Sometimes noise can be so unbearable you can’t even hear yourself think. If you’ve finally decided to take matters into your own hands and buy soundproof curtains, then good for you! You’ll be doing yourself a big favor.
There are plenty of benefits to owning these curtains. For example, not only do they reduce the noise from outside, but they also help absorb the echoing sounds in your home. So, if there’s an annoying echo that you want to get rid of, all you have to do is place the curtains in that room.
Before we get into the best soundproof curtains on the market, here’s a little insight into what they are and how they work.
» NAVIGATION «
Soundproof Curtains vs. Regular Curtains
Soundproof curtains are made of a thicker material than regular curtains. They’re often made with multiple layers that capable of absorbing and blocking sound. Because of that, they are frequently used in residential areas to reduce the amount of noise.
These curtains can be used anywhere, and are made of different fabrics. Also, you can choose from different colors, designs, and textures. Soundproof curtains are usually made of polyester, but there are also velvet and satin curtains available.
Even if you live in a less noisy suburban area, these curtains are great for your bedroom, living room, etc. If you have a home cinema, soundproof curtains will enhance your movie experience.
For those of you with special preferences, it’s also possible to have them custom made.
Do Soundproof Curtains Work?
Are the curtains just for show, or will they really help get rid of the unwanted noise? The truth is that soundproof curtains won’t stop all existing sounds. That would be impossible. However, they can reduce the level of noise coming from outside as well as inside your home.
If you’re still skeptical, here is a brief explanation of how it works. The curtains are made of multiple layers of thick materials. These materials absorb sound waves produced from within your home, and noise coming from outside. Although you will still be able to hear if a dog is barking outside, the difference is still quite big. So, if noise is a big distraction in your daily routine, go buy yourself some soundproof curtains.
The Properties of Effective Soundproof Curtains
When it comes to buying soundproof curtains, you should keep an eye on the following features:
- Curtain size
- Material
- Thickness and weight
- Installation
Curtain Size
First, determine where you want to hang your soundproof curtains. Once you’ve done that, measure the length, height, and width of the windows or doors you are soundproofing.
When you’re buying regular curtains, all you have to worry about is matching the size of the window you wish to hang them on. Soundproof curtains are different. You should buy curtains that are 2 or more inches wider than the window, and a few inches longer (but not too long). And if you want extra sound cancellation, try ceiling to floor curtains.
Choosing the Curtain Material
Extra fiber in the material is what you should look for. Suede and velvet are the perfect fabrics to choose, and they’ll look great in your room.
Even better, look for curtains that contain insulated, Thermaweave or Thermalayer layers. They have extra fibers which help immensely with noise. Also, an added advantage is the fact that these materials act as great thermal insulation. This means they’ll keep your room warm in the winter, and refreshed in the summer.
Additionally, extra liners will help with noise cancellation even further and are included in most curtains.
The Thickness and Weight of the Curtain
The weight of the curtains is also linked to the thickness, and hence the material of the curtain. If you are serious about soundproofing the room, you should go for thicker and heavier curtains. Actually, the heavier, the better.
The weight of the curtain is important because heavy curtains absorb sound much better than lighter ones. Additionally, for better results, you can double or triple the layers of the curtain.
A word of warning, though; don’t hang your curtains on older rods that are not strong enough. Since they are quite heavy, you may need to buy a new one.
Get a Strong Curtain Rod
As I said, it’s essential to purchase a curtain rod that will be able to hold your heavy curtain. Wrap-around rods are an inexpensive and easy-to-install option. They attach on to the walls, which is useful because it eliminates gaps that form at the edge of the curtains.
If you’re worried that your curtain rod won’t be able to handle all that weight, you can use double rods. That way you can double or triple your curtain layers.
If you aren’t a fan of curtain rods, you can replace them with ceiling-mount brackets. They hang from the ceiling and provide more coverage.
Check out this article for more ideas on how to hang curtains without causing damage to your windows or walls.
Best Soundproof Curtains for Noise Reduction
If you’ve gone through these main steps, then you’re ready to buy your first soundproof curtains. Here are the best brands of soundproof curtains for you to consider:
Nicetown Curtains
Nicetown is one of the most popular brands when it comes to soundproof curtains. They specialize in making various types of curtains, room dividers, and similar products. The noise reducing curtains they make are among their most popular products. People seem to love them, and there are some good reasons for that. These curtains are rather affordable but also durable and quite effective. And the best of all, you can easily install them yourself. These are our top two picks:
1. Nicetown Three Pass Microfiber Noise Reducing Blackout Window Drapes
As the title suggests, these curtains from Nicetown don’t only reduce noise, but they also block the sunlight. This is because they are made using a special triple-weave technology. The polyester fabric they are made of has three layers that make these curtains exceptionally thick and dense (between the two outside layers, there is an inner black layer). Since they are so thick and dense, these curtains also provide thermal insulation.
The package includes two panels that are 53 inches wide and 84 inches long. That means they are big enough to comfortably cover most standard windows. Furthermore, these soundproof curtains come in a range of stylish colors, from white or cream beige to bold turquoise. Therefore, it’s super easy to match them with the color scheme in your home. Unlike most curtains from other manufacturers, these curtains from Nicetown are the same color on both sides, which makes them look nice even from the outside.
