Another thought is to have some room ambient sound that will mask abrupt noises such as annoying clicks, creaking floors, flushing toilets and all that stuff.

You can buy these "white noise generators" but if you have an FM radio, you can try to tune it between broadcasting stations and get a nice fluffy hissing sound. An air purifier with HEPA filter works well, too. If you're into apps, try myNoise, by Dr. Ir. Stephane Pigeon.