White noise is the most recognized among the "color of sound" spectrum, but it's not the only noise level that can help adults and babies sleep better at night. There are also brown noise, pink noise and blue noise, each with a different frequency that can aid in our sleep and concentration for specific situations.
With that said, you might be wondering why white noise is the one getting the most attention? Well, white noise is a mixture of all audible frequencies for humans. For that matter, it covers more ground. Not to mention that it is the color most researchers point to talking about how humans can get a better night's sleep [1]. All things considered, it's also safe even for newborns.
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Table of Contents
What are White Noise Machines?
White noise machines are used to generate consistent ambient sounds that are soothing and beneficial in our sleep. These white noise variations are often fit for all ages as they typically mimic nature sounds and other relaxing loops. White noise machines can range from tabletop to portable pocket devices that use digital sounds and app controls.
For parents, these devices can be used to create a consistent, peaceful environment that help improve or develop a newborn or young child's sleeping habit.
Benefits of Using White Noise Machine
Studies demonstrate that white noise can be effective in reducing the impact of unpleasant sounds in the background, which gives way for us to achieve ideal sleeping habits, improved concentration and just better overall wellbeing.
Promotes Relaxation
White noise machines are know to promote relaxation and minimize stress. The key reason for this is that white noise machines are able to consistently recreate certain sounds that is conducive to sleep and concentration. To an extend, white noise can also neutralize distracting sounds from barking dogs, loud chatter and vehicle engines.
Blocks Out Environmental Noise
Building on the point mentioned above, a white noise machine can reduce the impact of environmental sounds that you find distracting. Likewise, this can help newborn and young kids find a more consistent rhythm and sound that they can fall asleep to.
Improves Sleep Quality
A lot of people have come to rely on white noise machines to achieve quality sleep in busy or unfavorable environments. Intrusive sounds can mess up with our psyche in small ways that we don't notice. Much like subconsciously falling into a terrible sleeping pattern.
Helps with Tinnitus
Ambient noises can also dampen the adverse effect of tinnitus, which is a condition that is present in nearly 14% of the world's population according to a tinnitus research that spanned 50 years [2]. For those affected, tinnitus is characterized by a constant ringing or buzzing in the ears. White noise, in this case, can help by limiting the perception of the ringing.
Now that we understand how white noise machines are able to improve our everyday life, let's talk about the best sound machines that we can use to aid our newborn in their sleep.
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Best Overall Newborn Sound Machine: Marpac Dohm Classic
The Dohm classic has stayed true to its nature as a practical and effective fan-based white noise machine that is not invasive to your environment or privacy as it does not require connected devices or the internet to make good on its purpose. The "old school" device features support 2-speed adjustment control for sound and volume to help you fine-tune the output to your preference.
It's great for newborns and parents because it's simple and proven effective. There are no overwhelming sound options and volume settings. You don't even need the internet, so you can bring it anywhere and use it as long as you have a power source.
Type: Fan-based white noise
Power source: Corded Electric
Dimensions: 5.75 x 5.75 x 3.25 inches
Weight: 1.6 pounds (0.72 kg)
Best Design White Noise Machine: Hatch Restore 2
The Hatch Restore 2 is one of our best recommend sound machines when it comes to function and design. The state-of-the-art sleep guide sports a minimalist arc design that is easy on the eye and steady on any flat the surface. You can customize your routine through a free companion app and then use the hardware button for subsequent uses.
Type: Digital sound, sunrise alarm
Power source: Corded Electric
Dimensions: 8.39 x 7.83 x 3.62 inches
Weight: 2.51 pounds (1.13 kg)
Best Soothing Sound White Noise Machine: Dreamegg White Noise Machine
The battery powered, ambient noise-inducing Dreamegg White Noise Machine is adaptable to home applications or travel as it is extremely portable and compact. The device's 1800mAh capacity is also worth noting since similar battery powered white noise machines tend to hover at just under 1000mAh full capacity. Hard buttons are available for basic controls, but customization must be performed using the compatible Smart Life mobile app.
