Soundproof Curtains

Did you know that it’s possible to soundproof a room to the extent where there’s only 30dB of noise even if there’s a helicopter flying right outside?

While you probably don’t need to establish that level of soundproofing, it’s definitely a good idea to soundproof your house. One of the easiest places to start is by getting soundproof curtains. Once I made my purchase, I never looked back.

So, now I’m here to help explain everything there is to know about soundproof curtains for you!

Soundproof Curtains Explained 

Soundproof curtains may be an easy non-committal way of starting the soundproofing process in your house. However, few people are familiar with what they are and how they work.

I wasn’t either, so I did some research. Initially, it was very confusing to determine what frequencies I will have to mostly deal with in my home studio. For example, a heavy curtain (e.g., one made of velvet) could do a better good job at absorbing higher frequencies. In contrast, soundproof panels may do a better job at absorbing low frequencies.

After doing the research, I realized soundproof curtains are what I needed. So, I hung densely pleated curtains made of velvet against the wall to not let in the outside noise. I also had to purchase a rig attached to the ceiling that would bear the weight of these curtains. 

Now, I consider myself knowledgeable on these curtains, and am here to help you! Here’s everything that you need to know about soundproof curtains. 

What Are Soundproof Curtains?

When you look at these curtains for the first time, it’s difficult to tell them apart from regular curtains. But, on a deeper look, you’ll see that they’ve been designed in a manner that allows them to reduce the amount of noise in a room.

The concept sounds ingenious and is something that every person will think about buying. However, most people that haven’t heard of soundproof curtains before are skeptical about their effectiveness.

How Effective Are Soundproof Curtains?

Soundproof curtains are certainly effective, but if you’re expecting them to completely block all sound from entering and exiting your house, you’re going to be disappointed.

Through my experience, I learned that they’re effective at two things. First, the curtains can absorb an extensive amount of incoming sound, which effectively reduces the amount of sound that goes into the house. Louder noises will still be able to make it through the window, but it’ll filter out the quieter noise. 

They’re also quite effective at sound deadening. If there’s too much echo in the room, it causes the sound to reverberate, which gives it an unpleasant quality. The presence of soundproof curtains helps ensure a significantly lower potential for echo in the room. As a result, the quality of sound inside the room improves as well. 

What Are Soundproof Curtains Made Of?

To achieve their desired effect, soundproof curtains are made of significantly heavy-duty material. Multiple different fabric can help achieve the desired effect. The most commonly used are polyester, suede, and velvet.

Alternatively, you can also find soundproof curtains that are made of cotton duck fabric. All these materials are decent for sound isolation, but I’m here to help you identify which one is the best. 

Which Soundproof Curtain Material Is Best?

The most effective soundproof material is known as mass loaded vinyl core. Its major purpose is to reflect incoming noise along with a polymer PVC blend and crushed limestone. Such a heavy-duty barrier will help ensure that the curtains can block out unwanted sound. So, no more worrying about your neighbor’s new drum set!

However, suppose you want to use soundproofing curtains that have better deadening quality. In that case, opt for fabrics like velvet or velour. Look for heavy plush fabrics as they’re the most effective at reducing the echo. 

It’s important to identify exactly what the needs of your home are and get the curtains that suit your requirements the most. 

What Are The Different Types Of Soundproof Curtains?

If you haven’t heard about soundproof curtains before, you’ll be even more surprised to know that there are several types they can choose between. Here are all the options!

Home Soundproof or Insulation Curtains 

Soundproof curtains are also known as insulation curtains. These types of curtains are specifically designed for home use. Their purpose is to help reduce the noise from the outside and make your home quieter.

Another common name for these curtains is insulation blackout curtains. They’ve been designed to block out outside light from entering the home. If you’re like me and hate getting woken up by the sun, these are the curtains you’re looking for.

While they aren’t capable of blocking louder noises from coming in and out of the house but are definitely a cost-effective method of making your house a little less loud. 

Audio Insulation Sheets 

While technically, these insulation sheets aren’t specifically designed to function like curtains, they have grommets sewn into them. These allow them to be hung in the same way that curtains would. 

One of the major benefits of these types of soundproofing “curtains” is that they benefit from being specifically designed to reduce sound moving in and out. They’re significantly heavier than soundproof curtains and tend to be more expensive. 

