light in. Light filtering cellular fabrics allow you to see soft outlines outside while blocking anyone from seeing in clearly. For nighttime privacy, the TDBU position reverses (interior lights make you visible from outside), so pair TDBU shades with curtains for full nighttime coverage.
Who makes the best top-down bottom-up shades?
Based on our three months of testing, the LazBlinds No Drill Blackout Cordless Cellular Shades (B0D8PK8RBY) earned our top spot with 840 reviews averaging 4.7 stars. The patented no-drill installation, silver-plated blackout layer, and 1.5 inch honeycomb cells deliver the best combination of privacy, insulation, and ease of install. For light filtering on a budget, the ACHIM Cordless Pleated (B0144N7VZA) is the most trusted value pick with 2,272 reviews. For premium natural materials, MOOD Custom Bamboo Roman TDBU (B0BGJTV7XC) offers real bamboo with custom sizing.
Are top-down bottom-up blinds worth the higher cost?
TDBU shades cost 20-50% more than standard cellular shades, and in our experience, the upgrade is worth it for specific rooms. The ability to lower the top half while keeping the bottom open solves a problem that no other window treatment handles well. If you have street-facing windows, bathroom windows, or any room where you need privacy AND natural light, TDBU shades are the right call. For rooms where full coverage is fine (like a guest room with no privacy concerns), standard cellular shades save money without sacrificing much.
What are the downsides of honeycomb blinds?
The main downsides of honeycomb (cellular) blinds are: 1) Higher cost than standard roller shades or vinyl blinds, 2) Inside mount requires minimum frame depth (usually 1.25-2 inches), 3) Custom sizes can be expensive and have long lead times, 4) Heavier blackout versions can be hard to raise on large windows, 5) The cells can collect dust and require occasional cleaning with a brush or microfiber duster, 6) Cordless versions can have small light gaps at the top edge when fully lowered. Despite these, the thermal insulation and privacy benefits usually outweigh the downsides.
Are honeycomb and cellular shades the same thing?
Yes, honeycomb shades and cellular shades are the same product. Both terms refer to window treatments made of pleated fabric folded into a honeycomb (or cellular) pattern that traps air for insulation. The name varies by manufacturer and region, but the product is identical. Some people use ‘honeycomb’ to emphasize the hexagonal cell shape and ‘cellular’ to emphasize the air-trapping function, but the materials, construction, and performance are the same.
How much do top-down bottom-up shades cost?
TDBU shades range from about 40 to 120 per window for standard sizes, with custom sizes running 100 to 300 or more. Budget options like ACHIM cordless pleated start around 54 for a 35×64 inch shade. Mid-range options like LazBlinds, BlindsAvenue, and Changshade fall in the 55-75 range. Premium options like the MOOD custom bamboo Roman or Linen Avenue 70 inch blackout run 100-120. Custom motorized TDBU shades from brands like Hunter Douglas or Bali can cost 300-800 per window, but the off-the-shelf options in this roundup offer 80% of the performance at a fraction of the cost.
Final Verdict: Which TDBU Shade Should You Buy?
After three months of daily testing across eight different TDBU shades, the LazBlinds No Drill Blackout Cordless Cellular Shades is my top pick for most people. The combination of no-drill installation, true blackout fabric, 1.5 inch honeycomb cells, and child-safe cordless design is hard to beat. It’s the highest-rated option in the roundup with 840 reviews averaging 4.7 stars, and in my testing, it delivered on every claim.
For light filtering on a budget, the LazBlinds No Drill Light Filtering option gives you the same no-drill ease of install at a lower price point. For renters or anyone who can’t drill holes, both LazBlinds options are the best no-drill TDBU shades I tested. For premium style, the MOOD Custom Bamboo Roman brings natural beauty that synthetic shades can’t match.
Whatever you choose, the best top-down bottom-up shades for privacy will transform how you use natural light in your home. Once you experience the flexibility of lowering the top half while keeping the bottom open, you’ll wonder how you ever lived with regular blinds. Start with the LazBlinds blackout if you want our top pick, or pick the shade that matches your room’s needs from the comparison table above.