Soundproofing Your Bedroom For Day Sleep: A Guide

A good night's sleep is essential, but it can be hard to come by if you're trying to snooze during the day. Soundproofing your bedroom can help you create a peaceful environment, blocking out unwanted noise and reducing the impact of sound on your rest. Whether you live near a busy road, have noisy neighbours, or want to prevent sounds from travelling through your windows and floors, there are several ways to soundproof your bedroom.

Soundproof curtains and windows

Soundproof Curtains

Soundproof curtains are a stylish and attractive way to block out noise. They are made with soundproofing material built into them and can be hung above windows, providing a noise-dampening layer. Layering multiple pairs of curtains can further help to absorb noise. Soundproof curtains also have the added benefit of blocking out light, ensuring a dark room for a restful night's sleep.

Windows

Windows are a common source of unwanted noise, especially if you live in a busy area or near a main road. Double or triple-glazed windows are the best way to soundproof your bedroom, as the multiple layers of glass and the small space between them absorb noise from outside. If installing new windows is not an option, there are other ways to soundproof your existing windows.

Firstly, seal off any air gaps with an acoustical sound sealant or caulk. This will fill in any small holes or gaps and create a stronger sound barrier. You can also add insulation tape to the bottom of the window and the area where the sill meets the window. Finally, hang thick drapes or soundproof curtains over the window to absorb outside noise.

Seal gaps around doors

Sealing gaps around doors is an important step in soundproofing your bedroom. Doors are a common source of noise infiltration, and sealing any gaps can help to block out unwanted sounds. Here are some detailed instructions to help you achieve this:

Identify the Gaps:

Begin by inspecting your door for any gaps or cracks. Pay close attention to the edges of the door, including the sides, top, and bottom. Also, check the door frame for any spaces between the door and the frame when it is closed. Don't forget to examine the door sweep (the bottom edge of the door) for any openings.

Use Weatherstripping:

Weatherstripping is an effective way to seal gaps around doors. It is a flexible material that comes in various forms, such as rubber or foam, and can be adhered to the door or door frame. Choose a colour that matches your door frame for a more discreet look. Apply the weatherstripping to the edges of the door, ensuring it covers any identified gaps. This will help block noise from entering or escaping through these openings.

Install a Door Sweep:

If there is a gap between the bottom of the door and the floor, a door sweep can be an excellent solution. Door sweeps are thin pieces of material, usually metal or plastic, that are attached to the bottom of the door. They help to seal the gap and prevent sound from travelling through. Make sure to select a door sweep that matches the width of your door and install it according to the manufacturer's instructions.

Use Acoustical Caulk:

For smaller gaps and cracks, acoustical caulk can be a useful tool. Acoustical caulk is a type of sealant designed specifically for soundproofing. It is applied with a caulk gun and can fill in any small openings around the door frame, including those around pipes and wires. This will not only help with soundproofing but also provide added insulation, reducing energy loss and lowering your heating or cooling costs.

Upgrade to a Solid Door:

If your door has large panels with significant gaps or if it is a hollow-core door, you might want to consider replacing it with a solid-wood door. Solid doors are denser and provide a better barrier against sound transmission. When choosing a new door, ensure it fits snugly within the frame, leaving no spaces for sound to pass through. This can be a pricier option but can offer more effective soundproofing for your bedroom.

Acoustic panels on walls

Acoustic panels are a great way to soundproof your bedroom, and they can also enhance the design of your space. There are a variety of styles to choose from, such as fabric-wrapped, custom art, and wood panel options. These panels are easy to install and can be applied directly to your walls.

If you're looking for a more professional approach, consider acoustic wooden wall panels. The Quiet Mark-certified WoodUpp Akupanel is an acoustic wooden slat wall panel that adds style and functionality to your space.

While acoustic panels are effective at absorbing sound and improving acoustics, they may not be as effective at blocking outside noise. For better results, consider combining acoustic panels with other soundproofing methods, such as sealing gaps around doors and windows, using soundproof curtains, or adding thick rugs or carpeting.

Additionally, you can layer sound-absorbing foam panels behind your decorative panelling for extra sound insulation. This creates a quiet sanctuary for you to sleep in, reducing both outside noise and echoes from inside your room.

Remember, soundproofing your bedroom can be a combination of different techniques, and you can always consult with soundproofing experts and interior designers for more tailored advice.

Thick rugs and carpets

If you have a rug that doesn't block out a lot of sound, you can get a soundproofing pad to put underneath it. You can also use a standard rug pad, but for better soundproofing, switch to a soundproof pad. These pads add insulation that can keep in cool air during the summer and warm air during the winter. They also create a comfortable and supportive feel under your rug.

If you have exposed hardwood floors in your bedroom, consider adding an area rug or carpeting to absorb sound. The thicker the rug or carpet, the better it will be at soundproofing.

Soft furnishings

Rugs and Carpeting

Adding soft flooring such as rugs and carpeting can help to absorb sound and prevent it from echoing. This is because soft flooring absorbs ambient noise, whereas sound bounces off hard floors. An area rug with thick material can be laid out flat, or for a more permanent solution, you could install wall-to-wall carpeting with a thick pad. If you have exposed wooden floors, a rug can help to absorb sound, and if it doesn't block out much noise, you can get a soundproofing pad to put underneath.

Pillows and Blankets

Soft materials such as pillows, blankets, and comforters are great at absorbing sound. Adding extra pillows to your bed or a thick comforter will help to muffle noise. Cotton or wool pillows and blankets are particularly good at sound absorption, and you can place them near windows or doors to block sound from entering the room.

Curtains and Drapes

Soundproof curtains are an effective way to block out noise and light, helping you to get a good night's sleep. Thick, heavy curtains with soundproofing material built into them will absorb noise and block out light. Layering multiple curtains can also help to absorb more noise.

Upholstered Furniture

Filling your room with soft, upholstered furniture can help to absorb sound. A small reading chair or sofa with throw pillows will add to the sound absorption in your room.

Acoustic Panels

While acoustic panels won't block out outside noise, they are great for absorbing echoes from inside your room. Acoustic foam panels can be hung on walls, the ceiling, and the back of doors to block out additional echoes.

Wall Hangings

Hanging blankets, tapestries, or rugs on your walls can help to muffle outside noise. Soundproof blankets are best for this, but any blanket can be used. You can hang them using adhesive Velcro strips.

Frequently asked questions