Living in an apartment complex can be a bit of a mixed bag. On one hand, you’re in close proximity to restaurants, shops, and entertainment. On the other hand, you’re in close proximity to people who like to play their music at full blast, stomp around like they’re auditioning for Riverdance, or engage in heated arguments at 3 a.m. If you’re one of the unlucky ones who have to deal with noisy upstairs neighbors, don’t fret. We have eight fiercely clever tricks to help you keep your sanity intact.
- Develop a Thicker Skin
You know what they say: “If you can’t beat ’em, join ’em.” In this case, we’re not suggesting you start blaring your own music or stomping around like a herd of elephants. Instead, we’re saying that you should try to develop thicker skin. The more you can learn to tune out the noise, the less it will bother you. Put on some headphones, read a book, or practice some deep breathing exercises.
- Bribe Them with Baked Goods
If you’re on good terms with your upstairs neighbors, why not try bribing them with some delicious baked goods? Bring them a plate of cookies or brownies and explain how their noise is affecting you. Chances are, they don’t realize how loud they’re being and will be more mindful in the future.
- Play Some White Noise
Invest in a white noise machine or download a white noise app. These can be a lifesaver when you’re trying to drown out the sound of your neighbors’ shenanigans. Alternatively, you can try playing some calming music or nature sounds to create a peaceful environment.
- Go Full DIY Soundproofing
If you’re feeling crafty and you don’t want to spend a lot of money, you can try some DIY soundproofing. Hang some heavy drapes, install weatherstripping around your windows and doors, or place some rugs on the floor. These can all help to absorb the sound and reduce noise levels.
- Get a Pet
If you don’t already have a furry friend, consider adopting one. Not only are pets great companions, but they can also provide some noise distraction. If your upstairs neighbors are being particularly loud, take your dog for a walk or play with your cat. You’ll both get some exercise and take your mind off the noise.
- Fight Fire with Fire
If your neighbors are particularly loud, you can always fight fire with fire. Turn up your own music, stomp around your apartment, or start having arguments of your own. Okay, we’re just kidding. This is a terrible idea and will likely only make things worse.
- Talk to Your Neighbors
If all else fails, you can always try talking to your neighbors. Be polite, and calm, and explain how their noise is affecting you. They might not even realize that they’re being loud, and they’ll be more mindful in the future.
- Move to the Country
If you’re really at your wit’s end, you can always move to the country. Sure, you’ll have to give up your proximity to shops and restaurants, but you’ll also have peace, quiet, and a lot more space. Plus, you’ll get to see some cows, and who doesn’t love cows?
In conclusion, dealing with noisy upstairs neighbors can be a real pain in the you-know-what. But with a little bit of creativity, patience, and humor, you can make it through. Try out these fiercely clever tricks and see which ones work for you. And if all else fails, just move to the country.