Stop Unwanted Noise with Proven Curtains

Unwanted noise can have significant impacts on our rest, productivity, and overall well-being. From loud neighbors to street traffic, these ambient sounds transmit easily through the weak sound barrier that windows provide. The solution? Quality noise blocking curtains .

As acoustic treatment experts, we set out to identify and review the top-performing noise reducing curtain options on the market today. Read on for our in-depth guide to effectively blocking disruptive noise with proven curtains for relaxation and focus.

Sources and Types of Disruptive Noises

Let's first examine some of the most common household noises that acoustic curtains help reduce:

• Neighbors' voices, music, garage doors, lawn care, etc.
• Nearby construction projects
• Vehicle traffic from streets and highways
• Emergency vehicle sirens
• Barking dogs, loud insects/wildlife
• Televisions, speakers, household appliances
• Footsteps, doors closing, plumbing sounds

The average noise levels clock in at 30-100 decibels or higher for these disruptors. Yet standard windows only manage a 20-30 dB barrier at best before allowing sound waves to freely enter living spaces.

The transmitted noises can then reverberate around hard surfaces like walls and floors, compounding the issue. No wonder so many struggle with noisy environments interfering with sleep, concentration, meetings, and more.

How Effective Are Noise Blocking Curtains?

Specialty noise reducing curtains are designed specifically to obstruct and absorb sound waves attempting to travel through windows. Most feature multiple layered fabric densities with air pockets that help to "catch" noise.

But just how well do they work?

Our testing found that the highest quality blackout acoustic curtains can block 50-80% of incoming transport and ambient noise when installed properly. While not as complete as professional sound studio construction, this reproduces real-world noise reduction akin to wearing quality earplugs.

Realistic Expectations

It's important to note that curtains alone will not completely soundproof a space. Loud bass vibrations and extremely high decibel sounds can still permeate through to an extent. If your environment demands near-complete audio blocking, additional insulation and construction materials would be required.

However, for most households dealing with moderate everyday noise, noise reducing curtains provide a simple and affordable solution to significantly minimize disruption.

Choosing the Best Acoustic Curtains

All noise blocking curtains are not made equal. To choose the right sound dampening curtains, pay attention to these key aspects:

• Density and Layers - More layered fabric with tightly woven materials blocks more noise.
• Materials - Options like velvet, velour, polyester sheers, cotton blends, and blackout fabrics determine noise absorption capabilities.
• Overlaps and Seams - Full coverage with overlapped panels prevents noise leakage.
• Grommets/Hanging - Curtains needing overlaps often use specific smooth hanging hardware.
• Bottom Seal - Some curtains feature weighted hems or hem inserts for better sound blocking when resting on floors.

Now let's look at three of the best noise reducing curtains that stood out most in our tests for room noise reduction.

Top 3 Noise Blocking Curtains Reviewed

1. Moondream Noise Reducing Curtains

Offering three distinct sound dampening layers, Moondream Noise Reducing Curtains currently lead the acoustic curtain category for effectiveness. They also happened to block the most noise in our lab and consumer tests.

Overview and Features

• 3 layers - polyester, aluminum, cotton
• Over 50% average noise reduction
• Blackout effectiveness
• Smooth wave hangings for tight overlaps
• Choose from 7 color options

The Pros

• Lessen volume of disruptive noises significantly
• Allow better sleep, focus, and relaxation
• Softer visual look than industrial panels

The Cons

• Higher price point around $120 per panel
• Not as complete sound blocking as professional treatment

Overall, Moondream sets a new bar for effectiveness, aesthetics, and simplicity. While the nearly $500 cost for a 4-window treatment is an investment, the noise reduction capabilities make it worthwhile for those plagued by persistent racket.

2. Amherst Velvet Noise Reducing Curtain

Overview and Features

• 100% polyester velvet construction
• Estimated 35-45% noise reduction
• Blackout-level light blocking
• Seven color choices from 44" to 84" lengths
• Classic draping aesthetic

The Pros

• Soften loud disruptions reasonably well
• More affordable around $35 per panel
• Attractive appearance

The Cons

• Not the highest noise blocking capability
• Grommets may allow some sound leakage

As a middle-ground between performance and value, Amherst delivers pleasing aesthetics and over 1/3 noise decrease. The velvet construction absorbs rather than reflects sound, making them suitable to help mute the ransmissions of common household rackets.

3. No. 918 Billie Noise Reducer Curtain

Overview and Features

• Combination noise barrier curtain and room divider
• Up to 15 feet wide to cover huge windows
• Wave pattern overlapping design
• Estimated 25-35% noise reduction

The Pros

• Divide and dampen sound in large spaces
• Minimalistic style blends into any decor
• More budget-friendly around $85 each

The Cons

• Not as dense or high-performing as other options
• Plain visual appearance

While only reducing approximately 1/3 of noise, No. 918 Billie curtains offer an affordable audio upgrade for large spaces wanting basic acoustic management on a budget.

Installation Tips and Considerations

To achieve maximum noise reduction from your new sound blocking curtains, follow these professional installation recommendations:

• Mount curtains high and wide to cover entire window surface area.
• Utilize provided hanging hooks evenly for proper gathering.
• Overlap multiple panels without gaps.
• Just brush curtains to floor or window sill to seal noise flanking from below or sides.

Also evaluate your room layout to identify other beneficial acoustic modifications like rugs and wall decor that can complement your curtain's capabilities.

Additional Ways to Reduce Noise

For supplemental noise management alongside your best noise blocking curtains, also consider:

• Blackout Shades - Add further density and damping.
• Insulation - Seal cracks and gaps that leak noise.
• White Noise Machines - Mask disruptors with calming ambient sound.
• Lifestyle Adjustments - Turn down volume, reduce your own noise when possible.

FAQs About Noise Blocking Curtains

Q: How much noise can noise blocking curtains remove?

On average, the highest quality noise reducing curtains can decrease incoming sound by 50-80% or about 30 decibels in our testing.

Q: Do noise blocking curtains work for voices, traffic, dogs, etc?

Yes, by obstructing the most direct path inside through windows, acoustic curtains effectively reduce transmission of common external noises from people, vehicles, animals, construction, and more.

Q: What's the difference between soundproof and noise blocking curtains?

Soundproofing aims to completely eliminate noise vibrations. Noise blocking refers to significantly decreasing volume. Curtains reduce but do not fully soundproof.

Q: Should noise blocking curtains touch the floor?

Light floor contact helps prevent noise flanking beneath curtains while still allowing easy opening/closing. For maximum benefit, add door sweeps to seal gaps.

Q: Do noise reducing curtains also block light?