Thanks to streaming and platforms like Twitch and YouTube, soundproofing your home has become a lot less foreign and unique to most people.
Interestingly enough, however, the only method of soundproofing that seems to get the most attention is acoustic foam tiles. While these are very effective sound barrier methods of keeping sound from escaping, they aren’t the best option for every setting.
Whether you want to save money, spend less time putting up tiles, or don’t plan to stay in any location long-term, soundproofing blankets are a great way to cover an entire surface area quickly and stop sound waves effectively.
Below, we’ll take a look at some of the best soundproofing blankets available in 2023 as well as some sound control blanket useful tips you’ll need to fully maximize your listening potential.
Best Sound Blankets: Our Overall Choice
You can use these sound absorption sound blankets in a variety of ways. Ultimately, while the other options are all great, if you’re just starting, I’d highly recommend trying the Audimute Isole sound blanket first and then seeing if you need anything else.
3 Top Acoustic Sound Blankets – Best, Premium & Value
Below, we’ll take the time to check out some of the best acoustic sound blankets currently on the market while also giving you some tips on how to fit them into your sound environment.
Audimute Isole (Best Overall Pick)
These soundproofing blankets are produced here in the United States, the Audimute company is specialized entirely in acoustic treatment and soundproofing.
With the Isole sound absorption sheets, these sound control blankets managed to keep themselves at the top of the pack.
The Isole sound absorption sheets are easily one of the sound barrier premium and premier soundproof blankets available on the market to date. They are made from 3.2mm of thick recycled fibers, fitted within a cellulose seal.
These sound blankets can hold to your doors as well as your walls, working best when hung up as a room divider. The only downside is the fact that they don’t come with mounting grommets, instead opting for a 3-hook installation system.
Because the Isole uses these smaller grommet holes, the setup process can be a bit more difficult than otherwise, especially if you want the most optimal performance with as little sound escaping.
Still, when you consider these sound blankets weigh around 20 lbs each, are made from recycled cellulose cotton material, and have over four different color options to choose from, it’s obvious why this is a top pick over everything else.
Things We Like:
- 3.2mm Thick Sound Control Blanket
- Weighs 20lbs Per Sheet
- Made With Recycled Cotton Fibers
- Super Effective Room Divider
Things We Do Not Like:
- Smaller Grommets Make Setup A Bit More Annoying Than It Should Be
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Vocal Booth To Go Soundproofing Blanket (Premium Pick)
Saving the best for last, if you’re serious about using high-quality soundproof blankets for your recording studio, the Vocal Booth To Go soundproofing blanket is probably your best bet.
Working optimally in specific areas for a workspace, these acoustic blankets can essentially partition off that space entirely, to the point where you’ll want to check if anyone is even over there.
Where some acoustic blankets on this list can weigh as much as 7.5 lbs or even 12 lbs each, that’s nothing compared to the Vocal Booth blankets, each weighing 14 lbs. apiece.
They are also much longer and larger, coming in at 120 inches by 80 inches. They come in as four-packs and are often set up in a room-divider formation, creating super-well-isolated locations that make sound recording incredibly noise-free.
In addition to the size and weight difference, these soundproof blankets have eight grommets each, making mounting easier.
And while pricing is definitely a hurdle compared to others here, there are often many discounts when purchased in bulk, making it a great buy for those that seriously want to transform their audio space and create a workable sound barrier.
Things We Like:
- Made From Polyester, Cotton, And Mass-Loaded Vinyl Materials
- Each Sound Blanket Weights 14lbs
- Each Pack Comes With Four Blankets Each
- Great For Dividing A Room
- Has Eight Grommets, Making Them Easy To Install
Things We Do Not Like:
- Much More Expensive Than Others (Though Discounted When Purchased In Bulk)
Read this next: Best Acoustic Foam Panels: Keeping Your Neighbors Happy!
BOXER Tools Studio Grommeted Sound-Dampening Blanket (Value Pick)
As with Audimute, Boxer is a well-regarded member of the acoustic and soundproofing community. And like Audimute, they have some of the best soundproofing blankets available.
Here, rather than creating something denser than everyone else, the Tools Studio Soundproofing blanket is instead one of the most affordable quality options out there. If you’re someone looking to treat their space while handling any acoustic sound reflections, this is the best choice for you.
The sound-dampening blanket is 72 inches long, making it great for handling just about any window, wall, or door.
They’re on the thinner side, so you won’t be able to use them as a room divider or partition, but that’s not too bad when you consider just how much you’re saving with these compared to other sound blankets.
One of the areas that make the Tools Studio blankets such a great buy is the fact that its mounting and configuration setup is much easier compared to others on this list.