They also offer the same blackout effect because of their thickness. These are used for sound deadening and will significantly improve the sound quality of any room. 

Industrial Blankets 

While industrial blankets may not be a type of soundproofing curtain, they’re another cost-effective way of soundproofing your household. The correct use of this cloth can effectively reduce overall noise transmission through windows and doors. 

The primary use for these blankets is in the form of protective sheets while moving. They can also adequately perform sound reduction functions in the industrial work environment. These blankets are available in a variety of densities. The rule of thumb is to pick the thickest option. 

Not all industrial blankets provide the option of grommets that allow you to directly hang them onto curtain poles. It’s important to ensure that you have some creative mounting solutions ready. They might give off a DIY vibe, but if you’re on a small budget, these are a great alternative to soundproof curtains. 

What Are The Pros And Cons Of Soundproof Curtains?

The major attraction of soundproof curtains is that they’re a low-cost soundproofing solution for your home. It’s especially appealing to people on the fence about going all out and completely soundproofing their home. Soundproof curtains provide a very gentle barrier to entry. 

While there is a multitude of reasons behind why you might choose to get soundproof curtains. However, that doesn’t mean they don’t have their flaws. Soundproof curtains aren’t perfect, and when you look at the level of noise, it has a significant impact on the performance. There are certain areas where getting a soundproofing curtain will be completely ineffective. 

Some people might view the ability to block out sunlight as an advantage. It might seem completely ineffective to someone else. Here are all the pros and cons of soundproof curtains!

Pros 

Noise Reduction 

They might not completely block out the loudest noise, but they’ll still make them significantly more bearable. It blocks out low external noise well. 

Echo Diminishing 

Another major benefit of getting soundproof curtains is that they have echo diminishing capabilities. This will help improve the overall sound quality in your household. 

Insulation properties 

An additional benefit of getting soundproof curtains is that they also provide thermal insulation. That’ll help reduce overall energy usage in the household. 

Affordable 

Anyone can easily afford to buy soundproof curtains. 

Blackout curtains 

Aside from their sound deadening/blocking and insulation properties, soundproof curtains also block out the sunlight to a certain extent. 

Easy-to-install 

Out of all the soundproofing options, soundproof curtains are the easiest ones to install. 

Cons 

Incapable of blocking all noise 

Soundproof curtains can block some noise that enters the room, but it can become potentially ineffective if the sound is too loud. 

Block the light 

This might be advantageous to certain people, but others might feel like blocking out the sunlight becomes too suffocating. 

Aesthetics 

Every house has its own design and aesthetic. It can be difficult to find soundproof curtains that match the interior of your house. 

Regular curtain rods won’t work

One thing that won’t work alongside soundproof curtains is regular curtain rods. These don’t have enough capacity to block out the sunlight. 

What To Consider When Buying A Soundproof Curtain?

As is the case with every purchase, it’s important to consider different factors before making a decision. If you’re impulsive like me, it can be really difficult to do your research and take your time.

That’s why I’ve listen down everything you need to ask before buying a soundproof curtain. 

Who are sound deadening curtains best for?

Sound deadening or sound absorption reduces the echo and level of noise within a space. These curtains are made from soft materials that can soak up the sound as it collides with the surface. 

There are ideal for use in offices with excessive noise or classrooms where students have trouble listening to the teacher. They’re great for musicians as well. The sound deadening curtains manage to significantly improve the quality of sound in a room. By reducing the level of echo in the room, they can effectively lower the noise as well. 

These deadening curtains are ideal for meeting rooms as well. It allows people to capably hear each other and helps create high-quality ideas. Even though these curtains are made for noisier areas, individuals that live in quiet suburban areas can also enjoy their benefits. They’ll significantly improve the quality of conversation in any room they’re set up. 

Additionally, getting sound-deadening curtains can significantly help people that struggle to fall asleep. Anyone that’s kept up at night by excess noise should think about hanging up some soundproof drapes. 

What makes a good soundproof curtain?

Before buying a soundproof curtain, it’s essential to understand what characteristics make up a good soundproof curtain. You don’t want to find yourself ending up in a position with soundproof curtains that don’t do their job properly. 

