Top 9 Ways on How to Soundproof a Bed

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Your bedroom should be a sanctuary of peace and relaxation, a place where you can escape the cacophony of the outside world and unwind after a long day. Unfortunately, unwanted noise can easily infiltrate this personal haven, disrupting your sleep and preventing you from fully recharging.

If you’re tired of being jolted awake by traffic, loud neighbors, or any other disruptive sounds, then it’s time to take matters into your own hands and soundproof your bed.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the art of creating a tranquil oasis by focusing on soundproofing techniques specifically designed for your bed. Whether you reside in a bustling urban area or have noisy roommates, these strategies will help you reclaim your sleep and transform your bedroom into a serene space where tranquility reigns.

Contents show

1. Soundproof the Walls

There are various approaches to soundproofing a wall. Building a soundproof wall to prevent sound transmission requires mass-loaded, thick, and durable materials.

It may be more labor-intensive to soundproof walls than to soundproof other parts of the room. Fortunately, there are better methods than dealing with drywall. You might want to try these less costly alternatives first.

  • Wallpaper: Wallpaper is a simple soundproofing material for walls. Soundproof wallpaper is comprised of sound-absorbing foam that muffles sound.
  • Sealant: For small noise problems, you could be able to resolve the problem by applying a small amount of sealant. Repair any gaps or cracks in the walls with a water-based acoustical sealer. If possible, match the color of your wall. If you intend to repaint, use a paintable sealant.
  • If you have a large closet or bookcase, place it against the wall where the noise is transmitted. Since bulk may absorb sound, the furniture in a space can serve to minimize noise.
  • Tapestries for decor: Display a lovely rug or tapestry on the wall. Utilized since the Middle Ages, this treatment dampens echoes and retains heat.
  • Extra layer of wallboard: Sounds consist of vibrations. The greatest way to dampen these vibrations is with hefty, thick materials that stop sound in its tracks.

Brick and stone are fantastic in terms of weight, but they are unsuitable for interior remodeling walls. The simplest method is adding a second layer of drywall to create a thick, sound-deadening barrier.

You can partition the noisy room from the silent room by adding a layer of drywall on the shared walls.

You will need to repair and repaint the new drywall, and you will likely need to expand electrical wiring and switch boxes, but these are very simple and affordable do-it-yourself tasks.

2. Soundproof the Door

Proper door soundproofing needs labor-intensive renovation and considerable adjustments to the original door frame. The door and its components might weigh between 300 and 500 pounds.

Investing in a solid-core door or an acoustically certified entry is extremely expensive.

Below are several time-, money-, and energy-saving alternatives for soundproofing a door that is also cost-effective.

  • Filling the gaps

Unlike exterior doors, most interior doors lack weatherstripping. There is usually a gap beneath the door, as well as a gap that extends up the sides and over the top. By closing these cracks, you will reduce sound transmission.

  • Replace worn-out threshold

Over time, regular usage may wear down or weaken your current threshold. Fixing a new threshold, which may be purchased at the local hardware store, should prevent noise from leaking under the door.

  • Add densely packed vinyl

A mass-loaded vinyl (MLV) mat can provide effective soundproofing for those seeking peace and quiet. MLV draped on the door greatly lowers the noise that otherwise would travel through, even though it is commonly employed as a vibration cushion beneath the carpet.

The thickness varies from 1/16 inch to 14 inches, and the more perfect the thickness, the better the soundproofing.

3. Soundproofing the window

Soundproofing your house’s windows can aid in better sleep and reduce background noise at your home office.

Typically, soundproof windows consist of many layers of glass separated by air gaps. Milgard and other manufacturers provide soundproof windows that can replace your current windows.

  • PROS: The solution is practical and visually beautiful.
  • CONS: Expensive, and installation may require a professional.

Adding window inserts is an efficient and straightforward method for soundproofing windows. Window inserts help attenuate and dampen noise by up to 70% and 50%, respectively, when installed over single-pane windows/ double-pane windows, respectively.

Indow Windows’ window inserts are an ideal example of window inserts.