Type: Digital sound
Power source: Rechargeable Battery, USB-C
Dimensions: 4 x 3.7 x 1.8 inches
Weight: 0.72 pounds (0.33 kg)
Best Multi-purpose White Noise Machine: Hatch Rest+
The mood-setting Hatch Rest+ is an eye candy in the bedroom where it can help you improve your sleeping habits with the aid of its ambient light and sound settings. Full access to the device's control hub is only possible with the Hatch Sleep app for iOS and Android, which leaves the touch ring and buttons to basic on/off, volume/brightness adjustments. Alternatively, the device fully supports Alexa voice commands for hands-free voice control. Lastly, aside from ambient noise settings, Hatch Rest+ has lighting options and includes a dimmable digital clock display.
Type: Digital sound
Power source: Charging base (with up to eight hours back up power)
Dimensions: 5.04 x 5.04 x 6.82 inches
Weight: 1.22 pounds (0.55 kg)
Best for Travel White Noise Machine: Hatch RestGo
Consecutive entries from Hatch are not surprising since the US-based manufacturer has had a hand on of the most innovative sleep monitoring solutions in the market. Hatch RestGo continues the trend, though, this time it's geared toward those with an active or minimalist lifestyle.
Most notably, the pocket-sized RestGo requires no app, Wi-Fi or Bluetooth to operate. Instead, there are three buttons at the center that you can use to select sound profiles. Finally, the unit has a rechargeable battery that can last up to 15 hours and can support active operation even when charging.
Type: Digital sound
Power source: Rechargeable Battery, USB-C
Dimensions: 6 x 2.76 x 2.17 inches
Weight: 0.49 pounds (0.22 kg)
Best Mini White Noise Machine: Babelio Mini Sound Machine
The title of the tiniest white noise machine on the market indisputably belongs to the Babelio Mini Sound Machine. Despite its ultra-compact frame, Babelio managed to pack 15 unique, non-looping ambient sounds into this device. Additionally, it supports a timer feature that can be activated with a quick press and can be observed via an intuitive light indicator.
Type: Digital sound
Power source: Rechargeable Battery, USB-C
Dimensions: 1.89 x 1.89 x 1.57 inches
Weight: 0.15 pounds (0.06 kg)
Are All White Noise Machines the Same?
White noise machines differ in many ways. For example, the devices can have varying sound quality, power source, design and range of noise levels, and types of sounds supported by the white noise spectrum. The important thing is to make sure the white noise machine is placed at least 7 feet away from your baby's crib to avoid regular excessive exposure to sound that can be damaging to your baby's hearing.
Are White Noise Machines OK for Babies?
White noise machines are considered safe for babies. Some doctors recommend keeping the noise levels between 60 to 70 decibels for best results, while previous research supported keeping white noise machines at a steady 75 decibels for toddlers. [3]
Should I Leave White Noise on All Night for Baby?
Researchers are already aware that it can take at least five minutes [4] for an infant to fall asleep to white noise. However, there is no strong data that sets a limit on the number of hours that you are allowed or not allowed to use white noise. Even the age of the child is relative. But if your kid is already well asleep, then you can simply turn off the white noise machine.
How Do I Choose a White Noise Machine for My Baby?
The best white noise machines should be compact and convenient to control. They don't even have to be too reliant on the internet or other devices. Although there's also nothing against them being connected to a hive mind, especially if you're already running a smart home.
Choose the Best Sound Machine for Sleep That Works for You
Some say white noise are most beneficial for infant up until 18 to 24 months old, while other parents have used it longer to aid their child. In this case, what you generally want to avoid is you or your child becoming dependent on the white noise machine.
Over time, you should work on developing a natural sleeping routine that works best for you child. Be observant of changes in their sleeping patterns, as well as their behavior around it, including when and why their sleep may get interrupted. In the meantime, a white noise machine is a harmless and practical solution that will help you focus and find rest when needed.
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Reference List:
[1] Huizi C., Clinical Effects of White Noise on Improving Sleep Quality: A Literature Review, Proceedings of the 2022 International Conference on Social Sciences and Humanities and Arts. (2022)
[2] Jarach CM, Lugo A, Scala M, et al. Global Prevalence and Incidence of Tinnitus: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis, JAMA Neurol. (2022)
[3] Forquer LM, Johnson M. Continuous White Noise to Reduce Resistance Going to Sleep and Night Wakings in Toddlers, Child & Family Behavior Therapy (2005).
[4] Spencer JAD, Moran DJ, et al. White Noise and Sleep Induction, Chronic Intussusception. (1989)