Key Features:
- 100% polyester
- Heavy and soft
- Up to 99% light blocking
- Thermal insulation
- Fade-resistant
- Wrinkle-free
- Simple installation
- Machine washable
Dimensions:
- Width: 53 inches
- Length: 84 inches
Maintenance:
You can wash these curtains in the washing machine at temperatures below 86 degrees F. They are also suitable for tumble drying and ironing at low temperatures. Don’t use bleach, though.
2. Nicetown Soundproof Velvet Woven Grommet Top Drapes
These Nicetown curtains are 96 inches long and slightly longer than the previous model. It should be enough to cover the entire area between the ceiling and the floor in most homes.
The thing I like the most about these curtains is the fabric they are made of. Namely, the outside layers are made of a soft, velvety fabric. It allows the curtains to hang nicely and gives them a really luxurious look. Most importantly, it absorbs sound really well. The package includes two panels.
Key Features:
- Up to 98% light blocking
- Great sound absorption
- Hypoallergenic and antibacterial
- The velvet fabric looks amazing
- Available in a range of colors
- Ring top and pole top options available
Dimensions:
- Width: 52 inches
- Length: 96 inches
Maintenance:
The best way to maintain these curtains is steam cleaning. If you want to keep them looking great, you definitely shouldn’t wash them in the washing machine. Steam Cleaning will help remove the fold line, refresh the fabric, and keep your curtains looking clean and neat.
H.Versailtex Curtains
H.Versailtex noise reducing curtains are definitely among the best soundproof curtains you can find. They are a bit more expensive than those made by Nicetown. However, at under $50, they are still quite affordable.
H.Versailtex makes soundproof curtains in a range of designs and sizes, so there is plenty to choose from. These are our top three picks:
1. H.Versailtex Classic Grommet Thermal Insulated Textured Linen Extra Long Curtains
These soundproof curtains from H.Versailtex are 108 inches long. That means they can cover any window or patio door comfortably. Each panel features three layers of fabric, which is really necessary for good sound absorption. The inner (blackout) layer is made of black yarn. The outside layers, on the other hand, are made of beautiful faux linen fabric. It looks natural and feels like real linen, but there are no wrinkles whatsoever.
When it comes to color, you’ve got 12 elegant colors to choose from. And as the product name says, these H.Versailtex curtains come with copper grommets that create a vintage look.
Key Features:
- Imported faux linen textured fabric
- Three layers
- 8 copper grommets
- Suitable for 1.5-inch rods
- 85% sun blocking
- UV-resistant
- Thermal insulation
- Machine washable
- 30 days money back guarantee
Dimensions:
- Width: 52 inches
- Length: 108 inches
Maintenance
You can wash these curtains in the washing machine using a gentle cycle at a low temperature. Use non-chlorine bleach if needed. You can also safely throw them in the dryer, just make sure the temperature is not too high.
2. H.Versailtex White Curtain Thermal Insulated Extra Long Drapes
These large soundproof curtains are the perfect solution for covering balcony and patio doors. They are 100 inches wide and 108 inches long, which should give them enough coverage. According to H.Versailtex, the curtains should be 2 or more times wider than your door/window in order to provide good sound and thermal insulation. So keep this in mind when choosing the size of the curtains. Finally, these curtains don’t contain any toxic chemicals, vinyl, or PVC, which makes them completely safe and eco-friendly!
Key Features:
- Extra wide panel
- 100% triple-woven microfiber polyester
- 100% UV blocking
- Vinyl-free and PVC-free
- 30 days money back guarantee
Dimensions:
- Width: 100 inches
- Length: 108 inches
Maintenance
You can wash these curtains in the washing machine at low temperatures. Tumble dry on low and iron gently if needed.
3. H.Versailtex Premium Blackout Wider Curtains for Patio and Yard
These H.Versailtex curtains are incredibly soft, but don’t let it fool you! They will not wear out quickly. In fact, these are probably the most durable curtains I have ever seen. Furthermore, the silky, velvet-like material will look amazing in almost any room. These curtains come in eleven different colors, including pure white and burgundy. Plum purple is definitely my favorite, though! Finally, there are 16 strong metal grommets at the top, which make sure the curtains always hang safely despite their weight.
Key Features:
- 100% polyester
- 16 strong metal grommets
- 99% sunlight blocking
- Vinyl-free and PVC-free
Dimensions:
- Width: 100 inches
- Length: 108 inches
Maintenance:
Machine washable in cold water. You can use non-chlorine bleach if needed.
Soundproof Curtain Installation Tips
First, read the instructions that come with the curtains. This might seem obvious, but it’s an essential and commonly overlooked step. Also, make sure the rod and rings are strong enough to hold these heavy curtains.
Measure twice and use the right tools. Always check your measurements twice for accuracy. Use a pencil and level to prevent a crooked curtain. Use wall anchors if there isn’t a stud where the brackets are being installed.
For loose hanging curtains, choose a rod that you can extend by two or three inches. The overlap allows you to provide more protection when they’re closed, and to position the curtains on each side of the window during the day for large, bright windows.
You might also want to read: How to Keep Your Curtains From Blowing in the Wind
The Final Verdict
Even though soundproof curtains can’t block all noise, they are still much more affordable than costly remodeling projects such as window or door replacements. If you invest in quality, thick curtains and pair them with a liner, they should improve disruptive noise drastically.