One of the first things that potential buyers need to focus on while buying a soundproof curtain is the material used. Several materials are used in creating soundproof drapes. Each of these materials has its specific properties that make them better suited for one job in comparison to another. 

Another important feature that buyers need to identify is the number of weaves in the soundproof curtain. The greater the number of weaves, the better sound deadening and blocking capabilities. Buyers can also look to focus on soundproof curtains that feature thermal properties.

Not only does this indicate better insulation, but it also provides a soundproof curtain with better thickness. The better thickness leads to a great sound blocking and deadening curtain. 

Buyers also need to focus on the aesthetic of the soundproof curtains that they choose to buy. Even if the curtain has decent soundproofing properties, it needs to be able to match the design of the interior. 

How to choose the right acoustic curtain?

Now that you know what makes a good soundproof curtain, you’re in a better position to decide what product is the best for your needs. Before you make your final buying decision, it’s important to review your needs. 

Soundproof curtains come in a variety of different fabrics, densities, and designs. That makes it crucial for buyers to assess their own needs and select which acoustic curtain will suit their requirements the most. 

What Are The Best Soundproof Curtains?

Nicetown Thermal Insulated Blackout Curtains 

The Nicetown Thermal Insulated Blanket curtains are soundproof drapes that’ll easily fit into the aesthetic of most interior designs. It boasts a modern look and is much more appealing than other curtains on the list. 

While they might not have the sound deadening quality that other options on the market do, they do their job significantly well. They also have thermal backing that helps regulate room temperature. They’re available in several heights and weights. 

Another endearing feature about thermal curtains is that they’re easy to maintain. The product is machine washable but is incredibly heavy. You can wash the curtains in a machine. It’s just important to ensure that you have access to a heavy-duty washing machine. 

US Cargo Control Sound Blanket 

Instead of being hung up as a curtain, these sound blankets are designed to keep products safe while moving. Their design makes them ideal for protecting precious and fragile household items while transporting them. They’re incredibly durable due to how they’re manufactured. 

Often the outer shell of sound blankets is made from a durable woven material like cotton or polyester. On the inside, there’s a filler material similar to cotton that helps absorb impact. These qualities aren’t just good for storing and moving furniture. They’re very effective at sound absorption. 

They’re made from a combination of woven cotton, along with a polyester shell that’s wrapped around the cotton filler. As a result, you have a very dense layer that’s ideal for capturing and reducing potential sound transmission. 

The one thing that lets the US cargo control sound blanket down is the design. They’re incredibly plain looking and don’t have any significant aesthetic value. Buyers are also going to have to figure out some creative ways of hanging these curtains. 

RYB Home Room Divider Curtain

While the specific purpose of these curtains s to help divide a single larger room into two smaller areas. However, that doesn’t mean that they can’t be effective as soundproof curtains instead. They’ll absorb some noise, but there’s also the fact that sound will invade the area because of space above and below the curtain. 

However, when you hang this curtain in front of your windows, you have a considerable amount of airborne noise dampening. It features triple-weave polyester fabric that’s a high-density polyester yarn capable of absorbing a significant amount of noise. 

Another great feature about these curtains is that they’re available in a number of different colors and patterns. There are potential choices out there for everyone. Aside from aesthetics, the most notable difference between the colors is their blackout capacity. Darker colors will be significantly better than lighter colors at absorbing any ambient light. 

Yakamok Blackout Window Curtain Panels 

Made from a triple-weave blackout fabric that features two layers, these Yakamok curtains are ideal for noise absorption and damping. It’s available in various darker and lighter colors, with the darker colors offering significantly better blackout performance. 

While the Yakamok blackout curtain panels are available in several heights, they’re available in a single width. Aside from being able to select the height of the panels, you also choose between eight colors. 

The curtains are widely available, and anyone can easily take care of them. They’re machine-wash friendly, so it’s just a matter of tossing them into the machine!

H. Versailtex Blackout Curtains 

Last but not least is the H. Versailtex premium blackout curtains. They’re made from triple-weave polyester microfiber and offers thermal insulation against the cold and blocks out UV rays.

They also feature pleating that adds even more to the sound-absorbing and damping properties. Customers also have the option of choosing between twelve different attractive color patterns. 

Where To Buy Soundproof Curtains?