It is simple to soundproof windows in an office or home by pushing the inserts into the existing window frame. Instead of hardware like tracking, Indow employs its proprietary silicone compression tube to hold window inserts in place.

The Indow inserts are trimmed with a patented silicone compression tube to provide a 99.9% airtight seal.

A precise fit is necessary for soundproofing a window, as gaps and voids enable sound to enter. This tight fit also offers a more pleasant and energy-efficient environment, while the low profile virtually disappears and neatly fits into the window frame.

Use acoustical caulk

Outside noise can enter the residence if there are tiny gaps between the window and the wall. In this instance, soundproofing a window needs caulking, especially acoustical caulk.

This caulk is a latex-based, soundproofing solution that helps decrease outside sounds. The caulk is more flexible than ordinary silicone caulk and adheres to the most window frame and wall components. Before applying, any existing silicone caulk must be removed.

Curtains

Curtains that absorb sound are another option for minimizing outside noises. These curtains are made of dense, heavy fabrics such as velvet and are layered with noise-absorbing materials such as vinyl.

Instead of reducing louder noises, soundproof drapes are more effective in reducing light noise pollution and cutting down echoes. Curtains are available in various colors and normally cost between $20 and $60 per panel.

4. White Noise Machine

A white noise machine generates soothing noises, which in many cases sound like a flowing waterfall or gentle breeze through trees, as well as other tranquil or natural sounds.

Frequently, these devices do not generate white noise, which has a harsh sound but produces pink noise, whose strength decreases at higher frequencies, or other hues of noise.

There are two sorts of white noise machines: those that play white noise in a loop and those that generate sound.

A white noise machine employs sound masking to prevent these sounds from interfering with your sleep. Many people, including light sleepers, city dwellers, and ICU patients, have a significantly greater chance of having a restful night’s sleep using a white noise machine.

Additionally, white noise can help your baby fall asleep, and several sound devices are designed exclusively for infants. They are attached to cribs and include nightlights and baby-friendly features such as kid locks.

5. Hang Soundproof Curtains

If you have a canopy bed or a bed tent, I would highly advise you to get some soundproofing curtains like the NICETOWN High-End Thermal Curtains. They are made of thick and dense materials that help absorb noise and block out harmful sun rays.

These sound reducing curtains are said to be 2 times more effective in cutting down noise as well as reducing light, allowing you to enjoy more hours of sleep in the morning after a late-night out.

They have a 2 layers design that also balances the room temperature helping in thermal insulation. By thermal insulation, it doesn’t mean that they trap heat inside but instead help in temperature regulation keeping the heat out during summer and cool air in during the summer.

The best part with soundproofing curtains is that you can simply unhang them in the morning and hang them on the windows of your living room or office for maximum sound reduction.

If you can’t get your hands on soundproofing curtains, you can as well use room divider curtains. These curtains are thick and help noise reduction though they aren’t as effective as noise-reducing drapes.

6. Acoustic Blankets

Acoustic blankets, also known as sound blankets or acoustic curtains, are specialized materials designed to reduce or absorb sound waves. They are commonly used in various settings to control and minimize noise levels.

Like soundproofing curtains, acoustic blankets are fantastic in helping reduce sound transmission. These aren’t your ordinary moving blankets; they are made of dense and thick materials that reduce sound transmission and provide total blackout.

It’s important to note that there are two types of soundproofing blankets, one intended for use in the outdoor environment while the other intended for use indoors.

A perfect example of an indoor sound blanket is the US Cargo Control Large Sound Blanket made from woven polyester/cotton shell around 100% recycled cotton. It features grommets that make hanging it on your bed relatively easy.

Outdoor blankets such as BBC-EXT-R-2 Noise Barrier/Sound Absorber Sound Blankets are perfect for use in the outdoor world. You can hang them in your garage when working with loud power tools. They are a perfect alternative to acoustic mobile soundproof tents.

However, it’s important to note that sound blankets only dampen noise and don’t block it. Damping means that the sound blankets will reduce the outside noise resonance, reducing overall sound. That’s why sound blankets won’t rid 100% of the noise problem but will absorb noise and reduce it to manageable levels.

