The rise of gaming and content creation has transformed bedrooms and basements across the world into creative studios. For Twitch streamers, YouTubers and TikTokkers alike, staying immersed in the moment is essential – but there’s one challenge that many don’t necessarily think about until it’s potentially too late: noise. Whether it’s the excited clicking of controllers or the occasional shout of frustration or joy, noise can travel and become a headache for anyone who might be sharing the building – and could result in some awkward conversations, or even an angry letter.
Don’t despair; setting up a soundproofed space isn’t as daunting as it might first seem, and it doesn’t have to be costly. It’s achievable, and worth the effort for both your audio quality and your relationships with the people around you.
Soundproofing vs. Sound Absorption
First, it’s important to understand what we’re dealing with here. Soundproofing refers to blocking noise from escaping or entering a room, while sound absorption is about reducing echo and controlling how sound bounces around inside the space. A soundproofed room is great for your neighbors, while sound absorption benefits your audience, giving your streams and recordings a crisper, cleaner sound.
Sound loves to travel, slipping through walls, floors, windows, and even under doors. Tackling these problem areas means targeting weak spots and beefing up the room’s ability to hold sound in.
Start with a Quick Room Assessment
Take a look around your space. Where does noise seem to seep through? Thin walls, flimsy doors, single-pane windows, and bare floors are often the biggest culprits. Take a moment to listen; play a video or speak at normal volume, and notice where the sound travels. This simple check can save time and keep you from throwing money at areas that may not need as much attention.
Focus on the Walls
Wall soundproofing is usually the first (and easiest) target when it comes to tackling the job. The trick is adding density, which makes it harder for sound waves to pass through.
Acoustic Foam Panels: These won’t keep sound from escaping, but will improve your room’s internal acoustics, making your recordings sound smoother and more professional. They’re affordable and easy to install.
Mass-Loaded Vinyl (MLV): This thick, flexible material can block sound effectively when added under drywall or behind wall panels. It’s a popular choice for serious soundproofers.
Heavy Curtains or Blankets: For a low-cost fix, hang thick curtains or blankets on the walls. They won’t look studio-fancy, but will help contain sound more than bare walls will.
Seal the Doors and Windows
Doors and windows are two of the most notorious pathways for noise.
A lot of interior doors are hollow-core, which means they’re almost useless for soundproofing. Replacing a hollow door with a solid-core one can help, though it’s not the cheapest option. Failing this, you could try adding a door sweep to block the gap at the bottom, and use weatherstripping along the sides.
Windows, especially single-pane, are another problem area. Start with soundproof curtains, which are dense enough to block at least some of the noise. You could also invest in window inserts, which are fitted panels designed to boost sound insulation. Finally, sealing gaps with acoustic caulking can make a surprising difference.
Don’t Forget the Floor
Floor soundproofing is particularly helpful in apartments or shared buildings, where noise often travels downward.
A thick carpet or rug with a dense underlay absorbs sound and adds a soft touch to your space. If you’re in a space with hard floors, even a small rug can make a big difference. You can also get noise-reducing floor mats, specially designed to dampen impact sound, which is great if you’re a fan of stomping on controllers or pacing during streams.
Ceiling Soundproofing for Apartments
For those sharing a space with neighbors above, focusing on the ceiling can be a game-changer.
Acoustic Ceiling Tiles: These can absorb sound that might otherwise travel up. Plus, they’re easy to install.
Suspended Panels or Baffles: If you’re serious about soundproofing, cloud baffles hang from the ceiling and help absorb sound. They’re more commonly found in professional studios, but can make a noticeable impact.
Quick and Budget-Friendly Soundproofing Hacks
Soundproofing can become expensive fast, and it may not be an option if you’re just starting out. If you’re looking for easy, affordable fixes, there are options available.
Layer blankets or thick towels over walls, doors, or even windows as a temporary way to add some sound absorption. You could even make some DIY soundproof panels – a bit of plywood, some foam and fabric can go a long way. This makeshift panel absorbs sound and gives your room a more professional touch.
Wrapping It All Up
Creating a soundproof room doesn’t have to be an all-or-nothing project. The steps above let you approach soundproofing in stages; start with the basics and see how the room feels. Once you’ve treated your space, do a quick test. Play music, speak normally, or stream a sample recording to check if any sound escapes. Your ears (and your neighbors) will thank you.
With your setup dialed in, you’re free to focus on the fun stuff: creating, gaming, and sharing your passion without interruption. It’s all part of building a space that’s both a refuge and a platform for your creative energy.
