Sleep sound machines: do white noise help newborns sleeping?

A grandfather hugging his grandchild

A white noise machine for babies serves as a specialized tool crafted to emit a consistent, soothing sound akin to white noise, encompassing all audible frequencies at uniform intensity. Primarily engineered to aid infants in achieving sounder sleep, these devices effectively drown out disruptive environmental noises like traffic or household clamor, fostering a serene and familiar auditory backdrop. Beyond replicating white noise, modern iterations of these machines provide an array of additional sound options, ranging from tranquil nature sounds to gentle lullabies and comforting heartbeat rhythms, further enhancing relaxation and sleep induction. Portable and easily deployable in nurseries or during travel, these baby-centric white noise machines facilitate the creation of a consistent sleep environment, promoting deep, uninterrupted rest and potentially curbing nighttime disturbances.

What is a white noise machine?

A white noise machine is a device that generates a consistent, soothing sound, often referred to as "white noise", which blends various frequencies together. This sound is commonly used to mask background noises, promote relaxation, and improve sleep quality. White noise machines are popular in bedrooms, offices, and other environments where unwanted sounds can be disruptive. They typically offer a range of sounds beyond white noise, including nature sounds, fan noises, and ambient sounds, allowing users to customize their sound environment according to their preferences.

The best white noise sleeping machines for babies

Here are the best rated white noise machines for babies in USA, available from various retailers both online and in-store.

  • Frida white noise machine: A beloved choice for parents, the Frida 2-in-1 Portable Sound Machine + Nightlight has been created to assist babies in falling - and remaining - asleep, regardless of the naptime location. Its compact yet powerful design effectively masks noises with five sound choices, including soothing shushing and comforting heartbeat sounds. Additionally, the integrated nightlight provides a gentle glow perfect for nighttime feedings. 
  • Hatch white noise machine: it offers sound machines, alarm clocks, and night lights for babies, kids, and adults. Particularly, the white noise machine Hatch Rest helps improving sleep quality and habits through natural sounds, sunrise alarms, and time-to-rise feature.
  • Mybaby white noise machine: Compact and perfect for travel, this machine boasts six calming sounds, including the gentle rhythms of a heartbeat and soothing white noise. Seamlessly integrate it into your baby's sleep routine with options for continuous play or timed intervals. Conveniently powered by adapter or batteries (sold separately), ensuring flexibility wherever you go.
  • Hushh white noise machine: Crafted with parent-friendly features in mind, the Hushh offers three comforting sounds and a soft amber LED night light. USB rechargeable and featuring a baby-safe clip, it's ideal for attaching to strollers, car seats, or cribs, providing soothing sounds and gentle illumination wherever your baby rests.
Doctor examining the hearing level of an elderly lady
Book a free hearing test near you

Take care of your hearing health now!

Find the nearest store

Green, brown and pink noise machines

Various sound frequencies are utilized to enhance relaxation and sleep quality. In addition to white noise, which covers all audible frequencies evenly, pink noise targets lower frequencies, brown noise extends to even lower frequencies, and green noise addresses mid-range frequencies. Let's delve into the details of pink, brown, and green noise machines for a comprehensive understanding.

Green noise machine

Green noise machines operate within mid-range frequencies, offering a balanced auditory experience. With a power spectral density that decreases gradually, green noise creates a soothing ambiance conducive to focus and relaxation. Ideal for environments where a harmonious background sound is desired, such as offices and study spaces.

Brown noise machine

The brown noise machine amplifies energy at lower frequencies, gradually decreasing in power by 6 dB per octave. This produces a profound, rumbling sound often utilized to induce relaxation, support meditation, and cultivate a sense of comfort and serenity. Particularly beneficial for adults experiencing tinnitus triggered by stress and anxiety, this type of machine provides soothing relief.

Pink noise machine

Pink noise demonstrates a power spectral density that diminishes by 3 dB per octave, creating a well-balanced sound perceived as soothing by the human ear. Frequently utilized in sound therapy, relaxation techniques, and even tinnitus treatment, its calming qualities make it a versatile tool for promoting relaxation and well-being.

