Beverly Hills Hearing Center was founded in 1983 by Bonnie Baehr. Prior to that, Dr. Baehr practiced at the House Ear Clinic in Los Angeles as a staff audiologist for seven years. She was involved with diagnostic testing, hearing aid evaluations, research and rehabilitation. Dr. Baehr did her clinical fellowship training at the Veterans Administration Outpatient Clinic in downtown Los Angeles. She is a member of the American Academy of Audiology, American Speech Language and Hearing Association, California Academy of Audiology and Academy of Doctors of Audiology.
Latest posts by Bonnie L. Baehr, Au.D. (see all)
- Stylish and Modern Hearing Aid Designs - April 14, 2026
- DIY Tips for Creating a Quieter Home Environment - April 2, 2026
- Why Some People Feel “Left Out” Before Realizing They Have Hearing Loss - March 30, 2026
Noise is a regular part of life, but too much noise can create stress, disrupt sleep, and make communication harder. Homes can become noisy due to traffic, appliances, loud televisions, barking dogs, or many daily activities happening at once. While total silence is impossible, there are many low-cost ways to reduce unwanted noise and create a calmer home environment. With thoughtful planning and simple projects, families can make spaces that support comfort, concentration, and healthy hearing.
Understanding Household Noise
Different types of noise affect the home in various ways. Airborne noise includes voices, music, and barking dogs. Impact noise comes from physical contact with surfaces such as footsteps, dropped objects, or furniture being moved. Mechanical noise comes from appliances such as dishwashers, dryers, and heating units. Each type requires different strategies to manage it. Recognizing the source of the noise is the first step in finding solutions.
Improving Sound Absorption
One of the easiest ways to reduce indoor noise is to add sound-absorbing materials. These materials do not entirely block sound, but they reduce echoes and soften loud sounds. This is especially helpful in living rooms, dining rooms, or kitchens where many hard surfaces are present.
When choosing curtains, heavier fabrics such as velvet or lined cotton absorb more sound than thin materials. Area rugs and runners help reduce noise from footsteps on hard floors. They are most effective when paired with thick rug pads.
Bookshelves filled with books can also absorb sound and reduce echoing. Upholstered furniture absorbs more sound than wooden or plastic pieces. Throw pillows and fabric wall hangings add style while also improving acoustic comfort.
Managing Appliances and Electronics
Many appliances produce background noise that can become bothersome. While replacing old appliances with quieter models is ideal, homeowners can take simple steps without purchasing new equipment. Placing anti-vibration pads under washing machines or dryers reduces shaking and rattling. Dishwashers can be run at night or during times when noise will not distract the household.
Moving entertainment systems away from shared walls can reduce sound transmission into bedrooms or neighboring apartments. Adding soft materials, such as curtains or fabric panels, around a television space can reduce sound reflection and improve comfort and audio quality.
Creating Quiet Zones
Not every room needs to be quiet. In fact, it is often enough to create designated quiet zones where family members can relax, study, or read. These areas should be placed away from loud appliances or high-traffic areas.
To make a quiet zone more effective, homeowners can:
- Use blackout curtains to block street noise and improve sleep
- Add soft rugs, cushions, and blankets to increase sound absorption
Some families also establish quiet hours where televisions and music are kept at lower volumes. These simple household rules promote respect and reduce noise-related conflict.
Outdoor Noise Control
Noise from outside the home is a common source of stress. Traffic, construction, and neighborhood activity can enter through windows and thin walls. While homeowners cannot control outdoor sources, they can control how much sound enters their homes.
Sound travels easily through small gaps around windows and doors. Weatherstripping can be added around door frames to prevent sound from passing through the cracks, and door sweeps can be installed at the bottom of doors. Caulk can also be applied around window frames to close small openings.
Outside of the home, planting shrubs or installing fences can reduce noise in outdoor living spaces. Water features like fountains produce calming sounds that mask harsh background noises. For those who enjoy spending time outside, these changes can make patios and gardens more pleasant.
Communication and Household Habits
Even with soundproofing improvements, daily habits also play a role. Families can lower television volumes, close doors during loud activities, and use headphones during gaming or music listening. Encouraging children to play with quieter toys during early morning or late evening hours can prevent unnecessary disturbances.
Talking openly about noise helps families understand each other’s needs. Some people are sensitive to sound, while others may not notice it. Respectful communication leads to a healthier and more peaceful home environment.
Conclusion
Creating a quieter home does not always require major construction or expensive upgrades. Simple DIY strategies such as adding sound-absorbing materials, sealing small gaps, improving appliance placement, and establishing quiet zones can significantly reduce unwanted noise. With patience and thoughtful planning, homeowners can transform noisy rooms into calmer spaces that support relaxation, sleep, and clear communication. A quieter home environment benefits everyone by improving comfort, reducing stress, and supporting overall well-being.