Would you like to learn how to how to block out noise without earplugs?
Well, read on to the very end of this article as I will be highlighting some of the effective ways to deal with the noise problems without earplugs.
The hacks I recommend here are perfect substitutes to earplugs, although I’ve previously written an article on some of the best alternatives to earplugs.
Ways on How to Block Out Noise Without Earplugs
The most effective method of blocking out noise without earplugs is soundproofing.
DIY soundproofing is a tedious, time-consuming, and yet rewarding method.
The whole process won’t cost an arm and leg as you will be using affordable soundproofing materials.
However, you will need to approach the whole project bit by bit to fully enjoy the rewards.
1. Soundproof the Door
Most interior doors are hollow core and not solid core.
For noise reduction to fully work, there must be mass- and that’s not the case with hollow doors.
So how do you deal with this problem?
Well, in a nutshell, you will need to add more mass such that airborne and impact noises won’t make it through the door.
I’ve written an article on how to fully soundproof a hollow door– check it out and read the article’s step-by-step guide.
Door soundproofing isn’t complete without sealing the gap between the door and the floor.
This gap is prone to leaking airborne noise in and out of the room.
The gap could be the reason you hearing TV noises or people conversing next room while you trying to get some sleep.
For this case, you will need something I’ve always trusted, known as interior door sweep.
Not only does this product help in noise reduction, but it also assists in weather insulation.
You can read my other guide and learn how to use household items to soundproof a door.
2. Soundproof the Windows
Just like the doors, windows are the biggest culprits in leaking in outside noises.
If you can hear neighbors’ dogs barking, the damn windows and doors are likely to blame. You can easily solve the problem by replacing the existing windows with double pane ones.
If you live in an apartment building where the property management doesn’t allow structural changes, you can simply get away with simple soundproofing methods such as:
Hanging sound dampening curtains and sealing the gap between the window panes and the frame with a weatherstripping material.
Soundproofing curtains are made of thick and dense materials that help in noise reduction and block out outside noises.
3. Soundproofing the Walls
There are several methods and products used to sound deaden the walls.
One of the most common and oldest methods involves adding a layer of drywall to the existing wall. This helps create a space through which sound waves dissipate before reaching the inside of your room.
This is a tedious, technical but effective method. You may require an experienced professional to help you in this case.
Another method I would recommend involves the use of acoustic foam panels.
They are commonly used in places such as recording studios, drum rooms, night clubs.
While their primary use is to prevent reverberations and echoes, they also help in absorbing some airborne sounds.
Mass loaded vinyl is a higher-end option compared to acoustic foam.
They are made of dense materials that block out both airborne and impact-borne noises.
Unfortunately, MLV isn’t aesthetically appealing, and for this reason, check out these mass-loaded vinyl alternatives.
Wall sockets and other electrical joints in the wall are also culprits in leaking noise, especially through shared walls.
In that case, fill such spaces with something like green glue sealant, and if you can’t find it, you can check out these green glue alternatives.
4. Noiseproofing the Ceiling
Soundproofing a room isn’t complete without dealing with a ceiling.
Nothing is annoying like living with loud upstairs neighbors who won’t let you live in peace even in the dead of night.
Well, there are different ways to deal with such a problem- I’d recommend you to try each- you never know what will work for you.
First, you can unleash revenge on them- here is a detailed guide on how to annoy upstairs neighbors.
Alternatively, your upstairs neighbors won’t stop with their loud walking; you can involve the property manager or soundproof the ceiling.
I have a guide on how to soundproof a ceiling without construction.
On the other hand, if you’ve transformed your basement into a man cave or office, but those living upstairs won’t let you live in peace, then use this guide on cheap ways to soundproof a basement ceiling.
5. Replace Noisy Appliances with Quiet Ones
Sometimes, the source of the noise problem could be within your house.
In most cases, appliances such as refrigerators run 24 hours a day, and if they’re noisy, they can reign havoc on you.
For example, the reason you’re using earplugs could be because you have a noisy mini-fridge in your bedroom that won’t keep you sleep-deprived.
In that case, replace it with something quieter- here is my guide on some of the quietest mini-fridges on the market today.
Probably you’re living with a roommate who’s ever on heat, and even though they live in an adjacent room, their bed frame loudly announces their sexual encounters each night.
In such a case, why not recommend them to purchase one of these quiet bed frames I’ve reviewed in this guide.
6. White Noise Machine
It’s important to let you know that a white noise machine won’t block out noise.
It will, however, help drown out noise such that you’ll only be able to hear soothing noise than the irritating noise that won’t let you live in peace.
One of the most recommended white noise machines is the Homedics White Noise Sound Machine.
7. Play Music
One of the best ways to block out noise without earplugs is to play music. This method works well if you have headphones.
The music will help to mask the unwanted noise and make it more tolerable. If you don’t have any headphones, try playing music on your phone or another device with speakers.
8. Soundproof the room you are in
There are many ways to soundproof a room, depending on the materials you have available and the level of noise you want to block out.
Some effective methods include hanging heavy curtains, covering windows with plastic sheeting, or even building a false wall.
If you’re trying to block out particularly loud noises, such as construction work or traffic, you may need to use multiple soundproofing methods in order to achieve satisfactory results.
9. Soundproof pod
If you’re looking for a way to sleep or simply focus and get work done in peace, then you might want to consider investing in a soundproof pod.
These pods are designed to provide a quiet and distraction-free environment so you can get your work done without any interruptions.
There are many different types of soundproof pods on the market, so it’s important to do your research to find the one that best suits your needs.
On How to Block Out Noise Without Earplugs
Above are my most recommended methods on how to block noise without earplugs.
The most effective method I’d recommend to everyone would be soundproofing the entire room.
This way, you not only block noise from entering the room but also from leaving the room.
Don’t forget the most vulnerable places, such as the doors and windows.
If you live in a rented unit, ensure that you consult with the property manager if you need to undertake significant structural changes.