Pros of a sleep sound machine for newborns

A sleep sound machine for newborns offers several benefits that can enhance sleep quality and create a serene environment for infants:

Rapid Sleep Initiation: Background white noise may expedite the process of babies falling asleep, particularly if they are accustomed to noise during sleep periods.

Noise Masking: White noise effectively blocks out household sounds like older siblings' chatter or other ambient noises, fostering a peaceful sleeping environment for babies.

Mimicking Mother's Heartbeat: Some infant sleep sound machines include a heartbeat setting that replicates the comforting rhythm of a mother's heartbeat, providing additional comfort to newborns.

Enhanced Sleep Patterns: White noise usage can assist in establishing and maintaining sleep routines for newborns, resulting in more restful and consolidated sleep throughout the night.

Sibling Accommodation: Families with multiple children of varying ages can benefit from sleep sound machines, as they help mask noises from other siblings on different sleep schedules, promoting better sleep for the newborn.

In conclusion, a noise maker machine for babies offers numerous advantages, including facilitating quicker sleep onset, masking household noises, comforting infants with simulated heartbeat sounds, improving sleep patterns, and accommodating the sleep needs of multiple children in the household.

Does white noise help babies sleep?

Yes, white noise can often help babies sleep. The consistent and soothing sound of white noise can mimic the comforting environment of the womb, which babies find calming and familiar. White noise can also mask other disruptive noises in the environment, such as household sounds or outside noises, helping babies to stay asleep or fall asleep more easily. Many parents find that using white noise machines or apps can be helpful in establishing a sleep routine for their babies and promoting longer and more restful sleep periods. However, it's essential to use white noise at a safe volume and to ensure that it's not too loud, as excessive noise levels can be harmful to a baby's hearing.

The importance of a deep night rest in children

When adults think of sleep deprivation, they often envision grumpy, tired days fueled by numerous cups of coffee. However, the consequences of insufficient sleep might not be immediately apparent in infants and children. Worries surrounding inadequate sleep in young ones include:

  • Irritability
  • Frequent tantrums
  • Drastic behavior changes
  • Hyperactivity
Elderly man is using computer laptop
Would you like to learn more about auditory health?

Stay informed with the newest articles on hearing health and auditory conditions by following our blog.

Visit our blog

Are white noise machines bad for babies? The cons

While newborn white noise machines offer potential benefits, it's essential to acknowledge some associated drawbacks:

  • Exceeding Noise Limits: Many white noise machines for babies surpass recommended noise limits established by organizations like the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), potentially jeopardizing infant hearing and auditory development.
  • Dependency Risk: Babies may develop a dependency on white noise machines for sleep initiation, posing challenges when the device is unavailable, such as during travel or daycare.
  • Individual Response: Not all babies react positively to white noise; some may find it unsettling or disruptive to their sleep patterns.
  • Potential Developmental Concerns: Prolonged exposure to high sound pressure levels from white noise machines could lead to long-term developmental issues, particularly concerning hearing and auditory processing.

When utilizing a white noise machine for a newborn, adhering to safety guidelines is imperative. This includes maintaining a safe distance between the machine and the crib and ensuring the volume remains below the maximum setting. Additionally, parents should remain open to alternative sleep strategies if their baby does not respond well to white noise. Moreover, parents should consult a healthcare professional in case the child has ear diseases such as otitis, punctured eardrum or other hearing problems.

How many decibels is too loud for a baby?

When considering purchasing a white noise machine to aid your child's sleep, it's important to factor in several key considerations, especially noise levels. Anything exceeding 50 decibels could potentially harm a baby's hearing and hinder developmental progress. Therefore, before making a purchase, conduct thorough research to ensure the selected machine complies with safety guidelines regarding noise levels.

