Are Acoustic Foam Panels Safe?

The short answer is yes, acoustic foam panels are generally considered safe when used properly. They are designed and manufactured to meet safety standards and regulations. However, if you want to learn more about acoustic foam and it's properties we got you covered!


Material Composition

Acoustic foam panels are typically made from open-cell polyurethane foam. Polyurethane comes in different densities. You may think that the densest foam is the best for sound absorption. However, soft and fluffy things tend to absorb sound better than super dense materials. 

professional open cell polyurethane acoustic foam - graphic rendering of the open cells

Melamine is another type of material that acoustic foam is made of. Melamine is made of a chemical compound that is organic-based and nitrogen-rich. Its durable and heat-resistant qualities make it perfect for acoustic foam panels. Melamine foam is completely safe and is actually the same thing that is used is magic erasers. 

We offer white melamine acoustic foam panels that are super popular and safe!

Harmful Chemicals?

One concern associated with foam panels is the potential release of volatile organic compounds (VOCs). While it is true that some foam products can emit VOCs, high-quality acoustic foam panels are often designed to be low in VOC emissions. It is crucial to choose foam panels from reputable suppliers who prioritize safety and quality in their manufacturing processes.

The off-gassing of VOC emissions is more common in newly manufactured foam products and tends to decrease over time as the foam ages. All of the off-gasing has already been completed before our foam is cut and shipped. 

Another thing to watch out for is PBDEs. Polybrominated Diphenyl Ethers, are a class of flame retardant chemicals that were commonly used in various products, including furniture, electronics, and textiles, to reduce their flammability. We do not use and of these chemicals in our foam. 

Fire Safety Measures

Most acoustic foams are also fire retardant. This means it is designed to resist catching fire and slow down the spread of flames. Some foams have fire retardant chemicals sprayed on the outside of them. Our acoustic foam formula is fire retardant without spraying chemicals onto the outside. To learn more about fire retardancy check out this post. 

To enhance fire safety, it is recommended to keep foam panels away from direct sources of heat and ensure that fire safety measures are in place in the room.

Want to check out our foam properties and fire rating? Click the PDF link below. 

PDF - Acoustic Foam Installation & Product Care Guide

Quality Assurance

To ensure the safety of acoustic foam panels, it is crucial to purchase them from reputable suppliers who prioritize quality and safety. Look for foam panels that meet relevant fire safety standards and have undergone rigorous testing and certification processes. Choosing trusted manufacturers will minimize any potential risks associated with using acoustic foam panels.

We have been serving happy customers with safe acoustic foam since 2016, and are trusted by folks doing DIY projects and commercial projects.

Check out our foam at the MET in NYC below!

SoundAssured acoustic foam at the MET museum in New York City

Send us a message if you have any questions about our foam or your acoustic treatment! We are glad to help!

Resources

soundasured acoustics - free acoutic analysissoundasured acoustics - free acoustic foam room calculatorsoundasured acoustics - book a free acoustical consultation

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Frequently Asked Questions

Do acoustic panels really work? ▶
Yes, acoustic panels absolutely work when used correctly. Acoustic panels are designed to absorb sound waves, which helps reduce echo, reverb, and unwanted reflections in a room. This creates a cleaner, more controlled sound environment.

Whether you’re treating a home studio, podcast room, home theater, or office space, acoustic panels can make a noticeable difference in speech clarity, mix accuracy, and overall listening quality.
How do I know which panels are right for my room? ▶
Every space is unique. You can contact us for a free room analysis, or check out our guides under the “Learn” section.

Absorption panels help reduce echo and reverb. We offer foam panels and fabric covered panels.

Diffusers scatter sound for a more balanced feel.

Bass traps help control low frequencies that tend to build up in corners.

If you’re trying to block sound from entering or leaving a room, you’ll need soundproofing materials, which are different from acoustic treatments.
Can I order samples? ▶
Yes, we offer acoustic foam samples and well as fabric color swatches. If you are looking for something else please Contact Us.

