Noise reducing curtains are heavy, multi-layered drapes that absorb sound waves and dampen echo, making a room feel quieter. Unlike regular curtains, they use dense fabrics and an acoustic interlining to block and absorb noise from traffic, neighbors, or home theaters. This DIY version lets you build custom-sized acoustic curtains with the same sound-dampening performance as store-bought ones, at a fraction of the cost.
Ingredients
- 2 curtain panels, heavyweight (e.g., velvet, suede, or thick canvas), 2× the window width each (e.g., 2 panels of 54 in × 84 in / 137 cm × 213 cm for a 36 in / 91 cm wide window)
- 2 acoustic interlining panels (e.g., mass-loaded vinyl or acoustic felt), same size as each curtain panel
- 2 blackout lining panels, same size as each curtain panel
- Thread (heavy-duty, matching fabric)
- Curtain rod and rings or hooks (rated for heavy weight)
- Fabric scissors or rotary cutter
- Measuring tape
- Iron and ironing board (optional, for pressing seams)
- Sewing machine (or needle and thread for hand-sewing)
- Pins or clips
Instructions
- Measure your window. For maximum noise reduction, the curtain should overlap the window frame by 4–6 inches (10–15 cm) on each side and hang from the ceiling to the floor. Measure the width and length you need, then cut your curtain fabric, acoustic interlining, and blackout lining to that size. Add 2 inches (5 cm) to the width and 4 inches (10 cm) to the length for hem allowances.
- Prepare the fabric layers. Lay the curtain fabric face down on a clean, flat surface. Place the acoustic interlining on top, aligning edges. Then place the blackout lining on top of that. Smooth out any wrinkles or bubbles.
- Pin the layers together. Pin or clip the three layers together around the entire perimeter, leaving a 12-inch (30 cm) opening on one side for turning. Make sure the edges are aligned.
- Sew the layers together. Using a sewing machine or hand-stitching, sew around the perimeter with a 1-inch (2.5 cm) seam allowance, leaving the 12-inch (30 cm) opening unsewn. Backstitch at the beginning and end to secure the stitches.
- Turn the curtain right side out. Through the opening, carefully pull the fabric right side out. Use a blunt tool (like a chopstick) to push out corners gently. Press with an iron if desired.
- Close the opening. Fold the raw edges of the opening inward and pin them closed. Sew the opening shut with a slip stitch or a straight stitch close to the edge.
- Install the header. Depending on your curtain rod, you can either fold the top edge over and sew a rod pocket (wide enough for your rod), or attach curtain rings or hooks along the top edge. If using rings, space them every 4–6 inches (10–15 cm) and sew them securely.
- Hang the curtain. Slide the curtain onto the rod or attach the rings. Ensure the rod is securely mounted, as these curtains are heavy. Adjust the curtain so it touches the floor and overlaps the window frame evenly.
Tips
- Fabric choice matters: The heavier and denser the outer fabric, the better the sound absorption. Velvet, thick wool, or tightly woven canvas work best. Avoid lightweight cottons or linens, which will not block much sound.
- Seal the gaps: Sound leaks through the top, bottom, and sides of curtains. Use a curtain rod that extends beyond the window frame, and let the curtain puddle slightly on the floor (or use a weighted hem) to seal the bottom gap.
- Add a second layer: For even more sound reduction, hang a second curtain rod with a sheer or lightweight curtain behind the acoustic one. The air gap between the layers helps absorb more sound.
- Use a sturdy rod: Acoustic curtains are heavy. Use a metal or solid wood rod with sturdy brackets, and make sure they are anchored into wall studs, not just drywall.
Serving Suggestions
These curtains are best used in rooms where noise is a problem: bedrooms, home offices, nurseries, or media rooms. Pair them with a door draft stopper and weatherstripping on windows for a complete soundproofing setup. They also work well in apartments with thin walls or near busy streets.
Variations
- No-sew version: Use iron-on hem tape or fabric glue to bond the layers together instead of sewing. This is quicker but less durable, and the curtain may not hang as smoothly.
- Use a single layer: If you cannot find acoustic interlining, you can use two layers of heavy curtain fabric (e.g., two panels of velvet) for moderate sound reduction. This is simpler but less effective.
- Add a decorative trim: Sew a contrasting trim or tassels along the bottom edge to make the curtain look more finished and add a bit of extra weight.
- Make a roman shade: For a more tailored look, you can adapt this method to create a roman shade with acoustic backing, though this requires more advanced sewing.
Storage and Reheating
These curtains do not require any special storage or reheating. To clean them, vacuum with a brush attachment or spot-clean with a damp cloth. If you need to wash them, check the fabric care label; most heavy fabrics should be dry-cleaned. When not in use, store them rolled (not folded) on a cardboard tube to prevent creases. They will last for years if handled gently.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do noise reducing curtains actually work? Yes, but they are not a complete soundproofing solution. They absorb sound waves, reducing echo and muffling noise, but they cannot block all sound, especially low-frequency sounds like bass. For best results, combine them with other soundproofing methods.
What is the best fabric for soundproofing curtains? Heavy, dense, and thick fabrics like velvet, suede, or multi-layer canvas are best. The more mass the fabric has, the more sound it can block. Acoustic interlining adds extra mass and sound-absorbing properties.
Can I use these curtains for blackout as well? Yes, the blackout lining layer in this recipe blocks light, making these curtains effective for both noise reduction and light blocking. This is great for bedrooms or media rooms.
How much noise reduction can I expect? The reduction is noticeable but not total. You might see a reduction of 5–10 decibels, which is roughly half the perceived loudness. This can make a room feel significantly quieter, but it will not stop loud music or heavy traffic completely.
Can I hang these curtains on a regular curtain rod? You can, but make sure the rod is sturdy and well-mounted. These curtains are heavy, so a flimsy rod may bend or pull out of the wall. Use a metal rod with strong brackets anchored into studs.
How do I clean these curtains? Most acoustic curtains should be dry-cleaned or vacuumed, as machine washing can damage the interlining or cause shrinking. Always check the care label on your fabric and interlining before cleaning.
Related
- Fruit Tree Juice 5L: A Fresh Homemade Batch
- Fruit Juice: Definition, Types, and How It’s Made
- G FUEL Drink: What It Is, Ingredients and Caffeine
More recipes to cook
Safety notes: safe minimum internal temperatures from USDA FSIS; raw and undercooked fish guidance from the U.S. FDA. Food safety notes
Spotted an error? Tell us and we will correct it (corrections policy).