You can go visit the online stores of the larger soundproof curtain brands. However, it’s also very likely that consumers will easily find the soundproof curtain they prefer on Amazon. Not only will these curtains effectively reduce the level of loud noise that enters the room, but they also have a few other helpful properties. 

The soundproof curtains offer a thickness and density that makes them very effective at blocking out any potential light from entering the household. Another major benefit available to users is the thermal insulation properties that soundproof curtains over. 

FAQ

What Is Cheaper, Soundproof Panels Or Curtains?

There’s no definite answer to which of these two soundproofing methods is cheaper. A good pair of blackout curtains, or other thick tapestry, can cost you anywhere between $50 to $100.

While soundproof panels can cost you the same amount, sometimes they may even be cheaper, you usually need to purchase a larger number of panels to soundproof an entire room. For example, I’d need to get enough panels to cover the walls of my studio to effectively soundproof it. However, just one pair of thick curtains can do the job just as well!

So, depending on the circumstances, soundproof curtains can be cheaper.

Can Acoustic Curtains Be Used To Block Inside Noise?

Unfortunately, they’re not very good.

When I got my new apartment, I got a pair of cheap curtains to save money. However, my go to bed at 8pm neighbors were not loving my bachelor lifestyle – wanted to be mindful of keeping my neighborhood happy.

So, I got some acoustic curtains. I soon realized that acoustic curtains come in handy for stopping noise coming in, but they are not so good for blocking inside noise. Think of it like this, they can reduce the echo level in the room but may not decrease the level of sound escaping the room.

The addition of acoustic curtains made my room feel quieter. It’s like taking your portable speakers to the washroom. Can you imagine how terrible the sound quality is? It is because of high echo, but if you take those speakers into a blanket tent, the same song could feel more high quality. This is because the echoes are being absorbed into the blanket.

Conclusively, acoustic curtains do work for blocking inside noise, but the result isn’t the best. It can work even better in combination with a soundproof panel.

DIY: How to make soundproof curtains. 

To make soundproof curtains, you will have to figure out everything step-by-step. The process becomes very easy if it is organized. Here’s what I recommend doing:

• Your first step should be to figure out the height of the window/opening you want to cover. For the sound blocking to be effective, you will need the curtains to cover the entire window space plus some additional space to ensure that the sound is blocked perfectly. 
• If you aim to block sounds from a floor-to-ceiling window or a sliding door, ensure that the curtain will rest on the floor. In fact, try to add extra inches (2 or 3) so that the sound is absorbed as much as possible. The larger the covered area, the higher the absorption will be. 
• For a neater and more polished look, add 2 inches to the top and the bottom of the curtains while also allowing an additional half-inch on each side.
• After you are done with the measurement, simply double the measurements of the width. That is because the folds will absorb more sound. So, for example, if your window is 5 feet wide, use a measurement of 10 feet.
• You can also attach the hems with hemming tape instead by tucking them under the hems. This is for those who prefer a no-stitch solution.
• The next step is finding the right material. I recommend you do your own research about the material you want for sound absorption. You will find many kinds of sound insulation materials. Some of them are more widely available, which means, regardless of your location, you shall probably be able to find them around the city.
• My recommendation is to buy some thick and dark fabric and add a layer of a cotton sheet, as they will look pretty and not be heavy on your wallet. Use a heavy layer of the cotton sheet with several layers of thin backing will cause the best effect.
• After you are done with measurement and buying the right material, stitch them into place with a sewing machine (getting some help with stitching is recommended if you have not done it before). First, do the bottom hem, sew the hems on each side and then go for the top hem while leaving an open pocket for the rod to pass through. 
• Hang your curtains to a rod which is about 12 inches above your window. Slide the rod through the open pocket you sew. That shall leave you with long, gorgeous, and fully custom curtains.
• Velcro down the side is also a good idea to hold the curtains in place when you close them. The setup will not cost you too much, but will require some time and effort. But guess what! You are getting your own custom-made sound absorbing curtain that also looks good. 

I highly recommend having fun with the entire process You can go for curtains with fun prints on them if you like such a vibe! If your apartment or home has a lot of plants, then you may like curtains that give off that woody, fresh vibe. You can experiment with a lot of different things like this and get creative!