How to Ignore Bad Neighbors

Co-authored by Tami Claytor

Last Updated: December 14, 2022 References

No one wants to deal with bad neighbors. Whether they're blasting music until 2 am every night or letting their dog out on your property, it can be a really frustrating situation to find yourself in. Luckily, there's a lot you can do to ignore them for the sake of your own health and happiness.

1

Get noise-canceling headphones.

Tune out your noisy neighbors (literally). Invest in a pair of headphones that will help block out your neighbor's noise. Next time your neighbor starts a 4-hour guitar jam session, put on your headphones for some peace.^{[1]
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- If these are too pricey, earplugs work just as well.^{[2]
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2

Buy a white noise machine.

This can help your neighbor's noise fade into the background. It may not completely eliminate the noise, but some tranquil ocean or rainfall sounds can really help you stay calm. If your neighbors' dog is barking into the night, turn on the white noise machine to help you get some sleep and relax.^{[3]
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- This is also a good option if you're not a fan of wearing earplugs while you sleep.

3

Put up signs in your front yard.

These can help stop your neighbors from letting their dog onto your property. It can also remind your neighbors not to trespass in your yard if this is a problem. Invest in a "No Dog Poop" sign to get the message across without having to talk to your neighbors about their dogs directly. Buy these signs online or at a local pet store. If your neighbors themselves are the problem, invest in a "No Trespassing" sign.^{[4]
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- If you don't see any signs at the store, make your own sign using cardboard and some markers.

4

Invest in some curtains.

These give you some privacy so that you can avoid your neighbors. Close your curtains when you need some extra space.^{[5]
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Research source} If you really don't want to see your neighbors, purchase blackout curtains.^{[6]
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- Buy soundproof curtains if your neighbor's noise is the issue.^{[7]
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5

Lock your doors.

This helps you set a literal and emotional boundary with your neighbors. Locking your door ensures that your space is entirely your own. If your neighbors are really bothering you, install a deadbolt on the door. Getting this space from your neighbors will make it easier to ignore them.^{[8]
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6

Throw down some rugs to absorb the sound.

Rugs can muffle any noise traveling from your neighbor's home. If noise is an issue, purchase some floor rugs to reduce its impact. Lay them out throughout your home in places like your living room and bedroom.^{[9]
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- Carpeting can also really reduce sound. If you're remodeling your space, consider going for carpet to keep things a little quieter.^{[10]
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7

Fill up your home with furniture to reduce any echo.

Make sure each room in your home is fully furnished. This can cause your neighbor's noise to travel and echo throughout your home. Invest in some furniture, like a couch, shelves, and a bed frame to help with that. It'll be nice to enjoy some newfound peace and quiet on a brand new (or gently used) couch!^{[11]
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- Furnish your house with upholstered furniture to really cut down on the noise. The fabric and stuffing are able to absorb more sound than wood furniture. Go for a big couch and a comfy chair.^{[12]
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8

Seal the cracks in your home.

The spaces between your doors and windows let noise seep in easily. Line any extra spacing with caulk. For additional soundproofing, invest in a noise-canceling door sweep and window inserts. Both block noise from coming into your home and can give you some peace and quiet.^{[13]
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9

Invite some friends over.

Living alone with bad neighbors can be particularly frustrating. Ignore them as best you can with the help of supportive and caring friends by your side. Vent to your friends about your frustrations, talk to them about other things to get a much-needed distraction, and seek their opinion if you're really unsure of what to do about your neighbors.^{[14]
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- Avoid throwing a noisy party to get revenge. This is the opposite of ignoring your neighbors and may make the situation worse down the line.

10

Meditate to destress.

Find some peace and quiet within yourself. Though this may seem a little unrelated, dealing with noisy or rude neighbors can take a toll on you. Bring some calm to your life through meditation. First, sit down and close your eyes. Focus on your breathing and take deep breaths in and out. Try doing this for 20 minutes to really relax.
- Meditate twice a day to stay calm and happy, no matter what your neighbors are up to.

11

Talk to them directly if the issue can't be ignored.

Knock on their door and respectfully bring up the problem. Talk to them about what's upsetting you in a compassionate, understanding way. Listen to their point of view, and try to come up with a solution that you both feel good about.^{[15]
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- Maybe your neighbor frequently walks onto your property or lets their dogs play and use the bathroom in your yard. Address the issue respectfully and walk the property line together to determine where their yard ends and yours begins.^{[16]
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- If you're nervous about meeting them in person, leave a note with your name and contact information on their door. Don't leave an anonymous note, as this can come off as passive-aggressive and may make things worse.
- It's possible they won't be receptive. If that's the case, your next step is calling your local homeowner's association or your apartment manager if you live in an apartment. They can help mediate the issue.^{[17]
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12

File a noise complaint if nothing else works.

If you're concerned about safety, this may be your best option. File the complaint with your municipality online or by calling the non-emergency number in your state. Make sure you're familiar with the noise ordinances in your city, as what counts as a noise violation differs depending on where you live.^{[18]
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- Make sure you've tried talking to your neighbors first, as getting the city involved can potentially escalate the issue or put your neighbors at risk.