Top 5 Tools for Misophonia Relief
Practical tools to help reduce sound triggers and improve your listening experience.
Misophonia can make everyday sounds—like chewing, pen clicking, or lip smacking—feel unbearable. For many people, these triggers can cause stress, anxiety, or difficulty focusing. While there’s no universal cure, the right combination of tools and strategies can make daily life much more manageable. Below are five effective options to help minimize misophonia triggers and create a calmer, more controlled sound environment.
1. Noise-Cancelling Headphones
Investing in a high-quality pair of noise-cancelling headphones can be a game-changer. These headphones work by detecting and counteracting external sounds, allowing you to immerse yourself in peaceful audio. Whether you’re at a coffee shop or in a busy home, the right pair can help you block distractions and focus on what truly matters.
Popular brands like Bose, Sony, and Apple offer advanced active noise cancellation (ANC) that adapts to your surroundings. Many also include ambient or “transparency” modes, giving you control over how much background sound you let in — perfect for balancing awareness and comfort.
2. White Noise Machines
White noise machines produce consistent sounds that help mask unpredictable noises like chewing, typing, or sniffing — all common misophonia triggers. By creating a neutral background sound, white noise helps your brain tune out sudden, disruptive noises that might otherwise cause stress.
These machines often include various soundscapes such as rain, fan hums, or ocean waves. Experiment with different tones to find what best soothes you. White noise apps or smart speakers can also serve as affordable alternatives.
3. Earplugs
Soft earplugs can be lifesavers in unpredictable sound environments — classrooms, offices, or restaurants. While they won’t completely block noise, they reduce overall sound intensity and help you feel more in control. Some even filter certain frequencies to preserve speech clarity while minimizing harsher tones.
Look for reusable silicone earplugs or high-fidelity options designed for comfort. They’re discreet, affordable, and a good companion to other tools like white noise or background soundscapes.
4. StopSmack App
The StopSmack App was designed specifically to address one of the most common struggles for people with misophonia: mouth noises. Using smart audio processing, StopSmack detects and filters sounds like lip smacks, gulping, and other mouth-related triggers from your favorite media — all in real time.
Whether you’re watching videos, listening to podcasts, or enjoying music, StopSmack helps make the experience stress-free and enjoyable again. You can learn more about the available features and pricing on our Plans page.
5. Calm Environment Setup
A calm environment is one of the most effective ways to prevent triggers before they even start. Simple adjustments like adding curtains, carpets, and wall panels can help absorb sound and reduce echo. Arranging furniture strategically to diffuse sound can also make a big difference.
You can even experiment with soft background music or ambient sound playlists to create a soothing atmosphere throughout your workspace or home.
Living with misophonia doesn’t have to mean avoiding sound altogether. With the right combination of tools—both physical and digital—you can regain a sense of peace and comfort in your daily life. Small, consistent changes can lead to a significant improvement in how you experience your environment.