One common issue that comes up in urban apartment buildings is noise. Whether it’s loud neighbors, traffic noise, or even just a squeaky stair, it can be difficult to find peace and quiet unless you take charge. While some complaints can only be handled by your landlord, it’s also a good idea to take control by doing what you can to prevent the sound from coming in. If you’re looking for ways to soundproof your apartment on a budget, and most importantly, without doing permanent damage to your suite? Then here are some tips for you!
Invest in Heavy Curtains
One of the simplest and effective ways to soundproof your apartment is by investing in a good set of heavy curtains. These heavy curtains will help to block out light and reduce noise, but they will also help insulate your apartment so it will be cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter! Look for curtains or window treatments that are made of thick, heavy materials like velvet, suede, or leather, which can help to absorb sound. You might also want to consider adding a second layer of thinner curtains or window film to take the soundproofing even further.
Sweep that sound under the rug!
Another affordable way to help soundproof your apartment is really easy: using rugs and carpets to absorb any sound coming in. Hardwood, laminate, and tile floors can amplify noise, so covering them with rugs or carpets will reduce the amount of sound that makes it into the room. Look for rugs and carpets that are made of thick, plush materials like wool or shag carpet rugs, styles which are especially good at absorbing sound. You might also want to consider adding a layer of underpadding to your rugs and carpets to make them even more effective!
Weatherstripping and Door Sweeps
Adding some weatherstripping (consult your landlord first) or door sweeps to your windows and doors is another great way to reduce the noise coming in from outside. These easy to use and relatively cheap products will help you seal any gaps around your windows and doors, preventing outside noise from entering your apartment. You can find weatherstripping and door sweeps at hardware stores or online at places like Amazon, usually very easy to install yourself.
Use white/brown/pink noise to mask unwanted sounds
White Noise machines, white noise phone apps, and similar white noise creators (fans, air purifiers, etc.) can be especially helpful for eliminating noise during the night. White noise is a type of background sound that masks other sounds and creates a sense of calm and relaxation. Experiment with different types of white noise to find what works best for you. Do some research to find the most effective form for your sound issue.
Talk to your Landlord!
If you are struggling with noise in your apartment, it is always a good idea to talk to your landlord, too. Sometimes a noise can be an indication of an issue with the building requiring maintenance, or a sign of another resident breaking the rules, so it’s important to ensure you inform them of anything besides day-to-day traffic noise. They may be able to help you troubleshoot the problem or suggest solutions based on their knowledge of the building. They may even be able to arrange a transfer to a quieter unit. Help them help you by ensuring you are polite and constructive in your attempt to resolve the issue.
We hope this helps you find some solutions to create a comfortable and quiet environment for your apartment!