7. Soundproof Sleep Pod

soundproof bed- a picture of a woman sleeping in a sleep pod

A soundproof sleep pod is a small, enclosed space designed to provide a quiet and peaceful sleeping environment by blocking out external noise. These pods are typically constructed using sound-absorbing materials and are equipped with features that promote relaxation and restful sleep.

Here are some key aspects and features often found in soundproof sleep pods:

  • Soundproofing Materials: The walls, ceiling, and floor of the sleep pod are constructed using soundproofing materials, such as foam panels or acoustic insulation, that absorb and dampen external sounds.
  • Sealed Enclosure: The sleep pod is designed to create a sealed enclosure, minimizing the entry of outside noise. It typically features a solid, sturdy construction to reduce vibrations and sound transmission.
  • Ventilation and Air Circulation: While soundproofing is important, it’s essential to maintain proper airflow and ventilation within the pod. Sleep pods often incorporate ventilation systems or air vents to ensure a fresh and comfortable sleeping environment.
  • Comfortable Interior: The interior of a soundproof sleep pod is designed to enhance comfort and relaxation. It may include a comfortable mattress or sleeping surface, adjustable lighting options, and temperature control features.
  • Privacy Features: Sleep pods are typically equipped with privacy features like opaque or tinted windows or curtains, allowing users to create a secluded and private sleeping space.
  • Technology Integration: Some sleep pods incorporate technology to enhance the sleeping experience. This can include features like built-in speakers for playing soothing sounds or white noise, integrated smart home controls, or even biofeedback systems that monitor and adjust the sleeping environment based on the user’s needs.

Because of their high price range- they cost $1000-$90,000 depending on the unique features, you won’t find these units in homes. They are purchased by giant brands like Facebook, Cisco Systems, Google, etc., to help their employees enjoy quick naps between long work shifts.

8. Sleeping Earplugs

Sleeping earplugs are small devices designed to block or reduce external noise while you sleep. They can be useful for individuals who are sensitive to noise or those who sleep in noisy environments. Sleeping earplugs are typically made of soft, comfortable materials, such as foam or silicone, and they fit snugly in the ear canal to create a barrier against sound.

Here are a few key points about sleeping earplugs:

  • Noise reduction: Sleeping earplugs are designed to reduce the intensity of external sounds, helping you achieve a more peaceful and restful sleep. They can be particularly beneficial if you live in a noisy neighborhood, near busy streets, or if you’re traveling and staying in hotels.
  • Comfort: Most sleeping earplugs are made from soft materials that conform to the shape of your ear canal, providing a comfortable fit. Foam earplugs are often compressed and then expand to fit the ear canal, while silicone earplugs are moldable and can be shaped to fit your ear.
  • Types of earplugs: There are different types of sleeping earplugs available on the market. Foam earplugs are popular and affordable, and they can be disposed of after a few uses. Silicone earplugs are reusable and can be washed and cleaned. Some earplugs have specialized designs for side sleepers or individuals with smaller ear canals.
  • Noise reduction rating (NRR): Earplugs are assigned a noise reduction rating (NRR), which indicates their effectiveness in reducing noise. The higher the NRR, the better the earplugs are at blocking sound. NRR ratings typically range from 20 to 33 decibels.

 

Final thoughts

Soundproofing a bed is quite possible, but the results you get are far from the true meaning of soundproof. This means that you won’t achieve a 0-decibel situation. Instead, you’ll be able to reduce noise to manageable levels allowing you to enjoy a relatively quiet sleep.

But we must approach two soundproofing scenarios to better understand how effectively the soundproofing methods work. The first scenario refers to when you have a squeaky bed and want to make it squeakless such that your next nosy neighbor won’t hear your noisy late-night escapades with your partner.

The second scenario refers to making your bed an instrument blocking outside noise. For example, you live in a noisy neighbourhood where nightclubs and traffic operate around the clock.  These two scenarios require different approaches explained below.

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