Have you ever tried to sleep while your neighbors have the time of their lives next door? It's like trying to read a book with someone talking in your ear — nonstop. And sometimes, the neighborhood din makes it feel impossible to catch those deep Z's.
While you might be able to communicate your issue with the neighbors, sometimes the noises can't be helped, especially if they have a newborn child or a dog who habitually barks at night. But don't worry; we have some tips and tricks to help you sleep soundly, no matter what sounds bother you.
So, let's go over how to say goodbye to noisy neighborhood nights!
Your Sleep Haven
The first step to getting good sleep even with noisy neighbors is ensuring your bedroom is sleep-ready. This means making everything from your mattress to the temperature sleep perfect!
- Mattress: It should provide the proper support and comfort for your body type and sleep style.
- Pillow: Your pillows should support your neck and align with your sleep position, like firmer pillows for back sleepers, softer pillows for side sleepers, and thin ones for stomach sleepers.
- Comforter: It should keep you warm, but not too warm. Look for breathable materials that help regulate your body temperature throughout the night.
- Sheets: These should be soft and breathable, like cotton, bamboo, or linen.
- Room Temperature: The ideal room temperature for sleep is around 65 to 68 degrees Fahrenheit. Anything higher or lower might disrupt your sleep!
- Lighting: Any light source in your bedroom can disrupt your sleep (yup, even the alarm clock!), so it's best to find a way to remove or cover them up while sleeping.
Pro Tip: Avoid looking at screens 30 minutes before bedtime to help you fall asleep faster!
Choose Your Noise
Alright, let's talk about white noise machines and apps. These little gems are a lifesaver in blocking out unwanted noise. They create a soothing, consistent sound that helps your brain ignore the more disruptive noises, like the hum of a fan or an air conditioner.
Luckily, there are a couple of options available. You can use a physical white noise machine, ranging from basic models to fancy ones with timers and night lights. Or, you can turn your smartphone into a noise machine with a white noise app with a wide selection of sounds to listen to!
Earplugs: Small but Mighty
If white noise isn't your thing, or you want an extra layer of noise protection, earplugs might be your answer. They can help block out the neighborhood ruckus and help you focus on the white noise you choose (if any!).
There are two main types of earplugs you can consider:
- Regular Earplugs: These are the ones you can find at any drugstore. They're usually made of foam and are pretty cheap. They can reduce noise by up to 30 decibels!
- Custom Earplugs: If you're serious about your sleep (and don't mind spending a bit more), custom earplugs might be worth considering. They're made to fit your ears perfectly, offering maximum comfort and noise reduction.
Remember, it's all about finding what works best for you. So, don't be afraid to try different options until you find your perfect noise solution.
Bluetooth Speaker Headbands: Sleep in Stereo
Love to drift off to sleep with some calming music or a soothing sleep story but don't want to disturb your partner? A Bluetooth speaker headband could be just the ticket. These headbands are designed with thin speakers embedded inside, so you can comfortably lie on your pillow while listening to your chosen sounds. Plus, they double as a sleep mask, blocking unwanted light — talk about a win-win!
Soundproofing Your Space: A Quieter Sanctuary
If you're finding that the noise is just too much, it might be time to consider some soundproofing options. While this might sound like a big job, you can take some simple steps to reduce the noise coming into your bedroom.
- Weatherstripping: Adding weatherstripping to your doors and windows can help block out noise. It's easy to install and relatively inexpensive.
- Sound-Absorbing Materials: Consider adding sound-absorbing materials to your walls, like foam panels or heavy curtains (or even empty egg cartons!). They can help reduce the echo in your room and absorb some of the noise.
- Rugs and Carpets: If you have hard floors, adding some rugs or carpets can help absorb sound and reduce noise.
Even if these steps don't completely block out the noise, they can help reduce it and make your bedroom a more peaceful place to sleep.
Relaxation Techniques: Calm Your Mind, Calm Your Sleep
Ever noticed how when you're stressed, every little noise seems ten times louder? That's not just your imagination. Research shows that stress can make us more sensitive to unwanted noise. So, if your neighbors' antics keep you up, it might not just be the noise itself — it could be your reaction.
That's where relaxation techniques come in. They can help you calm your mind and prepare your body for sleep, no matter what's happening outside your window.
- Deep Breathing can help slow your heart rate and relax your body. Try inhaling for a count of four, holding for a count of seven, and exhaling for a count of eight.
- Meditation has been shown to reduce stress, increase calmness, promote relaxation, and improve sleep. You can find plenty of guided meditations online designed to help you sleep.
- Yoga before bed can help relax your body and mind. Look for poses that promote relaxation and sleep (like the cat/cow pose!).
Sound Sleep
As you can see, there are several ways to get your good night's rest, even if your neighborhood doesn't realize it's nighttime. But don't forget; the first step is making sure your mattress is in good sleep shape! So, if your current one is more on the lumpy side or you can't get comfortable, see our mattress selection at Hudson Appliance!
We have many comfort options and top brand names to choose from, so you can sleep the night away. And if you have any questions, don't hesitate to give us a call or drop by!