Soundproof curtains help reduce outside noise and block light. They are especially useful in bedrooms, home offices, and living rooms where quiet is essential. Source: bobvila.com.
What Soundproof Curtains Do
These window coverings absorb sound waves and reduce noise pollution. They work best when layered or made with dense materials. The primary function of soundproof curtains is to dampen external sounds such as traffic, neighbors, or street noise, which can interfere with concentration, sleep, or relaxation.
Most soundproof curtains also act as blackout curtains. This means they block sunlight and ultraviolet (UV) rays, reducing glare and helping maintain room temperature. By minimizing light infiltration, they also support circadian rhythms, which are critical for sleep quality and overall well-being.
Soundproofing is not just about blocking noise—it’s about creating a balanced indoor environment. The materials used in these curtains often combine acoustic absorption with thermal insulation, making them a dual-purpose solution for both noise and energy efficiency.
How the Testing Was Conducted
Over a period of three to seven days, a comprehensive evaluation was conducted on ten popular soundproof curtain products. Each curtain was hung in a room with a single window to simulate real-world usage conditions.
During testing, a decibel meter was used to measure ambient noise levels before and after a trumpet was played outside the window. This allowed for a controlled assessment of how effectively each curtain reduced external noise. The noise reduction was measured in decibels (dB), a logarithmic unit that reflects the intensity of sound.
For thermal performance, temperature readings were taken in the morning, afternoon, and evening while the curtains were in place and when they were removed. This helped determine whether the curtains provided consistent thermal insulation, which can reduce the need for heating or cooling.
Light blocking was assessed by observing visibility from outside the window throughout the day. A key metric was whether the window remained completely dark or if any light could be seen from the outside. This evaluation confirmed whether the curtains achieved true blackout performance.
Additionally, several of the products were washed and dried according to the manufacturer’s instructions to evaluate their durability and maintenance requirements. This real-world test revealed how easily the fabrics retained their shape, color, and performance after repeated use.
Top Picks by Performance
Best Overall: Pony Dance Blackout Insulated Soundproof Curtains
These curtains reduced noise by 10 decibels during testing, which is a significant improvement over typical ambient noise levels. This performance places them among the top performers in both sound absorption and practicality.
Manufactured from 100 percent polyester, the fabric is dense and triple-weaved, contributing to its superior sound-blocking capabilities. The triple-weave construction increases fabric density, which enhances sound absorption by reducing the transmission of sound waves through the curtain material.
Available in over 20 colors and nearly 40 sizes, these curtains offer a wide range of design options to match various interior styles. Darker shades, such as navy or charcoal, are recommended for optimal light blocking, as they filter 85 to 95 percent of sunlight. Even lighter shades, like mint green or blush pink, provide substantial light reduction, making them suitable for both privacy and ambiance.
Installation is straightforward, with options for both rod pocket and tab systems. The rod pocket method allows for a more elegant, seamless look, though it requires slightly more effort than sliding a rod through tabs. Once installed, the curtains provide a sleek, modern appearance that complements a variety of home decors.
While the fabric is machine washable, it tends to hold wrinkles after washing. A quick steaming session is recommended to restore its smoothness and appearance. This makes maintenance manageable for most users, especially those who value both functionality and aesthetics.
“Even though hanging via rod pocket was trickier than sliding a rod through tabs, we liked the sleek final look. The soundproofing and light-blocking made them a definite favorite.”
Tested by Stacey L. Nash, a product reviewer with over five years of experience in home and garden products. Her hands-on testing in real-world environments ensures that the recommendations reflect actual user experiences.
Best Bang for the Buck: BGment Insulated Blackout Soundproof Curtains
These budget-friendly curtains absorb approximately 5 decibels of noise, which is effective for everyday use in moderately noisy environments. The triple-weave polyester fabric provides a balance between affordability and performance.
One of the standout features of these curtains is their thermal insulation. They help maintain a stable indoor temperature by reducing heat gain during the day and heat loss at night. This makes them especially useful in homes with fluctuating outdoor temperatures, where energy costs can increase due to frequent heating or cooling cycles.
Available in nearly 40 colors and about 20 sizes, these curtains offer a broad range of design choices. The metal grommets on the edges make installation simple and secure, allowing users to hang them with minimal effort.
Both the fabric and drape are true to color, ensuring that the final look matches expectations. The curtains are machine washable in cold water on a gentle cycle and can be tumble-dried on low heat, making them convenient for regular use.
Despite being lightweight, the fabric still provides a noticeable level of light blocking. However, it does not achieve full blackout, which may be a limitation for users who require complete darkness.
“We love being able to wash and dry these. Even with a few wrinkles, a quick steam fixes it — better than taking them to a dry cleaner.”
Stacey L. Nash tested them and found them effective and practical for daily use, especially in homes where budget and ease of maintenance are key considerations.
Upgrade Pick: RYB Home 100% Blackout Soundproof Curtains
These high-performance curtains feature a detachable felt liner between two layers of fabric, which significantly enhances both sound and light blocking. During testing, they reduced noise by up to 10 decibels, matching the performance of the top-tier options.
