Do Cellular Shades Reduce Noise? What You Need to Know

Traffic sounds, noisy neighbors, and loud construction—outside noise can turn your peaceful home into a stress zone. We've all been there, waking up at 6 AM to jackhammers or trying to work through constant street chatter. If you're wondering whether cellular shades can help with this problem, the answer is yes—but they're not magic.

Cellular shades, also called honeycomb shades, can reduce noise thanks to their unique air-trapping design. They won't block out 100% of sound, but they'll make your space noticeably quieter and more comfortable.

How Cellular Shades Actually Work for Noise Reduction

The secret is in the structure. Cellular shades have hexagonal pockets that look like honeycombs. When sound waves hit these shades, they enter those air pockets and bounce around inside, losing energy with each reflection. This process—called sound absorption—dampens noise before it reaches your ears.

According to research on acoustic window treatments, certain cellular shades can absorb up to 70% of sound energy. That's a big difference if you live near a busy road or in an apartment building with thin walls. The thicker the fabric and the more cells your shade has, the better it performs.

But here's the thing: no window treatment can entirely soundproof a room. Cellular shades reduce and soften noise, but they won't create total silence. Think of them as a solid first step, not a complete solution.

Single Cell vs Double Cell: Which Works Better?

If you're shopping for cellular shades, you'll see options for single-cell and double-cell designs. Double cells have two layers of honeycomb pockets instead of one. Double cellular shades provide increased insulation and noise blocking because the additional layer creates a second barrier that sound waves must penetrate.

Single-cell shades still work well for light to moderate noise—they're budget-friendly and do a decent job in quieter neighborhoods. But if you're dealing with highway traffic, train horns, or barking dogs at all hours, double cells are worth the upgrade. They trap more air and absorb more sound, making them the go-to choice for bedrooms, nurseries, and home offices.

Do They Really Make a Difference?

Let's be real—results vary based on your windows, the noise source, and how well your shades fit. Honeycomb blinds can reduce noise levels by around 30 to 50% in busy areas, making a noticeable difference in rooms facing traffic or noisy streets.

Some folks report "library-quiet mornings" after installing them, while others notice just a softer hum. Proper installation matters a lot here. Gaps around the edges let sound sneak through, so measure carefully and consider an outside mount with extra overlap if you want max performance.

And don't forget: cellular shades do double duty. Beyond noise reduction, they help with temperature control and light blocking. So if you go with cellular shades, you'll also get better insulation against heat and cold.

Best Rooms for Noise-Reducing Cellular Shades

Bedrooms, nurseries, home offices, and media rooms benefit the most, along with street-facing spaces or rooms near shared walls. Basically, anywhere you need to concentrate, relax, or sleep without interruption.

If you work from home and deal with constant Zoom calls, adding cellular shades to your office window can cut down on background noise. Parents with newborns swear by them for nurseries—less noise means better naps. And if you love movie nights, pairing them with blackout features turns your living room into a mini theater.

Layering for Even Better Results

Here's a pro tip: combine cellular shades with other window treatments for maximum noise blocking. Layering products like pairing side panels or drapery over blinds or shades provides greater sound absorption and adds depth to the window.

Think of it like wearing a jacket and a sweater on a cold day—two layers work better than one. Try roman shades with heavy curtains, or add roller shades behind drapes. The multiple barriers trap and diffuse more sound than a single treatment can handle.

And seal those gaps. Even the best shades won't perform if your windows leak air around the edges. Add weatherstripping or caulk to close up cracks, and you'll notice an immediate improvement.

Other Window Treatments Worth Considering

Cellular shades lead the pack for noise reduction, but they're not your only option. Roman shades work well for dampening sound, as their heavier fabric adds a sound absorbing layer. They bring a traditional, elegant look and pair well with blackout liners.

Woven wood shades offer natural materials like bamboo that diffuse sound waves, though they don't block as much as cellular styles. Zebra shades and Shangri-La sheer shades work best for light control and style but offer less noise reduction.

If you want a simple, modern look, blackout roller shades with thick fabric can help muffle sounds—just don't expect the same level of performance as cellular shades.

Installation Tips for Maximum Noise Blocking

Fit matters. A lot. Proper installation is crucial for maximizing performance—a well-fitted shade covers the entire window area without gaps, preventing sound from leaking around the edges.

For inside mounts, measure your window at the top, middle, and bottom. Use the narrowest width to avoid fit issues. For outside mounts, add at least 2–3 inches on each side and above the frame to cover gaps where sound sneaks in.

Side channels—track systems that run along the window edges—are another game-changer. Side blocker channels with a track system dramatically reduce sounds that come through your window. They're popular for media rooms and bedrooms where you need near-total light and sound control.

Maintenance and Care

Cellular shades are low-maintenance but need occasional cleaning to keep them working well. Dust weekly with a soft cloth or vacuum with a brush attachment to prevent buildup. If you spot a stain, use a damp cloth with mild detergent and gently blot—don't scrub.

Keeping the fabric clean helps maintain its density and sound-absorbing properties. And if you have pets or live in a dusty area, clean more often to avoid flattening the cells.

Conclusion

So, do cellular shades reduce noise? Absolutely—but set realistic expectations. They won't create a soundproof bubble, but they'll soften outside noise, reduce echoes, and make your home a calmer, more comfortable place. Double-cell designs perform better than single cells, especially in high-noise areas. Proper installation and layering with curtains or drapes boost results even more.

If you're tired of listening to traffic, neighbors, or construction, cellular shades are a practical, stylish solution that also improves insulation and light control. Check out our full collection at Aosky to find the perfect fit for your space.

FAQs

Can cellular shades completely soundproof a room?
No. Cellular shades reduce and absorb sound, but they can't block 100% of noise. True soundproofing requires structural changes like upgraded windows, seals, and insulation. However, cellular shades make a noticeable difference and are a simple, non-invasive way to make rooms quieter.

Are double-cell shades worth the extra cost for noise reduction?
Yes, if you deal with loud, consistent noise. Double-cell shades have two layers of air pockets that trap and absorb more sound than single cells. They're especially helpful near highways, busy streets, or train tracks. For moderate noise, single cells work fine.

Do cellular shades work better with inside or outside mounts for blocking noise?
Outside mounts typically perform better because they cover more of the window frame, reducing gaps where sound leaks in. Add at least 2–3 inches of overlap on each side and above the frame. Inside mounts work well too, but make sure they fit snugly.

Can I layer cellular shades with other window treatments?
Definitely. Layering cellular shades with heavy curtains or drapes creates multiple barriers that absorb and block more sound. This combo works great for bedrooms, nurseries, and media rooms where you want maximum quiet.

How do I keep cellular shades clean so they keep blocking noise?
Dust them weekly with a soft cloth or vacuum using a brush attachment. For stains, gently blot with a damp cloth and mild detergent. Regular cleaning prevents dust from flattening the cells and maintains their sound-absorbing performance.