This is due to the sound blankets having several (eight in total) 7mm grommets to hang them up with.
While you will probably need more than one to get the most effective sound-dampening experience, because they are so affordable, it’s easy to get a larger order of these compared to most other options on this list.
Just as they are great as a sound barrier, they are also great for reducing light and any sun.
Things We Like:
- Super Affordable Sound Control Blankets
- Great For Blocking Out Light
- Over 72-inches
- Ideal For Sound Dampening As Well As Floor Protection
- Super Easy-To-Install Grommets
- Uses Recycled Quilted Fibers
Things We Do Not Like:
- Are Too Thin To Be Used One At A Time
- Aren’t Great Dividers Or Partitions
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Filmcraft Studio Blanket
While the Boxer sound blankets are very affordably priced, they aren’t the most affordably priced.
The Filmcraft Studio barrier blanket manages to offer an even better pricing option, especially if you’re looking for something that works well while giving you some dollars to spare.
The Filmcraft sound-dampening blankets are made using a fusion of woven nylon as well as polyester. This manages to absorb sound by up to 80%.
There are three different size options to choose from based on your budget, with all three workings well for their rooms.
While you’re not going to get anything as impressive as soundproofing with these 7lb sound blankets, you can get that aforementioned 80% sound reduction, which, for most people is plenty.
Things We Like:
- Very Affordably Priced
- Three Acoustic Blankets To Choose From
- 9 Grommets Make Setup Very Easy
Things We Do Not Like:
- Won’t Soundproof An Area (But Can Reduce Sound By 80%)
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Sure-Max Moving & Packing Blankets
The Sure-Max moving soundproofing blankets are one of the best options, not only because they’re great when it comes to blocking sound waves and acoustic sound dampening, but also because they are some of the best picks when it comes to moving and packing.
Interestingly enough, very few people would think to marry up most packing blankets with acoustic blankets, but when you do you’ll realize that it’s pretty much the reason packers use them in the first place.
In this case, Sure-Max’s moving sound blankets are used by just about anyone, whether you’re putting together a startup sound studio or a soundproof DJ bedroom, or planning to take the equipment and ship it to someplace else.
The blankets are made from polyester-cotton fibers and are thick enough to be used for walls, doors, and even as dividers and partitions.
The blankets also range in both size as well as weight, with sizes ranging between just under 35lbs to roughly 90lbs per dozen. This can mean each blanket can weigh upwards of 7.5 lbs, making them quite heavy. This doesn’t stop at the weight either.
Most standards around barrier blanket sizes with Sure-Max are 80 inches by 72 inches, meaning you’ve also got a lot of space to play with as well as weight.
These aren’t going to be your definitive acoustic option, nor are they built to be as such, however, if you’re looking to get started, there are a lot worse options out there.
Things We Like:
- Super Versatile
- Variable Weight Options
- Incredibly Thick & Reliable
- Comes In Packs of Up To 12 Sheets
- Made From Polyester Cotton
Things We Do Not Like:
- Not Meant As Your Final Acoustic/Sound Dampening Blanket
- Doesn’t Come With Grommets For Mounting
Read this next: Producer Tips (Making Studio Life Simpler)
Wen Packing Blankets
If you’re someone that doesn’t like heavier and denser acoustic blankets, you may think you’re out of luck since most are going to have some heft to them.
The truth is, while you’re not going to ever get anything that weighs less than a pound, blankets like what Wen offers can get you pretty close.
With each sound barrier blanket in a pack weighing only 3 lbs, these blankets can be used just about anywhere without worrying about tiring yourself out on putting together studio doors and walls.
As they are made for a low-cost, lightweight audience, they aren’t going to be quite as soundproof as others on this list.
However, they are made from quilted cotton and polyester, with dual-locked stitching that makes frequent handling possible without worrying about dealing with too much wear and tears.
Besides their lightweight making them not as effective at handling sound, they also don’t come with grommets, making mounting a bit of an issue, especially compared to others on this list that have upwards of seven, eight, or even nine grommets.
Things We Like:
- Very Cost-Effective
- Super Lightweight (Only Weighing 3lbs)
- Made From A Cotton & Polyester Blend
- Offers Blue & Black Colors
Things We Do Not Like:
- Not Quite As Effective As Others On This List
- Doesn’t Come With Grommets, Making Setup More Difficult
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US Cargo Control Large Sound Blanket
A popular choice for sound engineers, music producers, and sound designers, the US Cargo Control blankets make a point of being incredibly hefty and durable options, weighing in at over 12 lbs per acoustic blanket.
This makes sound dampening and soundproofing much easier, even when dealing with more sharp and abrasive sound reflections.
