City life is lively—that’s part of the charm. But when your neighbor’s footsteps become your soundtrack or the energy of MKE buzzes a little too loud, it’s time to take back your peace and quiet. Read five ideas on how to soundproof your apartment.

1. Understand Where the Noise Is Coming From

Before you give up on a having a serene home, take a minute to identify the source:

  • Airborne noise (talking, TV, music from the unit next door)
  • Structure-borne noise (footsteps above, banging pipes)
  • Street or hallway noise

Each type needs a slightly different approach. The right noise control starts with the right strategy.

2. Quiet from the Ground Up

Floors are one of your best tools for soundproofing your apartment. Rugs with dense fibers help soak up impact noise. Go wall-to-wall if you can. Or layer smaller rugs across high-traffic areas. Be sure to also use a thick rug pad. This small upgrade makes a big difference, plus it adds cushioning underfoot. Cork-backed mats or puzzle foam tiles are also renter-friendly.

3. How to Soundproof Your Apartment’s Overlooked Offenders

Windows and doors are sneaky entry points for noise. Try sealing them by:

  • Installing renter-friendly blackout curtains. They do more than block light by also muffling street sounds. Mount them higher and wider than your window to maximize their effect.
  • Sealing the edges. Use removable weather stripping (like foam tape) around doors and windows to block noise leaks.
  • Adding an adhesive fabric door sweep or a weighted draft stopper. This blocks hallway sounds from filtering in.

4. Quiet the Walls (No Holes Required)

Soundproofing your apartment can elevate its look and feel. This is where aesthetics meets acoustics:

  • Slant large canvas art, mirrors or tapestries against shared walls, especially behind your bed or sofa. It breaks up soundwaves and adds visual interest.
  • Stick-on acoustic panels are available in modern, decorative options, with some even looking like felt tiles or geometric art.
  • Rearrange furniture across a wall. This creates a buffer between you and the noise.
  • Pack bookshelves with softcover books, which works surprisingly well as a sound barrier.

5. Address Neighbor Noise with Grace

If you feel your noise issues are coming from neighbors creating unnecessary racket, it might be time for a conversation. Approach with curiosity, not accusation. There are always two sides to a story—you already know yours, so first listen to truly hear what they have to say.

Make your concerns known but keep the conversation low-pressure, approaching it from an angle of, “What can we do together to lessen the noise?” If the problem persists after one or two friendly conversations, let your leasing office know. They can handle it professionally and from a place of authority.

Noise Control: Apartment-style

With these five tips on how to soundproof your apartment, you can create a peaceful space that feels calm and private. After all—your apartment, your retreat.