Been trying to get some decent sleep lately, but the constant drone of airplanes and traffic is driving me nuts. I've tried earplugs (meh, uncomfortable after a while) and white noise apps (sorta helps, sorta doesn't). Curious what everyone else does—poll below:
What's your go-to noise-blocking method?
1. Heavy curtains or soundproof windows
2. White noise machines/apps
3. Earplugs or noise-cancelling headphones
4. Just learned to live with it... somehow
Honestly, curtains and windows won't do much unless you go full-on soundproofing (pricey and a pain). I built some DIY acoustic panels once—helped a bit, but traffic noise is stubborn. Hang in there, you'll adapt eventually... somehow.
I dunno, acoustic panels helped me a little too, but have you tried white noise machines or even just a fan running at night? Not perfect, but it kinda masks the traffic drone... worth a shot maybe?
Yeah, white noise machines do help a bit—I use one myself—but honestly, heavy blackout curtains made the biggest difference for me. They're thick enough to dampen some of the sound and block out headlights too. Not a total fix, but between that and the fan running, I barely notice traffic anymore... unless it's garbage day at 5 AM. Can't win 'em all, I guess.
They're thick enough to dampen some of the sound and block out headlights too. Not a total fix, but between that and the fan running, I barely notice traffic anymore...
I second the heavy curtains suggestion. I've installed a lot of them for clients dealing with street noise, and they do help quite a bit—especially if you get ones specifically labeled as "sound dampening." They're thicker and heavier than regular blackout curtains, and the extra density really makes a noticeable difference. Not a miracle cure, but definitely worth trying.
Another thing I've seen work surprisingly well is weatherstripping around windows and doors. You'd be amazed how much sound sneaks in through tiny gaps. I did it at my own place when I moved near a busy intersection, and it cut down on noise more than I expected. It's cheap and easy enough to DIY, too.
Noise-cancelling headphones are great during the day, but I can't sleep comfortably in them either. Earplugs never worked for me personally—too uncomfortable after an hour or two—but some people swear by custom-molded ones. Haven't tried those myself yet, though.
Anyway, between curtains and sealing up gaps around windows, you might find enough relief to finally get some rest. Good luck!