The three-layer construction—two outer fabric layers and a removable felt liner—creates a dense barrier that absorbs sound waves and blocks all sunlight and UV rays. This makes them ideal for users seeking both privacy and noise reduction.
Both sides of each panel are the same color, which gives a polished, high-end appearance. This design choice eliminates the common issue of color mismatch between the front and back of curtains, offering a more consistent and elegant look.
The inner felt liner is not machine washable but can be removed via a hook-and-loop system. This allows users to clean the outer fabric on a gentle cycle and dry it on low heat, while keeping the felt liner separate for deep cleaning or storage.
They also help regulate room temperature by preventing warm or cool air from entering or escaping through windows. This thermal performance is especially beneficial in seasonal climates where temperature fluctuations are common.
Available in 10+ colors and sizes, including customizable dimensions when ordered directly from the brand, these curtains offer flexibility for users with non-standard window sizes or unique design preferences.
Best Double-Layered: Moondream 3-in-1 Blackout Thermal Soundproof Curtain
This curtain combines three distinct layers: a blackout fabric, a thermal insulation lining, and a thick cotton backing. This layered design enhances both sound absorption and thermal performance, reducing noise by up to 6 decibels during testing.
The inclusion of a thick cotton backing contributes to the overall density of the curtain, which improves its ability to absorb low-frequency sounds—those that are often most disruptive in urban environments.
Each curtain comes with an adjustable hem tape, allowing users to customize the length to fit non-standard window sizes. This feature is particularly valuable for homes with irregularly shaped windows or windows that are not aligned with standard dimensions.
Installation is simple due to reinforced, rustproof grommets, which ensure durability and ease of use over time. The curtain can be hung with minimal tools or effort, making it accessible for DIY users.
However, the product must be dry cleaned only, which limits cleaning options. This requirement may be a drawback for users who prefer machine-washable products or who live in areas with limited access to dry cleaning services.
While the noise reduction is strong, it falls slightly short of the manufacturer’s claimed 7 decibels. Still, it performs well within the range of typical soundproofing products and is a solid choice for users who prioritize both performance and design.
Despite the higher price point, even a single curtain from this set is more expensive than standard options, which may affect affordability for budget-conscious buyers.
Best Insulated: H.Versailtex Linen Blackout Soundproof Curtains
These thermal-insulated curtains reduce sound by up to 5 decibels during testing. The woven polyester blend mimics the texture of natural linen, giving them a soft, elegant appearance that blends well with modern and minimalist interiors.
They block at least 85 percent of sunlight and UV rays, which helps protect furnishings from fading and reduces glare. This makes them ideal for spaces where both visual comfort and long-term material preservation are priorities.
The copper grommets not only add a stylish touch but also increase the durability of the curtain by resisting corrosion over time. This is especially important in humid environments or areas with high exposure to moisture.
Available in over 20 colors and patterns, these curtains offer a wide range of aesthetic options. The textured finish of the fabric helps minimize visible wrinkles, even after washing, which improves their overall appearance and usability.
“Of all the machine-washable curtains we tested, these held up the best. Because they have a textured finish, light wrinkles barely showed. They basically came out looking new.”
Stacey L. Nash found that these curtains perform exceptionally well in terms of durability and appearance, making them a top choice for users who value both style and long-term performance.
Most Attractive: Deconovo Faux Linen 100% Total Blackout Curtains
These curtains have a linen-like texture and come in 40+ colors, offering a luxurious, high-end appearance that appeals to design-conscious consumers. The soft, durable polyester blend provides a natural, flowing look that mimics fine linen fabric.
They reduce sound by 5 decibels and block almost all incoming light, making them effective for both privacy and noise reduction. The textured weave helps resist wrinkles, even after washing, which enhances their usability.
While the manufacturer recommends hand washing and air drying, the curtains show minimal wrinkling after washing. This suggests that the fabric is resilient and maintains its shape under normal use conditions.
When tested with a light green set, the curtains demonstrated excellent performance in both sound and light blocking. Their rich color options and decorator-loved hues make them ideal for rooms where aesthetics are as important as functionality.
Though they are not machine washable, the minimal wrinkling and natural drape make them a practical choice for users who prioritize visual appeal and comfort.
Best for Home Studios: Filmcraft Heavy-Duty Studio Soundproof Blanket
Designed for professional use in studios, recording rooms, and film sets, this heavy-duty soundproof blanket reduces noise by up to 10 decibels—matching the performance of top-tier soundproof curtains.
Measuring 80 inches long by 72 inches wide, it is designed to be hung on a curtain rod using clamps. The grommets on all four sides allow for easy draping and hanging, making it simple to install in a variety of configurations.
Its primary function is to dampen sound and minimize unwanted noise, which is critical in environments where audio clarity is essential. The blanket also doubles as a protective cover for instruments and equipment during transport, adding a secondary utility.
It is only available in black and one size, which limits design flexibility. Its industrial look makes it unsuitable for decorative spaces such as living rooms or bedrooms.
