How to Block Out Noise Without Earplugs:

In this guide, you learn different methods on how to block out noise without earplugs.

While earplugs may seem like the real deal to blocking unwanted noises during bed time, most of us don’t like things sticking out of our ears when asleep.

There are great alternatives to earplugs that will help you block unwanted noises as earplugs do.

According to an article published on Healthline website, using earplugs can result to earwax buildup, tinnitus and temporary hearing loss. They can also cause ear infections. (Source)

To help protect you against such potential side effects, you can try these other effective methods today.

A-List of Methods on How to Block Out Noise Without Earplugs

Below are 7 proven hacks that will help you deal with unwanted noises and help you create a quiet and peaceful living environment.

1. Deal with the Source of the Noise

The first step to dealing with noise without earplugs is addressing the source of it.

Is it your neighbor playing loud music? Is your roommate playing his instruments?

Ask yourself where the noise is coming from so that you can know the way forward.

You can politely ask your neighbor to turn down the noise or ask your roommate to play his instruments when you are not around. You’d be surprised out how people can be kind.

You may not realize this, but most of the time, people have no idea how their actions are impacting others. Talk to them politely for a solution.

2. Move Away from the Noise

Another effective methods involves moving away from its source.

A little distance is worth more if your peace of mind depends on it. If you are having a drink inside a bar that is noisy, you can walk out and have your drink outside.

If you are sharing your bedroom wall with your noisy neighbor, you can move to the furthest room from the bedroom.

In the case whereby you are sharing your apartment, you may ask them to move out if talking is out of the question.

However, some situations may not be ideal for distancing yourself, which is why you should consider other means of blocking out noise.

3. Soundproof Your Window

Soundproofing your windows will help to minimize the noise coming into your home. There are several ways you can achieve that.

One of them is through sealing the gaps and cracks using a proper sealant such as acoustic caulk. The aim of sealing your window is to prevent leaking of noise through the gaps and cracks.

Check the seal of your window to see whether it is damaged.  Also, check for gaps in window frames.

You can also use soundproof curtains to minimize the noise from outside.

These curtains are made of thick material with acoustic properties that absorb noise and lessens it.

The curtains are also aesthetically pleasing, which means you can use them to change the look of your home.

Consider 3 Pass Microfiber Thermal Insulated Curtains when shopping for the curtains.

Not only are they soundproof but also thermally insulated.

This means you won’t have to worry about heat loss if you live in a cold environment or heat gain during the summer.

Another product that can help you soundproof your window is soundproof blankets such as Audimute Absorption Sheets. They come with hooks, which allows you to easily hang them on the window.

4. Soundproof Your Door

You can also soundproof your door as a way of minimizing the noise in your home. Soundproofing a door is similar to soundproofing a window.

You need to check for gaps and holes on your door that may be leaking in noise. Even the tiniest of them have the capability of leaking in too much noise.

Consider using Weatherstrips such as Foam Strip with Adhesive to seal them. The tape works well on the door frame.

Use a door sweep to cover the gap between the door and the floor.

You can also use Green Glue Compound to seal the gaps. The sealant is both an adhesive and a soundproof product, so it will contribute to noise reduction.

Other ways of soundproofing your door from the outside noise include hanging acoustic curtains or blankets on the door.

The blankets or curtains have the same effect on the door, just like they are on the windows.

5. Soundproof Your Walls

You can also soundproof your walls if there are no earplugs available. You can use different materials that are affordable to minimize the noise.

One method involves installing a layer of drywall on your existing wall. Drywall is made of different materials that are strong enough to minimize the noise getting into space.

To enhance the effect of drywall, you should install two layers of it.

Likewise, you may choose to hang acoustic blankets on the wall to absorb the noise.

The blanket’s soundproof properties make it ideal for absorbing noise if you don’t want to spend a lot of money on projects.

You may also consider soundproof wall paint if the noise coming in is less.

The paint is thicker, unlike the regular paint, which enhances its effectiveness.

If your living room is adjacent to the noisy neighbor, you should consider filling it with furniture.  Choose couches, bookshelf, and any other bigger furniture to block the noise coming in through the walls.

The idea here is to leave no room for noise to bounce around, causing an echo.

6. Use Soundproof Divider Curtains Around Your Bed

If you don’t want to soundproof your home, consider soundproofing around your bed, especially if you have a noisy roommate.

The soundproof divider curtains can also be used to divide a room. Mark the areas where you half of the space begins then set up the rods, ensuring they cover corner to corner.

The best curtains divider is those that are from ceiling to the floor. This ensures there is no room for the noise to sneak into your space.

The curtains are flexible, meaning you can close or open them anytime you want.

Consider divider curtains like Nicetown Blue Velvet Curtains. The curtains are affordable and easy to install.

They are also made of dense material that allows them to block out noise and even light. On top of that, they make your space appealing.

7. Try Acoustic Panels

Another way you can block out noise if you don’t have earplugs is through installing acoustic panels. The panels are effective at minimizing noise in a space.

Even though they are expensive, they are quite effective compared to other means of soundproofing.

The panels are mostly used in recording studios but can work well even in homes.

Final Thoughts How to Block Out Noise Without Earplugs

Above are the best methods to block out noise without earplugs.

However, it’s important to note that you may have to experiment with different hacks and see one that works best for you.

Getting enough sleep is a must for anyone to stay active and productive in all aspects of life.

For best results you may have to combine more than two hacks recommended above.

For example, soundproofing the windows, doors and walls may be done simultaneously for effective sound reduction.