As with Sure-Max, the US Cargo Control blankets are doubled as moving blankets, making them equal parts super versatile as they are highly capable. This is true even when handling larger locations and spaces.
The sound blankets are made with high-density polyester composite with a generous amount of fiber while their quilted finish is quite hardy and can find itself in the washing machine multiple times without suffering too many issues.
The US Cargo moving blankets are quite large, with dimensions coming in at 96 inches by 80 inches, offering more than enough material for your sound-dampening needs.
Things We Like:
- Made Very Durable & Long-Lasting
- Each Sound Blanket Is 12lbs
- Very Thick & Large
- Able To Handle Harsh & Abrasive Sound Reflections
Things We Do Not Like:
- Grommets Aren’t As Many As Others On This List
Read this next: Djing Guide (How To Start DJing from Your Bedroom)
How do Soundproofing Blankets Work?
Now that we’ve gone over the best available options for anyone looking to create a studio (from those with startup budgets to those looking for a professional-grade design), let’s look at how do soundproofing blankets work and briefly touch on some useful tips to keep in mind when putting together your dividers or walls.
Tip 1. Cover The Entire Wall
This may sound like a no-brainer, but you’d be surprised at how surprised many people can find themselves.
Soundproof blankets stand out from acoustic foam tiles, particularly because they are meant to cover the entire surface wall rather than just sections or parts.
The reality of the situation is that the more open space exists on a wall, the more sound reflections you’re going to allow through.
Tip 2. Air Out Your Sound Barrier Blankets
This is probably less obvious. Just like regular blankets, because you’re not sticking them directly to the wall, soundproofing blankets can develop dust and germs if not aired out now and again.
For soundproofing blankets in particular, because they are so thick, it’s more than possible for a thin amount of moisture to develop along the more isolated areas due to the humidity created.
This moisture can result in compromised soundproofing, greatly reducing their potency.
Tip 3. Consider Interwoven Fabrics Over Recycled Ones
While there are a lot of great recycled fabrics, generally their interwoven alternatives are going to last longer and are a better candidate when it comes to more permanent or long-term sound-absorbing blankets.
In addition, you may also want to consider avoiding recycled fabrics as they can often include toxic particles that can cause health problems if exposed for extended periods.
Tip 4. Use Clips & Pins For Sound Blankets Without Grommets
If your soundproof blanket doesn’t come with grommets, that’s not ideal however it’s also not the end of the world. You can use clips, pins, or even double-sided tape to keep them attached to walls or ceilings.
If that’s all you can afford to start with, use what you have. The main key is setting up a soundproof blanket first and foremost.
Tip 5. Put Sound Blankets At Initial Sound Reflection Points
It’s very important that you put your soundproof blankets at the first point of reflection. This is where the sound hits the hardest and where any sound bleeding is going to happen the loudest.
If you’re confused about where this initial point would be, it’s essentially going to be the wall that is directly opposite your speakers.
For example, if you’re putting your speakers on your rightmost wall, you’ll want to put your soundproofing blanket across your left wall first and foremost.
Tip 6. Customize Your Sound Blanket
Many people think that customization options are only available if outright stated. While this may be true for some companies, many will do so upon request.
This can help you and your studio stand apart, especially if you’re looking to create a more unique setup.
This will include the more expected things like weight and size, but also the more unique differences, like color combinations and even logos and graphic designs.
Tip 7. Consider Mixing & Matching
Lastly, while it may seem safer to stick with one type of soundproof blanket type or company, the truth is that there are many different options out there, all having their pros and cons.
Yes, you can rely solely on one, but you can also try playing with a few, whether that be different materials or configurations.
It’s your studio. Make it in a way that you get the best results; even if that means playing with multiple sound blanket types at the same time.
Sound Blankets: The Verdict
There are many different ways to soundproof a room. Whether you’re able to just make very thick walls, use acoustic foam panels, soundproofing blankets, or any other methods, decreasing the amount of sound that escapes is both doable and much easier today than it ever has in the past.
If you’re interested in soundproofing blankets, make sure you consider the size of your walls as well as how much weight you can deal with compared to how much noise you want to be absorbed.
Our Editor’s pick is the Audimute Isole:
The heavier the sound blanket, the more difficult it will be to hang up but also the more effective it will be at dampening sound. You’ll also want to consider the material if it comes with grommets, and how it may fit alongside your room’s dimensions.
All in all, there are a lot of factors to consider.
However, once you do get these things sorted, you’ll ultimately end up with a space that is the most optimized for handling as much sound as you want, not only keeping sound from entering or leaving your room but also helping ensure that the sound you do have is cleaner and higher quality.
