How To Temporarily Soundproof a Window? 4 Effective Ways

Let’s face it, soundproofing a window can be a relatively simple task. However, when it comes to temporarily soundproofing a window, things become more concerning. Why?

Well, mostly because of investment. The financial aspect plays a significant role in the decision-making process. It’s super important to consider the benefits versus the investment you are going to make.

For example, replacing the entire window with a double or triple pane window for temporary soundproofing wouldn’t be worth the investment solution.

But don’t worry, I’m here to help you with some effective techniques for temporarily soundproofing your window without making a major investment. 

In this article, I’ll share some simple yet effective methods. So, keep reading!

5 Factors to Consider When Selecting a Temporary Soundproofing Method for Your Window

When it comes to choosing a method for temporarily soundproofing your window, there are a few important things you should keep in mind.

Here they are:

1. Is it effective? You want to make sure the method you choose can actually reduce the noise.
   • Look for options that have a good track record and people actually recommend them for soundproofing purposes.
2. How easy is it to install? You don’t want to spend hours struggling with complicated instructions or tools.
   • Go for something that’s easy to install and doesn’t require a professional for the installation. After all, you want to get that peace and quiet as quickly as possible!
3. Will it work with your window? Different windows have different needs, so make sure the method you choose is compatible with your window type and size. 
4. Can you afford it? Budget matters, right? Compare prices and see which options fit within your budget. Remember, expensive doesn’t always mean better.
   • In my opinion, you shouldn’t invest more than $100 to soundproof a window temporarily.
5. Can you reuse it? If you think you might need soundproofing again in the future, consider a method that you can remove and use again. It’s like getting extra value for your money!

4 Effective Ways to Temporarily Soundproof a Window

So finally, here are four easy and cost-effective ways to temporarily noise reduction of a window.

1: Use Honeycomb shades

So if you want to soundproof your window temporarily for more than 3 months then using honeycomb is cost effective and an effective option especially if you are soundproofing an old window or blocking out noise from a jalousie window.

Honeycomb shades, also known as cellular shades, are specifically designed to provide insulation and noise reduction. 

These shades have a unique structure with cells that trap air, creating a barrier between your room and the outside noise. The trapped air acts as a buffer, reducing the sound vibrations that enter through the window.

When choosing honeycomb shades, opt for those with thicker fabric. The thicker the fabric, the better the noise reduction. And look for shades with a high Noise Reduction Coefficient (NRC) rating, which indicates their effectiveness in reducing sound.

To install honeycomb shades, just measure the dimensions of your window and choose the appropriate size. Next, mount the brackets securely and then snap the shade into the brackets and you are all set.

The benefits of using these shades are, in addition to noise reduction, they also provide insulation, keeping your room cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter. 

Another great advantage is that they are easier to remove just like installing them, all you need to do is just reverse the installation process.

All in all, for a quick and affordable fix, honeycomb shades are a perfect choice.

2: Move heavy furniture near the window you want to soundproof

Well, If you’re looking for a way to temporarily soundproof your window for a few weeks especially if you want soundproof your sliding window or bay window then placing heavy furniture near the window would be a great option to consider. 

Doing so can help absorb and block sound. It does not require any cost at all, it is 100% free to do. To use this technique, take a look around your home and see if there are any heavy furniture pieces that you can easily move close to the window. 

Things like bookshelves, dressers, or sofas can work great for this purpose. The key is to create a solid and dense barrier that can absorb and block sound waves.

When positioning the furniture, make sure it is as close to the window as possible. If you happen to have soundproofing curtains or shades, you can even combine them with this technique for better results if you are dealing with sound in a noisy window.

3: Try Using Ear Plugs for Noise Reduction

Are you looking for a simple, cheap and easy-to-use method for reducing noise? If so then using earplugs is a perfect fit for your needs. It does not whether you want to temporarily sound-insulate a Velux window or any window, earplugs can work.

As you already know, earplugs are small and soft that fit snugly inside your ears, blocking out unwanted noise. They are an affordable and readily available option for temporary soundproofing.

When choosing earplugs, choose one that is specifically designed for noise reduction. Look for ones that have a high noise reduction rating (NRR) to make sure they are effective in blocking out sound.

To use earplugs effectively, first, roll them between your fingers to compress them. Then, insert them into your ear canal and make sure they are snug but not causing any discomfort.

However, let me tell you that, if you are going with this method then keep in mind to avoid using them for extended periods of time, as this can lead to earwax buildup or ear infections. It’s always a good idea to give your ears some rest.

In short, ear plugs are a convenient and effective way for temporary soundproofing, especially if you’re in a noisy environment or trying to sleep during the day.

Feel free to give earplugs a try and enjoy the benefits of a quieter environment!

4: Use a White Noise Machine

Another effective way and popular way to temporarily soundproof your window is by using a white noise machine. These devices produce a consistent, soothing sound that masks unwanted noise from outside.

To use a white noise machine for soundproofing your window, place it near the window or on a nearby shelf. Turn it on and adjust the volume and frequency settings to your liking. 

Experiment with different sounds initially, such as rainfall or ocean waves, to find one that is most effective at blocking out unwanted sounds. 

While white noise machines can help mask external noises, they may not completely eliminate all sounds. 

However, they can significantly reduce the impact of outside noise, making them a valuable device in temporarily soundproofing your window and for sound controlling on a window in rental.

Related post: Soundproofing Techniques for Single-Pane Windows

Conclusion: Temporarily Soundproof a Window

If you find yourself in a situation where you need to temporarily soundproof your window, there are many methods you can try. 

First, consider using honeycomb shades, which can provide an additional layer of insulation and noise reduction. Additionally, moving heavy furniture near the window can help absorb sound waves and reduce outside noise. 

Another option is to use a white noise machine, which can drown out unwanted sounds and create a more peaceful environment. 

And finally, if all else fails, using earplugs can be a simple and affordable solution to reduce noise disturbance. This one is my favorite and primary recommendation for temporary soundproofing.

While each method has its own advantages, using earplugs is arguably the most affordable and cheapest option. You can get them easily from drugstores and online.

We hope that this post has provided you with helpful guidance on how to temporarily soundproof your window.

If you want to soundproof your sash window then make sure to read this post: Tips for making a sash window soundproof.

And if you looking for ways to soundproof your window without replacing them then this post will be super helpful: Soundproof Windows the Easy Way: No Need to Replace Them

Related: Do Double-Pane Windows Provide Soundproofing Benefits?