Where to buy a white noise machine for babies

You can buy white noise machines for babies in the US from various retailers, both online and in-store. Here are a few options:

Online retailers like Amazon, where you can find a wide selection of white noise machines specifically designed for babies.

Baby specialty stores like Buy Buy Baby, Babies "R" Us (online), or Pottery Barn Kids, which often carry white noise machines among other baby products.

Major department stores like Walmart, Target, or Bed Bath & Beyond may also have white noise machines available in their baby sections.

Specialty baby stores or boutiques in your area may carry white noise machines as well.

How to use your white noise machine effectively

After selecting the right machine, understanding how to use it optimally becomes essential. What volume level should be set? How loud is considered excessive?

When utilizing your white noise machine to calm a crying baby, it's vital to adjust the volume appropriately. Once the little one has settled, aim for a volume akin to that of a gentle shower. If the noise feels uncomfortably loud, it's likely too loud for the baby as well, so lowering the volume accordingly is advisable.

In addition to avoiding the highest volume setting, studies suggest keeping white noise machines at least a foot away from the child. Consulting a child's healthcare provider before integrating a white noise machine or any alternatives into their sleep routine is always wise.

Elderly woman in pain holding her ear on a sofa
Do you want to know more about clogged ears and how to unblock them?

Read our article to discover more about clocked ear and the top remedies to unblock them

Discover more

FAQs about white noise machines for babies

Are white noise machine safe for a baby's hearing?

When employing a white noise machine for a baby, maintaining a soothing volume level is paramount, ensuring it aids sleep without posing harm. Equally important is positioning the machine at a safe distance from the baby's crib or sleeping area to prevent excessive sound exposure. Additionally, observing the baby's responses to the white noise can offer insights into its effectiveness and whether adjustments are necessary. Given the uniqueness of each baby, finding the optimal volume level may require some experimentation. Above all, prioritize the baby's comfort and safety when utilizing any sleep-related sound machine or device.

How loud should sound machine be for a baby?

If you are asking yourself how may decibels is too loud for a baby, it is commonly suggested to adjust the volume of the white noise machine to a level not exceeding 50-60 decibels (dB). This level approximates the sound of a typical conversation or gentle rainfall.

When to stop using white noise for a baby?

Determining when to stop using a white noise machine for a baby can vary depending on various factors and individual circumstances. Here are some considerations to take into account:

  • Sleep Patterns: As babies mature, their sleep patterns may evolve, and they may become less reliant on external sleep aids like white noise. If you notice consistent improvement in your baby's sleep without the white noise machine, it may indicate that they no longer require it.
  • Sleep Associations: If your baby has formed a strong association between the white noise machine and sleep, they may continue to rely on it even as they grow older. Gradually phasing out the white noise machine may be necessary to encourage independent sleep habits.
  • Developmental Milestones: Babies reaching developmental milestones, such as enhanced self-soothing abilities or the capability to sleep through background noises, may outgrow the need for a white noise machine to fall asleep.
  • Environmental Changes: Alterations in the baby's environment, such as transitioning to a quieter or more familiar sleeping space, could influence the necessity for a white noise machine.

Ultimately, there isn't a predetermined age to cease using a white noise machine for your baby. It's crucial to observe your baby's sleep behaviors and comfort level, making adjustments accordingly.

With you on your journey to better hearing.

It's time to finally treat your hearing loss. Sign up for a free consultation with a licensed hearing care professional today to determine if you have hearing loss. It’s the start of your journey towards better hearing.

EarPros benefits:

  • it's 100% risk free.
  • best partner with more than 1.000 stores

Please use a valid US zipcode.

Please use a valid zipcode.

Thank you for submitting your request

We will get in touch with you as soon as possible.

Related Articles

Hearing aids

How to Get Hearing Aids for Kids

Read more

Hearing loss

How to Spot Hearing Loss in Children

Read more
Close up of kid holding her ears

Hearing health

What is white, pink, and brown noise?

Read more

Ear diseases

Key facts about used hearing aids

Read more
Schedule a free hearing aid consultation