While it performs as well as top-tier curtains in noise reduction, its lack of aesthetic appeal makes it a better fit for functional, high-performance spaces rather than general home use.
Other Products Tested
Several other options were evaluated. The Nicetown Custom 100% Blackout Curtains reduced noise by only 2 decibels. This level of performance is below the threshold for meaningful noise reduction and does not meet the standards of effective soundproofing.
The Stalwart Moving Blanket blocked only 3 decibels of noise. While it is a thick, padded material, its sound absorption is limited, and it is not designed for long-term use in residential settings.
The Miuco Room-Darkening Blackout Curtains reduced noise by 2 decibels, although they do block light well and include helpful tiebacks. The tiebacks improve window coverage and help prevent the curtain from flapping in the wind, but the minimal noise reduction undermines their overall effectiveness.
These products did not meet the performance standards of the top picks and are not recommended for use in spaces where noise reduction is a primary concern.
What to Consider When Choosing Soundproof Curtains
- Measure your window’s length and width. Choose a curtain that is at least three times as wide and 10 inches longer than the window. This ensures full coverage and maximizes sound-blocking effectiveness.
- Heavier, tightly woven fabrics such as velvet or polyester perform better at noise reduction. The density of the fabric directly correlates with its ability to absorb sound waves.
- Multi-layered fabrics with thermal linings offer both sound and temperature control. These products provide dual benefits, reducing both noise and energy costs.
- Check if the curtain rod can support the weight. Soundproof curtains can weigh 8 pounds or more, compared to about 2 pounds for traditional light-filtering curtains. A weak rod may sag or break under load.
- Consider a wraparound curtain rod for better sound blocking. This style attaches to the wall at a curve and allows the curtain to form a complete seal around the window, creating a more effective barrier.
- Color affects aesthetics, not sound performance. While darker colors may offer better light blocking, the actual noise reduction remains unaffected by color choice.
- Look for easy installation and maintenance. Grommets simplify hanging, and machine-washable options reduce the need for professional cleaning.
Materials and Performance
Soundproofing effectiveness depends on fabric density and layering. More layers and heavier materials absorb more sound. For instance, a curtain with three layers of fabric will generally outperform one with a single layer, even if the materials are similar.
Velvet and polyester are effective materials due to their dense fiber structure. Velvet, in particular, has a high surface area and interlocking weave that enhances sound absorption.
Triple-weave fabrics are denser and more sound-absorbing because they are constructed with multiple layers of tightly woven fibers. This construction increases the material’s resistance to sound transmission.
Thermal insulation adds to sound performance by trapping air and reducing sound transmission. The trapped air acts as a buffer, absorbing sound waves before they reach the interior of the room.
For best results, choose curtains that cover the full wall—not just the window. A full-wall curtain creates a continuous seal, which prevents sound from entering through gaps or edges.
Limitations and Trade-offs
Some products have high costs or limited sizes. For example, the Moondream curtain is priced higher than standard options, even for a single piece, which may deter budget-conscious buyers.
Others require special care, like dry cleaning. The Moondream curtain, for instance, must be dry cleaned only, which can be inconvenient and costly for regular use.
While all tested products reduced noise by at least 2 decibels, only a few achieved 10 decibels of reduction. This highlights the importance of selecting products that meet specific performance thresholds.
Many are not fully blackout or do not offer thermal benefits. For example, the BGment curtains do not achieve full blackout, which may be a concern for users seeking complete privacy.
Industrial blankets are effective but not decorative and are intended for temporary use. They are best suited for short-term applications such as moving or temporary studio setups.
Why This Matters
Soundproof curtains help create quieter spaces. This supports better sleep, concentration, and overall well-being. In urban environments, where external noise is constant, even a small reduction in ambient noise can significantly improve daily life.
They are especially helpful in apartments or homes with shared walls, where noise from neighbors or traffic can disrupt routines.
Even low-cost options reduce noise by 2 to 3 decibels, proving that soundproofing is accessible to most households. This accessibility makes it a practical solution for people seeking to improve their living environment without major renovations or investments.
What to Watch Next
As homes become more energy-conscious, soundproof curtains may gain attention for their dual role in noise and temperature control. Future products may combine better materials, smart features, or improved durability without increasing cost.
Advancements in fabric technology could lead to the development of curtains that are both highly effective at noise reduction and energy efficiency, with minimal environmental impact.
Additionally, smart soundproof curtains with built-in sensors or app connectivity may emerge, allowing users to adjust sound absorption based on time of day or external noise levels.
Stacey L. Nash is a product reviewer with over five years of experience in home and garden products. She lives on 12 heavily wooded acres and tests products in real-world conditions.
Additional research was provided by Deirdre Mundorf and Jasmine Harding.
For more on window treatments and home design, see our window coverage guide.
Learn how we test and review products at Bob Vila’s product testing page.
Buy the Pony Dance soundproof curtains at Amazon.
Sources & further reading
Featured image: Photo: Stacey L. Nash for BobVila.com. Via original publisher. Image source