Order Foam Samples
Order Fabric Swatches
What’s the difference between soundproofing and acoustic treatment? ▶
Soundproofing blocks sound from entering or leaving a room. Acoustic treatment improves sound inside the room by reducing echo and reverb.
Can acoustic panels improve speech clarity? ▶
Yes! Acoustic panels are commonly used in offices, conference rooms, and classrooms to reduce echo and improve speech intelligibility. By absorbing excess sound and reverb, panels make it easier to hear and understand spoken words—even at lower volumes.

Want help improving clarity in your space? Contact us here.
Do acoustic panels block outside noise? ▶
Standard acoustic panels don’t block sound—they absorb it. Acoustic panels reduce echo and reverb inside a room but won’t stop external noise from entering or leaving.

If you’re looking for soundproofing, you’ll need materials designed to block sound transmission like mass loaded vinyl, or decoupled wall systems. We offer select products for this—Contact Us to learn more.

Learn the difference between soundproofing and sound absorption here.
Where should I place acoustic panels? ▶
The best placement depends on your room and goals. For general echo reduction, aim to cover 20–30% of your wall space. For recording studios, home theaters, or listening rooms, focus on:

• Front wall behind speakers
• Back wall behind the listening position
• Side wall reflection points
• Ceiling above your desk or seating area
• Diffusers at key reflection points for natural sound

Need help with placement? Contact us for a free custom recommendation.
Do these panels work for podcasting, streaming, or music production? ▶
Absolutely. We serve customers across all industries — from home offices to professional studios.
What fabric is best for wrapping acoustic panels? ▶
To get the best sound performance, use acoustically transparent fabric—material that lets sound pass through easily. A simple test: try breathing through the fabric. If air flows freely, it’s likely a good choice. Avoid dense materials like heavy denim or canvas, as they can block sound instead of letting it be absorbed.

Looking for a proven solution? Our professional-grade acoustical fabric is highly rated by customers and perfect for DIY acoustic panels.

Shop acoustic fabric here or contact us if you need help picking the right fabric for your project.
Can I order custom-sized acoustic panels? ▶
Yes! In addition to our standard panel sizes, we offer custom-sized acoustic panels for unique spaces, specialty builds, and large-scale projects. Just let us know your dimensions and design goals—we’re happy to create a solution that fits your space perfectly.

Contact us here to tell us about your project and get a custom quote.
Do you offer custom sizes or colors? ▶
Yes, we offer custom sizing and a variety of colors on select products. Just reach out and let us know what you need.

Contact Us for custom quotes.
Are your products easy to install? ▶
Yes! Our fabric-wrapped panels include mounting hardware. For acoustic foam, there are several easy mounting options, including double-sided adhesive squares, spray adhesive, or Command strips for installation without damaging your walls.

Check out our install videos here.
Do I need professional help to install acoustic panels? ▶
Most acoustic panels are easy to install with basic tools and a little DIY experience. We make it simple by providing tutorial videos. Check out our install videos here.

For more complex projects, we’re happy to guide you—or your contractor—through the process to ensure everything is done right.

Contact us here if you need help with installation planning.
How do you maintain acoustic panels? ▶
Acoustic panels are low-maintenance and built to last with proper care. Here are some general tips:

• Dust regularly with a soft, dry cloth
• Use a vacuum with an upholstery attachment
• Clean gently with compressed air
• Spot clean with minimal moisture and dry immediately

Always check your panel’s product specs for specific cleaning recommendations.

Have questions about cleaning or care? Contact us here.
How much do acoustical panels or soundproofing materials cost? ▶
The cost of acoustic panels and soundproofing panels depends on your space and goals. We offer everything from affordable DIY acoustic foam to high-end custom panels for professional studios and luxury interiors. For an accurate quote, let us know your room size, usage, and sound goals—we’re happy to help you find the right solution for your budget.

Fill out our free room analysis for personalized acoustic advice.
How fast is shipping and fulfillment? ▶
Most orders ship in 1-3 business days. Cut to order foam may take a little longer. If you need something in a hurry please Contact Us.
Can acoustic panels be customized for my space? ▶
Yes! We offer custom acoustic panels tailored to your exact dimensions, layout, and design goals. Whether you’re working with an odd-shaped wall, a unique room layout, or a specific aesthetic, we can create panels that fit perfectly.

Choose from a wide range of colors and fabrics to match your space without sacrificing performance.

Contact us here to tell us about your space and get a custom solution.